W hile we ’ re still waiting for the R18 cruiser to officially arrive in New Zealand – due next month according to BMW Motorrad NZ – BMW has announced a second bike in its new cruiser family in the form of the R18 Classic . The Classic model adds extra LED headlights and swaps the front wheel to a 16-inch unit , while a removable windscreen , panniers , and passenger seat round out the physical differences with the original . However , with a clear eye on the cruiser touring market BMW has added cruise control as standard to the R18 Classic . BMW also announced that the new R18 will be offered worldwide as an exclusive R18 Classic First Edition and R18 First Edition right from launch , with a standard model reserved for some markets . It combines the R18 look with exclusive equipment features in a classic black finish with white double-lined paintwork . Other highlights include numerous chrome surfaces , a seat badge and a “ First Edition ” chrome clasp on the side covers . The base model R18 is due to arrive in New Zealand dealerships in November . Designed from the ground up around BMW ’ s all-new 1800cc boxer engine , the R18 is BMW ’ s first attempt at entering the cutthroat cruiser market in nearly two decades . Both bikes look stunning and with initial reports suggesting BMW has got the formula right this time ( will we ever forget the R1200C ...?), so we ’ re very much looking forward to swinging a leg over the bikes when they eventually arrive in NZ dealers .