BMW is slowly and steadily expanding its presence in the cruiser world. It already has four interactions of the R 18 and a fifth one has just been revealed for 2024. Dubbed the R 18 Roctane, it brings an American touch to the otherwise vintage cruiser lineup and sets eyes on the much-sought-after bagger segment. But to succeed, the Bavarian bagger will need to beat some dominant names in this category–a particular mainstay being the Harley-Davidson Road King Special. So it’s only fair we pit these two against each other, and that’s exactly what we’ve done. However, you should know we haven’t ridden either cruiser, which is why this solely revolves around the specifications.
2024 BMW R 18 Roctane vs Harley-Davidson Road King Special - Engine
| Specification | BMW R 18 Roctane | Harley-Davidson Road King Special |
| Engine | 1,802cc, twin-cylinder, boxer engine | 1,848cc, V-twin engine |
| Horsepower | 91 horsepower at 4,750RPM | 93 horsepower at 5,250RPM |
| Torque | 116 pound-feet at 3,000RPM | 118 pound-feet at 3,250RPM |
| Drive | Shaft | Chain |
| Gearbox | Six-speed | Six-speed |
| Claimed efficiency | 5.6 liter/100km | 6.1 liter/100km |
| Fuel tank capacity | 15.9 liter (4.2 gallon) | 22.7 liter (6 gallon) |
| Tank range | ~175 miles | ~230 miles |
Both baggers are neck and neck in the engine department. But it’s the Road King that comes out on top in the end. Credit here goes to its more powerful and torquey Milwaukee Eight 114 powerhouse, with two extra horses and pound-feet over the Beemer. Not only that, the HD has a better tank range, so you’ll go longer without fuel stops. However, the R 18 Roctane claws back some points, as its peak power and torque both kick in earlier than the Harley. This, in theory, should mean harder acceleration and more tractability. In addition, it features an easier-to-live with shaft drive, rather than a chain like the Road King.
2024 BMW R 18 Roctane vs Harley-Davidson Road King Special - Underpinnings And Dimensions
| Specification | BMW R 18 Roctane | Harley-Davidson Road King Special |
| Chassis | Double cradle | Double cradle |
| Front suspension | 49 mm telescopic forks | 49 mm telescopic forks |
| Rear suspension | Monoshock | Hand-adjustable monoshock |
| Front wheel | 21-inch cast aluminum alloy wheel | 19-inch spoke wheel |
| Rear wheel | 18-inch cast aluminum alloy wheel | 18-inch spoke wheel |
| Front brakes | 2x 300 mm disc brakes | 2x 300 mm disc brakes |
| Rear brakes | 300 mm single disc brake | 300 mm single disc brake |
| Seat height | 720 mm | 695 mm |
| Tire size | 120/70 (F) 180/55 (R) | 130/60 (F) 180/55 (R) |
| Curb weight | 825 pounds | 807 pounds |
Again, the two heavyweights are quite similar. Both feature 49 mm telescopic forks, double-cradle frames, 300 mm disc brakes, and identical rubber sizes. But as always, it’s the nitty-gritty making all the difference. For instance, the Road King Special has a lower seat height and weighs 18 pounds less, which will make it easier to maneuver at a slow pace. Plus, its rear shock is hand-adjustable, unlike the BMW. Whereas, the R 18 makes its case with more modern cast aluminum alloy wheels–the front being a chopper-inspired 21-inch unit.
2024 BMW R 18 Roctane vs Harley-Davidson Road King Special - Features And Design
| Feature | BMW R 18 Roctane | Harley-Davidson Road King Special |
| All-LED lights | Yes | Yes |
| Keyless ignition | Yes | Yes |
| Cruise control | Yes | Yes |
| Dual-channel ABS | Yes | Yes |
| Ride modes | Yes (Three) | No |
| Linked brakes | Yes | Yes |
| Instrument cluster | Semi-digital | Semi-digital |
| Rear-cylinder deactivation | No | Yes |
| Saddlebag capacity | 54 liters | 70 liters |
This is where the R 18 Roctane shines over the Road King. As you can see, it not only matches up to Harley-Davidson but even has extras like three ride modes and stability control. However, the Road King does feature bigger saddlebags to loop in some points. Similarly, the R 18 Roctane looks fresher in our opinion. Its dark chrome exhaust, sleeker turn signals, and slimmer tank all make it a cut above the Road King. Plus, that mammoth boxer engine is a sight to behold in itself.
2024 BMW R 18 Roctane vs Harley-Davidson Road King Special - Price And Verdict
| BMW R 18 Roctane | $18,695 |
| Harley-Davidson Road King Special | $23,990 |
BMW USA has priced the 2024 R 18 Roctane at $18,695, whereas sells its 2023 Harley-Davidson Road King Special for $23,999. Though that’s a sizable $4,696 difference, extra money is somewhat justified, as the Road King promises an authentic American experience. This, along with the aforementioned points, makes it the better all-rounder bagger here. But if it’s the utmost value for money you want, it’s safe to say the new R 18 Roctane is worth considering. Regardless of your pick, do tell us in the comments below!