There’s been a strong ‘connectivity’ theme throughout the Vision Next 100 series, but for Edgar Heinrich, Head of Design at BMW Motorrad, this conceptual bike is about providing 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.”

Can analogue be replicated?

As such, the BMW Motorrad Vision Next 100 incorporates traditional design cues such as black frame triangle (a reference to the first ever BMW motorcycle, the R32 of 1923), white pinstriping and a classic boxer engine-style design for its zero-emission powerplant. And while it does include a raft of futuristic technology (including an active self-balancing system, a flexible frame that eliminates steering joints, and a special rider’s outfit with a visor that sends vital communication to the rider ‘on-demand’ via eye movements), a dedicated User Experience team was employed to ensure it did not overly impinge on the analogue experience. But that experience will always be a step behind in replicating the sensory event of climbing astride a thrumming boxer-twin, and riding off into the unknown – and for us, that’s simply irreplaceable.

Photos: BMW Motorrad