For more than 90 years, the 2-cylinder boxer engine has been a key element of the BMW Motorrad identity, in both technological and visual terms. But as the BMW Group consistently pursues electrification, the question arises as to what a BMW motorcycle might look like that is electrically powered? And how would it reveal itself at first sight to be a BMW? One possible answer to these questions is provided by the BMW Motorrad Vision DC Roadster, a highly emotional naked bike with electric drive.
“The boxer engine is the heart of BMW Motorrad – an absolute stalwart of its character. But BMW Motorrad stands for visionary zero-emissions vehicle concepts, too. In view of this, one question that arises is: what would happen if we were to replace the boxer engine with an electric motor and the required battery? 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,” explains Edgar Heinrich, Head of Design BMW Motorrad. “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 breath taking 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.”
New drive, familiar appearance.
In a motorcycle, the motor is the centrepiece – it is the fundamental element, providing the basis for the entire architecture. But electrical drive components have completely different requirements in terms of installation space. While in a conventional motorbike the size of the engine is mainly determined by its capacity, it is the battery that takes up most space in the case of an electrically powered vehicle. The electric motor itself is relatively compact. Starting from this new basis, the BMW Motorrad Vision DC Roadster is able to make this transfer – retaining the iconic appearance of a boxer while filling it with a new function. This is why the Vision Bike is instantly recognisable as a BMW motorcycle, revealing its electric nature on closer inspection.
Replacing what would previously have been the engine, there is now a vertically fitted, longitudinally oriented battery. For cooling purposes, two side elements protrude with cooling ribs and integrated ventilators. As in the boxer engine of the BMW R 32 – the development of which was masterminded by Max Friz in 1923 – the cooling elements are placed in the air stream. The cylinder-shaped electric motor is positioned underneath the battery and is directly connected to the universal shaft. The BMW Motorrad Vision DC Roadster thus demonstrates a clever drive architecture that visually echoes the history of BMW Motorrad while at the same time taking it a step further.
Dynamic performance reflected in the proportions.
In the side view, the BMW Motorrad Vision DC Roadster presents a highly dynamic gesture with clear front-wheel orientation. The low front section and the short, high rear convey a sense of agility. Instead of the fuel tank, a flat, finely-wrought tubular structure spans the vehicle corpus. Its further shaping integrates the seat in a modern form, thereby creating the flyline of a sporty roadster. The frame structure is a key factor in defining the dynamic side view.
The large battery with its laterally protruding cooling systems is positioned at the centre of a frame milled from aluminium. The three-dimensional surface finish on the battery trim conveys a contemporary aesthetic appeal with its precise contours. The cooling elements echo the slight forward tilt of the battery silhouette, giving the side a dynamic momentum. When starting the electric motor, these cooling elements move out slightly, indicating that the bike is ready to go.
High performance with a light touch.
The overall appearance of the BMW Motorrad Vision DC conveys a sense of lightness so as to emphasise driving dynamics. Elements such as the seat and the cooling system appear to hover around the battery. On the frame itself, lengthwise milled grooves create a fascinating visual effect, reducing the perceived volume and highlighting the bike’s longitudinal dynamics. This impression is further underscored by means of openings in the milled aluminium frame and the tubular frame structure arranged above it. High-tech materials such as carbon fibre and aluminium reduce the overall weight and give the BMW Motorrad Vision DC Roadster a technical aesthetic. Meanwhile, red contrast elements and brushed aluminium at selected points such as the battery, frame and cool systems emphasise the bike’s innovative geometry.
High-quality details on closer inspection.
A key element of the BMW Motorrad Vision DC Roadster’s captivating overall appeal is the elaborate finish to be found in all its details. Within the mainly dark colour concept, it is the mechanical elements such as the exposed universal shaft and the Duolever fork that add striking accentuations. In this case, the two classic BMW features are re-interpreted and elaborately showcased. In the same way, the suggested triangular frame echoes a typical feature of earlier BMW motorcycle models, even recapturing its white lines, which in this instance fluoresce in the dark. The minimalist design of the front and rear lights is an iconic implementation of the hallmark BMW Motorrad lighting, reflecting maximum reduction in modern style. The headlamp shows the LED daytime riding light in a dynamic, flat U shape, while two compact LED lenses on each side provide the low and high beam. This creates a hallmark lighting design that makes the concept vehicle instantly recognisable as a BMW motorcycle – both during the day and at night. The rear light consists of two C-shaped LED elements which are integrated in the aluminium rear carrier in minimalist, technically high-quality form. On the flanks of the tires exclusively made by Metzeler for the Vision Bike, five fluorescent elements, each about the size of a postage stamp, are integrated. They combine innovative design with safety aspects: standing and moving, the lighting elements create an exciting graphic effect. In darkness, they increase the visibility from the side and thus providing more security. They also convey dynamics when in motion. Smart rider equipment.
The functional two-piece suit is not instantly recognisable as protective clothing: it is an outfit that primarily stands as a modern, emotional fashion statement. The light jacket with large graphics in iridescent colouring and the casually styled black trousers combine fashion sense with new functionalities. The protectors are sewn in almost invisibly, while integrated technologies enable various light functions as well as the digital connectivity of the future. An asymmetrical rucksack vest rounds off the rider equipment for the vision vehicle. Fixed to the jacket by means of magnets, it provides storage space and additional functionality. The permanent magnets means that the rucksack is quick to put on and take off.
Symbol of a new generation.
The BMW Motorrad Vision DC Roadster is a visionary symbol of the future of BMW Motorrad with alternative drive forms. It showcases the electrically powered driving experience in honest, authentic form, in particular creating a new, distinctive aesthetic appeal that is still firmly rooted in the finest BMW tradition.
Piaggio Liberty is a milestone in two-wheeled mobility development. It is synonymous with independence and freedom. Introduced in its first version in 1997, Liberty is one of those rare products that, model after model, has managed to remain faithful to itself and its name, continuously modernising and meeting the needs of new generations of customers.
Piaggio Liberty has skilfully achieved great success, finding favour with the most advanced customers, because of its ability to meet the needs of mobility and freedom with a formula that combined style, light weight, an easy ride and safety.
20 years later, Piaggio Liberty continues to renew itself but it stays in line with the values that inspired the original project and with the goal of meeting the demand – increasingly stronger – for a vehicle characterised by superior quality levels, lightweight and sturdy, easy to use but with impeccable performance and with high technological content at the service of safety, such as the ABS braking system that comes standard on the 125 and 150 cc versions, both Euro 4 compliant.
Liberty 50
Piaggio Liberty is available with Euro 4 engines for three displacement versions (50, 125 and 150 cc) and characterised by an active safety system, ergonomics and new elegant lines to go with the large diameter wheels which, from the very first Liberty, gave a compact scooter all the dynamic safety of superior class vehicles, contributing to it being concretely established in the “high wheel” segment.
The Piaggio Liberty transformation is not simply an evolution, it is a true rebirth which, building on the principles that inspired the first Liberty, has produced a technologically advanced vehicle on the roads today, but one that is extraordinarily coherent with the heritage of a true best-seller, designed to meet the most advanced an modern needs in terms of quality, style, safety, operating economy and environmental friendliness.
Dimensions designed for comfort in the saddle, technological powerplants, increased active safety margins thanks to the diameter of the front wheel. The light weight, user friendliness and natural charm of the product remain unchanged, even in the presence of a more “important” vehicle, confirming Liberty as a scooter capable of satisfying the widest variety of customers: from the very young who will find a perfect entry level vehicle, to the young and more mature rider looking for safe, easy mobility with low operating costs.
Piaggio i-get engine: more power, less consumption, smoother riding
Liberty is powered by the family of Piaggio i-get (Italian green experience technology) Euro 4 engines in the air cooled version is introduced for the first time on the Liberty, a unit that represents the cutting-edge of the respective engine capacity segments.
These powerplants are the result of a design philosophy that sets advanced quality and reliability levels – along with low consumption and emissions – as its primary objectives. Every aspect of the design was aimed at increasing the efficiency of each individual part in order to contribute to maximising performance.
The Piaggio Liberty comes in three different engine versions – 50, 125 and 150 cc – to meet any mobility needs, with such points in common as brilliant performance in the respective engine capacity categories, the quality and reliability of the powerplants, low operating costs and the contained emissions, including noise. All of the Liberty engines are ultra-modern 4-stroke, air cooled and electronically fuel injected. Each part was also designed to make the ride smooth, quiet and comfortable.
Characterised by the a modern 50 cc 4-stroke engine and by the 3 valve timing system that distinguishes the i-get family, the fifty is the result of a design that aims to maximise quality, reliability and implement an extraordinary reduction in consumption and harmful emissions. It is the perfect drivetrain for a very young person’s first ride, and the new rider will certainly appreciate the brilliant features that combine with marked operating savings, thanks to its low fuel consumption. In terms of environmentally friendliness in the city, Liberty’s engine keeps noise to a minimum thanks to the development of gearbox settings that allow the single cylinder to maintain quick performance while still being “docile”, in other words, at a lower average rpm compared to the engines in the previous generation. The result is a reduction in mechanical noise in addition to lower fuel consumption. Compared to the previous version, along with the emissions reduction, the Euro4 version improves performance in terms of acceleration and quickness up to 8%.
The engines that equip the Liberty are characterised by an injection system with improved efficiency and boast superior performance, both in terms of power and torque, all to the advantage of acceleration from low rpm which translates into a quickness and responsiveness in typical stop and go city riding. An eight-hole injector delivers the fuel in a fine spray for optimum combustion.
Liberty 125
Piaggio i-get 50 cc, 125 cc and 150 cc are efficient single cylinder engines thanks both to the mechanical components and to the electronics part. Some of the brand new components worth a mention are:
the crankshaft, with 24% increased inertia compared with the previous engine for a decisive reduction in vibrations and a smoother ride.
the starter motor, 70% quieter
the gearbox cover, to reduce the noise even more and increase stiffness.
the air filter with automotive style paper filter, which improves filtering action to reduce intake noise.
the barometric sensor, so that combustion is always optimised.
Particular care was dedicated to defining the scooter’s clutch, designed and developed to maximise riding satisfaction. More specifically, attention was focused on power management both in phases of slight acceleration and in “stop and go” riding which is so typical of the big city and traffic jams. The results, from the rider’s point of view, are a smooth and soft ride that, combined with the engine’s increased power, provide an experience that is always pleasant, smooth and jerk-free.
The exhaust unit makes the engine quieter and at the same time ensures a more full and pleasant timbre.
Quality and reliability: no compromise for customer satisfaction
The Piaggio Liberty is the result of a development process which, from the very first design phases, set as its goals the superior final quality of the vehicle and performance, as well as keeping customer satisfaction at the centre of the process.
Targets such as perfect ergonomics, user friendliness, handling and stability and low fuel consumption and emissions with more and more lively performance stem from an attention to the end customer in order to provide the market with an ultra modern, high performance, stylish and well crafted vehicle with which to distinguish themselves even when riding in the most elegant metropolitan environments.
The Liberty family boasts superior construction quality that shines through not only in the reliability – an essential value – but also in the physical perception of top shelf finishing. The materials, the treatments, the combinations and even the colour choices, all contribute to a sensation of perceived quality that can satisfy even the most advanced customer.
The solidity of the Piaggio Liberty and each one of its components is a clear trait of the vehicle, as is the painstaking care for each and every detail which comes out in aspects which are anything but secondary such as the modular feeling of the throttle, the perfect construction of the storage compartment in the leg shield back plate, the materials selected to cover the seat, the sound of the engine, the absence of vibrations and the feeling during braking. This is a construction process that significantly raises the Liberty’s global quality level and which allows us to offer the customer a valuable and reliable product that will maintain its advanced characteristics over time.
Liberty 150
Frame, chassis, ergonomics, ABS system: Piaggio Liberty is born safe
Superior handling for an absolutely easy ride, uncompromising stability at even the highest speeds for undisputed safety: these are the “guides” that inspired the design of the Liberty frame, the fork geometry, the implementation of a front wheel – 16 inches in diameter – and then the selection of the materials for the chassis and the highest possible quality components.
The Piaggio Liberty frame is a sturdy single cradle structure in tubular steel with pressed sheet metal elements. The torsional rigidity and longitudinal stiffness mean decidedly better handling and riding stability for the user, worthy of vehicles in a superior class, with a feeling of absolute control over the vehicle.
On the front end a hydraulic telescopic fork operates with renewed geometry, whereas a double arm connects the engine crankcase to the frame at the rear, guaranteeing optimum damping of the engine’s alternating forces. A single, dual-action shock absorber, adjustable in spring preload on 125 and 150, allows the Liberty to adapt perfectly to the weight of the rider or rider and passenger.
Liberty has always been a prominent player in the “high wheel” scooter segment. Faithful to its philosophy of a lightweight and manoeuvrable, but also stable and safe vehicle, precisely because of the large wheels, it continues in this direction with an increase in front wheel diameter, guaranteeing even better stability at faster speeds. Both rims are characterised by their attractive seven split spoke design at the centre and are made from aluminium alloy.
The rear 14” rim mounts a generous 100/80 tyre which ensures grip and stability without compromising Piaggio Liberty’s legendary agility.
The ABS that equips Liberty was developed by Piaggio with Bosch, the largest automotive parts manufacturer in the world. The electronic braking control system prevents the front wheel from locking up in the event of sudden stops or on slippery surfaces, another important step forward in the vehicle’s active safety. The braking system, even on the 50 cc version, is made up of a 240 mm front disc, gripped by a Nissin calliper and a reliable and tireless 140 mm rear drum.
Where safety is concerned, nothing was left to chance: Piaggio Liberty has high quality parts such as the double gas cable that always guarantees the possibility of mechanically closing the throttle body, the tilt sensor which switches off the engine immediately in the event of a fall and the sensor that prevents riding with the side stand down (available as optional equipment).
Style: Italian elegance, ergonomics and maximum functionality
Piaggio Liberty, in its various versions over the years, has always been an icon which has contributed to creating the high wheel scooter phenomenon. A perfect representation of Italian style and elegance, it has set itself apart in a segment where beauty is often sacrificed for functionality, successfully combining practicality and elegance.
The latest version of Liberty embodies and advances all of the style that has characterised its heritage, beginning from a basic harmonic and fluid design that emphasises characteristics such as handling and practicality, combined with a precious Italian style.
Piaggio Liberty immediately exudes a sensation of quality and sturdiness and it does it being more dynamic, larger and more comfortable, but without straying from that original spirit that made it so successful. Its proportions have not be revolutionised and great attention was given to the overall ergonomics of the vehicle, placing the rider (whether male or female) at the centre of the project in every phase of development.
The front shield becomes even more protective without sacrificing the vertical aesthetic element which has become a characteristic of all Piaggio production, thanks to which the family feeling of the Italian manufacturer is completed and it thereby acquires an even stronger formal sense of belonging.
The front expresses a richer and more technological image. In the 125 and 150 cc versions the daylight running lights are LED and, taking advantage of light guide technology, they work together with the main headlight source placed on the handlebar, characterising Liberty and making it as recognisable in the dark as it is during the day.
The electronic instrumentation integrates the elegant traditional reading with the presence of a modern LCD display that has button controls on the right side of the handlebar and provides all the information you need to manage the vehicle.
In the leg shield back plate, thanks to the battery being moved, the space available for the glove-box is an astonishing 4 litres. As optional equipment the space is installation-ready for a convenient USB socket to recharge your smartphone. The entire structure of the convenient glove-box is created with great attention both to material selection and treatment. The result is high quality which is immediately clear simply by opening and closing the compartment. The storage space for cargo or helmet storage in the compartment under the seat is a spacious 17 litres.
Greater on board comfort was the factor that guided design and development of the Piaggio Liberty. The central part of the vehicle is now more comfortable and the footboard more convenient, both for the rider’s feet and, thanks to the foldaway footpegs, the passenger’s as well.
The saddle, completely remodelled and particularly large, has been lengthened for greater comfort even when riding two-up and it is enhanced by stitching that emphasises its sinuous shapes. At the base of the seat an innovative chromium element enhances aesthetics with a purely decorative function, slimming down the rear part of Liberty, but including a groove which makes it easier to open and close. A wireless remote control built into the key with a “bike finder” is available as optional equipment that activates the turn indicators. This is a convenient device to help you locate your vehicle in a crowded car park.
The tail of the vehicle takes on a more important presence in the overall image of the Liberty. The increased cargo capacity meant increasing dimensions without interfering with its stylistic purity. The shape of the rear, smooth and harmonious, ends with a completely revamped light cluster. The surfaces of the tail, sculpted and modelled, blend with the Liberty’s side elements, in other words, the guards that protect one of the most exposed parts of the body from impact. These elements are coordinated with the ones that protect the front shield and they include elegant chromium elements.
Accessories: a complete, technological and exclusive range
Piaggio Liberty is accompanied by a range of accessories worthy of a best-seller and, just like the vehicle, completely revamped in light of the new quality standards, new technologies and increasingly advanced needs of metropolitan riders. The range designed and developed for Liberty is not “only” the widest available for a scooter in its class, but it is also the most innovative.
For Liberty, Piaggio Group’s technology expresses a range of highly technological accessories, a true exclusive for a scooter in this category.
Electronic antitheft system – The most compact in its category, characterised by the lowest power consumption available on the market. It is self powered and therefore does not depend on the vehicle battery.
Bike finder – A system for quick vehicle identification, particularly useful in crowded car parks, it also functions as a wireless remote control to open the helmet compartment.
Piaggio Multimedia Platform (PMP) – This is the multimedia system developed by Piaggio that lets Liberty dialogue with your smartphone, displaying all of the trip information and scooter performance information on the screen through a free APP with a clear and user friendly graphic interface.
Piaggio Sound System (PSS) – PSS was developed by the Piaggio Innovation Research Center. Bluetooth, without loudspeakers, the sound is reproduced by the vehicle exciters installed inside the vehicle.
TomTom Vio Special Edition Piaggio – the first TomTom GPS dedicated to a scooter, made in an exclusive special edition for the Piaggio Group and characterised by personalised packaging, cover and splash screen.
For Liberty, a full catalogue of practical accessories is not lacking.
Windshield – Made in 4 mm impact and crack resistant methacrylate, it has built in handguards and an elegant black cover for the mounting rods.
Top fairing – Piaggio tested and approved, it provides protection and enhances the lines of the Liberty’s front end. Made in impact resistant methacrylate, it adopts black covers for the rods, a contribution to style and a decidedly elegant accessory. Available in transparent or smoked version.
Top box – The impressive 30 litre capacity means that it can hold a flip up helmet to make this classic accessory extremely useful. For Liberty it is available in two versions: top box with embossed finishing and top box painted to match the vehicle body. Both have an internal mat and are installation-ready for the backrest upholstered in the same material as the saddle.
Saddle-handlebar mechanical antitheft system – Extremely simple and effective, it “binds” the handlebar to the vehicle thanks to a sturdy fastening system locked to the body.
Vehicle cover – For outdoor vehicle storage, made in water resistant material.
Leg cover – Designed specifically for Liberty, it fastens perfectly, thanks in part to the anti flapping system that guarantees maximum protection. It has a steel cable antitheft system and a waterproof saddle cover.
Side stand – Complete with safety sensor to prevent starting with it down.
Rubber mat – Perfectly adaptable to the Liberty footboard, it is made in anti-slip material.
Piaggio Liberty 50 e 50S – Technical Specifications
Engine
Single-cylinder, 4-stroke, Piaggio i-get
Displacement
50 cc
Bore x stroke
39 mm / 41.8 mm
Max power
2.4 kW / 7500 rpm
Max Torque
3.1Nm / 7250 rpm
Timing system
Single overhead camshaft (SOHC) – 3 valves
Cooling system
Forced air
Fuel system
Electronic injection
Lubrication
Wet sump
Starter
Electric
Gearbox
Automatic continuously variable transmission (CVT) with torque server
Clutch
Automatic centrifugal dry clutch
Frame
Single cradle structure in tubular steel with pressed reinforcements
Front suspension
Telescopic hydraulic fork, 76 mm stroke
Rear suspension
Dual action hydraulic monoshock absorber
Front brake
Ø 240 mm brake disc served by Ø 25.4 mm dual piston floating calliper
Rear brake
140 mm drum
Front tyre
Tubeless 90/80 – 16”
Rear tyre
Tubeless 100/80-14”
Length
1945 mm
Width
690 mm
Saddle height
790 mm
Wheelbase
1370 mm
Fuel tank capacity
6 litres (including 1.5 litre reserve)
Emissions compliance
Euro 4
Piaggio Liberty ABS 125 / 150 – Technical Specifications
Engine
Single cylinder 4-stroke Piaggio iGet
Displacement
124.5 cc
155 cc
Bore x stroke
52 mm / 58.6 mm
58 mm / 58.6 mm
Max power
8 kW / 7500 rpm
9.6 kW / 7750 rpm
Max Torque
11 Nm / 6000 rpm
13 Nm/ 5250rpm
Distribution
Single overhead camshaft (SOHC) – 3 valves
Cooling system
Forced air
Fuel system
Electronic injection
Lubrication
Wet sump
Starter
Electric
Gearbox
Automatic continuously variable transmission (CVT) with torque server
Clutch
Automatic centrifugal dry clutch
Frame
Single cradle structure in tubular steel with pressed reinforcements
Front suspension
Telescopic hydraulic fork, 76 mm stroke
Rear suspension
Hydraulic dual action monoshock absorber, 5-position spring preload adjustment, 74.5 mm stroke
Front brake
Ø 240 mm brake disc served by Ø 25.4 mm dual piston floating calliper Single channel ABS
Rear brake
140 mm drum
Front tyre
Tubeless 90/80 – 16”
Rear tyre
Tubeless 100/80-14”
Length
1945 mm
Width
690 mm
Saddle height
787 mm
Wheelbase
1340 mm
Fuel tank capacity
6 litres (including 1.5 litre reserve)
Emissions compliance
4 Euro
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