BMW Unleashes R 18 Roctane Cruiser

David Swarts

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May 11, 2023

The New BMW R 18 Roctane

Fifth member of the BMW R 18 family.
MSRP $18,695 plus Destination
Estimated Market launch Q3 2023

Woodcliff Lake, NJ – May 11, 2023 . . . BMW Motorrad is proud to announce the newest and fifth member of the Heritage line R 18 family, the BMW R 18 Roctane. The R 18 Roctane joins the R 18, R 18 Classic, R 18 B and R 18 Transcontinental.

The R 18 borrows styling cues from past models, such as the 1936 BMW R 5, where the iconic air-oil cooled boxer motor is the epicenter of the purist, “streamliner” design. Modern technology discretely supports the R 18 Roctane in delivering an emotional riding experience, from the first start of the engine to wherever your heart and the front wheel may guide you, near or far.

Unique R 18 Roctane features

Mid-rise handlebars
Instrument cluster integrated into the headlight housing
Painted hard side cases with integrated turn signals.
Blacked-out engine and drivetrain
Dark Chrome exhaust system
21-inch front and 18-inch rear alloy wheels.

Design

The new BMW R 18 Roctane is a cruiser, a bagger and everything in between. The larger 21-inch front wheel, combined with the 18-inch rear wheel and the mid-rise handlebars give the new R 18 model a more purposeful look.

Taking design cues from air/oil-cooled BMW boxer models of decades past, design features such as the engine acting as center piece, the double-loop frame, the exposed drive shaft and the rigid-style rear all combine to deliver the tapered streamliner design language intended by BMW Motorrad.

Starting from the steering head, the frame spine and rear swing arm top frame tubes visually form a continuous line. In conjunction with the swing arm’s lower beam tubes, which are aligned with the frame down tubes, this flowing line gives the new R 18 Roctane a muscular appearance.

Attention to the smallest details can be seen throughout the R 18 Roctane. The classic body parts of the R 18 Roctane are made of metal. The 4.2-gallon fuel tank’s teardrop shape is derived from the R 5, as are the design of the front and rear fenders, the fork covers and the headlight housing. All, also made of steel.

The flawless paint finishes that have been featured on all R 18 models are found on the new R 18 Roctane. Black Storm Metallic is standard while Mineral Grey Metallic Matte and Manhattan Metallic Matte finishes are available as optional colors. These matte paint finishes contrast with the high-gloss black chassis and ensure a classically modern look.

Painted Hard Cases

The new R 18 Roctane is equipped for cruising and touring thanks to body-color painted cases with integrated LED taillights. The cases offer 27 liters of luggage space each and can be equipped with optional removable liners. The “filler stripes” that cover the space between the cases and the bike can be selected from the available accessories. The original BMW Motorrad Accessories range also offers soft luggage options such as the rear bag or frame bag made of waxed canvas with genuine leather trim.

A rear view of a BMW R18 Roctane. Photo courtesy BMW Motorrad.

Headlight with Instrument Cluster

Inspired by the legendary 1936 BMW R 5, and from then, on almost all BMW motorcycles until the early 1970s, the R 18 Roctane’s round instrument cluster is integrated into the metal LED headlight housing to give a unique and classic look. The “BERLIN BUILT” lettering on the instrument dial is a reference to the bike’s origin and for all its classic looks, the instrument cluster delivers all the important information such as engine rpm, gear indicator, status inquiry and trip computer details.

heart of the new BMW R 18 Roctane is the 1,802-cc boxer engine. This motor carries on the tradition of motorcycles from Munich and Berlin-Spandau from the very beginning of BMW Motorrad production in 1923.

The engine output remains unchanged; 91 hp at 4,750 rpm and a maximum torque of 116 lb-ft at 3,000 rpm, with more than 110 lb-ft. available between 2,000 to 4,000 rpm. The maximum engine speed is 5,750 rpm.

The air/oil cooled motor features a vertically split aluminum engine and weighs a combined 244 lbs. with the transmission.

In contrast to the classic air-cooled two-valve boxer engines from BMW Motorrad, the forged crankshaft of the R 18 motor, has an additional center main bearing, which became necessary, due to the large cylinder volume, to prevent undesirable bending vibrations of the crankshaft.

Forged connecting rods, cast aluminum pistons, cylinder walls coated with NiCaSil and a wet sump lubrication system with a two-stage oil pump driven by the crankshaft via a sleeve chain are additional features of the largest BMW boxer motor ever installed in a production motorcycle.
When developing the valve drive for the R 18 boxer motor, BMW Motorrad engineers were inspired by a very special engine design from history – the 2-cylinder boxer of the 1936 – 1941 R 5 / R 51 and the 1950 – 1951 R 51/2, the latter having been the first BMW motorcycle with a boxer engine after the Second World War.

The twin camshaft design allows for shorter pushrods. This arrangement reduces the moving masses, decreases deflection and minimizes the linear expansion of the push rods. The two intake and exhaust valves in the cylinder head are actuated in pairs via fork rocker arms. Valve clearances can be changed by means of one adjusting screw with lock nut per valve, making valve clearance adjustments quicker and easier.

Transmission and Shaft Drive

The constant-mesh, 6-speed gearbox, is located in a two-part aluminum housing and features a four-shaft transmission with helical gear pairs. The transmission input shaft with cleat damper, drives the two transmission shafts with the gear wheel pairs via a countershaft. Reverse gear, driven by an intermediate gear and an electric motor, is available as an option.

A single-plate, dry, self-reinforcing anti-hopping clutch eliminates undesired rear wheel hop which may be caused by engine drag torque during hard down shifts.

As in all BMW motorcycles with boxer engines, torque is transmitted from the gearbox to the rear wheel via a driveshaft or Cardan shaft drive. The open, nickel-plated drive shaft and universal joint are examples of classic motorcycle technology commonly used on BMW Motorrad models up to and including model year 1955. A so-called tripoid joint is installed on the gearbox side for the purpose of length compensation.

Chassis

The chassis in the new R 18 Roctane is the same double-loop steel tube frame used in the R 18 and R 18 Classic. The high manufacturing quality and attention to detail is evident in barely perceptible details such in the steering head struts as well as in the welded joints between steel tubes and cast or forged parts. Some of the tube joints in the steering head area are cut at an angle, which makes the connection look particularly pleasing to the eye.

The rear steel swing arm is made of steel tubes and cast or forged parts and combined with the central cantilever shock, is designed to give the look of the rigid frame used in the original BMW R 5. As a result, the rigid-frame style layout also provides the so-called flyline, from front to rear, of the overall R 18 design.

The suspension elements of the new R 18 Roctane, also reflect the classic design. Electronic adjustment options have been deliberately omitted. Instead, telescopic forks and a central shock with travel-dependent damping and adjustable spring preload ensure superior wheel guidance and suspension control and comfort. As in the legendary BMW R 5, the fork tubes are encased in fork sleeves. The fixed fork tube diameter is 49 mm, while suspension travel is 4.7-inches at the front and 3.5-inches at the rear, same as on the R 18.

Controls and Ergonomics

The new BMW R 18 Roctane features mid-mounted controls, a long-standing BMW Motorrad philosophy of rider positioning. This classic position behind the cylinders is not only typical of BMW, but it also allows for a relaxed and active riding position for optimally controlling the motorcycle. The R 18 Roctane features a slim two-level seat that tapers towards the rear, with rear passenger straps, and is equipped with running boards in conjunction with a heel-toe gearshift controls. The mid-rise, black-coated handlebars and the comfortably low 28.3-inch seat height (27.3-inches for the R 18) ensure an upright and relaxed riding posture.

Wheels, Tires and Brakes

The new BMW R 18 Roctane features twin 300 mm front disc brakes with four-piston fixed calipers and a 300 mm single-disk rear brake. BMW Motorrad Integral ABS (partially integral) is standard. On this brake system, the hand brake lever activates the front and rear brakes together. The foot brake lever only acts on the rear brake. BMW Motorrad Integral ABS adjusts the brake force distribution between the front and rear brakes during braking based on the dynamic wheel load distribution.

The R 18 Roctane’s cast alloy wheels have a very distinctive look, greater wheel diameters at the front and rear compared to the R 18. The 3.5 x 21” front wheel (3.5 x 19-inches on the R 18) is equipped with a 120/70 B21 tire (120/70 R19 on the R 18), while a 180/55 B18 tire (180/65 B16 on the R 18) is used on the 5.5 x 18″ rear wheel (5.0 x 16-inches on the R 18). The 21-inch front wheel extends the castor significantly (7.3-inches in the R 18 Roctane vs. 5.9-inches for the R 18), improving straight-line stability.

Adaptive Headlight

The optional adaptive headlight, which is unique in this class, works by activating separate LED elements in the main headlight, which each have their own reflectors, depending on the lean angle. The function is used to compensate for the lean angle in relation to the cut-off of the low beam. The signal of the lean angle sensor is read, and the adaptive headlight is switched on. The function is activated when the engine is running, the low beam or high beam is activated, darkness is detected, and the motorcycle is moving at a speed above 6 mph and at a lean angle approximately between 7° and 25°. This significantly improves the illumination of the inside of the curve – a big safety plus when riding at night or in other situations with poor lighting conditions.

Available Reverse Assist and Hill Start Control plus standard Cruise Control.

The new R 18 Roctane can be equipped with optional Reverse Assist and Hill Start Control. Reverse Assist can be activated via the selector lever when needed. Reverse is then initiated by pressing on the starter button. Hill Start Control makes it particularly easy to start off on an incline. It is activated by briefly operating the hand or foot brake lever. Optional heated grips will keep your hands warm on cold days. The R 18 Roctane is equipped with standard cruise control.

Riding Modes and Safety Systems

The BMW R 18 Roctane is equipped with standard keyless start and Riding Modes. Keyless Ride allows the rider to keep the key safely in the pocket.

The new R 18 Roctane features the same three riding modes R 18 riders are familiar with: “Rain”, “Roll” and “Rock”. ASC (Automatic Stability Control, disengageable) and Engine Drag Control are also standard and ensures a high level of riding safety.

In “Rain” mode, throttle response is gentler, and the control characteristics of ASC and engine drag control allow for a more slippery road surface to achieve a very high level of riding safety.

In “Road” mode, the engine offers optimum throttle response, while ASC and engine drag control are set to achieve ideal performance on all roads.

The “Rock” riding mode allows the rider to explore the full dynamic potential of the new R 18 Roctane. Throttle response is very spontaneous and direct, and ASC allows a little more slip.

In each riding mode, the optimum interaction of throttle response, ASC control and engine drag torque control is provided. This means that the three riding modes offer optimum adjustment options – both, with regard to road conditions (Rain mode), and the rider’s personal ride experience (Rock mode).

The standard, electronically controlled, Engine Drag Control prevents the rear wheel from slipping because of abrupt throttle changes or downshifting. An anti-hopping clutch is opened from a mechanically preset threshold to prevent the rear wheel from hopping – for example when down shifting. However, if the tire’s available grip is below this opening threshold, for example in wet conditions, the rear wheel could still exceed the traction limit due to the engine drag torque and simultaneous activation of the rear wheel brake and then slip. Thanks to engine drag control, the new R 18 Roctane detects this danger at an early stage. Depending on the coefficient of friction between the tire and the road surface, the throttle valves are opened in milliseconds, in such a way that the drag torque is reduced, and the rear wheel remains within its traction range. This results in further enhanced safety, especially on slippery roads.

Colors

Black Storm Metallic
Mineral Gray Metallic Matte
Manhattan Metallic Matte

Standard Equipment

2-cylinder 1,802 cc air/oil-cooled Boxer motor 91 hp and 116 lb-ft of torque
6-speed helical toothed gearbox
Stainless steel exhaust system
Anti-hopping single-disk, dry clutch
Nickel-plated exposed shaft drive
Mid-rise handlebar
21-inch front and 18-inch rear cast aluminum wheels
Automatic stability control
BMW Motorrad Integral ABS (partially integral)
300 mm twin-disk front and 300 mm single-disk rear brakes
Dynamic Brake Control
Steering Stabilizer
49mm Telescopic forks with fork covers
12v power socket
Instrument cluster integrated into headlight housing
Electronic immobilizer
Comfort LED turn signals
LED headlight and taillights
Cruise Control
On board computer
Torque Control Assist
Dynamic Engine Brake Control
Riding Modes
Adjustable hand brake and clutch levers
Integrated side cases, painted body color
Keyless Ride
Black powertrain
Dark Chrome plated header and exhaust
Solo seat
Floorboards

Optional equipment

Select Package – Adaptive Headlight, Headlight Pro, Heated Grips, Tire Pressure Monitor
Locking Fuel Cap
Hill Start Control
Reverse Assist

Accessories

The R 18 Roctane features a wide selection of BMW Motorrad and BMW Option 719 accessories, including:

Exhaust systems
Engine, cylinder head cover and are intake runner covers
Wheels
Mirrors
Front fenders
Expansion tank, fuel filler and fork covers
Hand control levers
Solo seats, passenger seats and back rests
Windshields
Tank bags
Luggage rack
Rear bag
Mobile phone bag

Technical specifications.

R 18 Roctane
Engine
Capacity	cc/cu. in.	1,802 / 110
Bore x stroke	mm	107.1 x 100
Output	hp	91 @ 4,750 rpm
Torque	lb-ft.	116 @ 3,000 rpm
Type		Air/oil-cooled 2-cylinder 4-stroke boxer
No. of cylinders		2
Compression / fuel		9.6:1 / premium unleaded
Valve / accelerator actuation		OHV / 4-valves per cylinder
Ø intake/exhaust valve dia.	mm	41.2 / 35.0
Ø throttle body dia.	mm	48
Engine control		BMS-O
Emission control		Closed-loop 3-way catalytic converter, EU5

Electrical system
Alternator	W	600
Battery	V/Ah	12/26 maintenance-free
Headlight		LED low and high beam
Starter	kW	1.5

Transmission
Clutch		Hydraulically activated single-plate dry clutch
Gearbox		Constant-mesh 6-speed gearbox
Primary ratio		1.16
Transmission ratios I		2.438
II		1.696
III		1.296
IV		1.065
V		0.903
VI		0.784
Rear wheel drive		Universal shaft
Transmission ratio		3.091



Suspension
Frame construction type		Steel double-loop tube frame
Front suspension		Fixed telescopic fork, 49 mm
Rear suspension		Cantilever
Suspension travel front/rear	in.	4.7 / 3.5
Wheel castor	in.	7.3
Wheelbase	in.	67.7
Steering head angle	°	55.3
Brakes	front	Twin disc brake Ø 300 mm
	rear	Single-disc brake Ø 300 mm
ABS		BMW Motorrad Partially Integral ABS
Wheels		Light alloy cast wheels
	front	3.5 x 21″
	rear	5.5 x 18”
Tires	Front	120/70 B 21
	Rear	180/55 B 18

Dimensions and weights
Total length	in.	103.0
Total width with mirrors	in.	37.5
Seat height	in.	28.3
DIN unladen weight	lbs.	825
Permitted total weight	lbs.	1,234
Fuel tank capacity	gal.	4.2

Performance figures
0-62 mph	sec.	5.46
Top speed	mph	111

BMW Group In America
BMW of North America, LLC has been present in the United States since 1975. Rolls-Royce Motor Cars NA, LLC began distributing vehicles in 2003. The BMW Group in the United States has grown to include marketing, sales, and financial service organizations for the BMW brand of motor vehicles, including motorcycles, the MINI brand, and Rolls-Royce Motor Cars; Designworks, a strategic design consultancy based in California; a technology office in Silicon Valley, and various other operations throughout the country. BMW Manufacturing Co., LLC in South Carolina is the BMW Group global center of competence for BMW X models and manufactures the X3, X4, X5, X6 and X7 Sports Activity Vehicles as well as the BMW XM. The BMW Group sales organization is represented in the U.S. through networks of 350 BMW passenger car and BMW Sports Activity Vehicle centers, 146 BMW motorcycle retailers, 104 MINI passenger car dealers, and 38 Rolls-Royce Motor Car dealers. BMW (US) Holding Corp., the BMW Group’s sales headquarters for North America, is located in Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey.

OMRRA: DiBrino Wins Three At Portland International Raceway

David Swarts

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May 10, 2023

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OMRRA: DiBrino Wins Three At Portland International Raceway

The Oregon Motorcycle Road Racing Association (OMRRA) teamed up with the Washington Motorcycle Road Racing Association (WMRRA) to open the 2023 season of racing in the Pacific Northwest. Rain loomed in the forecast all weekend, but racers and fans in attendance were treated to nearly perfect track conditions and sunshine all weekend long. The first race weekend of the year is almost like the first day of school, with racers showing off their new machines, livery, and leathers. There are also the “new kids,” of which OMRRA welcomed 12 to ranks as new Novice racers. Some racers even pulled straight-As with wins in all of their core race classes.

In the Money Well Lending Title Championship, local star Andy DiBrino took a weekend off from preparing an MV Agusta F3 RR for competition in MotoAmerica’s Supersport class to dust off his EDR-tuned Kawasaki ZX-10R and take wins in Formula Ultra, Open Supersport, and Open Superbike. Hot on his tail was the #1 bike of Kevin Pinkstaff on a Kawasaki ZX-10R prepared by Zlock Racing. David Kohlstaedt also showed impressive performance in these classes on a new-to-him BMW S 1000 RR.

OMRRA’s Clubman Championship, sponsored by MotoCorsa, pits “the rest of the club” against each other in the hunt for the #1c plate. The star of the Ultra Lightweight races was Austin McCabe on his Gray Area Racing KTM RC 390, followed closely by three other RC 390s from the same Eugene, Oregon-based builder Gray Area Racing. McCabe currently leads the Clubman Championship.

Fans were treated to another orange surprise with 2022 Northern Talent Cup winner and MotoAmerica Junior Cup racer Rossi Moor showing up to race at Portland International Raceway for his first time, piloting his 2018 KTM RC 390 R.

In the Middleweight races, Hannah Johnson, Nathan Aldrich, Adam Faussett, Joe Rocha, and Oliver Jervis were all race winners and all on different machinery. The Middleweight classes pit the widest variety of machines against each other, but made for the closest racing all weekend. The 600 races saw former champion Joe Pittman return with a new Kawasaki ZX-6R to take 4/4 race wins. Pittman was followed closely by Brian and Kinzer Naylor and Andy DiBrino riding a naked KTM 890 Duke R.

In the Lightweight Supersport class, Adam Faussett set a new PIR lap record of 1:18.807 aboard his Tiger Tail Racing 2023 Kawasaki Ninja 400.

Tim O’Mahony, Matthew Winter, and Ryan Shanahan are sitting in the top spots of the Langlitz Leathers Vintage Championship.

OMRRA’s next event takes place at Portland International Raceway in Portland, Oregon, June 9-11, 2023. A second June event follows the week after at Ridge Motorsports Park, in Shelton Washington, June 16-18, 2023.

OMRRA, incorporated in 1972 as a non-profit, volunteer run organization, has members ranging in age from 12 to over 70, racing motorcycles of many brands, sizes and ages. OMRRA operates at Portland International Raceway, a city park and world class track. For more information, visit www.omrra.com and join us at www.facebook.com/omrra.racing and @omrra.pdx on social media.

OMRRA May 2023 Results RRW

American Flat Track: Daniels Takes Championship Lead To The Sacramento Mile

David Swarts

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May 10, 2023

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American Flat Track: Daniels Takes Championship Lead To The Sacramento Mile

Progressive AFT Speeds into the Mission Foods Legendary Sacramento Mile powered by Law Tigers

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (May 10, 2023) – Progressive American Flat Track, sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing, shifts gears as it heads into the first of its majestic Miles with one of the sport’s iconic races, the Mission Foods Legendary Sacramento Mile powered by Law Tigers at Cal Expo in Sacramento, California, this Saturday, May 13.

This year’s edition is the 57th in the history of a race that has helped build the reputations of some of dirt track’s biggest-ever names, going all the way back to the very first Sacramento Mile won by four-time Grand National Champion Carroll Resweber in 1959.

Following four Short Tracks in the season’s opening six races, the season now transitions into a high-speed run of three consecutive Miles. Upon the 2023 schedule’s unveiling, the upcoming section of the campaign was immediately identified as key to the title defense of reigning Mission SuperTwins presented by S&S Cycle champion Jared Mees (No. 1 Indian Motorcycle/Rogers Racing/SDI Racing FTR750).

Mees has developed into an absolute master of the strategic Mile discipline, racking up a bevy of race victories that helped pave the way for his acquisition of four additional championships since joining forces with Indian Motorcycle in 2017. The Sacramento Mile certainly played a role in that success, as Mees scored four consecutive victories in the race from 2018-2021.

Now facing an early 24-point deficit, another Cal Expo triumph this weekend would be most timely. However, to do so he’ll have to overcome the rider he’s currently chasing in the standings, Dallas Daniels (No. 32 Estenson Racing Yamaha MT-07 DT), who just so happened to win last year’s Sacramento Mile as a rookie.

Daniels is that much stronger in 2023 with a year of experience under his belt, building up his early advantage on the strength of three wins and three runner-ups.

Third-ranked JD Beach (No. 95 Estenson Racing Yamaha MT-07 DT) figures to be a factor as well. Beach demonstrated extraordinary speed on the Miles at times a year ago even if he was unable to parlay that pace into wins, largely due to poor luck. He’s driven to get that career-first Mile win, as it’s one of just two missing components in his ultimate ambition of collecting an “old school” Grand Slam of wins (ST, TT, HM, Mile, and Superbike).

Observers will also be keenly interested in the performance of Briar Bauman (No. 3 Parts Plus/Jacob Companies KTM 890 Duke). As expected, Bauman has been up-and-down as he adapts to, and develops, his new racebike. It’ll be fascinating to see how the machine performs when given a chance to run full-song around a big Mile racetrack.

The same is true of the factory Royal Enfields piloted by Johnny Lewis (No. 10 Moto Anatomy X Powered by Royal Enfield 650) and Ryan Wells (No. 94 Moto Anatomy X Powered by Royal Enfield 650). In its earliest, pre-premier class days, the bike avoided the Miles as the factory worked overtime to make up for an inherent horsepower disadvantage. However, the platform has come a long, long way from where it started. This will be the perfect opportunity to see exactly how it measures up against the best of the best on a Mile.

Brandon Robinson (No. 44 Mission Roof Systems Indian FTR750) headlines an accomplished group of highly competitive independent riders. The Pennsylvanian has had a tough opening third of the season, as he’s gotten beaten up by more than his share of falls already in 2023. The most recent came in the Ventura ST Main Event just days ago. And with precious little time to recover, the hope is that he’ll be ready to give it his all in Sacramento.

Parts Unlimited AFT Singles presented by KICKER

While the factory Red Bull KTMs and Turner Hondas have largely monopolized the Parts Unlimited AFT Singles presented by KICKER headlines early this season, a different pairing is poised to steal back some attention this weekend.

Estenson Racing Yamaha’s Trevor Brunner (No. 21 Estenson Racing Yamaha YZ450F) comes into the race with an active three-race win streak at the Sacramento Mile – a streak that transcends teams and manufacturers.

Meanwhile, no rider in the class has been as historically great at the high-profile event as the category’s all-time winningest rider, Shayna Texter-Bauman (No. 52 Parts Plus/Jacob Companies KTM 450 SX-F), who boasts a grand tally of four Sacramento Mile wins (2012, 2013, 2017, and 2019).

Brunner has had his moments this season, and he’s been running consistently inside the top five. However, he’s still looking to recapture last season’s second-half form in which he racked up six podiums in seven races at one point, including a win in Sacramento.

Texter-Bauman, meanwhile, has flashed her trademark speed as she transitions back to the class. That said, she could definitely use a superior performance this weekend as a springboard for the rest of the year.

The usual suspects of title fighters – led by defending champ and points leader Kody Kopp (No. 1 Red Bull KTM Factory Racing 450 SX-F) and followed closely by Dalton Gauthier (No. 79 D&D Racing/Certified KTM 450 SX-F), Max Whale (No. 18 Red Bull KTM Factory Racing 450 SX-F), Chase Saathoff (No. 88 American Honda/Mission Foods CRF450R), Morgen Mischler (No. 13 American Honda/Mission Foods CRF450R), Trent Lowe (No. 48 American Honda/Mission Foods CRF450R), and Tom Drane (No. 59 Estenson Racing Yamaha YZ450F) – will have their say of course.

This weekend also serves as something of a second chance for 1st Impressions Husqvarna’s Golden State duo of James Ott (No. 19 1st Impressions Race Team/Husqvarna Racing FC450) and Chad Cose (No. 49 1st Impressions Race Team/Husqvarna Racing FC450) to impress in front of their home state fans after struggling through something of a down outing at Ventura Raceway.

There will be plenty to keep fans entertained at the track on Saturday as well, including numerous vendors, plenty of food and beverage options, and motorcycle parking.

There are a wide variety of ticketing options to select from, starting with Adult General Admission Tickets, which are just $25 if purchased in advance.

Visit https://www.etix.com/ticket/p/7818909 to purchase your tickets today!

Gates will open for fans at 5:00 p.m. ET (2:00 p.m. PT) with Opening Ceremonies scheduled to begin at 9:45 p.m. ET (6:45 p.m. PT).

For those that can’t catch the live action from the circuit, FansChoice.tv is the live streaming home of Progressive AFT. Sign up now and catch every second of on-track action starting with Practice & Qualifying and ending with the Victory Podium at the end of the night at https://www.fanschoice.tv.

FOX Sports coverage of the Legendary Sacramento Mile, featuring in-depth features and thrilling onboard cameras, will premiere on FS1 on Saturday, May 27, at 11:30 a.m. ET (8:30 a.m. PT).

For more information on Progressive AFT visit https://www.americanflattrack.com.

About Progressive American Flat Track

Progressive American Flat Track, sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing, is the world’s premier dirt track motorcycle racing series and one of the longest-running championships in the history of motorsports. Sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing in Daytona Beach, Fla., the series is highly regarded as the most competitive form of dirt track motorcycle racing on the globe. For more information on Progressive American Flat Track, please visit us on the web, like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter, check us out on Instagram and catch all the Progressive American Flat Track racing action on FOX Sports.

Video: MotoAmerica Racer Rocco Landers Interviewed On New Podcast

David Swarts

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May 10, 2023

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Video: MotoAmerica Racer Rocco Landers Interviewed On New Podcast

MotoAmerica racer Rocco Landers is interviewed on the latest edition of the Tales From A Gemini podcast.

MotoGP: Quartararo & Zarco Lead Parade To Le Mans

David Swarts

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May 10, 2023

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MotoGP: Quartararo & Zarco Lead Parade To Le Mans

Editorial Note: Watch video from the ride here.

Vive la vitesse ! Quartararo & Zarco lead fabulous fan parade in Le Mans

From city to circuit, the home heroes head up a parade of 1000s of fans ahead of #GP1000

Wednesday, 10 May 2023

MotoGP™ celebrates the 1000th Grand Prix in history this weekend and the occasion got off to a fitting start in France as 1000s of fans joined their home heroes for a ride in. Fabio Quartararo (Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP™) and Johann Zarco (Prima Pramac Racing) led the incredible convoy home, with the route starting in the centre of Le Mans and heading to the circuit – finishing up with a lap of the famous venue.

The parade began at Place du Jet d’Eau, with the riders getting suited and booted before taking to the fanzone stage for a quick Q&A to welcome the crowd. Then it was showtime as Quartararo and Zarco headed over to their bikes and got ready to lead the huge convoy off through the city.

Fabio Quartararo (20) taking a turn leading the parade of motorcycles to the Bugatti Circuit. Photo courtesy Dorna.

Johann Zarco (5) taking a turn leading the parade of motorcycles to the Bugatti Circuit. Photo courtesy Dorna.

With a police escort and fans lining the streets en route, the sound of 1000s of motorcycles made sure everyone knows MotoGP™ is in town this weekend. And with the 1000GP flags flying high, they all know history is about to be made!

On arrival at the circuit, the convoy headed onto the hallowed ground at Raccordement, the final corner complex, and then the fans set off for a very special lap behind their Grand Prix heroes.

The bikes kept streaming past the start-finish line even as the home duo got a fair few corners into the lap, making for quite a photo opportunity once they were all back on the main straight. With Quartararo and Zarco centre stage, flanked by our gendarmerie escort and a whole lotta fans, it’s a snapshot for the scrapbook as MotoGP™ prepares to make even more history this weekend.

Johann Zarco (left) and Fabio Quartararo (right) pose with thousands of fans on the front straightaway of the Bugatti Circuit, in Le Mans, France. Photo courtesy Dorna.

Save the date, set your alarms and get ready for the Shark Grand Prix de France: Friday decides entrants to Q2, the Tissot Sprint starts on Saturday at 15:00 (GMT +2) and the Grand Prix race gets in gear at 14:00 on Sunday!

Voting Now Open For AMA Hall Of Fame Class Of 2023

David Swarts

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May 10, 2023

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Voting Now Open For AMA Hall Of Fame Class Of 2023

AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Announces 2023 Nominees

Voting to determine the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Class of 2023 is now open

PICKERINGTON, Ohio — The AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame is pleased to announce the list of nominees for the Class of 2023, and that voting is now open.

The AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame selection committees have put forward 16 nominees from eight areas of influence: Ambassadors & Industry, Design & Engineering, Dirt Track, Leadership & Rights, Motocross & Supercross, Off-Road, Road Racing and Specialty Competition.

Nominees include:

Competition:

Jim Belland (Dirt Track)

Ryan Dungey (Motocross & Supercross)

Eraldo Ferracci (Road Racing)

Barry Hawk (Off Road)

Grant Langston (Motocross & Supercross)

Brent Thompson (Dirt Track)

Ryan Young (Specialty Competition)

Non-Competition:

Rita Coombs (Ambassadors & Industry)

Robert Coy (Ambassadors & Industry)

Michael Czysz (Design & Engineering)

Travis Pastrana (Ambassadors & Industry)

Rodney Roberts (Leadership & Rights)

Paul Schlegel (Ambassadors & Industry)

Rick Sieman (Leadership & Rights)

Buddy Stubbs (Ambassadors & Industry)

Barry Willey (Design & Engineering)

“The AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame nominees for 2023 include a diverse and accomplished group of men and women who’ve demonstrated exceptional achievements in competition, advocacy and promotion of the sport of motorcycling,” said AMA President and CEO Rob Dingman. “They have contributed significantly to the advancement of motorcycling in various areas, from excelling in dirt track, motocross and road racing competition, to advocating for motorcyclists’ rights, to creating enduring events that have helped grow motorcycling, to creating innovative motorcycle designs. We’re honored to recognize this year’s nominees and eagerly anticipate announcing the Class of 2023 soon.”

Voting for the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Class of 2023 is now open. Eligible voters include previous Hall of Fame inductees, members of the AMA and AMHF Boards of Directors, and members of the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame Category Selection Committees. AMA Life Members with at least 25 years of consecutive membership are also eligible to vote but should update their contact information to receive the latest updates and announcements pertaining to the voting process.

Voting ends Sunday, June 18 at 11:59 p.m.

Voting results will be announced soon after voting closes, and the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame induction ceremony will be held on Sept. 15, in Pickerington, Ohio.

To vote on this year’s nominees, visit AmericanMotorcyclist.com/hall-of-fame-class-of-2023.

About the American Motorcyclist Association

Founded in 1924, the AMA is a not-for-profit member-based association whose mission is to promote the motorcycle lifestyle and protect the future of motorcycling. As the world’s largest motorcycling rights and event sanctioning organization, the AMA advocates for riders’ interests at all levels of government and sanctions thousands of competition and recreational events every year. Besides offering members money-saving discounts on products and services, the AMA also publishes American Motorcyclist, a recently revitalized and monthly full-color magazine (and digital version of same) that covers current events and motorcycle history with brilliant photography and compelling writing. American Motorcyclist is also North America’s largest-circulation magazine. Through the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame in Pickerington, Ohio, the AMA honors the heroes and heritage of motorcycling. For more information, visit AmericanMotorcyclist.com.

Not a member? Join the AMA today: AmericanMotorcyclist.com.

MotoGP: Quartararo Says He Has Left The Jerez Drama Behind Him

David Swarts

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May 10, 2023

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MotoGP: Quartararo Says He Has Left The Jerez Drama Behind Him

Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP Prepped to Perform in French GP

Le Mans (France), 10th May 2023

Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP teammates Fabio Quartararo and Franco Morbidelli are heading to France for the fifth round of the 2023 MotoGP World Championship, held at the Le Mans Bugatti Circuit this weekend.

The Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP Team are ready to put up a fight at the Le Mans Bugatti Grand Prix race circuit during this weekend‘s Grand Prix de France, aiming to hear the fans screaming “Allez Les Bleus!”.

This round is especially important for home hero Fabio Quartararo, who finished here just off the podium last year and is keen to make up for it this weekend. The Bugatti track has traditionally been a strong circuit for Yamaha, so El Diablo is fully motivated to offer some stiff competition, like he did when he scored third place on his home soil in 2021. The local hero is currently 11th in the championship standings and determined to climb up in the rankings.

After four rounds, Morbidelli holds 12th in the championship order. Following the overall positive one-day IRTA test in Jerez that was held immediately after the Spanish GP, the number-21 rider‘s goal for this weekend is to confirm some of his findings again. The Le Mans track is a good place to do so: Morbido likes this circuit, as underlined by his 2017 Moto2 race win.

The Bugatti Grand Prix race circuit was built in 1965, just a few kilometres from the city of Le Mans. MotoGP made its first visit to the iconic French track in the late sixties, and it remained a fixture until 1996. After some safety modifications, the 4.2km-long circuit was added back to the calendar in 2000. Its layout of five left and nine right corners places the emphasis on late braking, hard acceleration, and rear-end traction, which makes for some great battles.

Those who want to watch some early Bugatti track action can watch MotoGP eSport rider Lorenzo Daretti navigate a very wet French circuit in this week‘s eLap video.

MASSIMO MEREGALLI

Team Director

We are now in Le Mans. We were able to try some items and settings at the Jerez Test. Ideally, we also want to try them here, but the weather forecasts so far predict we might have multiple wet sessions this weekend. Our pace was good in the wet at the Portuguese and Argentina GP earlier this season, so we will make sure to be ready either way. This is a very important race weekend for Fabio. The French fans wholeheartedly support him, and that will give us all an extra boost to give it our best shot and show our true potential.

FABIO QUARTARARO

I expected better results when I arrived in Jerez, so I‘m now looking forward to a rematch in Le Mans this weekend. We have left all the drama of the last race weekend behind us: I prefer to focus on the work we have to do and the goals that we want to achieve. It‘s my home GP, so I‘m looking forward to seeing and hearing the fans. I want to keep a positive mindset, do my best, and hopefully get some good results.

FRANCO MORBIDELLI

The Jerez Test was interesting for us, so I‘m curious to see if the things we found will also work in Le Mans. A dry weekend would be good for us in order to cross-check the data. But should it rain, that too could be interesting. I felt confident in the wet, especially in Argentina, so I‘m curious to see if in those conditions we can do a good job again. Either way, we want to avoid starting from too far back on the grid, so that‘s what we‘ll work on right from P1 on Friday.

MotoGP: Marc Marquez Will Be Back In Action At Le Mans

David Swarts

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May 10, 2023

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MotoGP: Marc Marquez Will Be Back In Action At Le Mans

Marc Marquez returns to full-strength Repsol Honda Team at historic 1000th GP in France

Marc Marquez makes his much-anticipated return to restore the Repsol Honda Team and re-join Joan Mir, both looking for stable weekends during a milestone event.

After breaking the first metacarpal on his right hand in Portugal, Marc Marquez will return to racing his Repsol Honda Team RC213V in France. Having consulted with three separate medical teams, all involved are satisfied with the healing of the bone and the #93 will be back on track in France. The primary focus of the weekend will be getting back into the flow of a Grand Prix weekend and picking up where Marquez and the Honda RC213V left off. Marquez has stood on the top step of the podium on three occasions in the premier class in Le Mans.

With a busy post-race test completed, Joan Mir arrives in Le Mans eager to find consistency and improvement. Having shown flashes of his potential during testing and the early races, there’s no doubt that Mir and the Honda RC213V have a lot more to give after a handful of trying rounds. Putting together a consistent weekend will be Mir’s primary focus, making the most of all the track time available. As always at Le Mans, the weather has the potential to turn the tides of any weekend but the forecast cooler conditions should suit the #36 better than the scorching conditions in Jerez.

Round five of the 2023 World Championship sees Grand Prix motorcycle racing cross a historic threshold, the French GP schedule to be the 1000th event. Starting in 1949, manufacturers and riders from across the world would begin to compete for the highest honour in two-wheeled racing. 1959 saw Honda take a first step into this world and take a maiden win two years later in 1961. Since then, the history of Honda and Grand Prix racing have been intertwined with Honda taking 817 victories across all Grand Prix classes to date.

The full-strength Repsol Honda Team will be back out on track at 10:45 Local Time for Free Practice 1 on Friday, May 12.

Marc Marquez

“I am really happy to be back with the Repsol Honda Team, about to ride my bike again. First of all I want to thank my medical team for their professionalism and advice over the past few weeks. Of course as a rider you always want to be back as soon as possible, but with an injury like this it was really important to allow it to heal. Now I am here and fully focused on riding, I have no worries about the injury since it’s fully healed. Let’s see what the French GP brings and most importantly, work to our maximum.”

Joan Mir

“Arriving in France, we come with an open mind. We had a busy Monday test where we were able to try some things, especially working on the base setting of the bike. I am hoping that we will be able to take profit of this during the weekend. The French GP always has the extra element of the weather, often it is cold or raining. At the moment it looks a bit colder, but these cooler conditions seem to suit us better this year, so we are aiming to make the most of the situation we have. No matter what, we keep working together.”

WERA: Canadian Kruger Wins Five At Roebling Road Raceway

David Swarts

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May 9, 2023

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WERA: Canadian Kruger Wins Five At Roebling Road Raceway

Editorial Note: Kruger won both Formula One races, both A Superstock races, and one A Superbike race during the double-header WERA Sportsman Series event.

5 Races, 5 Wins! The perfect weekend for the Nature Power Kawasaki Superbike Team at Roebling Raceway-AMA/WERA CHAMPIONSHIP

Canadian Dan Kruger won five races this past weekend, May 6-7, at the WERA Championship round held at Roebling Road Raceway, near Savannah, GA.

We came, we conquered, and we left. A couple of close races but Dan had full control over the weekend and a strong race pace as he also took pole position on both days and led all practice sessions.

“I am really pleased how my crew chief and I worked together to set up the race bike, selected the correct compound tires, and did what was needed to sweep the weekend. We had some sketchy weather in one race and thought about pulling off after the warm-up lap but fortunately decided to stay out and race. Looking back, I am pleased with our performance,” Dan commented.

On Saturday, we had a clutch issue and pulled in after the first lap. We also had an engine let go during the Friday practice, so the weekend was not without its challenges. We now have a lot of work ahead of us as we prepare for the doubleheader at Road Atlanta in a few weeks’ time. There will be a lot of points up for grabs and our team will do what we can to take as many of them as possible as we head into this round leading the AMA/WERA National Superbike Championship.

We also start the N2/WERA Endurance Championship that weekend so there will be lots of racing coming up. The team would like to thank all our sponsors that include Nature Power, Mototron, Pirelli, RK, EBC, HEL, Dainese, KYT, Motul, Ktech, SK Support, Hindle, and Kinetik Check us out at www.facebook.com/dankrugerracingteam to stay up to date on all our race results.

BMW Unleashes R 18 Roctane Cruiser

May 11, 2023

A BMW R18 Roctane. Photo courtesy BMW Motorrad USA. — A BMW R18 Roctane. Photo courtesy BMW Motorrad.

The New BMW R 18 Roctane

Fifth member of the BMW R 18 family.
MSRP $18,695 plus Destination
Estimated Market launch Q3 2023

Woodcliff Lake, NJ – May 11, 2023 . . . BMW Motorrad is proud to announce the newest and fifth member of the Heritage line R 18 family, the BMW R 18 Roctane. The R 18 Roctane joins the R 18, R 18 Classic, R 18 B and R 18 Transcontinental.

The R 18 borrows styling cues from past models, such as the 1936 BMW R 5, where the iconic air-oil cooled boxer motor is the epicenter of the purist, “streamliner” design. Modern technology discretely supports the R 18 Roctane in delivering an emotional riding experience, from the first start of the engine to wherever your heart and the front wheel may guide you, near or far.

Unique R 18 Roctane features

Mid-rise handlebars
Instrument cluster integrated into the headlight housing
Painted hard side cases with integrated turn signals.
Blacked-out engine and drivetrain
Dark Chrome exhaust system
21-inch front and 18-inch rear alloy wheels.

Design

The new BMW R 18 Roctane is a cruiser, a bagger and everything in between. The larger 21-inch front wheel, combined with the 18-inch rear wheel and the mid-rise handlebars give the new R 18 model a more purposeful look.

Taking design cues from air/oil-cooled BMW boxer models of decades past, design features such as the engine acting as center piece, the double-loop frame, the exposed drive shaft and the rigid-style rear all combine to deliver the tapered streamliner design language intended by BMW Motorrad.

Starting from the steering head, the frame spine and rear swing arm top frame tubes visually form a continuous line. In conjunction with the swing arm’s lower beam tubes, which are aligned with the frame down tubes, this flowing line gives the new R 18 Roctane a muscular appearance.

Attention to the smallest details can be seen throughout the R 18 Roctane. The classic body parts of the R 18 Roctane are made of metal. The 4.2-gallon fuel tank’s teardrop shape is derived from the R 5, as are the design of the front and rear fenders, the fork covers and the headlight housing. All, also made of steel.

The flawless paint finishes that have been featured on all R 18 models are found on the new R 18 Roctane. Black Storm Metallic is standard while Mineral Grey Metallic Matte and Manhattan Metallic Matte finishes are available as optional colors. These matte paint finishes contrast with the high-gloss black chassis and ensure a classically modern look.

Painted Hard Cases

The new R 18 Roctane is equipped for cruising and touring thanks to body-color painted cases with integrated LED taillights. The cases offer 27 liters of luggage space each and can be equipped with optional removable liners. The “filler stripes” that cover the space between the cases and the bike can be selected from the available accessories. The original BMW Motorrad Accessories range also offers soft luggage options such as the rear bag or frame bag made of waxed canvas with genuine leather trim.

Headlight with Instrument Cluster

Inspired by the legendary 1936 BMW R 5, and from then, on almost all BMW motorcycles until the early 1970s, the R 18 Roctane’s round instrument cluster is integrated into the metal LED headlight housing to give a unique and classic look. The “BERLIN BUILT” lettering on the instrument dial is a reference to the bike’s origin and for all its classic looks, the instrument cluster delivers all the important information such as engine rpm, gear indicator, status inquiry and trip computer details.

heart of the new BMW R 18 Roctane is the 1,802-cc boxer engine. This motor carries on the tradition of motorcycles from Munich and Berlin-Spandau from the very beginning of BMW Motorrad production in 1923.

The engine output remains unchanged; 91 hp at 4,750 rpm and a maximum torque of 116 lb-ft at 3,000 rpm, with more than 110 lb-ft. available between 2,000 to 4,000 rpm. The maximum engine speed is 5,750 rpm.

The air/oil cooled motor features a vertically split aluminum engine and weighs a combined 244 lbs. with the transmission.

In contrast to the classic air-cooled two-valve boxer engines from BMW Motorrad, the forged crankshaft of the R 18 motor, has an additional center main bearing, which became necessary, due to the large cylinder volume, to prevent undesirable bending vibrations of the crankshaft.

Forged connecting rods, cast aluminum pistons, cylinder walls coated with NiCaSil and a wet sump lubrication system with a two-stage oil pump driven by the crankshaft via a sleeve chain are additional features of the largest BMW boxer motor ever installed in a production motorcycle.
When developing the valve drive for the R 18 boxer motor, BMW Motorrad engineers were inspired by a very special engine design from history – the 2-cylinder boxer of the 1936 – 1941 R 5 / R 51 and the 1950 – 1951 R 51/2, the latter having been the first BMW motorcycle with a boxer engine after the Second World War.

The twin camshaft design allows for shorter pushrods. This arrangement reduces the moving masses, decreases deflection and minimizes the linear expansion of the push rods. The two intake and exhaust valves in the cylinder head are actuated in pairs via fork rocker arms. Valve clearances can be changed by means of one adjusting screw with lock nut per valve, making valve clearance adjustments quicker and easier.

Transmission and Shaft Drive

The constant-mesh, 6-speed gearbox, is located in a two-part aluminum housing and features a four-shaft transmission with helical gear pairs. The transmission input shaft with cleat damper, drives the two transmission shafts with the gear wheel pairs via a countershaft. Reverse gear, driven by an intermediate gear and an electric motor, is available as an option.

A single-plate, dry, self-reinforcing anti-hopping clutch eliminates undesired rear wheel hop which may be caused by engine drag torque during hard down shifts.

As in all BMW motorcycles with boxer engines, torque is transmitted from the gearbox to the rear wheel via a driveshaft or Cardan shaft drive. The open, nickel-plated drive shaft and universal joint are examples of classic motorcycle technology commonly used on BMW Motorrad models up to and including model year 1955. A so-called tripoid joint is installed on the gearbox side for the purpose of length compensation.

Chassis

The chassis in the new R 18 Roctane is the same double-loop steel tube frame used in the R 18 and R 18 Classic. The high manufacturing quality and attention to detail is evident in barely perceptible details such in the steering head struts as well as in the welded joints between steel tubes and cast or forged parts. Some of the tube joints in the steering head area are cut at an angle, which makes the connection look particularly pleasing to the eye.

The rear steel swing arm is made of steel tubes and cast or forged parts and combined with the central cantilever shock, is designed to give the look of the rigid frame used in the original BMW R 5. As a result, the rigid-frame style layout also provides the so-called flyline, from front to rear, of the overall R 18 design.

The suspension elements of the new R 18 Roctane, also reflect the classic design. Electronic adjustment options have been deliberately omitted. Instead, telescopic forks and a central shock with travel-dependent damping and adjustable spring preload ensure superior wheel guidance and suspension control and comfort. As in the legendary BMW R 5, the fork tubes are encased in fork sleeves. The fixed fork tube diameter is 49 mm, while suspension travel is 4.7-inches at the front and 3.5-inches at the rear, same as on the R 18.

Controls and Ergonomics

The new BMW R 18 Roctane features mid-mounted controls, a long-standing BMW Motorrad philosophy of rider positioning. This classic position behind the cylinders is not only typical of BMW, but it also allows for a relaxed and active riding position for optimally controlling the motorcycle. The R 18 Roctane features a slim two-level seat that tapers towards the rear, with rear passenger straps, and is equipped with running boards in conjunction with a heel-toe gearshift controls. The mid-rise, black-coated handlebars and the comfortably low 28.3-inch seat height (27.3-inches for the R 18) ensure an upright and relaxed riding posture.

Wheels, Tires and Brakes

The new BMW R 18 Roctane features twin 300 mm front disc brakes with four-piston fixed calipers and a 300 mm single-disk rear brake. BMW Motorrad Integral ABS (partially integral) is standard. On this brake system, the hand brake lever activates the front and rear brakes together. The foot brake lever only acts on the rear brake. BMW Motorrad Integral ABS adjusts the brake force distribution between the front and rear brakes during braking based on the dynamic wheel load distribution.

The R 18 Roctane’s cast alloy wheels have a very distinctive look, greater wheel diameters at the front and rear compared to the R 18. The 3.5 x 21” front wheel (3.5 x 19-inches on the R 18) is equipped with a 120/70 B21 tire (120/70 R19 on the R 18), while a 180/55 B18 tire (180/65 B16 on the R 18) is used on the 5.5 x 18″ rear wheel (5.0 x 16-inches on the R 18). The 21-inch front wheel extends the castor significantly (7.3-inches in the R 18 Roctane vs. 5.9-inches for the R 18), improving straight-line stability.

Adaptive Headlight

The optional adaptive headlight, which is unique in this class, works by activating separate LED elements in the main headlight, which each have their own reflectors, depending on the lean angle. The function is used to compensate for the lean angle in relation to the cut-off of the low beam. The signal of the lean angle sensor is read, and the adaptive headlight is switched on. The function is activated when the engine is running, the low beam or high beam is activated, darkness is detected, and the motorcycle is moving at a speed above 6 mph and at a lean angle approximately between 7° and 25°. This significantly improves the illumination of the inside of the curve – a big safety plus when riding at night or in other situations with poor lighting conditions.

Available Reverse Assist and Hill Start Control plus standard Cruise Control.

The new R 18 Roctane can be equipped with optional Reverse Assist and Hill Start Control. Reverse Assist can be activated via the selector lever when needed. Reverse is then initiated by pressing on the starter button. Hill Start Control makes it particularly easy to start off on an incline. It is activated by briefly operating the hand or foot brake lever. Optional heated grips will keep your hands warm on cold days. The R 18 Roctane is equipped with standard cruise control.

Riding Modes and Safety Systems

The BMW R 18 Roctane is equipped with standard keyless start and Riding Modes. Keyless Ride allows the rider to keep the key safely in the pocket.

The new R 18 Roctane features the same three riding modes R 18 riders are familiar with: “Rain”, “Roll” and “Rock”. ASC (Automatic Stability Control, disengageable) and Engine Drag Control are also standard and ensures a high level of riding safety.

In “Rain” mode, throttle response is gentler, and the control characteristics of ASC and engine drag control allow for a more slippery road surface to achieve a very high level of riding safety.

In “Road” mode, the engine offers optimum throttle response, while ASC and engine drag control are set to achieve ideal performance on all roads.

The “Rock” riding mode allows the rider to explore the full dynamic potential of the new R 18 Roctane. Throttle response is very spontaneous and direct, and ASC allows a little more slip.

In each riding mode, the optimum interaction of throttle response, ASC control and engine drag torque control is provided. This means that the three riding modes offer optimum adjustment options – both, with regard to road conditions (Rain mode), and the rider’s personal ride experience (Rock mode).

The standard, electronically controlled, Engine Drag Control prevents the rear wheel from slipping because of abrupt throttle changes or downshifting. An anti-hopping clutch is opened from a mechanically preset threshold to prevent the rear wheel from hopping – for example when down shifting. However, if the tire’s available grip is below this opening threshold, for example in wet conditions, the rear wheel could still exceed the traction limit due to the engine drag torque and simultaneous activation of the rear wheel brake and then slip. Thanks to engine drag control, the new R 18 Roctane detects this danger at an early stage. Depending on the coefficient of friction between the tire and the road surface, the throttle valves are opened in milliseconds, in such a way that the drag torque is reduced, and the rear wheel remains within its traction range. This results in further enhanced safety, especially on slippery roads.

Colors

Black Storm Metallic
Mineral Gray Metallic Matte
Manhattan Metallic Matte

Standard Equipment

2-cylinder 1,802 cc air/oil-cooled Boxer motor 91 hp and 116 lb-ft of torque
6-speed helical toothed gearbox
Stainless steel exhaust system
Anti-hopping single-disk, dry clutch
Nickel-plated exposed shaft drive
Mid-rise handlebar
21-inch front and 18-inch rear cast aluminum wheels
Automatic stability control
BMW Motorrad Integral ABS (partially integral)
300 mm twin-disk front and 300 mm single-disk rear brakes
Dynamic Brake Control
Steering Stabilizer
49mm Telescopic forks with fork covers
12v power socket
Instrument cluster integrated into headlight housing
Electronic immobilizer
Comfort LED turn signals
LED headlight and taillights
Cruise Control
On board computer
Torque Control Assist
Dynamic Engine Brake Control
Riding Modes
Adjustable hand brake and clutch levers
Integrated side cases, painted body color
Keyless Ride
Black powertrain
Dark Chrome plated header and exhaust
Solo seat
Floorboards

Optional equipment

Select Package – Adaptive Headlight, Headlight Pro, Heated Grips, Tire Pressure Monitor
Locking Fuel Cap
Hill Start Control
Reverse Assist

Accessories

The R 18 Roctane features a wide selection of BMW Motorrad and BMW Option 719 accessories, including:

Exhaust systems
Engine, cylinder head cover and are intake runner covers
Wheels
Mirrors
Front fenders
Expansion tank, fuel filler and fork covers
Hand control levers
Solo seats, passenger seats and back rests
Windshields
Tank bags
Luggage rack
Rear bag
Mobile phone bag

Technical specifications.

R 18 Roctane
Engine
Capacity	cc/cu. in.	1,802 / 110
Bore x stroke	mm	107.1 x 100
Output	hp	91 @ 4,750 rpm
Torque	lb-ft.	116 @ 3,000 rpm
Type		Air/oil-cooled 2-cylinder 4-stroke boxer
No. of cylinders		2
Compression / fuel		9.6:1 / premium unleaded
Valve / accelerator actuation		OHV / 4-valves per cylinder
Ø intake/exhaust valve dia.	mm	41.2 / 35.0
Ø throttle body dia.	mm	48
Engine control		BMS-O
Emission control		Closed-loop 3-way catalytic converter, EU5

Electrical system
Alternator	W	600
Battery	V/Ah	12/26 maintenance-free
Headlight		LED low and high beam
Starter	kW	1.5

Transmission
Clutch		Hydraulically activated single-plate dry clutch
Gearbox		Constant-mesh 6-speed gearbox
Primary ratio		1.16
Transmission ratios I		2.438
II		1.696
III		1.296
IV		1.065
V		0.903
VI		0.784
Rear wheel drive		Universal shaft
Transmission ratio		3.091



Suspension
Frame construction type		Steel double-loop tube frame
Front suspension		Fixed telescopic fork, 49 mm
Rear suspension		Cantilever
Suspension travel front/rear	in.	4.7 / 3.5
Wheel castor	in.	7.3
Wheelbase	in.	67.7
Steering head angle	°	55.3
Brakes	front	Twin disc brake Ø 300 mm
	rear	Single-disc brake Ø 300 mm
ABS		BMW Motorrad Partially Integral ABS
Wheels		Light alloy cast wheels
	front	3.5 x 21″
	rear	5.5 x 18”
Tires	Front	120/70 B 21
	Rear	180/55 B 18

Dimensions and weights
Total length	in.	103.0
Total width with mirrors	in.	37.5
Seat height	in.	28.3
DIN unladen weight	lbs.	825
Permitted total weight	lbs.	1,234
Fuel tank capacity	gal.	4.2

Performance figures
0-62 mph	sec.	5.46
Top speed	mph	111

BMW Group In America
BMW of North America, LLC has been present in the United States since 1975. Rolls-Royce Motor Cars NA, LLC began distributing vehicles in 2003. The BMW Group in the United States has grown to include marketing, sales, and financial service organizations for the BMW brand of motor vehicles, including motorcycles, the MINI brand, and Rolls-Royce Motor Cars; Designworks, a strategic design consultancy based in California; a technology office in Silicon Valley, and various other operations throughout the country. BMW Manufacturing Co., LLC in South Carolina is the BMW Group global center of competence for BMW X models and manufactures the X3, X4, X5, X6 and X7 Sports Activity Vehicles as well as the BMW XM. The BMW Group sales organization is represented in the U.S. through networks of 350 BMW passenger car and BMW Sports Activity Vehicle centers, 146 BMW motorcycle retailers, 104 MINI passenger car dealers, and 38 Rolls-Royce Motor Car dealers. BMW (US) Holding Corp., the BMW Group’s sales headquarters for North America, is located in Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey.

OMRRA: DiBrino Wins Three At Portland International Raceway

May 10, 2023

Andy DiBrino (62). Photo by Louis Stevenson/StevensonFoto.com, courtesy OMRRA.