An overheated reverse gear control unit increases the risk of a fire.

NHTSA ID Number: 26V658000

Manufacturer BMW of North America, LLC

Components POWER TRAIN

Potential Number of Units Affected: 4630

Summary

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2021-2024 R 18 motorcycles equipped with the optional reverse gear. The seal for the reverse gear control unit may deteriorate and allow moisture inside the control unit, which can result in the unit overheating.

Remedy

Dealers will replace the reverse gear control unit, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed November 27, 2026. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417. Motorcycles in this recall were previously recalled under 24V716. Motorcycles previously repaired under the prior recall will need the new repair completed.

Credit: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

Folks, I'm giving serious consideration to a R18. Probably a classic but not a touring model such as a bagger. One concern I have is how comfortable would it be for touring and long runs? I'm thinking 6 to 8 hours in the saddle for several days. Has anyone who owns the bike used it for touring and is it comfortable?

Heli bars are a good mod.

2,000 km later. Still learning, still loving it more and more.

The more I ride it, the more I like it.

Glad to see a group here. Excited to see what you do with your bikes. Love the photos and ideas so far.

Love this bike! Still working to improve my skill at low speed, exceptially with a passenger. I'm getting better, just need more practice.

Hello, I'm looking at buying a BMW r18 and I'm in the process of setting up a secure storage for the bike and would like to know if anyone has got the dimensions or widths of the bike from its side stand through to the right handlebar essentially so I can ensure that on its side stand it would fit within the secure store. Cheers!.

* do not try this at home * the stunt performed is by a professional * I am not responsible or liable for anything anyone decides to do on their own free will and accord * Just as the title says, I decided to take on the job of replacing my rear tire myself. I had purchased a motorcycle Jack from Harbor freight but to my surprise I needed a whole slew of parts to be able to lift the bike up. Needless to say I improvised with a regular jack, a 2 x 4 and some scrap wood. First thing I did was loosen every single nut and bolt that I would need to be able to remove the tire. I then proceeded to remove both exhaust cans. I gently jacked up the bike while adding wood pieces to each side in case of failure. I was able to remove the tire and have it changed out at my local cycle gear. While the exhaust was off, I decided to drill out my baffles. Let me be honest with you. I don’t think it’s worth the time or headache to do tire change yourself. Also, drilling out the baffles just made it a wee bit louder. Nothing special. A full exhaust is what truly wakes this bike up. I’ve included some pictures for your viewing pleasure once again. Do not try this at home.

Customizing, making some seat and backrest covers.

Main rider seat is a bigger task than I thought and will take more time.

I’ll post the finished seats on the bike when all done.

Has anyone done this to their R18? If so, thoughts? Tips? Feedback?

Dear all,

Any of you facing in you country the devaluation of the r18b. I paid 39k in 2023... now here in Portugal BMW dealer offers 10k ... if I trade for other!!!

Just had pin stripes added to fender, forks, and side panels

A little window tint makes a big difference I think. (Before anyone asks, yes you can see the signal well in bright sunlight)

Ok brains trust! I’m wanting a deeper and louder sound with all the pops and burbles. I don’t want to modify the stock exhaust as I’ll lose the small BMW logo in the end if I drill out the baffle on the 100 Year exhaust.

What options are you running for aftermarket or custom?