BMW patents W3 engine with pushrods

BMW has recently submitted patent applications for two different three-cylinder motorcycle engines using the W3 configuration to the World Intellectual Property Organization for the patenting process.

The goal of these patents is widely seen as a move to build engines with three cylinders that fit into the space currently occupied by two-cylinder engines, without impacting engine output and performance.

Images filed with the patent application show two different types of engine – one with three cylinders and three crankpins, operating much like an inline triple cylinder-style engine. The second design has the front and rear cylinders working from one crankpin, and a second pin that operates the third cylinder.

What has generated a lot of interest and discussion in the online motorcycle community is that the distribution of the W3 engine is actuated by pushrods. Although considered by many enthusiasts as old-tech, pushrod engines are considered classic and widely popular in markets like the US. Born-again historical brands like Indian have used pushrods in their new Thunderstroke 111 engine, which powers most of the models across their product range.

It will be interesting to see what BMW has in mind with the W3 configuration. Traditionally identified for decades with the boxer twin engines, with two opposed cylinders sticking out of each side of the bike, these days BMW also uses a variety of other engine layouts. There is widespread speculation that the W3 engines could be for a future cruiser from the company.