A sleek and sophisticated Thruxton from Massachusetts, a tiny BMW balance bike from the Netherlands, a rare Royal Enfield Interceptor up for auction, and a bizarre folding WW2 ‘parascooter’ from Excelsior—Britain’s first motorcycle company.
BMW K75 balance bike by Roel van Heur A while ago, Roel helped a friend to build a custom K75. Then Roel heard that his mate was expecting a baby—so he decided to build the kid a balance bike, inspired by his dad’s custom.
The Dutch designer started by sketching out the pint-sized two-wheeler in SolidWorks, then bought a pile of stainless steel tubing to build it up. The frame and forks were bent, cut, welded and hand-brushed at home. The fork ‘boots’ are 3D printed plastic items, but they’re just for show, since the forks are rigid.
There’s an alarming level of detail here. Roel had the triple trees laser cut out of stainless, with his own logo etched into the top yoke. Then he welded on the bars, and finished them off with bicycle handlebar tape. The headlight’s an old bolt-on part for classic cars, but it now runs with a small LED inside, and a battery hidden in the steering stem.
The faux fuel tank was 3D printed in two halves, and finished in the same green as the dad’s bike. Better yet, it’s easy to unscrew them, and bolt on a new set if you want to change colors.
As for the hoops, they’re standard 12” balance bike wheels, wrapped in Kenda tires, because the tread pattern reminded Roel of classic motorcycle tires. The seat’s another off-the-shelf balance bike part, albeit a high-end one.
The owner of this mini-Beemer is going to be one stoked little tyke—as soon as he’s big enough to ride it. Who else thinks Roel should put this into production?
Triumph Thruxton by Nova Motorcycles This 2013-model Triumph Thruxton rolled into Nova Motorcycles‘ Massachusetts workshop for a simple spruce up—but the crew had a bigger vision. They’d just seen a bunch of great-looking Triumph customs at a major bike show, but all retained the stock fuel tank. So Nova figured the best way to make their Thruxton really stand out would be to use all-new bodywork.
Nova designed a new tank and tail unit, which was then executed in Kevlar-reinforced fiberglass by nearby specialist Tannermatic. Tannermatic also built the carbon fiber front fender, while Counterbalance Cycles made the seat. The green paint code’s straight out of Aston Martin’s book, complete with a subtle yellow highlight.
But there’s more than just new bodywork at play here. Nova added bolt-on braces to the Triumph frame too, inspired by the work of Colin Seeley. And they engineered a stunning triple tree and ‘floating’ headlight mount, in collaboration with COFAB Engineering.
They also threw a full catalog of Motogadget parts at the build, including a speedo that sits behind a laser-cut acrylic screen in the top yoke.
Other upgrades include a two-into-one exhaust, an air box delete kit and smaller bits from British Customs, an Andreani Misano cartridge kit for the forks, and K-Tech shocks.
Nova also improved the brakes with Brembo parts, and routed the rear lines to inside the frame. Clip-ons, rear-sets, an adaptive LED headlight; the parts list is as mouth watering as the perfectly-proportioned silhouette.
1968 Royal Enfield Interceptor The current day RE Interceptor is a 648 cc parallel twin with fuel injection and disc brakes. But our friends at Silodrome have just given us a glimpse of its ancestor: a rare original 1968 Interceptor that’s about to go on the auction block at Mecum.
The Interceptor was first released in 1960 with a 692 cc parallel twin motor, and was Royal Enfield’s fastest production bike at the time. By 1962, capacity had been bumped up to 736 cc, with a bunch of internal upgrades including a dynamically balanced crankshaft.
This one here is a 1968 Series 1A Interceptor—a model that featured further updates, like a coil ignition, a chromed fuel tank, and a new seat, handlebars and fenders. It’s a looker too, thanks to a full cosmetic revamp done just three years ago, and a fresh mileage of just 19,473 miles. It also has a new clutch, brakes, tires and cable.
Designed to go head-to-head with brands like Triumph and Norton in the US desert racing market, the Interceptor reportedly didn’t sell in big numbers—making good condition examples particularly rare. If this one floats your boat, why not put in a bid? [Via]
The foldable Excelsior Welbike Motorworld by V. Sheyanov is a Russian collection of rare and fascination wartime machinery. They have a knack for finding and restoring the most obscure of motorcycles—like this foldable paratrooper bike.
The Welbike, which came out in 1942, was built by Excelsior—Britain’s first motorcycle company. It was powered by a single cylinder, two-stroke 98 cc engine, mounted horizontally in the frame. It had no gear box, no headlight and just a rear brake, with a top speed of 30 mph on flat terrain.
It was essentially developed as a ‘parascooter,’ to be dropped alongside paratroopers as a mode of transportation on the ground. The Welbike would be stored in a container, and could be assembled in 10 seconds by unfolding its handlebars and raising its seat.
The only problem was, it wasn’t particularly effective. Due to the massive weight difference between the Welbike and the average paratrooper, they would often land far apart from each other. And with tiny wheels and not much power, it was often abandoned in rougher terrain, where going on foot was actually quicker.
Post-war it wasn’t a hit either, since it wasn’t street legal. Most Welbikes ended up being exported to North America, and sold in department stores, before it was discontinued in 1954. The Welbike might not have been particularly successful, but it sure is cute, and has our heads filled with ideas for a modern electric version that could fit in a car’s trunk. [More]
The Aston Martin DB5 Goldfinger Continuation pay homages to James Bond.
True to form, this special DB5 will feature all the spy gadgets from the film.
Production is currently underway, although it’s limited to just 25 examples.
Well would ya look at this, Aston Martin is pulling a fast one with the DB5 Goldfinger! The storied British marque from Newport Pagnell has announced they are making a limited run of their ultra-famous DB5 model from the 1960s. Yes, that’s James Bond’s car. And yes, there’s a bit of a movie tie in, but still, how fab is this? The four-wheeled creation is officially known as the Aston Martin DB5 Goldfinger Continuation.
What Is The Aston Martin DB5 Goldfinger Continuation?
The DB5 Goldfinger is the latest in the line of Aston Martin’s Continuation program, which started with the DB4 GT Zagato Continuation. It takes around 4,500 hours per car to finish the job. Each of the 25 new/old DB5 cars is built to the highest possible quality standards. Aston Martin blends old-world craftsmanship along with modern engineering and other performance advancements.
“Seeing the first customer car move painstakingly through the intricate production process we have created really is quite a thrill,” said Clive Wilson, Heritage Programme Manager, Aston Martin Lagonda. “Obviously we have not, as a business, made a new DB5 for more than 50 years, so to be involved in the building of these cars, which will go on to form part of Aston Martin’s history, is something I’m sure all of us will be telling our grandkids about!”
Over five decades after the last DB5 rolled off the production line, work is underway on a strictly limited run new DB5 models (although perhaps calling them New Old Stock is a better way to put it). Made with EON Productions, the producers of the James Bond films, this remake of the DB5 comes complete with the working spy gadgets first seen on screen in 1964.
More than half a century after the last DB5 left the Newport Pagnell factory, work is again underway on a limited series called the Aston Martin DB5 Goldfinger Continuation. Fewer than 900 saloon examples were built between 1963 and 1965, with the most famous “owner” being James Bond. Photo: Aston Martin Lagonda.
License to Spill
And when I say all the spy gadgets, I mean all the spy gadgets: the rear smoke screen delivery system, the rear oil slick delivery system (simulated), and revolving number plates front and rear (three of them, just like JB had). More 007 gadgetry comes in the way of machine guns (simulated (duh)), bulletproof rear shield, battering rams front and rear, tire slasher (simulated), and an optional removable passenger seat roof panel.
The inside has a simulated radar screen tracker map, telephone, an under-seat hidden weapons/storage tray, and a remote control for gadget activation. “We are making, perhaps, some of the most desirable ‘toys’ ever built for 25 very lucky buyers worldwide,” added Paul Spires, President of Aston Martin Works.
All of the nifty gadgets were developed in association with Chris Corbould OBE, the special effects supervisor who has worked on more than a dozen Bond films.
Aston Martin DB5 Goldfinger Continuation: Engine & Vehicle Specs
All DB5 Goldfinger Continuation cars come in one exterior color: Silver Birch, just like the original. And like the 60s vintage originals, the aluminum exterior body panels are wrapped around an authentic DB5 mild steel chassis structure. Under the hood, er, bonnet, there’s a big 4.0-liter naturally aspirated inline six-cylinder with a single-plug head, three SU carburetors, and oil cooler. That’ll add up to 290 bhp.
The mill is mated to a five-speed ZF manual and limited-slip differential. Stopping is handled by old school servo-assisted hydraulic Girling-type steel disc brakes. Pointing and directing is the purview of an unassisted rack and pinion steering setup. The suspension is a coil-over spring design with an anti-roll bar at the front and a live rear axle with radius arms and Watt’s linkage out back.
Aston Martin says it’s the complete and dynamic package, to which I say, anyone who has manhandled a live rear axle with radius arms and Watt’s linkage knows just how “dynamic” things can get.
Aston Martin DB5 Goldfinger Continuation. Photo: Aston Martin Lagonda.
Can You Get One?
Most are already spoken for, so if you want one of the 25, better jump in line now! It’s also worth noting the Aston Martin DB5 Goldfinger Continuation is not street legal. And all of those cool gadgets are subject to final engineering confirmation and country-specific legislation.
First deliveries of the DB5 Goldfinger Continuation will start later this year with each continuation car priced around 3.4 million, plus taxes. Sheesh, why not just have Auric himself aim a laser at my crotch instead! “Do you expect me to talk? No! I expect you to pay, Mr. Borroz!”
Tony Borroz has spent his entire life racing antique and sports cars. He is the author of Bricks & Bones: The Endearing Legacy and Nitty-Gritty Phenomenon of The Indy 500, available in paperback or Kindle format. Follow his work on Twitter: @TonyBorroz.
This guide provides a complete overview of the 2021 BMW 5 Series. We go through the updates and changes, take a peek under the hood, and provide a comprehensive list of the standard and available features and packages.
The 2021 BMW 5 Series has kicked down the double doors and is now standing on the tables before us. (Sorry I was listening to John Mayer earlier). Anyway, the new 5 Series is easily the belle of the ball with updated styling, enhanced aerodynamics, and a new 48-volt mild hybrid system for good measure.
Here are all the deets on the 2021 BWM 5 Series. Let’s take it from the top.
2021 BMW 5 Series Lineup
The new 5 Series lineup includes the 530i and 530i xDrive Sedans, 530e and 530e xDrive PHEV Sedans, 540i and 540i xDrive Sedans, and the M550i xDrive Sedan. If you are new to the BMW world, or just learning about the German manufacturer, xDrive means all-wheel drive (we explain more how it works farther down).
What Does The 2021 BMW 5 Series Cost?
2021 BMW 5 Series
Starting MSRP
Model & Drivetrain
MSRP w/ Destination ($995)
530i Sedan
$55,195
530i xDrive Sedan
$57,495
530e Sedan
$58,195
530e xDrive Sedan
$60,495
540i Sedan
$60,445
540i xDrive Sedan
$62,745
M550i xDrive Sedan
$77,795
Fresh New Threads
Naturally, the 2021 BMW 5 Series features the brand’s now-famous kidney grille. However, the grille is taller and wider, extending down more into the front bumper’s territory. Along with resculpted headlights, the vertical grille slats are more pronounced (BMW hints at how these slats help increase airflow).
Adaptive LED headlights, with two “L–shaped” daytime running lights on each side, reside in front. At the rear, the taillights have the same L-shape with black edging.
The M Sport Package receives new front and rear bumpers, larger front air intakes with mesh inserts, and a sleeker rear diffuser panel. At the top of the range, the M550i xDrive Sedan includes a new Aerodynamic kit from the M Sport Package. As an extra touch of spice, the side mirror caps receive a Cerium Grey finish.
The 2021 BMW 5 Series is 1.2 inches longer than the 2020 model, although many of the other dimensions remain unchanged. Photo: BMW of North America, LLC.
It’s What On The Inside That Counts
Live Cockpit Professional with iDrive 7 takes the 5 Series from sedan to spaceship. The 12.3-inch central touchscreen houses navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The optional Intelligent Personal Assistant feature is a trip. Activated by a spoken prompt (like “Hey BMW”), the 5 Series can do things like roll down the windows or adjust the air conditioning when commanded.
Standard on all four-cylinder and six-cylinder models is a new Perforated SensaTec upholstery with contrast stitching. Dakota Leather is standard on the M550i xDrive and optional on the other models. Nappa Leather is optional on all 2021 BMW 5 Series cars (the Convenience Package adds heated seats).
An Anthracite Headliner is standard with an Anthracite Alcantara Headliner available for the M550i xDrive Sedan.
2021 BMW 5 Series interior layout. Photo: BMW of North America, LLC.
2021 BMW 5 Series: Chassis & Suspension
The new 5 Series cars employ a double-wishbone front and five-link rear suspension. BMW says the suspension works to prevent road irregularities from “disrupting the steering.” Enthusiasts will enjoy the M Sport Suspension, available as part of the optional M Sport Package. It includes specially tuned springs and shocks, plus a 10 mm (0.4 inches) drop in ride height.
The Dynamic Handling Package, optional on the 540i and 540i xDrive Sedans, is ultra-fancy. Electronically controlled shocks use adjustable valves to temper the damping force at each wheel individually, meaning the 540i probably rides like a magic carpet. Standard on the M550i xDrive is the Adaptive M Suspension, which is better tuned to handle the car at its limits.
M Sport Brakes with Blue Calipers and M logos (nice!) are available as an option on all 5 Series models and standard on the M550i xDrive Sedan. If blue ain’t your color (cue Keith Urban song), M Sport Brakes with Red calipers and M logos are also available.
2021 BMW 5 Series: Popping The Hood
BMW provides drivers with quite the buffet when it comes to engines. Four-, six- and eight-cylinder engines, each with BMW’s latest TwinPower turbocharging technology, are there for the picking. It is interesting to note how the 530i and 530e four-cylinder models, and the 540i six-cylinder use a single, twin-scroll turbocharger. By contrast, the V8 engine of the M550i xDrive Sedan uses two.
However, each engine, regardless of size, utilizes familiar BMW operating systems: High Precision fuel injection working at 350 bar (5,076 psi), VALVETRONIC fully variable valve timing, and double-VANOS variable camshaft timing.
2021 BMW 530i & 530i xDrive Sedans
Engine: 2.0-liter four-cylinder
Horsepower: 248
Torque Output: 258 lb-ft.
0 to 60 mph: 5.9 seconds
Top Speed: 130 (all-season tires) or 155 (performance tires)
2021 BMW 540i and 540i xDrive Sedans
Engine: 3.0-liter inline-six
Horsepower: 335
Torque Output: 332 lb-ft.
0 to 60 mph: 4.9 seconds (4.6 for the 540i Drive)
Top Speed: 130 (all-season tires) or 155 (performance tires).
M550i xDrive Sedan
Engine: 4.4-liter V8
Horsepower: 523
Torque Output: 553 lb-ft.
0 to 60 mph: 3.6 seconds
Top Speed: 130 (all-season tires) or 155 (performance tires)
The 2021 BMW 530e uses an exterior speaker system to generate a sound so pedestrians can hear the car in electric-only mode at lower speeds. Photo: BMW of North America, LLC.
530e & 530e xDrive Sedans: How They Work
The 2021 BMW 530e and 530e xDrive Sedans combine a 2.0-liter gasoline engine (181 horsepower) and an electric drive unit (107 horsepower). The combined output of 288 horsepower is an increase of 40 versus prior 530e models. Total torque output is 310 lb-ft.
Here’s a fun tidbit: set the Driving Control switch and transmission to SPORT and it activates a new XtraBoost feature. Press the throttle and the horsepower fairy gives you another 40 ponies for up to 10 seconds. It’s like the mushroom in Mario Kart.
530e & 530e xDrive Sedans
Engine: 2.0-liter gasoline
More Engine: 107 horsepower electric drive unit
Even More Engine: high-voltage 34 Ah / 12 kWh gross (9.09 kWh net) lithium-ion battery
Combined Horsepower: 288
Even More Horsepower: Another 40 via XtraBoost
CombinedTorque Output: 310 lb-ft.
0 to 60 mph: 5.7 seconds (with XtraBoost)
Top Speed: 130 (all-season tires) or 146 (performance tires)
Transmission Tech: Inside The Steptronic
BMW’s eight-speed Steptronic automatic receives a new hydraulic control system to increase efficiency and response. New torsion dampers reduce rotational irregularities within the powertrain for more seamless shifting. An integral twin-damper system isolates vibrations and minimizes the degree of slip at the torque converter lock-up clutch.
The Steptronic Sport transmission, standard in the M550i xDrive Sedan, includes a Launch Control function.
Beyond the mechanical components, the Steptronic automatic can adapt its shift strategy. BMW engineered the transmission and navigation to work in tandem while moving. The transmission uses data from the navigation system to shift according to the road conditions, thereby avoiding unnecessary shifts. Supplemental data is pulled from the Active Cruise Control system’s radar sensor.
Yes indeed! As mentioned above, if you want an all-wheel drive 5 Series, look for one that has “xDrive.” Absent of xDrive, all 2021 BMW 5 Series cars are real-wheel drive (minus the M550i xDrive Sedan). While xDrive does have a rear-bias in power distribution, it can transfer that power around the car for more traction and stability when necessary.
In these situations, the electronically controlled multi-plate clutch in the transfer case “hooks up” with the Dynamic Stability Control system. Power distribution is regulated and adjusted in a fraction of a second, so the 5 Series can respond to changing road conditions. BMW says xDrive’s inherent design prevents oversteer and understeer.
The M550i xDrive Sedan uses an exclusive rear M Sport differential. This electronically controlled rear differential lock improves traction by determining different grip levels for the left and right rear wheels. The M Sport differential will prevent any wheel with less than desirable traction from spinning.
A mild hybrid system with a 480-volt starter-generator increases the performance and efficiency of the 2021 BMW 5 Series. Photo: BMW of North America, LLC.
Benefits of The 48-Volt Mild Hybrid System
The 540i and 540i xDrive Sedans use a new mild-hybrid system with a 48-volt starter-generator. Among the 2021 BMW 5 Series family, only these two use the system as they have the inline-six. Under acceleration, the system serves up an extra 11 horsepower, but its functionality goes beyond speed.
The 48-volt starter-generator and a second battery help facilitate regenerative braking, which increases efficiency. When the accelerator is relaxed, the generator transforms kinetic energy into electricity for the 48-volt battery. This otherwise wasted energy can now power the lights, steering, windows, ventilation, audio system, and seats.
When Will The 2021 BMW 5 Series Arrive?
BMW dealers are accepting orders now with the first deliveries set for July. We cannot wait to see the new 5 Series in the wild!
Below the gallery of photos is an extensive list of how the 2021 BMW 5 Series is equipped. The list includes available colors, standard and optional features, and what comes in each individual package.
Carl Anthony is Managing Editor of Automoblog and a member of the Midwest Automotive Media Association and the Society of Automotive Historians. He serves on the board of directors for the Ally Jolie Baldwin Foundation, is a past president of Detroit Working Writers, and a loyal Detroit Lions fan.
2021 BMW 5 Series Gallery
2021 BMW 5 Series Ordering & Package Guide
Exterior Colors
Bluestone Metallic
Carbon Black Metallic
Mineral White Metallic
Dark Graphite Metallic
Black Sapphire Metallic
Alpine White (standard)
Bernina Grey Amber Effect (new color)
Jet Black (standard, n/a on M550i xDrive)
Glacier Silver Metallic (n/a on M550i xDrive)
Phytonic Blue Metallic (new for 2021 5 Series)
Individual Aventurin Red Metallic (M550i xDrive only)
Individual Tanzanite II Blue Metallic (M550i xDrive only)
Standard Equipment
Standard equipment on all 2021 BMW 5 Series models includes:
Moonroof
Alarm system
Rearview camera
Anthracite headliner
Park distance control
Tire pressure monitor
Automatic high beams
Adaptive full LED lights
Connected Package Pro
Ambient interior lighting
Automatic climate control
Chrome Line exterior trim
Sport leather steering wheel
Comfort Access keyless entry
Universal garage-door opener
40/20/40 Split folding rear seat
Auto-dimming rear-view mirror
SiriusXM with 1 year All Access subscription
Power front Sport seats with lumbar support
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
8-speed Sport Steptronic automatic transmission
Enhanced USB and Bluetooth Smartphone integration
WiFi Hotspot with complimentary 3-month or 3GB trial
18-inch W-spoke reflex silver wheels with all-season run-flat tires.
Live Cockpit Pro with iDrive 7 and 12.3” digital instrument and center displays
Active Protection
Post-crash braking
Fatigue and focus alert
Automatic front seat belt tensioning
Automatic closing of windows and moonroof
Active Driving Assistant
Blind spot detection
Rear cross-traffic alert
Automatic high beams
City collision mitigation
Speed limit information
Lane Departure warning
Rear collision preparation
Frontal collision and pedestrian warning
530e and 530e xDrive PHEV Sedans add:
XtraBoost Functionality
Acoustic Protection for pedestrians
M550i xDrive Sedan adds:
Rear spoiler
Power tailgate
M Steering wheel
M Aerodynamic kit
Remote Engine Start
SensaTec dashboard
Adaptive M Suspension
M Sport rear differential
Shadowline exterior trim
M Sport brakes with blue calipers
Multi-contour power front heated seats
Harman Kardon surround sound system
19-inch M Y-spoke bicolor Jet Black wheels with performance run-flat tires
Interior trim in Aluminum Rhombicle Smoke Grey with Pearl Chrome highlight trim
Packages & Optional Equipment
Optional Packages on all 2021 BMW 5 Series sedans include:
Remote engine start (not available on 530e and 530e xDrive)
Driving Assistance Plus Package: (all models)
Evasion Aid
Front Cross-Traffic Alert
Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go
Lane Keeping Assistant with side collision avoidance
Extended Traffic Jam Assist for limited access highways (Level 2)
Dynamic Handling Package: (540i and 540i xDrive only)
Adaptive Drive
Active Roll Stabilization
Dynamic Damper Control
Dynamic Handling Package: (M550i xDrive only)
Integral Active Steering
Active Roll Stabilization
Adaptive M Suspension Professional
Shadowline Package: (all models)
Individual Shadowline lights
Extended Shadowline exterior trim including Kidney Grille.
Luxury Seating Package: (except M550i xDrive)
Multi-Contour seats
Front ventilated seats
M Sport Package: (all models except M550i xDrive)
Aerodynamic kit
M Steering wheel
Variable sport steering
Shadowline exterior trim
M Sport Suspension or Dynamic Handling Package (n/a on 530e and 530e xDrive)
Choice of 19-inch m Y-spoke style 845M bicolor Jet Black wheels with either all-season runflat or performance run-flat tires or 20-inch Y-spoke style 846M bicolor Jet Black wheels with performance run-flat tires
Choice of Aluminum Rhombicle Smoke Grey interior trim with Pearl Chrome finisher or Fine-wood Ash Trunkwood open-pored trim with Pearl Chrome finisher or Fineline Ridge Wood Trim or Grey Poplar Wood Trim or Fineline Cove Matte Finish Wood Trim
Parking Assistance Package: (all 2021 BMW 5 Series cars)
Drive Recorder
Parking Assistant Plus
Active Park Distance Control
Surround View with 3D View
Premium Package: (all 2021 BMW 5 Series cars except M550i xDrive)
Power tailgate
Gesture Control
Head-Up Display
Remote Engine Start
Harman Kardon Surround sound system
Wireless charging for compatible mobile devices
Heated front seats or Heated front and rear seats
Premium Package: (M550i xDrive only)
Gesture Control
Head-Up Display
Wireless charging for compatible mobile devices
Executive Package: (all 2021 BMW 5 Series cars except M550i xDrive)
