Skip to main content

BMW’s Motorrad Vision Next 100 Concept is the Ultimate Mediator of Man and Machine

With the reveal of its Motorrad Vision Next 100 concept motorcycle, BMW has rounded out its centenary celebration with design studies from each of its brands.

The BMW Vision Next 100 model wants to make you a better driver, the Rolls-Royce 103EX wants to make you a more comfortable passenger, the Mini Vision Next 100 concept wants to facilitate effortless urban mobility, and now Motorrad’s Vision Next 100 creation wants to help you escape.

“Motorcycling is about escaping from the everyday: The moment you straddle your bike, you are absolutely free,” said Edgar Heinrich, head of design for BMW Motorrad. How does the Vision Next 100 concept motorcycle let you escape? Without the need for a helmet or protective gear, the futuristic two-wheeler lets riders fully experience the elements.

Part of the bike’s design includes classic BMW cues like the black frame triangle (pioneered by the 1923 BMW R32), white lines, and boxer engine shape. Because this bike is powered by a “zero emissions solution,” there is no actual engine, just the appearance of one. What that solution is, exactly, is a mystery, but the housing actually extends outwards when the bike is in motion, aiding aerodynamics.

One of the Vision Next 100’s most noticeable features is its Flexframe, which looks like a single piece that connects the front and rear wheels. Because of its malleable nature, it actually helps the bike steer without joints. Just turn the handlebars and the frame turns with it. It’s Gumby’s perfect motorcycle.

As a whole, the bike concept has a naked appearance but its design elements function like a full-faring moto. The large metal reflector above the front wheel has a built-in daytime running light and also helps deflect wind. The seat, upper frame cover, and wings are made of carbon.

The styling is obviously impressive, but more incredible is the technology. The variable tread on the tires helps dampen the bike, the safety systems will automatically balance the bike if the rider is losing control (even if the bike is tipping over while stationary), there’s a “Digital Companion” working in the background to alert riders of upcoming hazards or to take over in emergency situations, and a digital visor shows telemetry, navigation, and other data across the rider’s field of vision by tracking his or her eye movements. There’s almost too much technology to list.

The Motorrad Vision 100 Next concept was unveiled alongside intelligent riding gear. The suit warms or cools the rider based on weather conditions, the neck section inflates to provide extra support for the upper vertebrae, and built-in sensors will alert the rider when banking angles become critical. It may look like a fashion statement without the need for bulky protective padding, but it’s as much an engineering feat as the bike itself.

“The BMW Motorrad Vision Next 100 unites the best of both worlds – digital and analogue – for the ultimate emotional experience,” said Heinrich.

BMW has envisioned every element of how riders will engage with their machines decades from now. I won’t say it’s an ideal situation for those who crave control and traditional mechanics, but it’s undeniably innovative.

Editors' Recommendations

Miles Branman
Miles Branman developed a passion for cars early on thanks to a neighbor’s collection of rare and exotic vehicles. What…
BMW begins testing new V2X tech for EVs in California
BMW is developing bidirectional charging capabilities in its upcoming EVs
2023 BMW i7 driving on the road.

Over the past few years, BMW has made significant research and development to prepare for an electric future. As part of its electric vehicle lineup, the German automaker has produced the BMW i3, BMW iX, BMW i4, BMW iX3, and Mini Cooper SE. It also recently introduced the BMW i7 M70 xDrive, and we know the BMW i5 is coming later this year.

But to catch up to the competition, BMW needs more than just luxury electric vehicles to convince its customers. Its trick up its sleeve is a technology that most EV manufacturers have not implemented yet — bidirectional charging.
BMW is working on a technology to use your EV for power backup
In a press release, BMW announced it has partnered with Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) to develop vehicle-to-everything (V2X) technology until 2026. If you're unfamiliar with V2X, it's a technology that makes it possible for your EV to revert electricity to your home during a power blackout.

Read more
BMW’s latest project? An EV yacht dubbed THE ICON
Make waves with the new EV yacht from BMW
THE ICON, BMW's new EV Yacht

Step into the world of THE ICON, where luxury and sustainability dance together on the shimmering waves of the sea. On May 17, BMW’s latest project, THE ICON, was unveiled at the charming port town of Cannes. Amid all the excitement of the 76th Cannes Film Festival, this mesmerizing vessel steals the show.

THE ICON is an extraordinary watercraft that defies expectations. It's not just your ordinary vessel — it's a symbol of cutting-edge innovation. Powered by batteries, this EV yacht is perfect for emission-free travel. Prepare to be swept away!

Read more
BMW i7 M70 xDrive: Meet the automaker’s most powerful EV ever
The BMW i7 will offer 650 HP, 295 miles of range
BMW i7 M70

In recent years BMW electric cars have received much hype surrounding their impressive performances, sleek appearances, and longevity, and the i7 range is no different. On the curtails of the BMW i7's success, this German automaker is preparing to release its new electric powerhouse, the BMW i7 M70 xDrive. 

This vehicle will become the lineup's new top dog when it launches during the second half of the year at the Shanghai auto show. So let's learn more about what this ultra-high performance beast will offer drivers and what sets it apart from the competition.

Read more