BMW Motorrad has given a fresh preview of its upcoming R20 cruiser before the official global debut, and the bike now appears very close to final production form. Images posted online by BMW Motorrad chief Markus Flasch show multiple test units together, giving a better look at what could soon become BMW’s next big motorcycle launch.
The R20 takes a very different direction compared to the older R18 cruiser. The new bike carries a lower and more aggressive design with a strong roadster feel. It still uses BMW’s famous boxer engine layout, but the motorcycle itself looks more performance-focused than traditional cruiser-focused.
Fresh design direction
The motorcycle keeps a muscular shape with exposed mechanical parts visible from almost every angle. The large boxer engine remains the centre of attention and gives the bike a very raw appearance.
Some visible details include:
- Single seat setup
- Short rear section
- Thick fuel tank design
- Exposed shaft drive
- Sporty handlebar position
- Large exhaust system
The bike also gets road-based tyres and alloy wheels that are expected to be 17-inch units. Compared to the original concept version, the production-ready model now gets a more usable exhaust and cleaner body panels.
BMW first presented the R20 concept at the prestigious Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este on Lake Como, Italy, where the motorcycle grabbed attention because of its bold styling and bright fuel tank finish.
Engine details expected
BMW has still not released official specifications for the R20, but early details suggest the motorcycle could use a larger version of the boxer twin engine from the R18.
The R18 currently uses:
- 1,802cc boxer twin motor
- 90 bhp
- 158 Nm torque
The upcoming R20 is expected to move close to the 2,000cc mark. Power output could go above 100 bhp, while torque figures may reach around 180 Nm.
The engine is also expected to continue with air and oil cooling, which keeps the classic boxer character alive.
More sporty than previous BMW cruisers
Unlike older BMW cruisers, the R20 appears to be built with stronger road performance in mind. Markus Flasch also mentioned the Yamaha MT 01 while talking about the motorcycle, which hints at the type of riding experience BMW may be targeting.
Expected hardware setup includes:
- Ohlins suspension components
- Sport-oriented riding ergonomics
- Sharper chassis setup
- Better cornering capability
The overall riding posture also looks tighter and more aggressive compared to the relaxed setup seen on the BMW R18.
Global debut likely soon
The latest teaser images suggest that BMW R20 is already in the final testing phase. Multiple motorcycles shown together usually indicate that the company is preparing for production.
The BMW R20 is expected to make its global debut later this year at the EICMA motorcycle show in Milan.