ROAD NEWS
BMW ’ S BIGGEST BOXER GETS BIGGER
BMW already lays claim to producing the biggest boxer twin in the world with the engine nestled between the frame of the R 18 family , but appears the Bavarians are thinking bigger is better with their latest concept pushing the 2-litre mark . Unveiled in front of the picturesque background of Villa d ’ Este at Lake Como , BMW Motorrad ’ s BMW R 20 concept offers a sneak peak at what the brand could have up the pipeline for its big boxer project . While it looks a little cartoonish with its oversized features , it somehow looks like it could almost slot right into the production line alongside BMW ’ s other crop of R bikes , particularly the new R 12 . As part of the design , BMW slapped a new aluminium tank onto the R 20 , which is coated in what BMW called a “ progressive ” colour - called “ hotter than pink ” from the 1970s . The R 20 concept also features colour-coordinated cylinder head covers , belt cover and air intake funnels made of polished and anodised aluminium , as well as the Paralever strut , footrest system and the ISR brake calipers in gunmetal .
The tail-light has been cleverly integrated into the single seat , which is upholstered with quilted black Alcantara and fine-grain leather , and emphasizes the dynamic roadster appearance with its compact rear . The modern LED headlight is presented in form of a 3D-printed aluminum ring with integrated daytime running light . The main headlight appears to float optically in the middle of this daytime running light ring . “ The R 20 concept is a bold interpretation of the BMW Motorrad DNA ,” says Alexander Buckan , Head of Design BMW Motorrad . “ It combines modern technical elements with a classic roadster design . Its oversized proportions and minimalistic aesthetic make it an unmistakable character .” Setting the R 20 apart from the BMW cruiser family , the new concept places a larger capacity version of the Big Boxer engine into a roadster chassis for the first time with the R 20 straddling the line between BMW ’ s heritage and its future with premium components mixed with a very recognisable silhouette . The chassis of the R 20 features a black double-
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