If Tony Stark and Bruce Wayne went out for shopping, they would probably end up buying the same set of wheels, the BMW Motorrad Vision Next 100 motorcycle. The BMW Group presented its fourth Vision Vehicle, the BMW Motorrad Vision Next 100, to mark the opening of its exhibition and event platform, “Iconic Impulses. The BMW Group Future Experience”, at the Barker Hangar in Santa Monica, Los Angeles.
Before we talk about the BMW Motorrad Vision Next 100, let’s understand BMW Group’s future vision. BMW says that the task of exploring how we will live and move around in the years and decades ahead is as challenging as it is interesting: how will society, the economy, living conditions and consequently our mobility change? What opportunities will new technologies open up for us? And what will digitalisation and connectivity mean for our future automotive needs?
These are the questions the BMW Group has set out to answer with its four Vision Vehicles. Each made by a different Group brand, they represent a interpretation of future mobility and embody a specific set of brand values. All of them explore a number of future themes, autonomous and emission-free driving, connectivity and mobility services.
The BMW Motorrad VISION NEXT 100: “The Great Escape”
BMW’s aim behind the BMW Motorrad Vision Vehicle is to create a pure, unbounded ride experience. BMW says that 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 is designed to anticipate and advise when action is needed and, at times, intervene when required to keep riders safe. So even if you feel like you are playing a VR game and push a little more than needed, the safety net on the motorcycle will make sure it saves you from any trouble. The Bavarian two-wheeler maker says that the protective clothing such as helmets and padded suits will no longer be needed and riders will be able to enjoy the sensation of absolute freedom.
That being said, BMW Motorrad has also designed special rider’s gear. The special gear has been designed to accompany the BMW Motorrad Vision Next 100 and form a single functional unit: a Digital Companion that provides the situational information and active support the rider needs. The suit can warm up or cool down as per user preference. At higher speeds, the neck section inflates to provide extra support for the upper vertebrae and improve overall comfort. Variable openings offer additional ventilation. BMW also understands that biking is about the experience and thus the Digital Companion remains in the background, though constantly active.
A key assistance system in this Vision Vehicle is the Self-Balancing mechanism, which keeps the motorcycle balanced both while in motion and while stationary, and prevents it from tipping over. The aim of this technology is to allow all riders of any level of skill or expertise to experience a more positive ride. Information is exchanged between rider and bike largely via the smart visor. This essentially consists of a pair of data glasses that extends across the wearer’s entire field of vision. It 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. The black frame triangle, for example, harks back to the first ever motorcycle by BMW Motorrad, the R32, made in 1923. On the vision bike, the frame has been reinterpreted to form a functional sculpture linking the front and rear wheels with a dynamic sweep. The bearings and joints are nowhere to be seen; instead the frame appears as a single, integrated whole.
Turning the handlebar adjusts the entire frame, changing the direction of the bike. The amount of strength needed to steer depends on the situation. So while at standstill, the Flexframe allows a light steering, at higher speeds it remains very rigid.
Seen from the side the Vision Vehicle resembles a naked bike, with the ergonomics and seating position of a roadster. The arrangement of surfaces has been designed to protect the rider from wind and weather as effectively as a full fairing. The BMW logo, displayed on the dark frame. is illuminated in the familiar blue and white colours while riding.
The forms and execution of the power unit resemble the traditional BMW boxer engine, but it is actually a zero-emission drivetrain. Its outward appearance changes depending on the circumstances. The power unit is compact when the bike is resting while extending outwards when the bike sets off.
The BMW Motorrad Vision Next 100 is the future that looks promising, sustainable and tempting. We only wish we had a time machine or better contacts so we could get our hands on this beautiful piece of German engineering.
Don’t miss a single detail. Check out the official release for more information.