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And yet another variant of BMW R 18

May 13, 2023

The new BMW R 18 Roctane joins the R 18, R 18 Classic, R 18 B and R 18 Transcontinental as the fifth member of the R 18 family. According to BMW, the Roctane has a “skillfully staged design language with the rear section in so-called streamlining design.

Big Boxer from BMW

The heart of the new BMW R 18 Roctane, as with the other R 18 models, is the well-known twin-cylinder “Big Boxer. The engine block has a finish in Avus matte black metallic and high-gloss black valve covers and engine block cover. This most torquey twin-cylinder boxer engine ever for a mass-produced motorcycle has a capacity of 1,802 cc and produces 67 kW (91 hp).

R 18 construction mode

The BMW R 18 Roctane has the same construction and technology as the other model variants. So a double cradle frame of steel tubing, double-sided swingarm, open cardan drive and a bolt-on rear cardan housing, just like a BMW R 5 used to have. After all, it was the model for the design of the R 18.

Saddle in two levels and side cases

In addition, the R 18 Roctane features a two-level saddle, as well as passenger footrests and running boards combined with a shift pedal. The tall, black-coated handlebar provides an upright and relaxed riding position. It is equipped for relaxed cruising and touring, to which the panniers in the same color as the bike are a welcome contribution. The cases each offer 27 liters of capacity.

Windshield possible

For longer rides, the R 18 Roctane can be equipped with a windshield with additional headlights and “hanging” turn signals. As standard, this model comes in a black paint color, while the matte colors Mineral metallic and Manhatten metallic are available as options.

With driving modes

As with the other variants of the R 18, you have three driving modes: “Rain,” “Roll” and “Rock. Standard equipment also includes Automatic Stability Control (ASC), engine torque control (MSR). Optional features include reverse gear, Hill Start Control and heated grips.

With an eye for detail

Whatever the eye, carefully designed technology is visible in every detail. This applies, for example, to the headlight with the integrated, classically designed, round instrument with the inscription “BERLIN BUILT” on the dial. Like all other R 18 family members, the new BMW R 18 Roctane offers a “conversion-friendly” architecture. The visible cylinder head covers and the front engine cover are designed so that they are located outside the oil chamber and therefore easy to replace.