A VISION OF THE FUTURE
Rather than focusing on the past and rolling out its Bavarian back catalogue of greatest hits, BMW has been celebrating its centenary this year by visualising the future of the brand with a series of Vision the future, according to BMW, will look like this: The BMW Motorrad VISION NEXT 100.
“Normally, when we develop a motorcycle, we tend Heinrich, head of design at BMW Motorrad. “On this occasion, we looked much further ahead and found the experience especially exciting. There are some Motorrad VISION NEXT 100 sets out a coherent
The design looks like something straight out of a futuristic, cyberpunk Japanese anime but key visual elements have been deliberately referenced from BMW boxer engine that sits within it are the obvious nostalgic nods to heritage. However, neither of these functions in the traditional manner.
Beyond the necessary function of connecting to change direction when the rider turns the handlebars. This dispenses with pivot points and the various joints found on ‘traditional’ motorcycles allows for light steering at lower speeds and becomes more rigid at higher speeds for stability.
The power unit housed within the frame has been designed and created in the image of the traditional BMW boxer engine complete with polished emissions drive unit and its outward appearance changes depending on circumstances. When the bike is parked the power unit is compact but extends outwards once the bike sets off to enhance aerodynamics and cooling and also to protect the rider from the elements.
Possibly the most radical technology of this system that utilises sophisticated electronics to prevent the BMW Motorrad VISION NEXT 100 from falling over. These active assistance systems are claimed to enhance the riding experience out on the road, adding agility and a “dynamic riding stability and safety. Even when stationary, the BMW Motorrad VISION NEXT 100 remains upright when the rider has dismounted.
Safety, therefore, seems to be of paramount importance in BMW’s vision of motorcycling in the future, so it’s surprising to see that the rider will not require a riding suit or helmet. BMW believes that, in the future, riders will be able to enjoy motorcycling without protective clothing due to the safety features on the bike. For the rider of the BMW Motorrad VISION NEXT 100, all that is required is the visor for eye protection. This may be a pipe dream as a helmet is currently a legal requirement. future of motorcycling.
The visor shows relevant data to the rider in a camera and maps can be accessed as well as information traditionally displayed on gauges on the bike. It can display current banking angle and ideal lines by collecting data from its surroundings while also warning riders of possible hazards ahead. This connectivity, albeit integrated into a helmet rather than a visor, is very likely to reach production in the