The BMW R20 concept was recently unveiled at the prestigious Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este, set against the picturesque backdrop of Lake Como. This motorcycle epitomizes a blend of expressive design and high-end craftsmanship, with the legendary air-oil cooled Big Boxer engine serving as its centerpiece. Markus Flasch, the Head of BMW Motorrad, heralds the R20 as a "mechanical masterpiece" embodying the brand's timeless attributes—classic design, top-tier engineering, and exhilarating performance.
The design of the BMW R20 strikes a perfect balance between tradition and modernity. Its structural foundation is a newly developed chassis with a black double-loop main frame made of chrome-molybdenum steel tubes, providing strength and agility. Performance is a crucial aspect of the R20, boasting an air-oil cooled Big Boxer engine with a displacement of 2,000 cc. This powerful engine ensures a thrilling ride, delivering impressive torque and smooth power delivery. The modern suspension system, featuring fully adjustable Öhlins Blackline components, enhances the bike's handling on various terrains. The R20 also comes equipped with ISR radial brake calipers, providing exceptional stopping power with six pistons at the front and four pistons per brake caliper at the rear.
Every detail of the R20 has been meticulously crafted to create a unique character. From the expressive aluminum tank in the progressive color "hotter than pink" to the quilted black Alcantara single seat, each element adds to the motorcycle's bold aesthetic. The exposed driveshaft, shortened for integration into the roadster architecture, is a nod to BMW's engineering prowess. The R20 also features a 2-in-2 exhaust system that delivers the iconic Big Boxer sound, completing the sensory experience. The integration of a modern 3D-printed LED headlight and other innovative elements underscores BMW Motorrad's commitment to blending innovation with tradition. As Alexander Buckan, Head of Design at BMW Motorrad, puts it, the R20 "combines modern technical elements with a classic roadster design," setting new standards in motorcycle culture.
📷: BMW