BMW R 18 CLASSIC 2021

1 tripExcellent 5/5

You awaken the R 18 Classic by tapping the power button, and then fire it up with the start button. I suggest you pay attention to the task at hand because the Big Boxer’s 901cc cylinders deliver a hard side-to-side weight shift on startup. Even when you’re prepared, it always seems to be a bit more violent than anticipated. It makes the motorcycle feel alive, setting the tone for the ride.

With a wheelbase a touch over 68 inches, a generous 32.7 degrees of rake, trail measuring nearly six inches, and a steering damper, the Classic is imperturbable. Semis barreling by at a 150+ closing speed on a two-lane rural highway is not a concern. The long, low chassis refuses to have its feathers ruffled. The 16-inch front tire’s 130mm width grasps the pavement authoritatively. Cruise control is standard, intuitive, and effective.