~ Auto Buzz ~: BMW Concept 101 – FIRST LOOK BMW Motorrad teams with Roland Sands Design to build a Bavarian bagger.

BMW Motorrad Concept 101 static side view

At the recent Villa d’Este Concours d’Elegance, held on the shores of Lake Como in Italy, BMW Motorrad unveiled the dramatic-looking Concept 101. Edgar Heinrich, boss at BMW Motorrad Design, calls this six-cylinder bagger a design study that opens a new chapter in the brand’s history of concept bikes. “[The Concept 101] is BMW Motorrad’s interpretation of endless highways and the dream of freedom and independence—the perfect embodiment of American touring,” explained Heinrich. “Designing this big touring bike study was amazingly exciting for us because we haven't been involved with a motorcycle concept like this before. To me, the Concept 101 is the epitome of elegance, power and luxury on two wheels.” Although most Americans will correctly associate the bike’s 101 name with California’s Highway 101, BMW explains that the engine’s 1649cc displacement equates to approximately 101 cubic inches.

The Concept 101 was shaped at the BMW Designworks facility in Newbury Park, California, where Motorrad designers teamed with Designworks staff to create this striking touring machine. Of note, the actual concept bike was built at Roland Sands Design, less than an hour away from Designworks. In close collaboration with the BMW Motorrad design team, Roland Sands assembled the exclusive parts of the Concept 101 at his own shop. Sands, many will now, has worked with BMW for several years, most successfully with the Concept Ninety. Parts such as the clutch cover, timing chain cover and wheels all bear his logo. Explained Ola Stenegard, BMW Motorrad Head of Vehicle Design: “We had a clear vision when we were designing the bike: Under the motto ‘The Spirit of the Open Road,’ we wanted to build a high-performance, emotional, and highly exclusive six-cylinder vehicle that would make every ride a special experience. A bike that would make the moment so special, you would forget your destination.” With the Concept 101, has BMW succeeded in building that bike?