BMW unveils retro R20 concept with 2‑litre Big Boxer engine
During the Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este, you can admire many classic cars and interesting concepts prepared for this occasion. In 2024, BMW created a particular vehicle and a motorcycle. I would be surprised if it went into production, but its engine is another story.
In the photos, the concept BMW R20 may not make a significant impression, as you can't fully appreciate the size of this motorcycle or, instead, its engine. It looks like a retro naked bike, a slightly larger brother of the R12. The wheelbase of the R20, which is about 155 centimetres, is only marginally longer than that of the production model at approximately 150 centimetres. Combined with the low-set handlebars, minimalist gauges, and a fuel tank shape known from classic models of the German brand, the whole thing feels very compact.
Indeed, the steering head angle in the R20 concept is practically identical to that of the R12. It also features Öhlins Blackline suspension in the front and rear, ISR brakes, and tires typical for contemporary naked bikes. Here, the only deviation is the slightly wider rear tire, about 20 centimetres wide.
I would even call the BMW R20 concept a rather dull project. Sure, it looks like a decent custom bike with practically straight-through exhaust pipes on both sides, but is it ready to be premiered at such an important event as Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d’Este? The name, or the engine, reveals what it's all about.
It's the next stage in developing the engine dubbed Big Boxer by the Germans, previously known as the cruiser/tourer R 18. However, it is even more significant, with a capacity of 2 litres. Of course, the drivetrain was also taken from the R 18. In my eyes, all this suggests that we are likely witnessing the debut of an enlarged engine rather than a new model announcement.
A retro naked bike with a 2-litre engine would undoubtedly be unique, but will BMW dare to offer such a niche model? I would be shocked. However, in the cruiser world, offering ever-larger engines is the norm. The 1.8-litre engine lacks nothing, but Harley-Davidson or Indian regularly provides more. If the Germans want to continue competing with them, they will finally have to propose a larger engine. These are simply the rules of the game. Do cruisers need more extensive and more powerful engines? Not necessarily. Do they attract customers? Absolutely!
