The New Heritage Tourer On The Block: The 2021 BMW R 18 Classic
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Along with the standard R 18, the R 18 Classic is one of the most anticipated models in the 2021 BMW line-up. Like the R 18, the R 18 Classic is a European-made, heritage-laden heavyweight cruiser from BMW Motorrad. While it shares the same DNA as the R 18, the Classic has a few interesting extras.
They both still feature the same 1,802cc horizontally-opposed flat twin engine. This enormous boxer produces an impressive 91 horsepower, 116 lb-ft of torque, and can pull the R 18 Classic to speeds in excess of 111 mph.
The most obvious differences between the two R 18 models include the addition of touring-friendly saddlebags, a windshield, and a practical passenger seat. That’s right! The R 18 Classic is something of a bagger! It also has touring sensibilities, making a better option for long-distance journeys than the bagless base-model R 18.
What makes the R 18 Classic an appealing purchase is the sheer number of upgrades and optional accessories that are available for it. BMW has a large catalog of extras to give owners a real custom experience.
For 2021, the R 18 Classic is available in two options. The basic model is available in Black Storm Metallic, while the more expensive First Edition model features an enhanced Black Storm Metallic with double striping and chrome accents.
The 2021 BMW R 18 Classic starts at $19,495 USD / $24,400 CAD.
On this page: we’ve curated specs, features, news, photos/videos, etc. so you can read up on the new 2021 BMW R 18 Classic in one place.
Model Overview
General Info
- Price: $19,495 USD / $24,400 CAD
- Key Features:
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- Boxer with pushrods
- Black tank with double pinstripe and classic BMW logo
- Saddlebags
- Additional LED lights
Main Specs
- Engine: 1,802cc air/oil-cooled two-cylinder four-stroke boxer engine
- Power: 91 HP
- Torque: 116 lbs-ft
- Wet Weight: 805 lbs (365 kg)
- Seat Height: 28.0 in (710 mm)
Competitors
- Indian Vintage
- Harley-Davidson Breakout
2021 BMW R 18 Classic Specifications
ENGINE |
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| Engine | 1,802cc air/oil-cooled two-cylinder four-stroke boxer engine | |
| Engine Power | 91 Hp | |
| Bore x Stroke | 107.1 mm x 100 mm | |
| Compression Ratio | 9.6 : 1 | |
| Fuel delivery | Electronic intake pipe fuel injection, BMS-K+ electronic engine management with overrun cut-off, twin-spark ignition | |
| Starter | Electric | |
| Max Torque | 116 lb-ft at 3,000 rpm | |
DRIVETRAIN |
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| Clutch | Single-disk dry clutch | |
| Transmission | 6-speed transmission | |
| Drive | Shaft drive | |
CHASSIS |
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| Suspension Front | Telescopic fork | |
| Suspension Rear | Steel swingarm with central shock strut | |
| Brakes Front | Twin disc brakes, diameter 300 mm, 4-piston fixed caliper | |
| Brakes Rear | Single disc brake, diameter 300 mm, fixed caliper | |
| Tires Front | 130/90 B16 | |
| Tires Rear | 180/65 B16 | |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | Approx. 4.2 gal | |
| Color | R 18 Classic | |
ELECTRICAL |
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| Alternator | Permanent magnet generator 600 W (nominal capacity) | |
| Battery | 12 V / 26 Ah, maintenance-free | |
| Headlight | ||
| Tail Light | LED Tail Light | |
DIMENSIONS |
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| Overall Length | 96.1” | |
| Overall Width | 38.0″ | |
| Overall Height | 52.8” | |
| Wheelbase | 68.1” | |
| Castor | 5.9” | |
| Seat Height | 28.0” | |
| Unladen weight, road ready, fully fueled |
805 lbs |
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WARRANTY |
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| Warranty | ||
| Extension | ||
2021 BMW R 18 Classic Features
Seat with passenger seat
The seat bench consists of two individual seats.
Boxer with pushrods
Built with conviction, for over 95 years: The R stands for boxer.
LED additional lights
Typical nostalgic touring bike: two auxiliary lights.
Footboards
These provide a relaxed and comfortable ride, as the overall appearance of the bike already suggests.
Windshield
The large windshield protects the rider from the wind and weather.
Round exhaust pipe, open driveshaft, double cradle frame
Historic influence, newly interpreted for today.
Black tank with double pinstripe and classic BMW logo
The black tank with double striping is one of the icons of BMW Motorrad history.
Saddle bags
The soft bags have 4.1 gallons of space for things you might need on a trip.
2021 BMW R 18 Classic Photos
