Who Owns BMW Motorrad?

BMW Motorrad was founded in 1923 when BMW produced its first motorcycle, the R32. This marked BMW's entry into motorcycle manufacturing, establishing the company's reputation for engineering excellence and innovation in two-wheeled vehicles. This pioneering entry into motorcycle production demonstrated BMW's exceptional ability to leverage its engineering expertise from aircraft engines to create innovative motorcycle designs that would establish the company as a leader in premium motorcycle manufacturing and define the brand's distinctive approach to two-wheeled vehicle engineering.

Throughout the 1920s and 1930s, BMW Motorrad developed innovative motorcycle technology, including the iconic opposed-twin "boxer" engine configuration that would become a brand hallmark. The company established itself as a premium motorcycle manufacturer with success in both road and racing applications. This period of innovation demonstrated BMW Motorrad's ability to create distinctive engineering solutions that would set the brand apart from competitors while establishing the technical foundation that would define BMW motorcycles for decades to come.

Following World War II, BMW Motorrad rebuilt its operations and continued to develop innovative motorcycles. The brand expanded globally throughout the late 20th century, introducing new models and technologies while maintaining its focus on premium engineering and performance. This postwar recovery and expansion demonstrated BMW Motorrad's resilience and ability to maintain its premium positioning while adapting to changing market conditions and consumer preferences in the global motorcycle market.

In recent decades, BMW Motorrad has expanded into new segments including adventure motorcycles, sport bikes, and electric scooters, while continuing to innovate in motorcycle safety and technology. This continuous evolution demonstrates BMW Motorrad's ability to adapt to changing market trends and technological advancements while maintaining its core brand values of engineering excellence, performance, and premium quality that have defined the brand for nearly a century.