Long routes sometimes require all sorts of creature comforts even on motorcycles. The ergonomics of the BMW R18 and R18 Classic were perfect for the long rides but the features required for were not up to the mark. We have seen the capable Honda Gold Wing earlier and keeping this rivalry in mind, BMW Motorrad has decided to present a feature-loaded version of R18 in the form of R18 B and R18 Transcontinental.
Searching for a perfect rival of the Honda Gold Wing? Well, it is expected to end here with the new range of BMW R18.
HIGHLIGHTS:
- BMW Motorrad has extended its R18 lineup with two new offerings.
- BMW R18 B and R18 Transcontinental have made their global debut.
- To be powered by the same 91HP, 1802cc twin-cylinder boxer engine.
BMW R18 Transcontinental & R18 B
After the successful launch of the BMW R18 and R18 Classic, the German brand has finally decided to expand the entire lineup with feature-loaded bikes in the form of R18 Transcontinental and R18 B.
Wondering what all upgrades can be witnessed on both the new bikes? Well, there are many. But to name a few, both of them now features full fairing with large windscreens to make them a comfortable tourer. As we know, the bikes have got added features therefore, the list consists of a proper cockpit that includes four circular analogue clusters with a 10.25-inch digital screen sitting just below them. Other features including a two-speaker sound system as standard, Marshall four-speaker sound system (optional), heated grips and panniers on both side makes the all-new BMW R18 Transcontinental and R18 B an overall complete package.
Talking about safety, both of them are available with cruise control as standard. However, it is the R18 Transcontinental that comes equipped with a radar system for the first time.
Engine
Both the new bikes will continue to feature a 1802cc twin-cylinder boxer engine. To be precise, the overall output from this unit is rated at 91HP @ 4750 RPM and 150Nm @ 3000 RPM while being mated to a 6-speed gearbox as standard.
Alternatives
Globally, the all-new BMW R18 range is there to compete against some well-established rivals including Indian Roadmaster, Honda Gold Wing and Harley-Davidson Road Glide. Want to know more about the Gold Wing? Take a look at the details down below.
Honda Gold Wing
Honda has recently introduced the updated Gold Wing in India. To be precise, the all-new touring motorcycle now features a BS6 compliant 1833cc six-cylinder petrol engine that churns out a massive 126PS of power and 170Nm of peak torque with both manual and DCT gearbox available according to the variant. Feature-wise, the BMW R18 rival gets features such as a 7-inch TFT instrument console, smartphone connectivity via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and a sound system among others.
Specifications
| Honda Gold Wing | |
| Engine | 1833cc six-cylinder, liquid-cooled |
| Power | 126PS |
| Torque | 170Nm |
| Key Highlights | · 7-inch TFT display
· Full LED lighting · DCT gearbox · Airbag, Apple CarPlay etc. |
| Price (ex-showroom, Delhi) | Rs.37.20 Lakhs to Rs.39.16 Lakhs |