In 2006, the F 800 broke from tradition with BMW’s first-ever parallel twin engine, which used a dummy connecting rod to balance vibration while retaining the expected sound of a BMW twin. With crankshaft rotation in line with wheel rotation and belt or chain drive to the rear wheel, the F 800 was exceptionally agile. The bike was offered in S, ST, GS, and R form, the latter of which won a Red Dot design award in 2010. The F 800 R seen here is owned by Rob Mitchell, a 32- year employee of BMW NA prior to his retirement in 2008.

For more pictures and information on this or any other vehicle in the Motorcycles exhibit, check out the exhibition book in our store!