BMW has used the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este to
showcase concepts such as the Gran Lusso Coupe and Zagato Coupe but this year
the company is using the annual event to unveil the 9cento. Created by BMW
Motorrad, the 9cento is a concept motorcycle which has been designed to be the
“ideal sports touring bike.” The company also hinted the model provides a “look
ahead to what an exciting new Adventure Sport model might look like.”
While BMW stopped short of confirming plans for
production, the 9cento is a stylish looking motorcycle which has ‘hovering’
side panels, a carefully sculpted fuel tank and a number of aluminum components
which are milled in the direction of the front wheel. Since the bike has been
designed with touring in mind, the company also installed a windscreen to
provide protection against the elements.
Speaking of practicality, the bike has an
“innovative storage space concept” with a clip-on element that can be attached
to the rear of the motorcycle. Depending on what drivers need, they can install
a rear passenger seat or a storage case.
BMW was tight-lipped about specifications but they
confirmed the concept has a carbon fiber reinforced plastic frame and a milled
aluminum rear carrier. The bike also has a touring-focused suspension with
plenty of travel to ensure comfort and a “sense of light-footedness.”
According to BMW Motorrad Head of Design, Edgar
Heinrich, “We’ve created a bike that combines the appropriate power with
reliable sports touring properties and above all lots of riding fun, so it’s an
attractive overall package. It brings together the best of the sports,
adventure and touring segments to produce an exciting concept – in a class
which has not seen this kind of model from BMW before.”
Besides the bike, designers developed two jackets to
go along with the concept. Both are constructed out of Kevlar and leather but
one has an “urban chic” look while the other is more striking and sporty.
