BMW has just revealed its Vision DC Roadster concept that hints at the future of electric motorcycles. The Vision DC Roadster is one of 25 electric automobiles BMW previously announced for 2025 – and are now preponed by two years, to 2023. Majority of the 25 models, including this motorcycle, will be fully electric.
The Vision DC Roadster is a wild-looking motorcycle, low-slung with an aggressive stance and with battery packs sticking out of it on both sides. Yes, the battery pack is positioned in a way to mimic the German manufacturer’s iconic two-cylinder boxer layout seen on its motorcycles from more than 90 years ago. The longitudinally oriented battery has two side elements that protrude with cooling ribs, harking back to the boxer engine of the 1923 BMW R32. Under the battery is a cylinder-shaped electric motor that is directly connected to the drive shaft.
The concept bike uses a tubular frame milled from lightweight aluminium. If that wasn’t enough, BMW says that components on the Vision DC are also meant to convey a sense of lightness so as to emphasise driving dynamics. The seat and the cooling system, for instance, appear to hover around the battery. On the frame itself, lengthwise-milled grooves create a visual effect, reducing the perceived volume and highlighting the bike’s styling. The electric bike also appears to running a striking Duolever fork.
While speaking about Vision DC Roadster, Edgar Heinrich, Head of Design BMW Motorrad said, “The Vision Bike shows how we’re able to retain the identity and iconic appearance of BMW Motorrad in distinctive form while at the same time presenting an exciting new type of riding pleasure. After all: anyone who’s ever tried it out in practice knows very well that riding on two wheels is just as exciting when its electrically powered! The high level of torque right at set-off makes for breathtaking acceleration. This almost brutal power delivery creates a whole new experience of dynamic performance. And the BMW Motorrad Vision DC Roadster puts a face to this experience.”