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Cruisers

2023BMW R 18 Transcontinental

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The 2023 BMW R 18 Transcontinental is a heavyweight cruiser-touring motorcycle designed for riders seeking long-distance comfort and classic styling. Powered by a massive 1802cc boxer engine producing 91 horsepower and 157 Nm of torque, it excels at relaxed highway cruising with exceptional low-end grunt. Best known for its retro aesthetic, commanding presence, and touring-focused features, it suits experienced riders prioritizing comfort over sport performance.

Capacity: 1802.0 ccm
Engine: Boxer, four-stroke
Gearbox: 6-speed
Wet weight: 427.3 kg
Seat height: 739 mm
Power: 91.0 HP (66.4 kW) @ 4750 RPM

⇄ Compare with another bike ＋ Add to garage All model years ⚠ Recalls listed (1)

What’s new for the 2023 BMW R 18 Transcontinental

vs the 2022

Spec	2022	2023
Wheelbase	1730 mm (68.1 inches)	1694 mm (66.7 inches)

Other years 2022 2023 2024 2025 2026

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail5%

Cornering35%

City riding30%

Daily riding55%

Touring95%

Two-up90%

Track10%

Best for: Built for effortless, high-comfort long-distance touring with a passenger and full luggage rather than sport riding.
Built for: A stately, torque-rich boxer cruiser that rewards smooth, relaxed inputs over aggressive throttle or cornering demands.
Not ideal for: Not for riders seeking sharp handling, off-road capability, or a lightweight, nimble city commuter.

Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.

Will it fit you?

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Your height

Inseam (optional)

Units

At 739mm, a rider of 68.9" with a 31" (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2023 BMW R 18 Transcontinental, with a cramped knee angle of around 80 degrees and an upright riding position.

Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated. This is an approximation from category-typical geometry, not a measurement of this bike or of you - sit on one before you buy.

More bikes at 750 mm or under — Short Kings →

Find bikes that fit your height →

Range and running costs

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Units

Currency

Fuel per litre

Riding a year

Based on the published US (EPA-style) fuel economy estimate and tank size. Real-world figures depend on how and where you ride, and the last litres of a tank are reserve. Prices shown greyed are examples - type your own.

Full specifications

Engine

Capacity: 1802.0 ccm
Power: 91.0 HP (66.4 kW) @ 4750 RPM
CO2 Emissions: 140 CO2 g/km
EPA Certificate No.: PBMXC01.8K35-008
EPA Est. Fuel Consumption: 5.94 L/100km (39.6 US mpg)
EPA CO Emissions: 0.2 CO g/km
Torque: 157.3 Nm (16.0 kgf-m) @ 3000 RPM
Engine type: Boxer, four-stroke
Power/weight ratio: 0.2130 HP/kg (wet)
Bore x stroke: 107.1 x 100.0 mm
Compression: 9.6:1
Cooling system: Oil & air
Fuel system: Injection
Starting: Electric
Aspiration: Naturally aspirated
Valves per cylinder: 4

Transmission

Gearbox: 6-speed
Transmission type: Manual
Final drive: Shaft
Clutch: Single-disc dry

Performance

Top speed: 178.6 km/h (111.0 mph)

Dimensions & weight

Wheelbase: 1694 mm
Overall length: 2642 mm
Overall width: 965 mm
Overall height: 1501 mm
Seat height: 739 mm
Wet weight: 427.3 kg
Fuel capacity: 23.90 litres
Reserve fuel capacity: 3.80 litres
Carrying capacity: Saddle bags
Dry weight: Not on record - add it

Chassis & suspension

Frame: Double-cradle tubular steel
Front suspension: Telescopic fork
Rear suspension: Steel swingarm with central shock strut
Front wheel travel: 119 mm
Rear wheel travel: 119 mm
Rake (fork angle): 26.3°
Trail: 183 mm

Brakes & wheels

Front brakes: Double disc. 4 piston fixed calipers. ABS.
Front brakes diameter: 300 mm
Rear brakes: Single disc. 4 piston fixed calipers. ABS.
ABS: Yes
Front tyre: 120/70-R19
Rear tyre: 180/65-B16

Other

Color options: Black Storm Metallic, Galaxy Dust Metallic/Titan Silver Metallic, Manhattan Metallic Matte, Mineral White Metallic, Gravity Blue Metallic
Comments: Windscreen

Compiled from manufacturer documentation and user contributions, corrected on an ongoing basis. Spotted something wrong? Tell us.

What changed, year to year

Differences highlighted

Specification	2022	2023	2024	2025	2026
Capacity	1802 cc	1802 cc	1802 cc	1802 cc	1802 cc
Seat height	739 mm	739 mm	739 mm	739 mm	739 mm
Fuel capacity	23.9 L	23.9 L	23.8 L	23.9 L	23.9 L

Illustrative - generated automatically by diffing the year records already on file, not a manufacturer-published changelog.

Safety Recalls

⚠ 1 recall may apply

EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTSDec 2023 · 23V884000

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2021-2024 BMW R 18B and R 18 Transcontinental motorcycles. The headlight low beam attachment points may break, shifting the reflector out of position, and resulting in insufficient illumination. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."

Risk: Insufficient illumination from the headlight can reduce visibility or cause a glare for oncoming traffic, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Dealers will replace the headlamp, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 5, 2024. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

These recalls cover some 2023 bikes of this model. Whether one applies to a specific bike, and whether the repair has already been done, depends on its VIN — check your VIN with NHTSA or ask a dealer.

Source: NHTSA. View all BMW recalls →

Rider Reviews

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MotorcycleDB

The 2023 BMW R 18 Transcontinental is a top-of-the-line touring motorcycle that offers unparalleled comfort and style. With its powerful 1802cc engine and luxurious amenities, the R 18 Transcontinental is the perfect choice for long-distance travel. From its spacious saddlebags to its advanced infotainment system, this bike has everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable ride.

The R 18 Transcontinental also boasts impressive handling and stability, making it easy to navigate through various road conditions. Its sleek design and attention to detail make it a standout in the touring motorcycle market. Whether you're a seasoned rider or new to touring, the 2023 BMW R 18 Transcontinental is sure to exceed your expectations and provide an unforgettable riding experience.

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