Pope Leo XIV received a special BMW R18 Transcontinental cruiser at a celebration at the Vatican. The white motorcycle features the country's coat of arms and was donated by BMW Motorrad Germany.
It received the blessing and signature of the Holy Father and will be auctioned in October by Sotheby's to raise funds for children's aid projects in Madagascar. Before the auction, it will be on display in Munich from September 15 to October 7.
According to CEO Markus Flasch, the idea that seemed impossible at first has turned into a major charity campaign. He said he was happy that BMW Motorrad was able to support the youth of Madagascar with a special motorcycle. He also thanked Pope Leo XIV for giving up his time to support the project.
The BMW R18 Transcontinental is the largest and most powerful member of the R18 series. It has a 1802cc boxer twin engine, a 24-liter fuel tank, and weighs approximately 433kg. Its market price is estimated at ₱1.8 million.
