Ducati Monster 1200 S versus BMW R 18 Classic

Make
Model
Make
Model
Make
Model
Ducati

Ducati Monster 1200 S

Naked
BMW

BMW R 18 Classic

Cruiser

Year of construction / RRP / Test report

Built von 2014 bis 2020
Built von 2021 bis 2025~
RRP 17.490 €
RRP 23.950 €
waveform
waveform
Pros:
  • Power
  • precise chassis
  • Comfort
  • Assistance Systems
  • Processing
Pros:
  • Windbreak
  • Beefy Boxer
  • Great look
  • Casual sitting position
Cons:
  • Windbreak
Cons:
  • Cylinders sometimes get in the way
  • Manoeuvring almost impossible without reversing aid
  • Not for beginners

Dimensions & Weight

Wheelbase: 1.485 mm
Length :
2.156 mm Height : 1.117 mm
Seat :
795 mm until : 820 mm
Weight :
213 kg
Wheelbase: 1.731 mm
Length :
2.440 mm Height : 1.342 mm
Seat :
710 mm
Weight :
365 (max: 560 ) kg

Engine

Motor design: V 2 Cylinder
Displacement: 1.198 ccm
Hub: 68 mm
Hole: 106 mm
Cooling: flüssig
Drive: Kette
Aisles: 6
Motor design: 2 Cyl. Boxer 2 Cylinder
Displacement: 1.802 ccm
Hub: 100 mm
Hole: 107 mm
Cooling: Öl-Luft
Drive: Kardan
Aisles: 6

Performance

Maximum speed: 255 km/h
Performance: 147 HP at 9.250 U/Min
Torque: 124 NM bei 7.750 U/Min
Tank contents: 18 Litre
Consumption:
5 l
Reach:
350 km
Maximum speed: 180 km/h
Performance: 91 HP at 4.750 U/Min
Torque: 158 NM bei 3.000 U/Min
Tank contents: 16 Litre
Consumption:
6 l
Reach:
285 km

Chassis

Frame type:
Lattice tube (steel)
Rear suspension:
Mono strut (travel 149 mm)
Rear suspension:
Single-arm swingarm
Frame type:
Double loop steel frame with bolted beams (steel)
Front suspension:
Telescopic fork (travel 120 mm)
Rear suspension:
Central strut (travel 90 mm)
Rear suspension:
Two-arm swingarm made of steel
Tyres at the front: 130/90 B16
Rear tyres: 180/65 B16

Brakes

Front brake
Double disc ( 330 mm) Rear brake
Disc ( 245 mm)
Front brake
Double disc ( 300 mm) Rear brake
Single disc ( 300 mm)

Conclusion - forever young

It is, of course, a toy, one for older children who want to (and can) spend at least 17,290 euros on their gift. Hear my words: Every penny of it is well invested!

Before I forget it: I have now studied the data sheet. The Duc is not only up to date in terms of engine and chassis, but also in terms of assistance systems: series are Wheelie Control, Curve ABS from Bosch, Traction Control, Ride By Wire and three driving modes ...

... not even this prejudice lasts more.

The test bike was provided to us by Ducati Hamburg.

Price / Availability / Colours / Years of Construction

  • Price: €17,290
  • Used (1200s, 3 years old): 9.000€
  • Years built: 1200 since 2014
  • Availability: good
  • Colours: red, grey

Conclusion - what sticks

The BMW R 18 Classic is a fully equipped cruiser tourer with which you can also tackle a longer journey as a couple. In contrast to an adventure bike, the luggage capacities are limited, but nothing stands in the way of a longer day trip on Route 66. This bike is simply an impressive piece of engineering due to its sheer size and performance. We would also like to have in the stable.
 
The test motorcycle was kindly provided to us by Bergmann & Söhne in Pinneberg near Hamburg for this test. If you would like to try out the R 18 Classic, you are welcome here and there is even a good coffee. In addition, there are a lot of used machines and other demonstrators around, so a visit to Pinneberg is always worthwhile.

Price/availability/colours/years of construction

  • Price: 23.955€
  • Used (1 year old): 22.000€
  • Availability: from 02/2021
  • Colours: black, white, red, violet, nürburg silver