BMW Vision Next 100

The BMW Group has always created individual experiences through its iconic brands. At the same time, the company always focuses on the future and develops innovative ideas and solutions. Inspired and driven by this visionary force, the brands present ground-breaking concepts for the mobility of tomorrow.  Their group is comprised of four brands: BMW, BMW Motorrad, Mini, and Rolls Royce.  We had the honor of attending BMW’s “Iconic Impulses. The BMW Group Future Experience” on Tuesday, October 11, 2016, at Barker’s Hanger in Santa Monica, where they unveiled their visionary concepts for these brands, with an eye toward the year 2030.  We were treated to an exciting demo of the Vision Next 100 motorcycle, full of futuristic bells and whistles.  Adrian van Hooydonk, Senior Vice President BMW Group Design, explains, “The BMW Motorrad VISION NEXT 100 is the essence of motorcycling and a symbol of the ultimate riding experience of the future.”

Upon first look, The BMW Motorrad Vision Next 100 is sleek, elegant, and gorgeous.  What came from behind the curtain can only be described as a piece of rolling art.  First, the bike is self-balancing.  “In certain situations, the active assistance systems of the future will also enhance stability and safety by automatically balancing the motorcycle, both out on the road and when stationary.”  Yes, you read that right.  This is light years ahead of traction control.  The bike simply won’t tip over.  There’s no need for a side stand, unless the bike is parked.

The bike also offers the new Flexframe. “The Flexframe appears as a single, integrated whole that extends from the front to the rear wheel. Being flexible, it allows the bike to be steered without the various joints found on today’s motorcycles. Turning the handlebar adjusts the entire frame, changing the direction of the bike.”  Riding as we know it will never be the same.  The bike will also be accompanied by The Visor.  In BMW Motorrad’s future, there will be no need for a helmet.

The engine is an emission less boxer, inspired by the boxer engine of yesterday and today.  The “engine” sits amid the frame. It is a stylish element and a historical reminiscence at the same time: in shape and design it reminds us of the traditional BMW opposed-twin engine, whilst housing the emissionless drive unit. Depending on the riding situation, the exterior shape of the opposed-twin engine changes. At a standstill, it lies tight. As soon as you begin riding, the engine block protrudes out of the sides. In doing so, it optimises the aerodynamics and the motorcycle’s weather protection during the ride. Polished aluminium in this area exudes that high-quality vibe.

The visor will serve as protection and display.  “The right information at the right time. The visor essentially consists of a pair of data glasses that extends across the wearer’s entire field of vision. As well as providing wind protection, it shows relevant data.”

Now, here’s your chance to take a look for yourself!  In celebration of their 100th anniversary, the BMW Group unveils the next progressive solution, this time for the world of motorcycling: the BMW Motorrad VISION NEXT 100, October 11 – 16 in Los Angeles, CA.  The free exhibition will be open to the public each day, from 10am – 5pm at:

Los Angeles/Santa Monica – The Barker Hangar
3021 Airport Avenue
Suite 203 Santa Monica, CA 90405

Visit the BMW Iconic Impulses page for more information.