We don't know what they're putting in the water at BMW. First, the German firm shows the Japanese how to make a proper 1,000cc superbike, and now it unveiled this mad-ass, straight-six streetfighter concept machine.
BMW's car division has long been known for its super-powerful, super-smooth inline-six engines, so it's good to see the bike guys getting in on the action. Sixes have perfect balance, and can make more power than an equivalent sized four. But BMW reckons this lump makes the same power as its K1300 series (165 HP), albeit with a stack more torque all the way through.
Bizarrely, the engine will be seen in a full-dress super tourer first, later in 2010. The company's K1200LT heavy tourer is long overdue for an update, and it will be this engine that powers its replacement.
The unfaired concept is a bit of fun from B-Em, although you have to think it'll use the engine elsewhere once production is up and running. We can't wait for a six-cylinder on the streets, and it won't be long before someone fits twin turbos and a chain conversion. A 250 HP, 1.6 liter straight-six streetfighter? Why not?
Six-Shooter
Inline-six engines are a thing of beauty, and in the car world they're a very classy option. With perfect primary and secondary balance, they're super-smooth, rev forever, and make an amazing sound.
But they're difficult to fit into a bike due to their ungainly width. There have been a few straight sixes in the past though: Honda's CBX, Kawasaki's Z1300 and the Benelli Sei. BMW claims its engine is a little wider than an inline-four, thanks to a relatively narrow bore and thin gaps between cylinders. All the ancillaries are moved from the end of the crank, and the rest of the design is simple and straightforward with the cylinders tilted forward and dry sump lubrication.