BMW Introduces the R20 Concept

BMW Motorrad has unveiled its latest design marvel, the BMW R20 concept, at the prestigious Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este on the shores of Lake Como. This event, renowned for showcasing extraordinary vehicles, provided the perfect backdrop for the BMW R20, a motorcycle that epitomizes craftsmanship, design, and engineering excellence.

Design and Engineering Excellence

At the heart of the BMW R20 concept is the iconic air-oil cooled Big Boxer engine, a defining feature of BMW Motorrad’s heritage. With a displacement of 2,000 cc, this engine is a sculptural centerpiece, complemented by new cylinder head covers, a new belt cover, and a redesigned oil cooler. The engine’s layout allows for partially hidden oil pipes, maintaining a clean and sophisticated look.

A Blend of Tradition and Modernity

The BMW R20 concept seamlessly integrates traditional design elements with modern engineering. The double-loop main frame, made of chrome-molybdenum steel tubes, forms a robust backbone, while the black 17×6.25 inch disc wheel at the rear and the 17″ spoke wheel at the front highlight the motorcycle’s bold and stylish appearance. The chassis also features a new two-arm variant of the BMW Paralever, enhancing the drive torque balance and overall ride stability.

Advanced Suspension and Braking

The BMW R20 concept is equipped with fully adjustable Öhlins Blackline suspension components at both the front and rear, ensuring a smooth and responsive ride. The vehicle’s geometry, including a steering head angle of 62.5° and a 1,550 mm wheelbase, contributes to its exceptional handling. The braking system, featuring ISR radial mounted brake callipers with six pistons at the front and four pistons at the rear, provides reliable and powerful deceleration.

Distinctive Design Features

The BMW R20 concept’s design is both striking and functional. The aluminium tank is finished in the eye-catching “hotter than pink” colour, and the polished and anodized aluminium components, including the cylinder head covers, belt cover, and air intake funnels, create a visually cohesive look. The taillight, integrated into the single seat upholstered in quilted black Alcantara and fine-grain leather, enhances the bike’s sleek roadster profile. The LED headlight, set within a 3D-printed aluminium ring with an integrated daytime running light, gives the motorcycle a modern and distinctive front view.

The Essence of Big Boxer Culture

The BMW R20 concept embodies the essence of Big Boxer culture, with its powerful engine and bold design. The open intake funnels, visible through the side view, highlight the airflow through the throttle bodies and cylinders, culminating in the signature Big Boxer sound from the megaphone-designed tailpipes. This attention to detail and performance underscores BMW Motorrad’s commitment to innovation and passion for motorcycling.

Conclusion

The BMW R20 concept is a testament to BMW Motorrad’s dedication to engineering excellence and design innovation. It combines classic roadster aesthetics with modern technical advancements, creating a motorcycle that is both a work of art and a mechanical marvel. As Markus Flasch, Head of BMW Motorrad, aptly describes it, the BMW R20 concept is “a mechanical masterpiece, with the Big Boxer in its center. Distinctly BMW Motorrad.”