BMW concept envisions a self-balancing two-wheeled future

BMW presents the fourth in a series of concepts from each of its divisions, representing what it thinks the next 100 years will bring. This fourth concept is from BMW Motorrad, the motorcycle division.

One key feature of BMW's concept motorcycle is self-balancing, intended to do away with kickstands and assist in handling while under way.

BMW doesn't specify exactly how its self-balancing works, but insists this concept has that capability.

For propulsion, BMW says the concept has a zero-emission powerplant, although doesn't specify if that would be electric or might use another technology.

The concept uses a very spare frame, although many of the details hearken to current BMW motorcycle design.

Notably, the powerplant, while not having actual cylinders, mimics the look of current BMW motorcycles with horizontally opposed boxer engines. Although with the concept, the "cylinders" retract when the bike is stopped and extend when it is in motion.

The entire frame is designed to flex, making the whole bike assist in turning when the rider turns the handlebars.

Although just a concept, BMW says the Motorrad Vision Next 100 represents what a bike could be like in 30 years.

A visor warn by the rider shows graphics that aid in handling, defining the proper line and banking angle for a turn.