BMW has submitted patent applications for two different three-cylinder engines using a W3 configuration.

The designs, which squeeze a three-cylinder engine into roughly the same space as a V-twin, have led to speculation on some motorcycle websites that BMW is working on a new cruiser to house the configuration.

According to the patents, both concepts would carry a gear-driven balance shaft to help minimise vibration.

The patent application says: ‘the invention represents an as of yet unknown type of W-3 reciprocating piston internal combustion engine.’

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