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2021 BMW R 18 Classic First Edition Overview
The 2021 BMW R 18 Classic First Edition is a custom / cruiser motorcycle built around 1802 cc of displacement. Under the tank sits a Four stroke, two cylinder horizontally opposed Boxer, Pushrod-actuated OHV with two camshafts, 4 valves per cylinder engine, a compression ratio of 9.6:1. 2021 BMW R 18 Classic First Edition delivers 67 kW @ 4750 rpm of peak power and 158 Nm @ 3000 rpm of torque. From a practical standpoint, the 2021 R 18 Classic First Edition tips the scales at 365 kg, carries a 16-litre fuel tank, offers a seat height of 710 mm and spans a 1731 mm wheelbase. Scroll down for the complete 2021 BMW R 18 Classic First Edition spec sheet covering every technical detail from suspension travel to tyre sizes.
2021 R 18 Classic First Edition - Pros & Cons
Strengths
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Strong power output: 2021 BMW R 18 Classic First Edition makes 67 kW @ 4750 rpm with 158 Nm @ 3000 rpm of torque - competitive figures for its class.
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Fuel injection: The Electronic intake pipe fuel injection injection system delivers crisp throttle response and reliable cold starts regardless of altitude or temperature.
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Accessible seat height: At 710 mm, the seat height is approachable for a wide range of rider heights and builds confidence in low-speed manoeuvring.
Considerations
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Age-related wear: As with any used R 18 Classic First Edition, a thorough pre-purchase inspection covering consumables, service history and tyres is always recommended.
Owner Experiences & Common Issues
Throttle response and fuelling
The fuel injection on the 2021 BMW R 18 Classic First Edition is generally well-regarded. Some owners note a slight hesitation at small throttle openings when cold, which clears once the engine reaches operating temperature. A quick visual check of the injector connectors during routine servicing is good practice on higher-mileage examples.
Low-speed confidence
At 365 kg, the R 18 Classic First Edition is a substantial machine. New owners occasionally mention that slow-speed manoeuvring in car parks takes a little getting used to. Once moving, the weight disappears - but practising slow-speed exercises builds confidence quickly.
R 18 Classic First Edition - Buying & Maintenance Guide
What to check before buying
When inspecting a used 2021 BMW R 18 Classic First Edition, start with the basics: check the service book for oil change frequency, inspect the chain and sprockets for wear, and look for oil seepage around the engine casings and rocker covers. A cold start test is invaluable - a well-maintained R 18 Classic First Edition should fire up cleanly and settle to a smooth idle within a few seconds.
Oil and filter changes
Regular oil changes are the single most important maintenance task on any R 18 Classic First Edition. Stick to the manufacturer's interval - typically every 6,000 km or once a year, whichever comes first. Always use the correct viscosity grade as specified in the owner's manual.
Fuel system care
The R 18 Classic First Edition's fuel injection system is durable but benefits from quality fuel and the occasional use of a fuel-system cleaner additive. If the bike has been stored for more than three months, drain and replace the fuel to prevent varnish deposits in the injectors.
2021 BMW R 18 Classic First Edition - Frequently Asked Questions
What engine does the 2021 BMW R 18 Classic First Edition have?
The 2021 BMW R 18 Classic First Edition uses a Four stroke, two cylinder horizontally opposed Boxer, Pushrod-actuated OHV with two camshafts, 4 valves per cylinder engine with 1802 cc of displacement. It is air/water cooled.
How much does the 2021 BMW R 18 Classic First Edition weigh?
The 2021 BMW R 18 Classic First Edition weighs 365 kg. This is the manufacturer's wet figure.
How much power does the 2021 BMW R 18 Classic First Edition make?
The 2021 BMW R 18 Classic First Edition produces 67 kW @ 4750 rpm of power and 158 Nm @ 3000 rpm of torque. These are peak figures.
What is the fuel tank capacity of the 2021 BMW R 18 Classic First Edition?
The 2021 BMW R 18 Classic First Edition has a 16-litre fuel tank. At around 5-6 litres per 100 km, that is roughly 266-320 km between stops.
Is the 2021 BMW R 18 Classic First Edition suitable for shorter riders?
The 2021 BMW R 18 Classic First Edition has a seat height of 710 mm. This is a comfortable, accessible height for most riders.
What brakes does the 2021 BMW R 18 Classic First Edition have?
The 2021 BMW R 18 Classic First Edition uses 2x 300mm discs, 4-piston fixed caliper at the front and Single 300mm disc, 4-piston fixed caliper at the rear.
What tyre sizes does the 2021 BMW R 18 Classic First Edition use?
The 2021 BMW R 18 Classic First Edition runs 130/90 B16 front and 180/65 B16 rear tyres. A good selection of sport, touring and all-weather rubber is available in these sizes.
What gearbox does the 2021 BMW R 18 Classic First Edition have?
The 2021 BMW R 18 Classic First Edition is fitted with a 6-speed shifting claw transmission in separate transmission housing transmission.
Key Specifications
Engine
Four stroke, two cylinder horizontally opposed Boxer, Pushrod-actuated OHV with two camshafts, 4 valves per cylinder
Power
67 kW / 91 hp @ 4750 rpm
Torque
158 Nm / 116 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm
Weight
365 kg / 804.6 lbs
Fuel Capacity
16 Litres / 4.2 US gal
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Full 2021 BMW R 18 Classic First Edition Specifications
Year
2021
Make Model
BMW R 18 Classic First Edition
Seat Height
710 mm / 27.9 in
Wheelbase
1731 mm / 68.1 in
Length
2440 mm / 36 in
Width
964 mm / 37.9 in with mirrors
Fuel Capacity
16 Litres / 4.2 US gal
Wet Weight
365 kg / 804.6 lbs
Displacement
1802 cc / 110 cu-in
Engine Detail
Four stroke, two cylinder horizontally opposed Boxer, Pushrod-actuated OHV with two camshafts, 4 valves per cylinder
Fuel System
Electronic intake pipe fuel injection, 48 mm Throttle valves
Bore x Stroke
107.1 X 100 mm
Compression Ratio
9.6:1
Cooling System
Air/water cooled
Emissions
Closed-loop 3-way catalytic converter, EU5 exhaust standard
Engine Management
BMS-K+ electronic engine management with overrun cut-off, twin-spark ignition: BMS-O with e-gas
Fuel Type
Premium unleaded (95-98 RON)
Intake / Outlet Valve Diameter
41.2 x 35.0 mm
Lubrication
Wet sump
Starter
Electric, 1.5 kW
Battery Capacity
12/26 V/Ah maintenance-free
Clutch
Hydraulically activated single-disc dry clutch
Final Drive
Shaft, 3.091
Gear Ratios
1st 2,438 / 2nd 1,696 / 3rd 1,296 / 4th 1,065 / 5th 0,903 / 6th 0,784
Primary Drive Ratios
1.16
Transmission / Drive
6-speed shifting claw transmission in separate transmission housing
Frame Type
Construction type double-loop steel tube frame
Suspension - Front
49 mm Telescopic fork, Non-adjustable
Suspension - Rear
Steel swinging fork with central shock strut
Rake
32.7°
Steering Head Angle
57.3°
Trail
150 mm / 5.9 in
Wheel Travel - Front
120 mm / 4.7 in
Wheel Travel - Rear
90 mm / 3.5 in
Alternator
Permanent magnet generator 600 W (nominal capacity)
Headlight
LED low beam with projection module LED high beam with projection module
Brakes - Front
2x 300mm discs, 4-piston fixed caliper
Brakes - Rear
Single 300mm disc, 4-piston fixed caliper
ABS
BMW Motorrad Integral ABS (part-integral)
Rims - Front
3.0 x 16
Rims - Rear
5.0 x 16
Tyres - Front
130/90 B16
Tyres - Rear
180/65 B16
Wheels
Spoked
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