We often speak about MotoGP within the context of BMW’s Security Vehicles, however hardly ever about bikes. That’s as a result of the Motorrad facet has by no means entered the racing sequence with a factory-backed staff. The pinnacle of the two-wheeled division admitted in an interview with Australian Motorbike Information that it has been on the corporate’s thoughts “for a very long time.” Nevertheless, a ultimate resolution on whether or not to affix has but to be made.
CEO Markus Flasch TOLD AMCN that even when BMW Motorrad determined to decide to MotoGPit could be too late to compete in 2027 when the brand new laws take impact: “We’ll make the strategic resolution first, after which we’ll outline the technical path which we’ll comply with. 2027 is certainly not possible for us to affix in then.”
The “strategic resolution” comment suggests improvement hasn’t even began, so the earliest attainable entry could be 2028. Flasch hinted that BMW Motorrad will wrap up its analysis quickly: “Please give us some extra months and we’ll come out with a solution!”
Becoming a member of MotoGP would enhance Motorrad’s visibility way over its Security Automobile involvement, ideally translating into increased gross sales. Talking of which, BMW’s two-wheeled division had a superb 2024, with shipments reaching document ranges of greater than 210,000 bikes and scooters. Nevertheless, 2025 isn’t trying as robust, with demand down 6.3% within the first half of the 12 months.
The closest BMW has ever come to coming into MotoGP was within the mid-2000s when it teased the bike pictured above. The corporate claimed the 990-cc prototype benefited from Components 1 know-how. The three-cylinder engine was really derived from the naturally aspirated 2.4-liter V8 “P86” used through the BMW Sauber period.
Nevertheless, the challenge by no means materialized. Motorsport Journal quotes former MotoGP rider Jeremy McWilliams, who examined the bike, saying it was a nightmare to manage: “The bike would simply gentle itself up and by no means maintain a secure exit and pump itself into oblivion. There was a lot rubber on the observe!”
BMW actually doesn’t wish to repeat previous errors, so it’s taking a cautious strategy to a possible MotoGP entry. The identical hesitance applies to a attainable Components 1 returnwith the corporate refusing to commit both manner.
Supply: Australian Motorbike Information, Motorsport Journal
