BMW R 18 Cruiser Gets Colour Changing Paint Scheme And New Accessories

The accessory package, called ‘Option 719’, will be available from September 2021

BMW Motorrad has introduced a special accessory package, called ‘Option 719’, for its swanky cruiser, the BMW R 18, available globally from September 2021. The number 719 is BMW’s internal code, representing all the exclusive custom-made accessories, special requests, and unique creations.  

This kit includes engine casings, seat, colour schemes, and wheels. The powertrain casings are clubbed under the ‘Option 719 Design Package Aero’. This includes engine cylinder head covers (on both sides), front cover, and the intake snorkel covers (on both sides) -- all made out of aluminium sheet with a brushed, anodised finish. The cylinder head covers are streamlined, and the badge on the front and side covers is made out of copper with chrome plating and a partial white finish. The Option 719 seat gets a premium diamond-shaped quilt, BMW and 719 logos, along with integrated seat heating. 

More importantly, the package includes a special paint finish with a colour-changing effect, called Galaxy Dust metallic/Titanium Silver 2 metallic. BMW Motorrad says the Galaxy Dust metallic finish on the bodywork “shimmers in a spectrum from violet to turquoise blue, depending on the incidence of light.” This is complemented by Titanium Silver 2 metallic finish on the fuel tank and rear fender, along with a hand-applied smoke effect serving as the transition between the two colours. This is a nod to the famed BMW R 90 S, which featured a similar effect. 

BMW Motorrad also offers two wheel sets: Aero and Icon in matte silver and matte black colour schemes respectively. These cast alloy wheels get a six-spoke design and allow tubeless tyres to be fitted. 

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Expect the Option 719 pack to be priced at a premium considering the exotic materials used and the intricate attention-to-detail. These fitments should make the BMW R 18 as well as the R 18 Classic a lot more elegant.