BMW unveils its 9cento concept – and it looks like a smaller, futuristic S1000XR

BMW has a history of presenting new prototypes at the Villa d’Este Elegance on the shores of Lake Como in Italy. And this year is no different, as the Bavarian brand has just unveiled its new 9cento concept – and it looks like the badass little brother of the S1000XR.

Essentially, the 9cento is BMW’s latest concept-bike, which has been built around its new two-cylinder front-facing engine that powers the 2018 F850​​GS, while drawing design inspiration from the S1000XR sports-tourer. But the 9cento blends a few clever design details to make it a totally different prospect in appearance. It looks cool, doesn’t it?

Edgar Heinrich, head of the BMW Motorrad design, says: “The focus of this bike achieves a sense of balance: you do not always have to be bolder, bigger, brighter. Tourist skills, space for luggage, protection from water and wind: this concept shows that all these rational aspects can coexist with a dynamic design and create something really exciting and highly emotional.”