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What did you do to your R18 today?

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Wunderlich engine and bag guards. Went with chrome up front and black in the back. I like the way the black bag guards compliment the black on the bags. Solid bars and easy install.
 

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brownbandit said:
Just discovered today that the backrest from my Harley Low Rider ST that's using a saddlemen seat can accept the Rider backrest!

The backrest from Saddlemen is far superior to the one that comes stock on the cross country seat. Only thing you lose is the ability to adjust it up and down at the different notch points since the BMW are on the opposite side of the saddlemens.

Going to order a different cover for the backrest to better match the BMWs. Just an FYI for anyone else who would like to run this as well.

https://www.revzilla.com/motorcycle/saddlemen-roadsofa-replacement-backrest-for-harley-touring-1997-2023?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=PLA-VTwin Parts-PMAX&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=21098986283&gbraid=0AAAAAD8sxezJa0IOwD8nsXhLVeEMrIQ1h&gclid=Cj0KCQjwvajDBhCNARIsAEE29Wq4F__TaL9wVw21G0E_AMXd_NAGJJuvRPrN_QAADfX6dUndVqzYr5caAhD6EALw_wcB&sku_id=10321461
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I have had a Sportster for 15 years and I was wondering for a while to replace it for a Low Rider S and in the meantime I asked to try the R18 and I liked it beside the good price they gave me for a new unit in stock with all the extras, and finally chose to buy it and don’t sell the Sportster.

Can you say the differences you feel between the R18 and the Low Rider?

I love the R18 so much, but I have always liked a lot Low Rider models. HD prices in Europe are getting crazy, always so expensive but lately impossible.
 
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Today I replaced the polished alloy covers with BMW original black chromed ones.
In my opinion improved the looks no end
Tomorrow, hopefully, the Vance and Hines slip ons will be added.
Also assembled the Kern Stabi the the mobility wheels. Much easier to move around.
 

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FortyEight said:
I have had a Sportster for 15 years and I was wondering for a while to replace it for a Low Rider S and in the meantime I asked to try the R18 and I liked it beside the good price they gave me for a new unit in stock with all the extras, and finally chose to buy it and don’t sell the Sportster.

Can you say the differences you feel between the R18 and the Low Rider?

I love the R18 so much, but I have always liked a lot Low Rider models. HD prices in Europe are getting crazy, always so expensive but lately impossible.
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In short, the Low Rider has a shorter wheel base and is much lighter than the Roctane so you can throw it around corners much easier and is easier to handle. But, I feel more comfortable on the R18 because it has a longer wheel base. The mis controls on the Low Rider feel much more crowded and the seating position is not ideal for long distance even with an aftermarket seat.

I love my ST and Roctane for different reasons but that's the biggest differences I've felt.
 
FortyEight said:
I love the R18 so much, but I have always liked a lot Low Rider models. HD prices in Europe are getting crazy, always so expensive but lately impossible.
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Buenas noches quarentayocho.

Funny that. In my perception HDs are cheaper than BMWs. Used too.
Low mileage R18s though are pretty good value for money though imo as the product quality is a step up from HD.

As how it rides... I suggest you do try one. The Low Rider has a sporty element which the R18 definitely has not. It is more an agile 1 ton truck with a V8. I thinkyou should forget comparison with HD; it is all a BMW. If the ´HD´ experience attract you then go for an HD. The BMW obviously has none of that. Yes a cruiser or what like the Japanese also make, Honda even with boxer engines. The GoldWings are a good example. Great bikes, overlapping HD and Indian niches but no way ´HD´.
Bottom line is just try one.

And price wise HDs should go down as the dollar is cheap and the grey import will jump in it if the official channel leaves room.
 
Hi @Petrus I have got the HD experience for 15 years with my Sportster and from a Road Glide Special that I rented in the US. I just asked the differences with the Low Rider S because it’s a model that I like and it’s not easy getting objective oppinions from people who really know well both models.

I like how my R18 works and I think that its quality is better than HD models, the same as I believe it’s Ok liking and enjoying different brands and models without losing the authentic rider license, despite my HD friends removed it from me 😉 and my sport and tourism riders friends don’t understand R18 models (neither HD) and how we can enjoy them,..

Between prices, a new R18 TC is cheaper than a Street Glide, same as a new R18 is than a Low Rider S, I think it’s the same if you look for 2nd hand models, here in Spain, trying to compare similar models.

Regards
 
FortyEight said:
Hi @Petrus I have got the HD experience for 15 years with my Sportster and from a Road Glide Special that I rented in the US. I just asked the differences with the Low Rider S because it’s a model that I like and it’s not easy getting objective oppinions from people who really know well both models.

I like how my R18 works and I think that its quality is better than HD models, the same as I believe it’s Ok liking and enjoying different brands and models without losing the authentic rider license, despite my HD friends removed it from me 😉 and my sport and tourism riders friends don’t understand R18 models (neither HD) and how we can enjoy them,..

Between prices, a new R18 TC is cheaper than a Street Glide, same as a new R18 is than a Low Rider S, I think it’s the same if you look for 2nd hand models, here in Spain, trying to compare similar models.

Regards
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I am in Spain too, Antquera afueras.
See my intro post and 10cts in general.

My point is that they very different and as you observe one can easily like bóth takes on the concept. It is like scooters and motorcycles. No need to either or.
Ditto the Buell Buell 1125R vs Ducati. Loved them both.
I simply prefer my money supporting the EU, directly or however indirectly, otherwise I would have an early VRSCA V-Rod in silver. But R18 it thus is.
 
FortyEight said:
Can you say the differences you feel between the R18 and the Low Rider?
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As dude who owns both (2018 Low Rider with the Milwaukee 8 and a 2021 R18), these are my thoughts on the differences:
The BMW is better engineered. The parts are high quality and changing things out it easy.

The BMW is heavier and you can feel it, whether it is pushing it around in the garage or slow speed movement.

The Low Rider is smoother over rough roads and more nimble.

The R18 is more planted and the handling is more precise.

Both engines are great and neither sound like a Harley. The BMW puts a lot less heat on the rider, it's the coolest experience of any substantial air cooled engine I have operated and my choice for hot days.

The Harley has better paint. The BMW has better chrome.

As far as what have I done to my R18, I added ebay Chinesium backrest, windshield and driving light mount. Copies of factory, but at 1/7th the price. The backrest pad was absolute crap, but I've got a pad from an older bike I've already modified to put on it. I only added a windshield so I have somewhere to put my parking pass for work, and so far I don't care for the windshield experience, but being that it is cheap I'm going to try modifying it to get rid of the buffetting when it's installed for commuting. I'll get some pictures up once I get finished chopping it up.
 
estoma said:
Rommel. Done, more or less.

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I am lucky enough to own a bunch of bikes. And I probably work on them more than I ride them. Always fidgeting or titivating something. I generally have three to four out of action, waiting for something: chroming, painting, farkles, bling, information or simply time. I initially compile a Worklist, fiddle that for a while, get everything lined up (which can spill into years, during which I can completely change course) and then knuckle down and tackle the entire project over a 3-4-week period. I originally contemplated a bobber along R18 Concept lines but then, over time, pivoted to assembling my interpretation of the R18 Classic.

This was Rommel's Worklist - not exhaustive. Everything struck through has been done, except when struck through and in red font - which got cancelled. Anything left in bold still needs to be done. Things do not always get done in the exact order noted, so, it is more a checklist than a schedule.

· Remove Plastic Body Parts for filler coat and gloss black painting – two Side Pieces, Tailpiece, Oil Cooler Cover and Denali Spotlight Bezels.
· Remove Plastic Engine Parts for engine color & texture repainting – Rear Engine Covers and Intake Covers.
· Remove Body Parts for repainting – Fuel Tank, Front and Rear Fenders, Side Covers and Headlight/Spot/Speedometer Buckets.
· Reset Service with the Hex-Code Flasher and install the BT Moto Tune.
· Attach the RSD Valve Cover Trims to the Valve Covers.
· Install the OEM Rear Foot Pegs.
· Install the DNA Air Filter and Air Filter Frame.
· Remove the Mufflers, remove and set aside the Exhaust Flapper Motors and mount the Flapper Motor Bypasses.
· Remove the 16” Rear Wheel and remove the tire and tube.
· Remove the 19” Front Wheel and remove the tire and tube. Set the 19” Front Wheel aside.
· Install the Brake Discs and ABS Ring on the 16” Front Wheel.
· Install the OUTEX Kits on both Wheels. Remount Tires, test, balance, and clean the Wheels.
· Attach and install the RSD Breastplate on the front of the Engine.
· Install the Trail-Tech Oil Cooler Fan Kit and route Cables for it, the Denali Spots, and the (front) Wunderlich USB Dual Socket.
· Trial-fit the Wunderlich Quick-connect Cable(s) for Media and GPS.
· Install the Power Cutout Switch at the Battery.
· Install the BMW Horn – choose which one to use: car or bike.
· Install the Oil Cooler Guard with Trail-Tech Thermometer.
· Install the DK Engine Guard, trial-fit Denali Spots and blind-spot Mirrors.
· Trial-fit the stock versus large DK Front Fender and decide on which to use.
· Remove Switches, Hand Controls, Mirrors, and Stock Handlebars.
· Sort out the BMW Spotlight wiring harness, Cruise Control Switch and Throttle. Route Cables.
· Disassemble the Mirrors and fit the Convex Glass Cutouts.
· Swap out the Stock Rear Shock with the new Nitron R1. Mount the HPA.
· Refit the Front and Rear Wheels c/w Wunderlich front wheel crash bobbins. Install Wheel Pinstriping.
· Trial-fit the Beach Bars versus the Stock Bars with the Wunderlich Risers. Install OEM riding lights c/w support, allowing for the Windshield.
· Lengthen indicator cables and install cabling inside the Beach Bars. Install the Handlebar-mounted Front Indicators.
· Reinstall the Top and Rear Engine Covers and Intake Covers with Chrome Trim.
· Install the Handlebars and Fuel Tank. Trial-fit the Wunderlich Fuel Tank Rack. Fit the Flip-open Fuel Cap.
· Install the extended Hydraulic Hoses, including Cruise-control Switches and Hand Controls. Attach the Steering Head Ball.
· Bleed the Clutch and Front Brake. Bleed any other suitable ready Bikes as well.
· Install the Headlight Bucket and the Wunderlich Windshield Frame. Mount all Mirrors.
· Mount the Windshield. Arrange installed Cables and Wiring and fit Cable Mounts as required.
· Mount the Tailpiece, License Plate and new Rear Indicators/Tail-Brake Lights plus Denali License Plate Light.
· Install the Rear Fender, Luggage Rack, Pillion Rest, Wunderlich C-bow Carriers and C-bows.
· Install other gloss-black Pieces (left side with BMW emblem), Side Covers and Mustang Seats. Swap the rider seat with the RSD rider seat.
· Install the Wunderlich Leg Rests and RSD Valve Covers. Install the (rear) OEM USB Dual Socket.
· Install the Wunderlich Ergo-Comfort Rider and Pillion Footrests, Gear Shifter, and Rear Brake Pedal. Fit Lid-Locks.
· Reinstall the Fishtail or Short Mufflers (the latter with Covers).
· Check and swap out all Engine and Chassis Hardware with BMW fillister head Torx as applicable.
· Dubin and install the Hepco & Becker Saddlebags.
· Wash, polish, and ride. Photos!

Not on the list, is spare set of fishtails that I recently bought on eBay. I plan to get those gutted - I need a louder exhaust note.

As well. I cannot get the cruise control to work and have a persistent (new rear light related) instrument warning, for which I will need to go see Motorrad. That will obviously cost me an updated BT Moto tune.

I love the bike now. My wife is not too happy with the Mustang Day Rider Pillion, meaning I might have that modified to add more cushioning. And I still have the odd fastener to replace with BMW fillister head Torx counterpart.

I might also replace the 3/8" pinstripe on the rims with 2-off: 1/4" plus 1/8".
 
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estoma said:
Not on the list, is spare set of fishtails that I recently bought on eBay. I plan to get those gutted - I need a louder exhaust note.
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Not stating the obvious that this is quite an impressive, extensive list. No, I am not :ROFLMAO:

The spare set of peardrops I looked into as well and that adds up cheaper as a bonus. I think the bike is loud enough as it is though.

Lóve it that you drive two up (y)
 
400 miles with the Wunderlich apes now, and very happy with them.
DIY install is not for the faint of heart though.
New front tire next
 

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I'm seriously considering... removing the Engine Crash Bar, which also secures the Lower Leg Wind Protection Fairing from my R18 B for the Summer Season...

I think it will give the bike an overall cleaner look; only if, it can be removed-installed easily, without completing dissembling the lower leg fairings and the 100 associated pieces...

Removing the Engine Protection Bar is pretty straightforward (4 Screws); it's freeing up the Lower Leg Protection in order to free it from the header pipe...

More to follow...
 
PistolPeteSTL said:
As dude who owns both (2018 Low Rider with the Milwaukee 8 and a 2021 R18), these are my thoughts on the differences:
The BMW is better engineered. The parts are high quality and changing things out it easy.

The BMW is heavier and you can feel it, whether it is pushing it around in the garage or slow speed movement.

The Low Rider is smoother over rough roads and more nimble.

The R18 is more planted and the handling is more precise.

Both engines are great and neither sound like a Harley. The BMW puts a lot less heat on the rider, it's the coolest experience of any substantial air cooled engine I have operated and my choice for hot days.

The Harley has better paint. The BMW has better chrome.

As far as what have I done to my R18, I added ebay Chinesium backrest, windshield and driving light mount. Copies of factory, but at 1/7th the price. The backrest pad was absolute crap, but I've got a pad from an older bike I've already modified to put on it. I only added a windshield so I have somewhere to put my parking pass for work, and so far I don't care for the windshield experience, but being that it is cheap I'm going to try modifying it to get rid of the buffetting when it's installed for commuting. I'll get some pictures up once I get finished chopping it up.
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Many thanks for the review! So complete.

I totally agree with the heat on the rider, remember a traffic jump in las Vegas riding a Milwaukee 8 on a Road Glide Special, and almost lost the concious because of the heat, much worse than the Evo, and of course than the big boxer of the R18 that you don’t notice it.
 
Star-Lord said:
I'm seriously considering... removing the Engine Crash Bar, which also secures the Lower Leg Wind Protection Fairing from my R18 B for the Summer Season...

I think it will give the bike an overall cleaner look; only if, it can be removed-installed easily, without completing dissembling the lower leg fairings and the 100 associated pieces...

Removing the Engine Protection Bar is pretty straightforward (4 Screws); it's freeing up the Lower Leg Protection in order to free it from the header pipe...

More to follow..
Click to expand...
If I remember correctly you have to loosen the steering damper just to get the crash bars on/off.
 
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