K t ’ s been a long time coming , and we finally have word on how much Kiwis will have to put down if they want to get their hands on BMW ’ s first all-new cruiser in two decades – the R18 . The R18 is set to arrive in dealerships this month with pricing start at $ 43,990 for the high spec First Edition model , while the recently announced R18 Classic is due early next year with a yet to be released price . That firmly places the First Edition version of the R18 in the premium end of the market up against the popular American manufacturers Indian Motorcycle and Harley-Davidson . Powered by the largest mass-production boxer engine BMW Motorrad has ever produced ( dubbed the “ Big Boxer ” by BMW ) the R18 ’ s 1802cc heart is also the most powerful twocylinder boxer engine ever used in a production motorcycle . Power output is a respectable 91hp at 4750rpm , with over 150Nm of torque available between 2000 to 4000rpm . All that grunt means the 345kg R18 can hustle from 0-100kph in just 4.8 seconds , with top speed claimed as 180kph . Backing the engine ’ s performance is a comprehensive electronics suite . BMW has gone a slightly different direction from the norm when it comes to naming the three standard riding modes . Those modes are the selfexplanatory “ Rain ” mode , followed by “ Roll ” as the standard mode and “ Rock ” as , you guessed it , the most aggressive . The standard trim also includes Automatic Stability Control , which BMW has ensured is able to be switched off , ensuring a high level of riding safety or the ability to burn the 180 section rear tyre at will with the immense torque on tap . In addition , the new R18 is equipped as standard with engine drag torque control ( MSR ). Among other options , a reverse assist makes manoeuvring convenient , while the Hill Start Control function facilitates uphill starts . If the classic style doesn ’ t quite float your boat , BMW has also ensured there are plenty of customising options for the R18 , an expected and critical trait for a bike going up against the big guns from the USA . With customisation a consideration from the beginning of the design process , BMW fitted the R18 with an easily removable rear frame and a simple-to-dismantle painted part set . This allows a high degree of freedom for converting the rear end of the new R18 to suit personal preferences with comparatively little effort and change the paint finish in line with personal taste . We ’ ve seen two vastly different custom versions of the R18 break cover already , including a drag racing version from iconic US-based customiser Roland Sands . The same thought has gone into the connections for the hydraulic lines of the brake and clutch as well as the cable harness to allow for an entirely problem-free installation of higher or lower handlebars in conjunction with longer or shorter hydraulic lines and cable harnesses . It seems BMW Motorrad has really thought out what the large capacity cruiser owner wants and with a price under $ 44,000 for the fully kitted out First Edition the German offering is priced firmly between Indian Motorcycle ’ s 1800cc models and Harley-Davidson ’ s popular touring models and flashy CVO lineup .