BMW might be working on a hardcore version of the R18 if an entry in some recent Swiss homologation documents is any indication. The German automaker applied to certify the production intent of a new performance machine called the R 18 Roctane (or the M18 Rock /octane hybrid).
And it’s been a few years since the world noticed BMW’s R 18. The classic cruiser caused a sensation when it appeared on the scene in 2020, with a 1,802cc opposed twin generating 90 horsepower @ 4,750 rpm and 116 torque @ 3,000 rpm.
Thumper
The big draw was the combination of that engine and its thumper exhaust note. Three years later, we might finally see BMW fill out its lineup with the new R 18 Roctane.
BMW is on a roll with its R-series of cruiser bikes. It would appear it’s not content to let the current generation stand, with Motorcycle.com reporting the German brand has an “R 18 Roctane” variant occurring, which features the same 1,802cc opposed twin generating 90 horsepower @ 4,750 rpm and 116 pound-feet of torque @ 3,000 rpm compared to the current model.
However, there are changes. The Roctane’s nomenclature is 0N61, while the existing BMW model’s nomenclature starts with 0L.
This does mean we could see changes in suspension and chassis take the trail in Roctane as per the homologation documents.
What changes?
Other changes come in Roctanes wheelbase, and the filed document shows a 67.7-inch wheelbase while the Touring variant has 66.7-inch and the Classic trim has 68.1-inch.
BMW appears to have another weapon in its arsenal if the German automaker chooses to battle Harley-Davidson on the cruiser market: while Buell and Indian are working on a similar category. With this, the R 18 Roctane will soon make its official debut.
Though it remains only a thought in the documents, it’s not impossible.
Source: Motorcycle and ADV Rider
