2024 BMW R18B Specs & Review

The 2024 BMW R18B is a big-bore cruiser built around BMW’s signature boxer twin, aimed at riders who want classic character with modern braking and fueling. If you’re comparing heavyweight cruisers and care about torque-rich delivery, low seat height, and long-haul stability, the 2024 BMW R18B specs make a compelling case.

Key Specs at a Glance

• Engine: Air/oil cooled twin-cylinder four-stroke boxer with two chain-driven camshafts above the crank shaft
• Displacement: 1,802 cc
• Power: 67 kW (91 hp) at 4,750 rpm
• Torque: 158 Nm (116.55 lb-ft) at 3,000 rpm
• BMW R18B weight: 398 kg / 877.43 lbs (road-ready, fully fueled)
• BMW R18B seat height: 720 mm / 28.35"

Engine & Performance

At the heart of the R18B is an 1,802 cc air/oil-cooled boxer delivering 67 kW (91 hp) at 4,750 rpm and a stout 158 Nm (116.55 lb-ft) at just 3,000 rpm. In real-world riding, that means immediate, low-rpm thrust for easy roll-ons in the city and effortless cruising on the highway. The torque peak arriving early suits relaxed short-shifting and makes two-up or loaded riding feel unstrained.

Fueling is handled by electronic intake manifold injection with digital engine management (BMS-O) and an electromotive throttle controller, backed by a closed-loop three-way catalytic converter. Together, they provide clean response and emissions, with a listed consumption of 5.8 l/100 km (1.53 gal/100 km) and CO2 emissions of 134 g/km.

A 6-speed shifting claw transmission, single-disc dry clutch, and a drive shaft deliver the classic BMW feel with a direct, low-maintenance final drive. Top speed is listed at over 180 km/h (112 mph), which aligns with its relaxed power curve—this isn’t about chasing redlines, but about smooth, muscular thrust and cruise-friendly gearing.

Fuel type is super plus, unleaded (max. 15% ethanol, E15), RON 95 / 90 AKI.

Handling, Comfort & BMW R18B Seat Height

The BMW R18B seat height is a notably low 720 mm (28.35"), which will boost confidence at stops and during low-speed maneuvers, especially for shorter riders. Pair that with a long 1,695 mm wheelbase, a 62.7° steering head angle, and a 183.5 mm castor, and you get the stability and planted feel cruiser riders expect.

Suspension is straightforward and robust: a telescopic fork up front and a steel double-sided swing arm with a central spring strut at the rear, offering 120 mm of travel at both ends (4.72" / 4.72"). The wheel setup—3.5 x 19" front and 5.0 x 16" rear—wears 120/70 R19 and 180/65 B16 tires, giving steady steering and predictable grip.

The BMW R18B weight sits at 398 kg (877.43 lbs) road-ready and fully fueled. While that’s substantial, the low center of gravity inherent in the boxer layout helps mask heft once rolling. Taller riders will appreciate the long cockpit and generous dimensions (length 2,560 mm, width 970 mm, height 1,400 mm), while shorter riders benefit from that low perch and easy foot-down confidence.

Equipment & Features

Braking is serious for a cruiser: a twin 300 mm disc setup with four-piston fixed calipers up front, and a single 300 mm disc with a four-piston fixed caliper at the rear. BMW Motorrad Integral ABS (fully integrated) is standard, supporting composed stops on varied surfaces.

Chassis specs include a double-cradle tubular steel frame with screwed-on downtubes and cast aluminium wheels. Electronic management is handled by BMS-O fuel injection, and the electrical system is tour-ready with a 660 W permanent magnet alternator and a 12 V / 26 Ah maintenance-free battery—ideal for powering accessories. The usable tank capacity is approximately 24 l (6.34 gal) with an approx. 4 l (1.06 gal) reserve.

Who Is the 2024 BMW R18B For?

• Experienced riders seeking a torque-rich cruiser with classic BMW boxer character.
• Fans of low-seat, long-wheelbase stability for relaxed commuting and weekend highway runs.
• Riders who prioritize strong brakes, integrated ABS, and shaft-drive simplicity.

Beginners will likely find the combination of 1,802 cc displacement and 398 kg kerb weight a steep first step. Those moving up from mid-weight cruisers, however, will appreciate the R18B’s easy torque and predictable manners.

Torquepedia Verdict

As a heavyweight cruiser, the R18B nails the fundamentals: a charismatic big boxer with deep torque at 3,000 rpm, stable geometry, and confident braking via BMW Motorrad Integral ABS. The fueling and throttle control (BMS-O) feel modern without losing the old-school charm of an air/oil-cooled twin and shaft drive.

Weaknesses? Mass is part of the formula, and at 398 kg, it demands respect at parking-lot speeds. But for the right rider, that heft translates into calm, planted miles—helped by a friendly 720 mm seat height and reassuring chassis numbers. If you’re cross-shopping big cruisers and prioritize real-world punch, stability, and simplicity, the 2024 BMW R18B specs line up with a strong, characterful choice.

FAQ

• Is the 2024 BMW R18B good for beginners? It’s a large, 1,802 cc cruiser with a 398 kg kerb weight, so it’s better suited to experienced riders.

• What is the seat height of the 2024 BMW R18B? 720 mm / 28.35" at vehicle kerb weight.

• How heavy is the 2024 BMW R18B? 398 kg / 877.43 lbs road-ready, fully fueled.

• What are the horsepower and torque figures? 67 kW (91 hp) at 4,750 rpm and 158 Nm (116.55 lb-ft) at 3,000 rpm.

• What is the fuel capacity and consumption? Usable tank capacity is approx. 24 l (6.34 gal) with an approx. 4 l (1.06 gal) reserve, and consumption is 5.8 l/100 km (1.53 gal/100 km).