With the introduction of the K1200S, the most sporting production BMW ever, rumors have resurfaced that BMW is planning to enter MotoGP racing (although, realistically, this could occur no earlier than 2006).
BMW, like Honda, manufactures automobiles, and is a massive corporation (among the 100 largest in the world). BMW is also at the absolute cutting edge of four-stroke development with its F1 racing involvement and sophisticated engine designs in its production automobiles. In terms of engine development expertise, it can clearly stand toe-to-toe with Honda.
As MotoGP displacement limits decrease (as they are expected to), expect the technological sophistication to increase as compensation. This would play right into BMW’s (and Honda’s) hands, of course. F1 four-stroke engine design is the ultimate, but MotoGP manufacturers have not really had to “go there”, yet. The Aprilia has pneumatic valves, but, as far as we know, no other manufacturer uses this technique in MotoGP (a technique virtually required to be competitive in F1). This is just an example of F1 engine technology not currently the norm in MotoGP engines.
If BMW is really serious about developing a new reputation for its motorcycle brand (one that includes cutting-edge, sporting performance), MotoGP participation would be a natural marketing tool. If BMW arrives, it will raise the technological bar in MotoGP, and conceivably put the smaller manufacturers further on the sidelines (or scrambling for more sponsor dollars to compete).
