The BMW Lo Rider concept

Here's the BMW Motorrad take on motorcycle "concept studies" 101:

"The guiding principle is that a motorcycle should not just function perfectly, but should also appeal to all the riders' senses simultaneously, arouse an emotional response in him and fill him with enthusiasm at every moment - when stationary and when moving, as a whole and in its detail. In short: it has to light the fire."

With that in mind, here's an example of what BMW is talking about: the Lo Rider, which was released simultaneously with the F 800 R at last week's EICMA show in Milan.

The unencumbered and muscular appearance of the flat-twin is immediately obvious, but the idea is that the customer can be involved in custimisation to an extent which goes beyond what has been the norm.

Buyers will be able to select different exhaust systems, seats, headlights and paint finishes -- for both the fuel tank and engine casings. BMW can't customise your pillion, though.

There is no word on whether the Lo Rider will see volume production anytime soon.