BMW Motorrad manufactures motorcycles as the motorcycle division of BMW. The company started motorcycle production in 1923 and has grown into a global powerhouse, selling 136,963 vehicles in 2015.
History and Origins
The company’s journey began with aircraft engines before World War I. In 1923, BMW created its first motorcycle, the R32, featuring their signature flat-twin boxer engine – a design that continues to influence their motorcycles today.
Production and Manufacturing
The main production facility operates in Berlin, Germany, with additional manufacturing in India and China. The G310 series comes from TVS’ plant in India, while the C400 series is produced in China. The company’s motorcycles range from 310cc to 1,802cc engines.
Motorcycle Families
Performance-Focused Series
The S series features high-performance 999cc inline-four engines, including the powerful S1000RR sportbike.
Adventure and Touring
The R series represents BMW’s core identity with twin-cylinder boxer engines. The R1250GS stands as their bestseller, perfect for both highway cruising and off-road adventures.
Urban Mobility
The C series offers modern maxi-scooters for city transport, including the innovative electric CE04.
Engineering Innovation
Engine Evolution
BMW’s engineering prowess shows in their diverse engine designs:
- The classic air-cooled “Airhead” boxers (1923-1995)
- The advanced “Oilhead” engines with partial oil-cooling
- Modern water-cooled boxers introduced in 2013
Suspension Technology
BMW revolutionized motorcycle suspension with:
- The Telelever front suspension system
- The Paralever rear suspension, reducing torque reactions
- The innovative Duolever system on K-series bikes
Market Success
Germany leads BMW’s market presence with 23,823 units sold in 2015, followed by the United States with 16,501 units. The R1200GS remains their most successful model, accounting for 28% of production.
Racing Heritage
BMW motorcycles have proven their worth in prestigious competitions, including the Isle of Man TT and Dakar Rally, establishing their performance credentials in real-world conditions.
BMW Motorrad is the motorcycle brand and division of German automotive manufacturer, BMW. It has produced motorcycles since 1923, and achieved record sales for the fifth year in succession in 2015. With a total of 136,963 vehicles sold in 2015, BMW registered a growth of 10.9% in sales in comparison with 2014. In May 2011, the 2,000,000th motorcycle produced by BMW Motorrad was an R1200GS.
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| Product type | Motorcycle |
|---|---|
| Owner | BMW |
| Introduced | 1923 |
| Markets | Worldwide |
| Website | www |