BMW’s motorcycle-building division turns 100 years old in 2023; It predates the group’s car-making arm by several years. It is celebrating this remarkable milestone by adding a new model to its range of heritage-inspired, flat-twin-powered two-wheelers called the R18 Roctane. Low, aerodynamic and relatively long, the R18 Roctane borrows a handful of styling cues from some of the most iconic models of BMW’s past, including the R 5 introduced in 1936. The company touts the look as “streamliner”. The swept-back shape hints at the panel, as does the rear fender, but adds that the air-cooled flat-twin engine remains at the heart of the design. There is more to Rockten than initially meets the eye. The mid-rise handlebars were developed specifically for this model, and the round instrument cluster is integrated into the headlights for a cleaner, back-to-the-basics look. Similarly, rear turn signals are mounted on hard side cases. The 21-inch front and 18-inch rear wheels, trim pieces and many mechanical components are finished in black. BMW explains that the mid-rise handlebar fitting “allows for a comfortable and active riding position to optimally control the motorcycle.” Seat height checks in at 28.3 inches, which is relatively low, and a long list of riding aids are offered to help riders stay safe and alert on long trips. ABS brakes and cruise control come standard, and adaptive LED headlights that take into account lean angles are optional. Power for the Rockten comes from a 1.8-liter air-cooled flat-twin that makes 91 horsepower at 4,750 rpm and 116 pound-feet of torque at 3,000 rpm. Known as the Big Boxer, and already seen in many members of BMW’s line-up, it is a surprisingly advanced engine built with a forged crankshaft, forged connecting rods and two-stage oil pump drive via chain to the crankshaft. While BMW has churned out flat-twin-powered bikes for decades, the big boxer boasts the largest engine the company has ever put into a production model. One of the cool design features — and one of the few parts that isn’t blacked-out — is the driveshaft visible when you look at the right side of the bike. While most modern motorcycles use a chain or belt to drive the rear wheel, the R18 Rockten and other members of the R18 family are fitted with an old-school metal driveshaft. It moves through a six-speed transmission, and a reverse gear powered by an electric motor is offered as an option. Get straight and you’ll hit 62 mph from a stop in 5.5 seconds on the way to 111 mph. Available now, the BMW R18 Roctane carries a base price of $18,695 excluding destination. Deliveries will begin in the third quarter of 2023.
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