BMW mark 100 years of motorcycling with special R nineT and R18 models

BMW are marking 100 years of motorcycling with a special edition R nineT roadster and R18 cruiser featuring lashings of chrome in a nod to the firm’s original 1923 R32 model.  

This isn’t the first time we’ve heard of anniversary models in the works, with BMW’s Head of Sales and Brand, Dr Alexander Wehr telling MCN back in May 2022: “You can expect a great party along the whole year. And of course, there are going to be new bikes and there may even be some centenary versions that I’m not allowed to disclose at this point.” 

First to arrive will be the £18,040 R nineT 100 Year Edition, which hits dealers in February 2023 powered by the same R1200GS-derived 107.3bhp, 1170cc boxer twin motor found in the rest of the retro range.

What is new are the cosmetics, with the special roadster receiving a number of Option 719 parts (special bolt-on extras built by BMW) and a number of paint-on-chrome finishes for added sparkle and additional durability against corrosion.

This includes the 18-litre fuel tank, which features black and chrome, plus twin white pin striping. You also get knee pads like the models of yesteryear, and special badging to mark the anniversary. The black front mudguard also gets white double lining, with the rear seat hump finished in chrome and providing a small rider support at the rear of the two tone front seat.

Contrasting the sparkly chrome are blacked out fork tubes and air intake snorkel, with the Option 719 parts including milled cylinder head covers, bar end mirrors, adjustable leavers and more.

You also get BMW’s optional Comfort Package, meaning heated grips, cruise control and more – plus the option to fit an alarm system should you so wish.

The R18 100 Year Edition is much the same story, retaining its existing mechanics and now painted up with similar licks of black, double white linings, and chrome. Costing £20,400, the 1802cc boxer cruiser will arrive in March and also gets a 100-year badge on the tank, plus a black and deep red single seat with diamond embossing – straight from the Option 719 catalogue.

There’s also chrome finishes on everything from the handlebar fittings to the gearshift and the engine cases, to the cylinder heads. Even the exhaust pipes are chromed, with special Akrapovič silencers providing the soundtrack.

Elsewhere, you’ll also find cornering headlights, a reverse function, cruise control and heated grips. Options including hill hold can also be added.

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Watch MCN’s BMW R18 video review below: