Nah, TLT has him cleaning her bike.

 

In my quest to find an Indian Springfield I stumbled across ads for the BMW R18 and now I am confused. I have only been up close to one and I had a nice chat with the owner. He was in love with the thing. Anyone here ever ride one? They seem awesome.

 

Bob is your go to BMW guy, Jeff.

 

I seem to recall Bob wasn’t a big fan of the R18, he should be along shortly to address any questions you have.

 

Maybe he is spending 24/7 on the lookout for the boy. Manny is it?

 

Jeff, I've ridden one and would own one as a 2nd or 3rd bike only, but you have to try one on for size.
Cons:
A big one for me. Low seat height in this case put even normal knees in your chin. There is nowhere else to put your feet unless you buy the frame that holds your outstretched leg above the cylinders in a silly configuration. I find the riding position cramped. Could be hot feet/calves in the summer right behind those big jugs.
More vibration than I prefer coming off the big twin, even though it's opposed. On throttle blips, significant side thrust from the heavy crank (obviously mounted parallel to the frame).
Likely expensive maintenance and parts (ask me how I know).
Pros
A truly unique bike from an Iconic brand.
Would be a great around town cruiser.
Great torque for a big twin and a unique sound.
Fit and finish was very good.
.
Again, you have to try one for yourself.

 

Manny the Mangler.

 

Sounds like my ex-wife after all these years, calves behind her jugs…

 

only salt in Florida is for flavoring

 

One other thought, if it came to the Indian Springfield vs the BMW R18, personally I would buy the BMW, but (!) those 2 bikes are apples to oranges IMO. I don't consider the R18 a touring rig, even with the fairing.