Josef Honeder will become Head of Development at BMW Motorrad on 1 June 2026, taking over the role from Christof Lischka. The position covers the technical concept, engineering, testing and further development of technologies for all new BMW Motorrad motorcycle models.

Engineering experience across the BMW Group

Honeder holds a degree in mechanical engineering and has spent more than 20 years in management positions within the BMW Group. His previous responsibilities included overall vehicle development and powertrain work. Before this appointment, he was responsible for developing powertrain and fuel supply systems.

He also held responsibility for various BMW Motorrad development areas between 2011 and 2013. That earlier experience gives him direct familiarity with the motorcycle division alongside his broader background in vehicle and powertrain development.

A change at the head of development

Christof Lischka was responsible for BMW Motorrad in recent years and oversaw the launch of numerous models. He has left the BMW Group at his own request.

BMW Motorrad CEO Markus Flasch said the company has pursued a product offensive in recent years and described Honeder as bringing broad vehicle-development expertise to the role. The appointment therefore places responsibility for the technical development of future BMW Motorrad motorcycles with an engineer whose experience spans vehicle development, powertrains, fuel supply systems and earlier BMW Motorrad assignments.