The R20 Concept, a neoclassical prototype motorcycle equipped with an impressive 2000cc air-oil-cooled boxer twin, was unveiled for the first time in Japan. The design that highlights the gigantic engine is stunning. At the moment it is just a concept motorcycle, but we can't wait for it to be released to the market!
The R18 boxer twin has been enlarged to 2000cc, and the radical bobber has arrived
BMW's "R20 Concept" is a concept model that was unveiled overseas in April 2024. It is a roadster model that expands the air-oil-cooled 1801cc flat-twin engine of the R18 cruiser to 2000cc.
It was exhibited as its Japan premiere at the Tokyo MC Show, and attracted attention for its impressive looks. The design is particularly noteworthy. Its greatest appeal is the style that highlights the huge engine with a minimalist short tail and a simple newly developed frame. It is classical, yet has a somewhat futuristic atmosphere.
The design emphasizes the engine by simplifying the equipment other than the engine. The key features are the voluminous fuel tank, the short tail, and the newly designed simplified frame and swingarm.
The raised single seat and long arms embody the bobber style, while the airflow from the unfiltered intake funnel to the cylinder and megaphone muffler is visually expressed.
A ring-shaped round LED daytime running light is placed along the aluminum bezel. The headlights and BMW logo are located in the center. The unit has no lens in front of it, which is a novelty.
The aluminum fuel tank is just as eye-catching as the engine. The "hotter than pink" progressive color changes depending on the light and the viewing angle, paying homage to the 1970s.
When viewed from the front, the protruding cylinder is clearly visible. The pipe handlebars are tapered and feature a rectangular LCD meter.
The rear view is impressive with its cylinders and huge tank. It's a true "boxer" engine. The taillights are integrated into the seat.
The newly designed frame is fitted with luxurious legs, and the dimensions are also exclusive.
The heart of the R20 Concept is the 1801cc air-oil-cooled horizontally opposed twin-cylinder engine inherited from the R18, souped up to 2000cc. The R18 has a bore x stroke of 107.1mm x 100mm, and produces a maximum output of 91PS/4750rpm and a maximum torque of 16.1kg-m/3000rpm, but the R20 should deliver even more power.
A new oil cooler has been designed to accommodate the 2000cc displacement. The cylinder head cover and belt cover are also new.
The frame is a simple chrome molybdenum steel double loop backbone reminiscent of old cars. This is combined with a modern Ohlins fully adjustable inverted fork + IRS 6-pot radial mount caliper. The tires are 120/70ZR17 in the front and 200/55ZR17 in the rear. The wheels are wire spokes in the front, while the rear are dish type cast.
The 2000cc OHV air-oil cooled boxer twin engine has a newly designed aluminum head cover, belt cover, and intake funnel. The beauty of the metal is accentuated by polishing and anodizing. The exhaust system is 2-in-2.
The new frame is a double-loop type made of chromium molybdenum steel. Its simple structure is reminiscent of old bikes.
The lower chromium steel arm and the upper aluminum paralever are combined with machined aluminum bearings. The rear wheel is 200mm in size, which is also very impressive.
The engine is based on the cruiser R18 (starting at $17815.97). It debuted in 2020, the 100th anniversary of the boxer engine, and is the largest boxer engine in history. Will it surpass this and give birth to a completely different derivative model?
