2022 BMW R 18 and R 18 Classic First Look

Admin · July 9, 2021

For 2022 you can choose from three color options for the BMW R 18. There’s no more First Edition trim level. (BMW Motorrad/)

BMW has released most of the announcements for its returning 2022 models, and to no one’s surprise, the R 18 cruiser is coming back to the lineup. It’s also no shock that the bike gets very few changes for the new model year, given its long buildup and impressively massive launch in 2020. In fact, the main tweaks come down to a series of new color choices, additional accessory options—some aesthetic, some ergonomic—and the dropping of the First Edition trim from the series. The FE, as you’ll recall, adds white pinstriping, more chrome bits, and special FE badging along with a welcome box with an assortment of BMW-branded accessories.

The 2022 R 18 in Mars Red Metallic with the Option 719 Design Package Aero. (BMW Motorrad/)

For the 2022 R 18 and R 18 Classic models, though, we’re chiefly talking about fresh colors and new accessory options for 2022. The new hues include Mars Red Metallic, Manhattan Metallic Matt, and the Option 719 Galaxy Dust Metallic/Titanium Silver 2 Metallic. Additional options include metallic black drivetrain and reverse assistance upgrades, though other Option 719 parts are available à la carte as well, including the quilted Option 719 seat and Option 719 wheel options. (Option 719 started out as BMW’s internal code for unassigned options; now it refers to up-spec Motorrad factory accessories.)

Related: 2021 BMW R 18 First Ride Review

You can get the 2022 R 18 in Manhattan Metallic Matt as well, for either the standard or Classic model. (BMW Motorrad/)

The Option 719 Galaxy Dust Metallic/Titanium Silver 2 is notable for the fact that it can actually change color depending on existing light. The Galaxy Dust Metallic finish can morph from violet to turquoise blue, while the Titanium Silver 2 Metallic Mirror surface covers the fuel tank, surrounded by a classic white pinstripe.

The Galaxy Dust Metallic paint can flip-flop from violet to turquoise depending on the light, and contrasts with Titanium Silver 2 Metallic Mirror on the fuel tank. (BMW Motorrad/)

There’s also an entire Option 719 Design Package Aero which includes different cylinder head and front covers as well as intake snorkels featuring a swanky brushed finish and air vent details. A solid copper chrome-plated badge sits at the center of the side and front covers, with a partial white finish for added drama.

Titanium Silver 2 Metallic on the fuel tank meanwhile gives a smoke-effect-like transition between the two surfaces (with the Galaxy Dust paint option). (BMW Motorrad/)

Two Option 719 wheelsets are available as well, Aero and Icon. Aero brings a matt silver finish while Icon is in matt black; both are a cast alloy with a six-spoke design that features milled ribs.

Related: BMW R 18 B and R 18 Transcontinental Slated For 2022

The Option 719 Icon alloy wheels feature a six-spoke design with milled filigree ribs on the spokes. (BMW Motorrad/)

That Option 719 saddle meanwhile is an exclusive alternative to the standard R 18 saddle, bringing a special diamond quilting to the main surface with a BMW logo sitting right where your tailbone would go.

Lastly, there’s also a geometric change on the lower luggage holder for the R 18 Classic.

We were half expecting to see a new Transcontinental model added to the R 18 series for 2022 (based on reporting from sister pub Cycle World) but it looks we’ll have to wait just a bit longer.

The Option 719 seat offers standard height, but switches up the upper finish and adds diamond-shaped quilted embossing. (BMW Motorrad/)

While the new 2022 R 18 models are expected to hit dealerships sometime in autumn 2021, pricing has yet to be announced.

The R 18 Classic is back for 2022, with its traditional touring cruiser accessories intact, including a touring windshield, pillion seat, leather saddlebags, LED auxiliary headlights, and 16-inch front wheel. (BMW Motorrad/)
The Option 719 Design Package Aero includes brushed aluminum cylinder head covers with air vents and white paint enclosing the “719.” (BMW Motorrad/)
Of course you can still get the base-model R 18 in basic black. No pinstripes though. (BMW Motorrad/)
There are no changes to the 1,802cc boxer engine for 2022; additional chrome finishes are available as options. (BMW Motorrad/)
A closer look at the touring shield on the 2022 R 18 Classic. (BMW Motorrad/)
No confirmation of a new 2022 R 18 Transcontinental model just yet. (BMW Motorrad/)
Built in Berlin. (BMW Motorrad/)