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I bought the BMW R18 Transcontinental full optional in mid march. I come from the HD Touring world (I still own a CVO Road Glide Mako Fade color) and this bike is impressive in many aspects. The engine pulls really strong in terms of torque: it's definitely in line with an HD 114 or 117 ci M8 engine. In tight curves and hairpin bends it's way better than an HD Touring bike. Shocks are just great and better than the Ohlins I always installed on my HDs (Street or Road Glide or Limited): both with bumps and with stability while riding at high speed on long curves (no wobbling at all). The 10.5 TFT is from another league (apart that it doesn't support Apple Carplay). The Active Cruise Control is not bad at all on highways and the Marshall Audio system is definitely better than the HD Boom Box 2 I have on my CVO Road Glide. Attention to details and perceived quality is at the highest levels. That 1800 cc Boxer engine and the Cardanic transmission are two pieces of Motorcycle Art. Weight while parking with engine off is exactly the same one as perceived with an HD Limited: I never used the reverse gear. What I really miss from the HD world is the various Stage 2 or 3 or 4 and the huge number of third parties exhaust systems: nothing here (only the standard R18 has some exhaust system to choose from but not the B or Transcontinental).

Fun fact: I test drove the standard version of the R18 and learned that the percentage of plastic parts on the bike is extremely low (it was >5% if I remember correctly). Hence the extreme weight but everything you touch meets expectations.

My maiden pilgrimage on my R18 TC was a little over 6,000 miles (just home). Overall, the bike is a solid, comfortable big trip machine rolling 10+ hours per day. My feedback is made in reference to many thousands of big touring miles on HD ultra classic, GSA, and GTL over the past 10 years. I prefer the GTL for its its calm nimble quickness, but my Purple Rain R18 Tranny offers a Apollonia Appealing Alternative. I paid well under 30k for my bike, and it's an absolute bargain in reference to HD and Indian. Basically, it's the bmw hd ultra classic with bleeding edge technology, better handling, spine saving suspension, and a much lower price tag! It's a deal!

I swear to god, your channel is one of THE BEST. Everything about it is just great. Your subjectivity and objectivity is highly appreciated. Your explanations of all that stuff, articulation, everything. Keep it up. Good stuff.

Cornering clearance is why I love the K1600. Big power, lots of lean before I’m scraping pegs, can fit highway pegs, and it’s almost as heavy but doesn’t feel like it.

I put about 12,000 miles on an R1200C before the transmission gave out, so I'm still shy of BMW's dry clutch (even the slipper) on the R18. But other than the transmission spindle failing, that C was the best all-weather bike I have ever ridden. The front telelever suspension practically eliminated "nose dive" when braking and it felt incredibly stable (with Michelin tires) in the heaviest of downpours. Given that it was built the way Germans thought a cruiser SHOULD be and not what Americans wanted it to be, it was an odd duck. More of an underpowered roadster than a cruiser. Like all BMWs it was over-engineered with multiple integrated systems and every fastener held at least three parts together, but I really loved riding it and was devastated when it gave up the ghost on the side of a highway on Christmas night.

Nice to hear someone else who doesn't blast their music everywhere! This is one of the most detailed reviews that I've seen on a bike. Thank you do much for this video. I really feel like I've gotten a very honest and full review of everything I wanted to know about this gorgeous bike.

"Being on fire when you are riding is not a good idea", understated as ever Ian! Great video as always.

I just picked this up a few weeks ago. For a cruiser it is excellent. Fit and finish, attention to detail is unmatched. Definitely not a Harley or Indian, but when parked, it does get much more looks than the others. There is a learning curve if you are used to big V-twins, but with all the standard options it is a better buy than the other bikes.

This channel is so perfect it has ruined all other motorcycle review channels. Thank you Ian!

Also to add, this is by far the best review of this bike period on the internet. Fantastic videography and attention to detail, hats off to you Sir 👍👍👍👍

18:25 the R18 has the best stand. Once you put weight on it and the bike settles on the stand, the stand is locked into place. It won’t be able to move unless the bike is level, then it’s unlocked and can be swept back. It’s a great stand-you don’t have to worry about the bike rolling forward on it’s stand and tipping over.

Thanks for the review. I don't see many Harley guys switching. Like you said, they have to fit a certain mold to be accepted into that crowd. FYI, regarding scraping the floorboard, I believe the lean angle is 35 degrees for the BMW. A Harley Road King is 31/32 (left/right sides) degrees for reference. A Road Glide is 31/29. I think BMW has been hung before they even have had a chance here, not in your video, but generally speaking. It's a certain type of bike. Most people don't have the money to spend on one; if they do, it's going to be Harley otherwise, they'll get teased by their friends. The non Harley rider crowd doesn't typically drop this much money on a bike. It's heavy because they went all in on the quality, very little plastic parts. The good news with the BMW is that you don't have to let your friends sleep with your wife or girl friend like you do when you buy a Harley.

The Transcontinental is heavy, but I have found that by removing the fairing, the saddle bags and top case, you can get the weight down to a manageable level. Also, remove the floor boards for better cornering, and put your feet directly on the jugs using fireproof boots. Then select the "rock" mode.

I am absolutely not interested in getting one of these ever, yet I still loved the review! Thanks for a thorough breakdown, as always. I will admit that reverse function is pretty neat, never seen that!

I owned several bikes over the years, including a BMW S1000R and R1200GS. It may be shifts in riding habits or moreso improved understanding of my riding habits, but I am on deck to purchase an R18 Roctane. I am a fan of Boxer motors, and the R18's reminds of me of my dad's R90S from 1976. On the other side I have always loved Road Kings and have eyed the Indian Chiefs, but Road Kings are unnecessarily expensive and Chiefs don't have a hard bag option that I feel better suits the around town and short jaunt style I find myself riding.

I bought the R18 Bagger in October last year. Before, I rode the Triumph Rocket Touring. The Bagger, in comparison to the Rocket is much more manoeuvrable and easier to ride. Depends what you're used to. The Bagger only vibrates at idle, anything above that doesn't cause any vibration, at least not noticeable. Good vlog 👍

Whenever I see someone on a bike blasting their speakers I immediately think “what a knob”.

Thanks for being a person that doesn’t blast their giant 2-wheeled boom box in cities/towns 👍. As a city dweller, the stream of loud pipes and loud stereos can be oppressive at times. I realize people have the freedom to run their bikes this way, I just appreciate it when a bit of consideration is used.

I probably listened to about 8 minutes of this until I heard that the R1200C had styling 'issues.' Rather than explain what those 'issues' were the subject was changed. The issue of 'style' is a 'subjective' issue. Many to include myself consider this R1200C the epitome of 'style.' It's is, has been on display at the Guttenheim Museum, it was a 'co - star' with James Bond in a movie. I couldn't care less what others opinion of the R1200C I consider a great looking bike. The R1200C looks like it is from the art deco days of the 20's - 30's - & 40's, and at the same time looks futuristic. I own a BMW K75, R1150RS, and the R1200C. I have rode the R1200C over the same type of terrain, and long distance hauls as the others. I've rode it across time zones that most Hauley Davidsons traverse by truck, or tailor. I'd say you ought to qualify your opinions as opinions or pure BS..

This was very useful! I am at a crossroads, deciding between two bikes and this is one of them. I had nearly written it off but finally here is a review where the rider actually RIDES THE BIKE through some real roads. Power was tested, braking was tested, cornering was demonstrated, without fear. Thank you.

Honda Gold Wing wasn’t used as a comparison. The wing is balanced and smooth.

I have a local BMW dealer nearby and I've still yet to see any of the R18 models on the road. Maybe they will go over better in Europe and other parts of the world. Having said that, you did a fantastic job reviewing this bike. It is a very unique machine for sure. I guess maybe a BMW loyalist would consider such a bike if a cruiser tourer started to appeal to them.

Yes, but why? Because some bikes are not built for mass consumption. Lump this in with the Triumph Rocket 3, Ducati xDiavel, Harley CVO's, Moto Guzzi MGX-21, Yamaha VMAX, etc. You don't see many but when you do you stop and take a second and third look and marvel at the design and engineering. These are the bikes you sit on at the dealer when you're really there to buy a BMW 310 GS.

Came here because of the bmw r1250 gs adventure ! But got stuck because i love the way you touching ( showing ) and reviewing the motorcycles so that we can see the rigidity of the motorcycle and pointing and showing the parts what it is and love the way you explaining stuffs through out the video ☺️ me so likey ☺️❤️

2021,Yamaha Star Adventure quoted wet weight is 963lbs. I think it’s the world heavyweight champion

Reverse is essential! I also ride a flat 2 1200c,, my 1978 Shovel Low Rider has been sitting for decades as art work in my house

3:05.... well, we may lose Ian after this one! Appreciate your service, sir.

A cruiser will be the last bike that I would get. However, I watched the full 38 min. of your video because you made it interesting. Great review!

I think for a cruiser, this R18 is one of the nicest looking bikes in it's class. I also love Moto Guzzi California's - but these are even nicer looking.

Big Rock Moto: "Being on fire when you're riding is not a good idea" Ghost Rider: "I feel attacked"

I have been on Harleys for about 3 decades. Currently, I am running my second Ultra. I am really considering the Transcontinental for my next heavyweight tourer. Thank you for you in depth observations.

😂"Being on fire when you're riding a motorcycle is not a good idea" ~ Ian of Big Rock Moto. Hilarious, made me spit out my water, lol.

Well Ian , A month or so has passed since my last comment re this test, I revisited my dealer to look at the R18 again and I’m glad I did because they had a couple of R18 custom bikes that had been pre registered with only 300 miles covered , and massive savings on the new costs I also had a great offer on my GSA so I bit the bullet and came home with the R 18 Custom , wow I’m totally impressed with this bike, I don’t have the tft screen which came on the GSA which is ok , I’m not missing it to be honest , the build quality is just amazing , I’m looking forward to putting many tnousands of miles on this bike , thanks again for your brill test reports. - Graham.

Dear Ian, I’m relieved you overlooked the drop test this time. 😉 Maybe the reason why cruiser riders move around in groups is so there’s always a few people to help lift the bike upright if one ever drops it. I never rode a cruiser so I don’t know.

That exposed shaft is THE most dangerous feature I’ve seen on a motorcycle!!!!

Cruiser ovners are used to taking corners way slower because they know the limit. Your garage is atm probably 80% filled with ADV bikes... but they have clearance for days, so you were auto used to thinking you had it on the R18.

I got a chance to test ride the R18 classic a few months ago and thought it was an exceptional cruiser bike. If I didn't already own a new Harley I would be seriously interested in getting an R18. I thought it was so well made and had great character...loved it. I'm not in the market for a touring machine like this one, but it does look cool.

I loved the bike. absolutely beautiful but in the end I'm 5'7 and 150lbs and between the weight, no adjustable windscreen, and little room between the shifter and the engine jugs I ended up going with a 1250rt. it just fit me better This is my 1st bmw and I've fallen in love with the boxer engine. Great review of the transcontinental

hello greetings from bavaria the BMW country :-) I drive a BMW car and a BMW motorbike, an R18 to be precise, and I love the motorbike. For me one of the most beautiful bikes, unique and reminiscent of the R5 from 1930. You don't notice the weight when driving. it can be navigated playfully. I like the vibration the engine gives off, it gives the bike character. i cruise, i don't do any races, even in the bavarian alps, where the roads and curves are narrower, it's easy to move around. At biker meetings, my R18 likes to stand between the HDs and gets a lot of attention. At such a meeting, an HD driver said to me "I would drive the BMW R18 three times as much as he does with his 114, given the quality." And it's true, the quality is excellent and the weight comes from the many metal parts and less plastic. i would buy them again.

I bought an R18 transcontinental first edition 2 weeks ago. its an amazing bike. definitely prefer this over my harley. time to sell the harley I guess..

Best reviewer on the web! Gotta admit i find it funny your not a cruiser guy. All the things you hate cruiser guys love! And i agree. The majority of Harley guys are conformist by nature. Despite trying really hard not to be

Great review, I think the biggest difference between this bike and a Harley is that you get the BMW boxer engine reliability. Side note, I am surprised that you managed to get a model with the adaptive cruise control included as I've heard many of the bikes that came into the US in the last couple if years never had it due to the global chip shortage. Also, even if BMW does get 1% of the Harley market it still translates to a significant amount of cash. Cheers Thanks again.

The extremely limited/awkward feet-forward seating position option will deter many of the older guys (with worn out knees) who comprise the majority of the customer base for this type of behemoth. It's an awesome machine which, given the type of use to which it'll be put, will last more than the lifetime of the owner even if he's in his early twenties!

I own a Concours 14 and have ridden other heavy bikes. I like the looks, fit and finish, of the R18, but hate getting this one off the stand. Not pretty, but my next bike will be a Goldwing.

Here in the USA I don’t think Harley Davidson riders would leave for a bmw. Maybe if the money was right, but for me if I’m dropping 25k it’s going on a Harley Davidson!!!

Great review once again Ian! I like that you are doing occasional reviews outside of the ADV/Dual Sport segment. I always look forward to watching your new videos while I’m drinking coffee in the morning!

Hi Ian, like you a cruiser type bike was never on my radar either until I had the opportunity to ride one. We run the Rider Training Centre for BMW in the North East of England and are fortunate to have a new fleet of bikes each year( 1250's, 750gs's and 310 roadster and gs). Motorrad UK asked if we'd like an R18 to try and we of course said yes please! Having ridden the demo bike for a few hundred miles I began to enjoy it so much I bought one myself exchanging my 850gs for it (and a shed load of cash obviously). I find it handles well given its limitations but provided you ride it in the way it's intended it isn't a problem. You are correct about weight and ground clearance, I have an R18 classic first edition so not quite as heavy as the Trans and regular pegs rather than running boards but it runs out of lean quickly and sometimes unexpectedly, if you hit a bump mid corner for example, but on fast, open, smooth tarmac it's a hoot! Love the revues, thanks for your open and honest opinions. Cheers, Iain Corser

There’s an option for leg rests that attach to the drop protection bars

Thanks for reviewing all types of motorcycles on your channel. Very interesting and enjoyable for all of us that just love and appreciate motorcycles. I used to have a Honda VTX1800 (I ride cruisers/ADV/dirt and sport bikes - currently 7 in my garage) and I would argue that the VTX is the best performing, most reliable, long lasting cheap cruiser ever made. I could haul ass on that thing on the twisty back roads and it was only on rare occasions it would scrape (cornering hard). (I regret selling it). The reason I mention this is you rarely hear about them / they don’t hold their value and in my opinion are very under rated in general (there is a huge group of VTX enthusiasts all around the country though). PS that bike did have a big downside though which was range on a tank of gas.

One thing to add about boxer twin Beemers: Accelerating in a hard left turn, the MC wants to dive into the turn Accelerating in a hard right turn, the MC wants to stand up The engine's geometry creates a gyroscopic effect to the left, only under hard acceleration Just FYI from a fourty year Beemer rider

It’s funny… I wasn’t even considering a bike like this… but BMW is running some great incentives on it right now and I just love motorcycles. So here I am having an open mind about it.

"The first thing I really love about this bike: cruisers suck and are terrible in corners." 🤣

Thanks Ian, what a great interview. Very in-depth, but not overly so. You seemed to hit the sweet spot with this installment. This class of bike is somewhat appealing to me for the same reasons you indicated, but like you, the weight and price are definitely a little intimidating.

My R1150RT is dwarfed by this huge BMW Transcontinental. totally out of my budget, but nice to see BMW makes something as huge and heavy like this. Must be soo comfy to ride. And I already find my RT so comfy on the longer roadtrips.

quite good content! was curious about this beauty and you hit it. thumbs up

There is a European KZfaqr that tested the adaptive cruise control on the RT against rapidly decelerating cars and motorcycles and it did a spectacular job slowing down and avoiding running into the vehicle in front of him without him ever going to the brakes. BMW Motorrad got the adaptive cruise control right. I think the R18 is a great looking motorcycle and when I'm ready to move to that type of riding it will be my top choice if it's still around.

That song is awesome, just what i needed to hear tonight. Thank You for the review and the soundtrack

I own this bike, love it! However, navigation I use a Garmin Blinkers are crap, they don't stay on Mirrors are too small BMW network, if you break down, good luck, finding a shop that will work on your motorcycle

I'm one of those few that adored the look of the R1200C (not the cream colored one from Bond movie). I saw the R18TC and had to own it if for no other reason than to admire the classic retro look of it. I've had it for almost a year now and not a single complaint but I've never had it out when I failed to get many admiring looks and lots of compliments. I even had a HD guy comment on the "growl" as he mentioned he hadn't heard such a growl from a beemer. I predict this one is a keeper and will eventually sell well. However, right now you can get this beast for one hell of a deal. The local dealers are offering great financing too!

I rode the bagger. It's heavy but anyone that familiar with Harleys wouldn't have an issue. No, it's not a Harley, it shouldn't even be compared to one. It stands alone. It's simply in the cruiser category. I own a GS and don't live west of the Mississippi so I really don't need a GS. The bagger is smooth and comfortable. The fit and finish was better than my UltraClassic. No, they aren't selling well but a used one can be a deal. People should ride them.

I enjoyed the video. BMW seems to have an enigma on it’s hands here. Beautiful bike for sure. Would I shell out the serious coin for this? No, I would not. My GS is perfect , thank you. My question is this - whilst riding , did you ever have a serious smile on your face? Best!

Great review as always! While I have no interest in this type of bike, it is an impressive machine. Unfortunately I think it has no chance in the US with the Harley crowd. Harleys are like a religion. No amount of technology is going to convince a Harley rider to buy a BMW!

It wont draw loyal Harley riders away, nothing will, but there's always a new generation of riders coming through year on year and it'll be those people BMW will try and take a share of. As for the bike itself, it's just not the type that's suitable for tight and twisting Scottish roads so it's best left over there in the States. Great review though, covered every angle possible.

Can always add highway pegs to put your legs up. Something about this bikes speaks to me as being awesome/special. I'm a fan of BMW's R9t and the upcoming R11t looks sweet too. The R18 is a heavy bike, but it's a all metal and not plastic like on a Harley. That's impressive. More power would be nice. BMW heritage done right, in my opinion.

Good review. I am in the market for a large cruiser. I owned 2 Indian RoadMasters and I loved it. I should not have sold it. I am also a BMW loyalist. (GS’s, GTLs, RTs, etc.) But I just can’t get myself to owning an R18 TC. I’m leaning toward trading my GTL for an Indian Pursuit because of better performance. Keep up the good work. Cheers!

I bought the r18 on a whim and i am so glad I did. Just put 800miles 5/7/22 -5/9/22 and i was pleased with it. Quality is great and handling is amazing. You can rev it to 5k rpm and shift up on rock mode.... 2 things i dont like Seat is basically like sitting on bleachers... No fuel gauge but we have some dumb voltage info that you will never use.... i am keeping mine. I am 6.075 inchess tall amd 200lbs of pure sexyness...

Spot on comment about the “rugged individualist” crew being the most conformist. I’d like to own a big cruiser but am resistant because of the group that rides them. Every time I watch a HD video, the 1%’r videos start popping up on my feed. I just want to ride (solo or with friends) and don’t need another “brother”.

Nice review Ian. It'll be at least a decade or more before I'll be in the market for a cruiser bike but one thing I know for sure -- it won't be the R18. The thing is fugly and that dash: looks like a 1960s toy robot staring back at you. Like others have said, go with something that makes sense out of the box, like a Harley or, better yet, a Goldwing. Nein!

When I was about 10, my dad had a 1966 R6. It was black with white pinstripes. When I was 10 it was a humongous bike, scary big. But now I know it was tiny. This bike reminded me of it. I went the Honda route since I was 14. Might have to find the nearest BMW dealer.....

Mission Profile. This bike has a specific profile. I have the 2021 Goldwing tour DCT and it has all the feature this one has and then some. Apple CarPlay, movable windscreen and a larger compartment that would fit your phone. The GW does lack radar cruise.

Thanks for the honest review Ian. This is pretty much exactly what I thought about it.

A bavarian leviathan. I want reverse gear on my bikes from now on though, come on, would be great on an adv bike now and again :)

as a HD die hard. if i had to get rid of my road glide why would i ever pick this over the goldwing much less the k1600?? i just dont see the point especially at 35k...

I rode one of these, really good windshield, very stable chassis, huge cylinders limit leg room, Harley Davidson is still my choice,

They’re selling them for cheap right now, 17k for a 2022 seems like a good deal

A suggestion before you buy one of these. Go to the service desk at your BMW Motorrad dealership, and ask them to price out the 600 , 6,000, 12,000 and 18,000 mile services, assuming you ride 6000 miles a year. I did, and got $510, $1100, $2150, and $1400. That's $1600 for the first 6000 miles, $2150 for the next 6000 miles, and $1400 for the next 6000 miles. $5150 in service in 3 years from the BMW Motorrad dealership, to maintain your 3 year 36000 mile warranty. That doesn't even include the brake fluid flushes annually at 1 year then every 2 years. What do you think your bike is going to be worth in 3 years with that kind of expenses after you bought it and it's so expensive to maintain? Any questions now why these motorcycles aren't selling well? It's not like it's a modern design, it's ancient old school. A Harley will cost far less to maintain, over the same amount of time. Who do you know that knows how to install a new rear tire on one of these, besides a dealership? How easy are dealerships to find? I was quoted these costs by Burbank BMW Motorrad, CA , in June of 2023. Shop rate $185/ hr but they always quote by the job, not hourly. 1/2 hr increments.

Let me compliment you sir on a very excellent review. AS the owner of two HD CVO's, I probably would not purchase this bike and I think they should have put the six cylinder motor they have in it, but that being said, I was impressed by your unbiased opinion and review.

My wife and I demoed the R18 Transcontinental and the K1600GTL back to back at Sturgis. I came away with a few thoughts. 1. The R18 has one of if not the best sounding stock stereos in the business, no matter the speed. 2. It has a very good exhaust note. 3. The heel toe shift is simply not well thought out for ease of use. 4. Love the adaptive cruise control, but it isn’t perfect. 5. Top case needs to be able to hold 2 full face helmets with communicators attached. 6. Phone charging compartment needs to fit large phones with protective case. 7. Gearing is to low for cruising at 80 causing vibration at the handle bar, but perfect for under 70mph and under. 8. Windscreen is great for my 6’ of height, but would love an electronically adjustable window. TFT display is great, but built in Navigation in my mind should be standard equipment (Think Indian Ride Command for something to emulate). 9. The reverse is a great feature for any heavy weight motorcycle. 10. While BMW has came out with a very nice motorcycle to compete with HD and Indian, BMW in the US market they are not likely to take a sizable bite. However, with the taxing situation in Europe on American V-twin heavy weights, the can likely take a pretty good chunk of market share. P.S. if the K1600GTL had half the sound system of the R18, and had built in navigation, I’d be all over the K1600 and say goodbye to our 2012 Goldwing!

"cruiser riders trying to project a rebel image"...pmsl this is so accurate. In just the same way GS riders pretend to be Charlie Boorman. I suspect both sets of riders generally never stray further than their local bike meet (just see how many of both bikes are for sale with next to no miles on them)....

I have to agree with most of what you say, a great video as usual , I have one of the original cruisers from the 90s + a 2018 1200 GSA , I was interested in the R18 when it was launched here in the U.K. but the deals were limited so I walked away, but the fit and finish quality of build etc is just amazing , the one you tested is much too heavy for the average person so it’s only going to appeal to a small amount of riders , Harley have it all sewn up like you say , shame it’s so heavy but , thoroughly enjoyed your ride out and can’t wait for you to test the new GS or GSA 1300 , well done 👍

32:30 'I'm afraid this bike will cause my pants to catch on fire.' I don't know whether to laugh or grimace at that comment. Thanks for the review.

I do think you may have overstated the HD factor, in today’s world. THe HD crowd is more open today than before. HD clubs actually have other bikes in their club, than Harleys. Indians, Honda Gold Wings, etc. There is much more tolerance and acceptance in the club environment than in previous years. Being that the BMW looks like a BMW and is not a Harley Clone bike, i think it will be more acceptable to the cruising crowd club environment. While the R18 may threaten Harley Davidson sales numbers it’s not a threat to a Harley rider per say. The R18 is unique in its styling and look as well as its engine. I tend to think that the R18 will fit into the cruiser crowd better than it does in the BMW Club Crowd.

You nailed this review! One comment on the lack of HP... I found the water cooled Indian to be a bit too lively for cruising country roads on trips with my wife. I want a bike that is a bit slower to react for that purpose. A cruiser should reward relaxed riding. The BMW also seemed less top heavy compared to the Indian.

that road to idyllwild 243 is a great road to test that bike ,

I´m sure BMW would love to sell a lot of these machines in the US due to the size of this market. But, as it looks now (new bikes being sold at -6,000 Dolar in comparison to MSRP) US customers still are cautious about this German "Invasion". On the other hand this bike is selling well elsewhere, and at the end, for the shareholders, it´s indifferent where the profit comes from as long as they keep receiving their fat dividends.

I'm always surprised at just how much I can lean my 2012 Victory Cross Country in to corners. Wandered into this review because I was considering replacing it.

I was interested in a Victory SportCruiser , so the dealer let me ride the cruiser as it had the same motor. That was the only time I've ridden a cruiser. It was fun, but I'm more FT. I like the oil cooled motors.

I just bought a new K1600 GT - it doesn't have the adaptive cruise....I personally don't like it...and dont use the one in my car either..hahah...Great review...I bought the K over the R18 because I like the look better,...

I’ve been riding Harley Davidsons, my whole life. I’ve had five touring bikes I was riding before. Most people even had a Harley Davidson now every joker has the same old Harley cruiser. I’m seriously considering this BMW Transcontinental I think it would be very dependable and it looks awesome and it is quite different.

The flip side of the HD loyalist are those that don't like the "get-a-real-bike" attitude. There is Indian too tho. And 'buying American" doesn't work on me either: I'm of half German decent and all Southern, so Berlin or Milwaukee, they're both foreign to me. Having said all that I test rode a base model; also my first cruiser ride. What shocked me was the harsh suspension and the ungainly handling. I think they are stunning motorcycles to look at but this category is just too impractical for me. Will test ride a road king to completely rule them out tho.

Another superb video as always! I sat one one of these the other day. At only 175 cm this is heavy but wow nice and low and once you're on the go it drives like a dream.

Good, indepth review! How about one on the R1250RT? With your GS experience, that would be interesting and useful to those of us considering a transition to a more tour-focused boxer.

1:54 American Idiot as soundtrack, Ian you keep gaining points haha

I am a touring bike owner for over 40 years and at least 10 models. These have been BMW, Honda, and Harley. By far Harley is the best choice for all around riding, highway touring, in town commuting, and dirt roads. This BMW TC might be good on the highway but no where else. The GW is well engineered but super boring. Everyone, everywhere in America is excited by Harley. Believe when I say after you upgrade the suspension, the sound system, and the seat you could ride my 22 Road Glide all day and meet friends wherever you are. Buy Harley. It is not cheap but it is reliable.

Interesting. I agree with your comments! After 20 years of Harley ownership, culminating with a Street Glide Special, I recently purchased a new R1250GS. The SGS was too heavy (specifically parking/slow speed maneuvering) PLUS kept on grinding the floor boards! What do I miss? The sound! (it had V&H long shots) and the big windshield. But there's no going back - I'm a GS convert! Keep up the great reviews. Regards from the UK,

Well, it certainly is nice to look at. Not $35k nice, but nice nonetheless.

Ok I'll say it..ur wrong😳😀..honestly I owned both Harleys n Indians..which has both plus n minuses goin for them..but what this cruiser has goin for it is the uniqueness n technology that outdoes the competition..build quality is tops too..generally it would come down for me is the riding experience...which I will test in the near future when I get the opportunity to do so..appreciate ur thoughts on the transcontinental R18..Ride Safe!!

VERY thorough review, as usual. You nicely addressed the gripes that have been floating around; lack of power, vibration, foot position, etc. You're right in that you have to compare apples to apples, and the only apples this compares to are touring cruisers (Harley and Indian). Given that it has great fit and finish, good comfort and good handling relative to it's segment, the question is are it's weaker engine and lack of foot forward controls, deal breakers. Probably for most, but because it isn't selling very well, one does wonder whether saving 20-25% off of it's competitors' prices makes it worth the plunge. By the way, your test bike might have been north of $30K MSRP, not only because of the Vance & Hines exhaust, but also the Roland Sands valve covers and engine breastplate... those are very expensive addons.