November 10 2009

BMW Unveils Inline Six Concept Cycle at EICMA

BMW Motorrad pulled the wraps off its latest project, the Concept 6. As the name implies, it's a six-pot motorcycle, the cylinders being arranged in the classic BMW inline orientation. It's a compact unit too, shedding at least four inches off the width of any other motorcycle sixer. This achievement is due in part to its small bore, long stroke construction — which allows for closer bore spacing — and the fact that its ancillary components are positioned behind the motor.

The new engine takes advantage of BMW's expertise in new lightweight construction techniques including hollow camshafts and advanced diecasting methods. Following the K1300's lead, the engine is canted forward 55 degrees for a low center of gravity and improved aerodynamics. A dry sump lubrication system further enhances weight distribution.

BMW didn't include the displacement in its press materials, but it is presumably in the 1200-1300 cc range. Output is supposed to be on par with the current K1300 (around 175) but peak torque of around 98 lb-ft will be available across an amazing rev range, from 2000 to almost 9000 rpm.

The Concept 6 show bike sports a number of unique design elements. It is built around an alloy bridge-frame that utilizes both Duolever and Paralever arms. Designed as a modern Cafe racer, the concept combines a long front end with a short rear, and looks muscular from every angle. The six exhaust outlets — three on each side — help reinforce that aesthetic, as do the 17-inch forged wheels and six-piston fixed calipers. A digital dash is naturally included, but oddly, BMW has replaced the tachometer with a gauge that reads out available torque instead. The company says this is "on account of the supreme flow of power at all speeds." We'll see.

While the Concept 6 is merely a show bike, BMW plans to build the six-cylinder engine for production, stating that it will find its way into a future variant of a K bike. We're guessing it doesn't stop there, however.