BMW Unveils Stunning R20 Concept Motorcycle

The BMW R20 Concept was showcased at the Villa d'Este in Italy, promising innovation in the motorcycle market.

BMW has unveiled its striking new R20 Concept motorcycle at the prestigious Villa d'Este Concours in Italy. This impressive machine features the largest engine BMW has ever built for a motorcycle, a 2000-cc flat twin. BMW hopes this model will help it compete with motorcycle giants like Harley-Davidson and Honda.

With Harley-Davidson holding over 20% of the U.S. market, followed by Honda, Yamaha, Kawasaki, and Suzuki, BMW's market share lags at around 3%. The R20 Concept, with its unique design and powerful engine, could be the game-changer BMW needs to increase its market presence.

said Markus Flasch, Head of BMW Motorrad. The R20 Concept builds on the legacy of the BMW R18 motorcycle, launched four years ago with an 1802-cc flat twin engine. The new R20 boasts a completely redeveloped chassis and a new two-arm variant of the BMW paralever suspension system, which integrates rear suspension and power transmission into one.

The rear wheel features a black disc design measuring 17x6.25 inches, wrapped with a 200/55 tire. The front has a 17" wheel with black spokes and a 120/70 tire. Fully adjustable Öhlins Blackline shocks work at the front and rear, ensuring smooth handling and superior performance.

BMW stated. The R20's standout features include its black double-loop main frame made of chrome-molybdenum steel tubes and an exposed driveshaft conceptually adopted from the R18.

BMW's dedication to innovation is evident in the R20 Concept's design and engineering. The question remains: will this impressive motorcycle make a significant impact on BMW's U.S. sales? Given the competitive market, it will be interesting to see if the R20 can help BMW carve out a larger share.

Credit: Bennett