BMW’s new Concept 90 arrives

By
Zac Kurylyk
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The purists might not like the new water-cooled boxer motor, but maybe this concept will placate them for a while.
The purists might not like the new water-cooled boxer motor, but maybe this concept will placate them for a while.

It’s been 90 years since BMW Motorrad was launched, and BMW is celebrating with the new Concept 90 motorcycle.

Here's the R90S that the Concept 90 was based on.
Here’s the R90S that the Concept 90 was based on.

The Concept 90 is more than a 90th anniversary model, though; it’s also a throwback to the classic R90S – a bike that saw its launch 40 years ago. In some ways, this is a double anniversary bike.

BMW unveiled the machine at Lake Como on the weekend. They built it in conjunction with custom designer Roland Sands, the former roadracing champ turned custom builder who’s proved he’s capable of far, far more than raked-out choppers.

Right now, it’s just a concept bike, but rumours continue to swirl that BMW is going to introduce a retro classic to their lineup this year …

What do you think of the look? That’s brushed aluminum bodywork and an LED headlight, and of course, the paint is a throwback to the original R90S.

GALLERY

Check out all the pics that go with this story! Click on the main sized pic to transition to the next or just press play to show in a slideshow.

Here’s the R90S that the Concept 90 was based on.
Roland Sands is more than just another chopper builder.
The purists might not like the new water-cooled boxer motor, but maybe this concept will placate them for a while.

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3 COMMENTS

  1. The wrist-breaking riding position puts me off, but I’m definitely in the hunt for a classically styled airhead. A modern take on the R90S is sorely welcome, as none of the non-adventure road bikes from BMW carry any classic lines.

    • Doesn’t appear to use the new Wethead engine? Would have to have the cylinder ports in the conventional locations for a classic boxer look?

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