BMW, Page 12

BMW (Bayerische Motoren Werke) is one of the best-known and most respected brands in the world, not only in the automotive but also in the motorcycle industry. The motorcycle division, known as BMW Motorrad, has a rich history full of innovation and success.

• Beginnings: After World War I, when Germany was banned from producing aircraft engines, BMW focused on other engineering fields. Chief designer Max Friz designed the brand's first production motorcycle in 1923 - the BMW R 32.

• BMW R 32: This model is fundamental to the entire future philosophy of BMW motorcycles. It had an air-cooled, two-cylinder boxer engine that was mounted transversely in the frame, and a cardan (shaft) rear wheel drive. These elements became the brand's hallmark and are still used in its boxer models today.

• Technical innovations: BMW has focused on technical advancement from the beginning. Their motorcycles were known for their reliability and innovations. These include, for example, hydraulic suspension and other elements that were progressive for their time.

• Racing successes: BMW motorcycles also achieved success in motorsport. In 1939, Georg "Schorsch" Meier won the prestigious Senior TT on the Isle of Man on a supercharged BMW, becoming the first non-British rider to win the race.

• Post-war revival: After World War II, BMW was allowed by the Allies to produce only small single-cylinder motorcycles, such as the R 24. It was not until 1951 that it returned to producing twin-cylinder boxers.

• Modern era and global growth: In the 1970s, BMW introduced the R 90 S, which was considered one of the first superbikes. The pivotal model that defined the touring enduro segment was the BMW R 80 G/S from 1980. This bike brilliantly combined on-road and off-road capabilities and pioneered a category that BMW now dominates with its GS models.