A Glimpse of the Future Through the Lens
of the Past
Typically an announcement from everyone’s favorite Bavarian
purveyor of motorrader will be heard far and wide. This time however,
the hills were silent as BMW unveiled its Vision DC Roadster, a new entry into
the electric motorcycle market.
BMW motorcycles are unmistakable in their design. The prominent
cylinders of their signature flat twin boxer motor create one of motorcycling’s
most recognizable profiles. In 1923, design director Max Friz was presented
with a motor that left the rear cylinder prone to overheating. Incorporating a
design that moved the cylinders outward and into the windstream proved
successful for cooling and the subsequent R32 model debuted the now iconic
look.
More than 90 years of company heritage tied to that very
component had to be reimagined for the zero emissions combination of electric
motor and battery. How could the Vision DC Roadster remain recognizable as a
BMW motorcycle while replacing one of it’s more identifiable components?
Something Borrowed, Something Glowing
Borrowing a page from Friz’ playbook, the Vision DC Roadster’s
dynamic outward cooling elements maximize airflow to cooling ribs and
integrated ventilators. Completing the visual, a cylinder-shaped electric motor
that resides below the battery system incorporates a reimagined version of the
perineal shaft drive.
The profile features a streetfighter style with a low front and
short, high rear. A flat, finely-wrought tubular structure spans where the tank
would reside and integrates a high seat. The chassis is dominated by a large
battery, housed in machined aluminum and angled slightly along with the cooling
elements to create a visually dynamic movement. The cooling elements move out
slightly when the motor is started.
In a nod to models of the past, the color concept is dark with
an exposed universal shaft and Duolever fork.
White lines accent familiar triangular frame features, which just so
happen fluoresce in darkness. The hallmark lighting design is instantly recognizable
as a BMW motorcycle whether day or night. A U-shaped daytime running light sits
low while two LED lenses make up the high and low beam. The taillights are
integrated into the aluminum carrier forming a C-shape. Special Metzler tires
utilize five fluorescent elements, each about the size of a postage stamp to
convey dynamics in motion while increasing visibility for added safety in dark
conditions.
BMW Motorrad doesn’t expect its riders to show up to the future
in the same old riding gear, no sir. An all-new two-piece suit provides
protection while integrating light functions and connectivity. It consists of a
light jacket with iridescent coloring and black pants featuring invisibly sewn-in
protectors. While not everyone may be looking for a “modern, emotional fashion
statement,” perhaps the integrated rucksack, which attaches via a magnet, will
tip the scales.
What are the chances we’ll see a Vision DC Roadster in the US? They may be one in a million, but as the great Lloyd Christmas once asked—“So you’re saying there’s a chance?”
