Ride comfort difference between R18 and R18 Classic (+ the New Bobber upgrade kit).

[Witsend]

I read somewhere some guy tried the R18 and he absolutely hated the bike bc the lousy quality of the ride. Then he tried the Classic and fell head over heels. Geeez. Is there THAT much difference?

Initially I'm wanting the Classic because while I much prefer the naked bike look, so the bags and shield would come off immediately, it's nice to have them when I want them. And I like the idea of a better ride.

But then... I saw one in person with the Bobber upgrade kit. It is just way beyond gorgeous for us that like that look. And with this one bc it's the first of it's kind on a demo, so I'd get the Bobber upgrade for free saving $4K. with 0% APR. $15K+

Either that or I'd get a used 2021 Classic with 11K miles for $10K

Decisions decisions decisions.

 

[MilwDave]

Replace the rear shock with a properly tuned Wilbers shock and you’ll be fine.

 

[Anibal]

When I first tried the R18, I tried the naked version and I hated it. It turns out that many dealers were not aware the BMW set the load/suspension to the “shipping mode” in order to prevent the bikes from bouncing up and down in transit, resulting in a very harsh ride. The solution was to set the pre load to a softer suspension, sort of mid way, hence at the beginning, the naked version got a bad reputation.
I firmly believe that swapping pegs for floorboards also improves the comfort level.

 

[Tokyo R18]

Replace the rear shock with a properly tuned Wilbers shock and you’ll be fine.

That’s what I did on my 2021 FE and I am very happy. The Wilbers made a big difference.

 

[MilwDave]

 

[Noelpolar]

To the opps question..... no there is not that difference, most probally no difference.

For the person to experience such a thing then one of the following would have to occur:
1. The rear suspension of the R18 wasn't adjusted from it's transport position and the Classic was....
2. As per 1.
3. The rider had taken drugs before riding the classic (and didn't crash).
4. The rider saw his reflection in the classic's screen and imediately fell in love.

That about does it.

Both bikes benefit from a better rear shock as posted above.

I love the floorboards.... haha!

As far as the bobber goes.... carefully consider the need to pillion and carry luggage.....