BMW already showed its plans for the future regarding four-wheel vehicles through the MINI and Rolls-Royce Vision concepts. Now it’s time to see what’s going to happen for its bike’s and the VISION NEXT 100 is what the Bavarian company envisions for the ultimate motorcycle of the future.
“The BMW Motorrad VISION NEXT 100 embodies the BMW Group’s vision of biking in a connected world – an analogue experience in a digital age. Motorcycling is about escaping from the everyday: the moment you straddle your bike, you are absolutely free. Your bike is The Great Escape,” says Edgar Heinrich, Head of Design at BMW Motorrad, outlining the core principles underlying his brand’s Vision Vehicle.
The VISION NEXT 100 is said to represent the ultimate riding experience, being a motorcycle that truly sets the rider free. For example, the rider isn’t supposed to wear protective gear while riding the future contraption because it will never tip over.
Yep, BMW’s bike of the future is equipped with self-balancing tech that will aid the rider when needed while preventing a spill both on the road and when coming to a stop. This will grant instant access to fun and freedom to any beginner rider who’s not confident in his or her skills.
As you can already imagine, the powertrain will be a compact zero-emissions drive unit. It is inspired by the shape of the BMW boxer engine and will also be able to extend outwards when the bike sets off, to enhance aerodynamics and protect the rider from the elements.
The bike’s minimalist shape is inspired by the iconic triangular frame from the 1923 R32 model. The surface of the frame is covered in matt black textile, and the Flexframe system is supposed to integrate the steering and the frame itself into one unit that will adapt to speed.
Other body elements such as the upper frame, seat and wings are made of carbon, while illuminated LED strips will provide lighting for road use. But that’s not all. BMW envisions a complete set of intelligent systems that will keep the rider connected to the bike to provide total control and an increased sense of freedom.
For example, the complete set of sensors and systems on the bike will know exactly what lies ahead and around and will suggest the rider what lines and banking angles to take. If the rider doesn’t react, the bike will correct it’s speed, angle and ideal line on the go, preventing a crash. A map and a rearview projection will also be present in the rider’s line of sight.
This whole electronic-companion-motorcycle thing sounds amazing if you are a tech geek, but I believe there are many riders out there that think bikes should be kept simple and straightforward.
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