The real centrepiece of the bike is the new 1802cc boxer engine. Performance figures are pretty much on the money compared to the competition (89bhp & 117ft lbs).
The engine puts its power down through an exposed shaft drive, which runs into a bevel box that’s locked into a ‘softail’ cantilever rear end. Out on the road, the suspension as a whole is on the firmer side and better suited to getting on with it, than dawdling along.
Where the R18 seems to make the most sense is if you ride it like a giant R Nine T. Pay no heed to its weight, length or limited ground clearance and you’ll have an absolute riot. Ride it like that and you’ll have an unshakeable grin from ear to ear.
The fit and finish of the First Edition is absolutely excellent. The pinstriping is done by hand, the black paint has just a hint of sparkle so it pops in the sun, while the enamel tank badges are pure 1930s class.
The real draw is the exposed drive shaft, which never ceases to amaze. BMW promise that its well-sealed enough to shrug off all the elements and that despite its outward appearance, it’s no more dangerous than your standard drive chain.
