BMW introduced this nameplate in 2021 as part of the R 18 family, positioning it as the grand-touring flagship of the lineup and a more luxury-oriented counterpart to the R 18 B. It arrived as a 2022 model-year motorcycle, bringing BMW’s large boxer-powered heritage theme into a full-dress touring format with extensive wind protection, integrated luggage, and a strong emphasis on long-distance comfort.
The model was created around BMW Motorrad’s modern interpretation of classic American-style touring, while still drawing on the brand’s own history of shaft-driven boxer twins and the visual language of earlier BMW motorcycles. In BMW’s own product storytelling, it sits in the Heritage segment, but it is aimed squarely at riders who want a large, premium touring machine rather than a minimalist retro cruiser.
In later model years, BMW continued to keep the nameplate in the range and refreshed the broader R 18 family rather than replacing this motorcycle with a new generation. Its role has remained consistent: the top-tier, long-haul member of the R 18 line, combining retro-inspired styling with modern touring equipment and a flagship presence within BMW Motorrad’s heritage offerings.