2024 BMW R18 Transcontinental Specs & Review

BMW’s big boxer cruiser arrives with classic lines and serious touring intent. If you love torque-rich, low-rpm thrust and old-school feel paired with modern safety, the 2024 BMW R18 Transcontinental deserves a close look. Here’s a concise BMW R18 Transcontinental review focused on the hard numbers that matter.

Key Specs at a Glance

• Engine: Air/oil cooled twin-cylinder four-stroke boxer, two chain-driven camshafts above the crankshaft
• Displacement: 1,802 cc
• Power: 67 kW (91 hp) at 4,750 rpm
• Torque: 158 Nm (116.55 lb-ft) at 3,000 rpm
• Transmission/Final Drive: 6-speed shifting claw; drive shaft
• BMW R18 Transcontinental weight: 427 kg (941.39 lbs) road-ready, fully fuelled
• BMW R18 Transcontinental seat height: 740 mm (29.13 in)
• ABS: BMW Motorrad Integral ABS (fully integrated)

Engine & Performance

At the heart of the 2024 BMW R18 Transcontinental specs is the 1,802 cc air/oil-cooled boxer. Its character centers on massive, early torque: 158 Nm at just 3,000 rpm, backed by 67 kW (91 hp) at 4,750 rpm. In real-world riding, that means effortless roll-on in city traffic, relaxed overtakes on the highway, and a satisfying surge when you twist the throttle for fun.

Fueling is handled by electronic intake manifold fuel injection with digital engine management (BMS-O) and an electromotive throttle controller, while a closed-loop three-way catalytic converter manages emissions. Consumption is rated at 5.8 l/100 km (WMTC), with CO2 emissions of 134 g/km. Maximum speed is over 180 km/h (112 mph), which is more than enough for a cruiser whose sweet spot is unhurried, torquey progress. A single-disc dry clutch feeds a 6-speed gearbox, and the drive shaft delivers fuss-free power to the rear wheel.

Handling, Comfort & BMW R18 Transcontinental Seat Height

This is a long, stable machine built around a double-cradle tubular steel frame with screwed-on downtubes. Geometry underlines its calm demeanor: a 1,695 mm wheelbase, 62.7° steering head angle, and 183.5 mm castor. Suspension is classic and straightforward—telescopic fork up front and a steel double-sided swing arm with a central spring strut at the rear, each offering 120 mm (4.72 in) of travel.

The BMW R18 Transcontinental seat height of 740 mm (29.13 in) helps many riders plant their feet confidently at stops. However, keep the BMW R18 Transcontinental weight in mind: at 427 kg (941.39 lbs) road-ready, it requires measured inputs at low speeds and when parking. The 19-inch front (3.5 x 19) with 120/70 R19 rubber and 16-inch rear (5.0 x 16) with 180/65 B16 add to straight-line stability and classic cruiser stance.

Equipment & Features

Braking is robust and confidence-inspiring: twin 300 mm front discs with four-piston fixed calipers, plus a 300 mm rear disc with a four-piston caliper, all overseen by BMW Motorrad Integral ABS (fully integrated). The drivetrain is tour-friendly with a shaft final drive, while the permanent magnet alternator (660 W nominal) and a 12 V/26 Ah maintenance-free battery support electrical demands.

Practical numbers include an approximate usable tank capacity of 24 l (6.34 gal) with a 4 l (1.06 gal) reserve. Tires are 120/70 R19 front and 180/65 B16 rear. The front wheel is cast aluminium. Dimensions highlight presence and stability: length 2,640 mm, height 1,500 mm, and width across hand levers 970 mm. Payload with standard equipment is 203 kg (447 lbs), and permitted total weight is 630 kg (1,388 lbs).

Who Is the 2024 BMW R18 Transcontinental For?

Experienced riders who value torque, a low seat, and shaft-drive simplicity will feel at home. It’s ideal for those who ride longer distances, prefer relaxed engine speeds, and appreciate a planted, stable chassis. Newer riders may find the mass challenging, particularly in tight urban maneuvers, but seasoned cruisers will enjoy its smooth thrust and composed ride.

Torquepedia Verdict

The 2024 BMW R18 Transcontinental specs tell a clear story: a torquey 1,802 cc boxer, low 740 mm seat, and a stable chassis designed for unflustered miles. Strengths include its massive midrange, integrated ABS braking package, straightforward suspension, and maintenance-friendly shaft drive. The fueling and engine management are modern yet let the big twin’s character shine.

The trade-off is weight. At 427 kg fully fuelled, it demands respect at low speed. But once rolling, the long wheelbase, relaxed geometry, and 19/16 wheel combo deliver a calm, confidence-inspiring ride. If your priorities are torque, comfort, and classic boxer personality, this is a compelling heavyweight cruiser.

FAQ

• Is the 2024 BMW R18 Transcontinental good for beginners?

  • It’s a 427 kg (941.39 lbs) heavyweight with a big 1,802 cc engine. Most beginners will be better served by a lighter, smaller-displacement bike.

• What is the seat height of the 2024 BMW R18 Transcontinental?

  • 740 mm (29.13 in).

• How heavy is the 2024 BMW R18 Transcontinental?

  • Vehicle kerb weight, road-ready and fully fuelled, is 427 kg (941.39 lbs).

• What engine does it have and how much power?

  • An air/oil-cooled twin-cylinder four-stroke boxer (1,802 cc) making 67 kW (91 hp) at 4,750 rpm and 158 Nm (116.55 lb-ft) at 3,000 rpm.

• What’s the fuel capacity and consumption?

  • Usable tank capacity is approximately 24 l (6.34 gal) with a 4 l (1.06 gal) reserve; consumption is 5.8 l/100 km (WMTC).