2022 BMW R 18 B and R 18 Transcontinental First Look

First it was the R 18, then the R 18 Classic, and now BMW is revealing two additional cruisers for its 2022 lineup—the R 18 B and R 18 Transcontinental. Both new bikes will be available starting this August with the bagger-styled R 18 B pricing at $21,495 and the R 18 Transcontinental pricing at $24,995.

We’ve given the big BMW cruiser platform ample attention in recent years, detailing the features of the 1,802cc Big Boxer engine, gushing over concept bikes that paved the way for the production models we have today, pouring over spy shots, and finally getting our hands on unit for a good ol’ MC Commute.

BMW did a lot of work hyping up its biggest-ever production-series engine and getting us pumped for the debut of its cruiser line. Once the R 18 officially launched, we got two models that were stripped-back nostalgic exercises in design mated to many of the performance and creature comforts we expect from our engines, chassis, and cockpits today. The R 18 B and R 18 Transcontinental both up the ante in terms of modern styling and amenities while maintaining a retro air that puts both right at home with the R 18 and R 18 Classic.

The two new machines share a lot with one another, starting with the engine. It’s the same mill as is used in the R 18, an 1,802cc Big Boxer providing 91 hp at 4,750 rpm and 116 pound-feet of torque at 3,000 rpm. We found the engine to be just as strong and well tuned as you’d expect a big boxer twin from the Bavarian brand to be.

The whole R 18 package impressed, from the smooth actuation of the gearbox and function of the mechanical shaft drive to the phenomenal performance of the suspension setup and electronically linked brake package. All the mechanical goodness that made the R 18 an instant performance contender in the packed cruiser market is present on the R 18 B and R 18 Transcontinental.

The targeted differences from the initial offerings and the two newcomers will be most welcome to riders who want to log some serious miles.

To start, the R 18 B and R 18 Transcontinental get a larger fuel tank, up from 4.2 gallons to 6.3 gallons. The double-loop steel tube frame was revised to accommodate the larger tank, but to also optimize handling and stability. The rake and trail are increased and the wheelbase is shortened from the geometry used on the R 18 and R 18 Classic.

Another major upgrade that’s immediately obvious are the large handlebar-mounted fairings and windshields. The R 18 B gets a shorter wind screen to jive with its bagger-inspired design while the Transcontinental packs a taller screen to make long days in the saddle more comfortable for both the rider and passenger. The Transcontinental has adjustable front fairing ventilation, along with wind deflectors on the engine guards. Both rides get a storage compartment integrated into the fuel tank that can hold and charge a phone too.

The cockpit of both bikes is another striking example of the elevated status of both models. They are equipped with a four-analog-instrument cluster atop a massive 10.5-inch TFT color display. The display provides a wealth of information from navigation to bike status, ride modes, and much more. You can even choose to set the display to full-screen or split-screen modes. Connect the system to the BMW Motorrad Connected app and you’ll have even more information quickly and easily available.

Both bikes are packing serious sound systems as well, developed in partnership with Marshall. Speakers integrated into the front fairing each have 25 watts of output, and you’ll get a variety of sound adjustment options to ensure your tunes sound just right. If you really want to knock your neighbors’ socks off, upgrade to either the Gold Series Stage 1 or Stage 2 system, both of which add 90-watt subwoofers and 180-watt amp to the mix .

The R 18 B has side cases with integrated rear lights while the R 18 Transcontinental comes with side cases and a top case with passenger backrest.

Both bikes are dialed electronically as well, with three ride modes, automatic stability control, engine drag control, keyless ride system, full complement of LED lighting, cruise control, ABS, and a host of optional upgrades including reverse assist, hill start control, and active cruise control.

The first-edition versions of both bikes will also pack some stylish aesthetic touches. The R 18 B will sport black contrast milled wheels while the R 18 Transcontinental will feature silver gray contrast milled wheels. Both will come with chrome accents on portions of the engine, handlebars, and cases. White pinstriping will feature on the tank and fairings and luggage. Riders will also get a First Edition Welcome Box with goodies like historic fuel tank emblems, working gloves, assembly screwdriver, R 18 First Edition cup, leather belt, and a book that reviews BMW Motorrad’s history. The optional upgrades abound if you want to add even more style, including a number of Option 719 packages.

“Option 719” refers back to an internal code used by BMW in Berlin for “unusual requests and one-off features.” A part of that package includes a Galaxy Dust metallic paint with iridescent finish that displays colors on the spectrum from violet to blue depending on the lighting. Other elements available in Option 719 configurations include a better seat with integrated heating and an Aero package with brushed aluminum covers.

BMW is now not just looking to inspire customers with its nods to the past, but is taking the big players like Harley-Davidson and Indian Motorcycle head-on in the bagger and touring cruiser categories. We bet the R 18 B and R 18 Transcontinental will be worthy contenders.