BMW Motorrad unveils its ‘Concept 101’

Powered by a six-cylinder engine and blessed with a design that is aimed at redefining ‘highway cruising’, the concept bike was showcased at the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este.

On the shores of Lake Como, Italy, BMW Motorrad took the covers off its Concept 101 during the annual the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este. The name 101 signifies the capacity of the engine which is 101 cubic inches which, for us, boils down to 1,649 cubic centimetres (or cc).

While designing the bike at the design studio of the BMW Group in California, the designers wanted to stay glued to the core idea of highway touring. To make this motorcycle resonate with ‘The Spirit of the Open Road’, a six-cylinder engine was made that produces enormous torque, enough to pull the bike in any situation. The Concept 101 is BMW Motorrad’s version of a ‘Bagger’ – a design theme highly popular in America.

At the front, the integrated headlamp gives a very distinctive look. Three outlets on every tailpipe on both the sides not only signify the number of cylinders in the motorcycle, but also do justice to the sound one expects from a six-cylinder engine. The bike has been made by BMW and Roland Sands Design together, and the finer details are a living proof of it. Most of the bike’s inner workings are exposed which is the signature element of Roland Sand Design. To make it more distinct, the clutch cover, timing chain cover and wheels all flaunt the RSD logo.

Describing the true character of the bike, Edgar Heinrich, Head of BMW Motorrad Design said, “The Concept 101 opens up a new chapter in the history of our concept bikes. It is the BMW Motorrad interpretation of endless highways and the dream of freedom and independence - the perfect embodiment of “American touring”. Designing this big touring bike study was amazingly exciting for us because we haven't been involved with a motorcycle concept like this before. To me, the Concept 101 is the epitome of elegance, power and luxury on two wheels.”

After being unveiled at the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este, the question arises when will BMW launch the bike officially and how it will perform against the real-highway-tourer Honda Gold Wing?