One of its most striking feature is a self-balancing mechanism that keeps the motorcycle balanced in motion and while stationary, and prevents it from tipping over.
The key idea behind this BMW Motorrad Vision Vehicle is to create a pure, unbounded ride experience. In the future, the special sensation of freedom will be made possible by even greater connectivity between rider, bike and the outside world. The assistance systems in the BMW Motorrad VISION NEXT 100 will not only anticipate and advise when action is needed but also intervene, when required, to keep riders safe.
Protective clothing such as helmets and padded suits will no longer be needed. Instead, riders will simply be able to enjoy the sensation of freedom. Information is exchanged between rider and bike largely via the smart visor. This spans the rider’s entire field of view and provides not only wind protection but also relevant information, which it projects straight into the line of sight as and when it is needed.
In terms of design and function, the BMW Motorrad VISION NEXT 100 takes its cues from various elements in the history of BMW Motorrad, adding a contemporary twist each time. The black frame triangle, for example, harks back to the first ever motorcycle by BMW Motorrad, the R32, made in 1923. Seen from the side the Vision Vehicle resembles a naked bike, with the ergonomics and seating position of a roadster. The forms and execution of the power unit resemble the traditional BMW boxer engine, but it is actually a zero-emission drivetrain.
The machine was unveiled to mark the opening of the BMW exhibition and event platform “BMW Group Iconic Impulses. The BMW Group Future Experience” held here at the Barkar Hangar.
This event and exhibition concept allows as many people as possible around the world to experience the BMW Group’s vision of future mobility. It is open to the public from Oct 11 to 16.
Following the BMW VISION NEXT 100, unveiled at the Munich centenary event on March 7, and the MINI VISION NEXT 100 and Rolls-Royce VISION NEXT 100 at a London venue in June, it is now the turn of the motorcycle division to present its vision of premium future motorcycle mobility for the coming decades.
The US market is one of the largest for BMW motorcycles. The United States is also home to the most prolific BMW plant in the world. The Spartanburg plant in South Carolina opened in 1994 and over 70% of the X models (X3, X4, X4 M, X5, X5 M, X6 and X6 M) are produced there for export.
