2022 BMW R 18 B / R 18 Transcontinental Review

We test the all-new 2022 BMW R 18 B “Bagger” and R 18 Transcontinental, two heavyweight touring cruisers powered by the 1,802cc Big Boxer that cranks out 116 lb-ft of torque at 3,000rpm. Based on the R 18 platform, they have traditional styling inspired by the 1930s-era R 5. The R18B and R18 Transcontinental (TC) have a handlebar-mounted batwing-style fairing, a Marshall audio system, an infotainment system with a 10.25-inch TFT display, hard saddlebags, and a passenger seat. With its low windshield and slim seat, the R 18 B is suited for solo touring and boulevard cruising with the occasional passenger. Designed for two-up touring, the R 18 TC is equipped with a tall windshield, a wide seat, wind deflectors, driving lights, heated seats, highway bars, a large trunk, and a wrap-around passenger backrest. The R 18s have three ride modes – Rock, Roll, and Rain – that alter throttle response and engine character. In Rock mode, they feel lumpy and shake a lot at idle to add some visceral theater, and throttle response is direct. But in Roll and Rain mode, the response feels duller and slow to respond. They have a 6-speed transmission with a heel-toe shifter. Both are equipped with small rider footboards, but because the Big Boxer’s cylinders jut far out to the sides, the rider’s legs are hemmed in place. The R 18 B/TC steer with stability and confidence, though some effort is required. The massive brakes with BMW’s linked Full Integral ABS slow down the heavy bikes with...