With time we’ve seen an endless variety of custom-made BMW motorcycles by enthusiastic engineers and motorheads alike, all of which have led to this moment, in 2020 where we witness one by the brand itself. Announcing the highest capacity boxer motorcycle ever produced, the German multinational company presents a pure, stripped-down, and raked-out BMW Motorrad custom concept armed with an all-new prototype flat-twin engine.
Dubbed the ‘Concept R18’, this cruiser follows hot on the heels of the original R90S, the Concept 101 six-cylinder ‘bagger’ and the R5 Hommage, as BMW Motorrad’s design department continues to create a spectacle of every Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este event.
Unveiled at the 90th anniversary ‘Concorso’ celebratory event, the Concept R18 represents a modern interpretation of a cruiser backed by immense heritage and history – the kind BMW Motorrad Head of Design, Edgar Heinrich feels “other companies would kill for”.
Physically much larger in size than the average 500cc engine, the Concept R18 features characterful spoked Metzeler-branded RILLE tyres (21” front and 18” rear) which match the bike’s considerable proportions and the overall stance, alongside a modified front end and fishtail exhaust intended to enhance its hand-made aesthetic, and BMW’s highly recognizable Pagusa-style seating, with embossed logos and hammered area on the leather.
Showcasing polished aluminium cylinder covers, subtle colour treatments, a teardrop tank and fork, plus areas of pin-striping with golden yellow effects in the deep, layered paint treatment, the Concept R18 is finished in one-of-three metal surface treatments which include being, blasted, painted or polished, to create a clean, authentic atmosphere around the bike.
Branded as the biggest accessory one can wear, the Concept R18 utilizes a similar open shaft-drive, cantilever rear suspension, and twin-Solex carburetor from every iconic BMW 2002 car, whilst boasting a 1950s Bosch-inspired LED headlight mounted between its fork legs, and concealed switchgears.