The Art Of Bmw 90 Years Of Motorcycle Excellence
BMW is one of the most renowned motorcycle manufacturers in the world. The company's focus on innovation and excellence has resulted in some of the most iconic motorcycle models in history. For 90 years, BMW has been producing motorcycles that have set the standard for quality and performance. In this article, we'll explore the art of BMW and its 90 years of motorcycle excellence.
The Early Years
The history of BMW motorcycles dates back to 1921 when the company produced its first motorcycle, the BMW R32. The R32 was a breakthrough in motorcycle engineering, featuring a boxer-twin engine and shaft drive. The R32 was the first motorcycle to feature a drive shaft instead of a chain, which was a major innovation at the time. The R32 was also the first motorcycle to feature a horizontally opposed twin-cylinder engine, which has become a hallmark of BMW motorcycles.
Over the next few years, BMW continued to innovate and produce motorcycles that set new standards for performance and reliability. In 1935, BMW introduced the R12 and R17 models, which featured a hydraulic front fork suspension system. This was the first time that a motorcycle had a suspension system that was not based on a rigid frame.
The Post-War Years
After World War II, BMW was forced to stop producing motorcycles for several years due to the terms of the Versailles Treaty. However, in the late 1940s, BMW resumed production and introduced a new line of motorcycles. The R24 was the first motorcycle produced by BMW after the war, and it featured several improvements over previous models.
In the 1950s, BMW continued to produce motorcycles that set new standards for performance and innovation. The R50 was introduced in 1955 and featured a new telescopic fork suspension system. The R50 was also the first BMW motorcycle to feature a full swingarm rear suspension system.
The Modern Era
In the 1970s, BMW introduced the R90S, which was one of the most popular and successful motorcycles of its time. The R90S featured a 900cc engine and a top speed of 124 miles per hour. The R90S was also the first motorcycle to feature a bikini fairing, which became a popular design feature in the years that followed.
In the 1980s and 1990s, BMW continued to produce motorcycles that set new standards for performance and innovation. The K-series was introduced in the 1980s and featured a new liquid-cooled engine and a modern frame design. The K-series was also the first BMW motorcycle to feature an anti-lock braking system (ABS).
In the 2000s, BMW introduced the R1200GS, which has become one of the most popular adventure motorcycles in the world. The R1200GS features a powerful 1200cc engine and a range of advanced features, including electronic suspension, traction control, and ABS.
The Future of BMW Motorcycles
Looking to the future, BMW is continuing to innovate and push the boundaries of motorcycle design and engineering. The company is exploring new technologies, such as electric and autonomous motorcycles, and is working to make its motorcycles even more advanced and capable.
In 2018, BMW unveiled the Concept 9Cento, a new concept motorcycle that combines touring and sport riding. The Concept 9Cento features a range of advanced features, including a semi-active suspension system and a full-color display.
Conclusion
For 90 years, BMW has been producing motorcycles that have set new standards for quality, performance, and innovation. From the early days of the R32 to the modern era of the R1200GS, BMW has been at the forefront of motorcycle design and engineering. Looking to the future, BMW is continuing to innovate and push the boundaries of motorcycle design, and we can't wait to see what the company has in store for us in the years to come.