Vehicle Segment:
Unique scooter/microcar segment, often referred to as a 'car-scooter' or enclosed scooter.
Target Audience:
Urban commuters seeking car-like safety features with scooter maneuverability.
Direct Competitors:
Limited direct competitors, primarily other high-end enclosed scooters or very small city cars.
Unique Selling Proposition:
Integrated safety cell, crumple zones, seatbelts, airbags (optional on some models), and a weather-protected cockpit.
Safety Cell:
Roll-over protection structure, providing significant occupant protection compared to traditional scooters.
Aerodynamics:
Car-like enclosed bodywork offering improved aerodynamics and weather protection.
Storage:
Integrated storage compartment, offering more utility than a typical scooter.
Engine Service:
Complete overhaul, tuning, diagnostics, component replacement (cylinder, piston, crankshaft, valves, timing)
Fuel System:
Carburetor (Dell'Orto PHVA/PHVB likely) service, fuel pump, fuel lines, tank maintenance
Ignition System:
Spark plug, ignition coil, CDI unit, wiring diagnostics
Transmission And Drivetrain:
Automatic transmission (CVT) service, belt replacement, roller weights, clutch assembly, final drive maintenance
Braking System:
Hydraulic brake system service (front and rear discs), caliper overhaul, brake pad replacement, bleeding procedures
Suspension System:
Front telescopic forks service, rear shock absorber replacement, linkage lubrication
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, starter motor, battery, charging system, fuses, relays
Cooling System:
Liquid cooling system maintenance (radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant specifications)
Frame And Bodywork:
Chassis inspection, body panel removal/installation, seat adjustment, fairing repair
Controls And Instruments:
Throttle, brake levers, dashboard instruments, switchgear operation
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug checks, drive belt inspection, lubrication points
Troubleshooting Diagnostics:
Step-by-step diagnostic flowcharts for common issues, fault code interpretation (if applicable)
Rebuild Procedures:
Detailed instructions for engine, transmission, and suspension component rebuilds
Adjustment And Calibration:
Carburetor tuning, brake lever free play adjustment, chain/belt tension (if applicable)
Safety Checks:
Brake system integrity, tire condition, lighting function checks
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, suitable for DIY mechanics and professional workshops.
Engine Type:
Four-stroke single-cylinder liquid-cooled gasoline engine.
Displacement 175Cc:
174.5 cc (Approximate, often quoted as 175cc)
Displacement 200Cc:
199 cc (Approximate, often quoted as 200cc)
Bore X Stroke 175Cc:
62.0 mm x 57.8 mm (Typical for 175cc Rotax engine)
Bore X Stroke 200Cc:
64.0 mm x 62.0 mm (Typical for 200cc Rotax engine)
Compression Ratio:
10.2:1 (Typical)
Power 175Cc:
Approx. 15 hp (11 kW) at 7500 rpm (Specific output can vary slightly)
Power 200Cc:
Approx. 18 hp (13.5 kW) at 7500 rpm (Specific output can vary slightly)
Torque 175Cc:
Approx. 15 Nm (11 lb-ft) at 6000 rpm (Specific output can vary slightly)
Torque 200Cc:
Approx. 17 Nm (12.5 lb-ft) at 6000 rpm (Specific output can vary slightly)
Fuel Delivery:
Carburetor (Dell'Orto PHVA 28mm or PHVB 26mm likely)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (RON 95 recommended)
Fuel Capacity:
Approx. 7.0 Liters (including reserve)
Top Speed:
Approx. 100-120 km/h (62-75 mph), depending on engine variant and conditions.
Length:
Approx. 1,900 mm (74.8 in)
Width:
Approx. 780 mm (30.7 in) at widest point (handlebars)
Height:
Approx. 1,320 mm (52.0 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 1,310 mm (51.6 in)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 150-160 kg (330-353 lbs) depending on variant
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 300 kg (661 lbs) (Combined rider/passenger and cargo)
Storage Compartment Volume:
Designed to accommodate a helmet or small shopping, exact volume not specified but practical for urban use.
Crash Safety:
Designed with a safety cell and crumple zones, offering a higher level of passive safety than conventional scooters. Some models offered airbags. TÜV certification likely for European markets.
Braking System:
Disc brakes front and rear, providing strong stopping power.
Lighting:
Full lighting system (headlight, taillight, brake lights, indicators) for visibility.
Occupant Restraint:
Three-point seatbelt standard. Optional airbags available on some configurations.
Body Structure:
Integral safety cage with rollover protection.
Windscreen:
Integral windscreen and roof for weather protection and occupant safety.
Infotainment Features:
Basic instrumentation: speedometer, odometer, fuel gauge, coolant temperature gauge, warning lights. No complex infotainment systems typical of modern cars.
Driver Assistance Features:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was available as an option on some models, significantly enhancing active safety.
Connectivity Features:
N/A. Designed for basic transportation, not advanced connectivity.
Engine Oil Change:
Typically every 5,000 - 10,000 km (3,000 - 6,000 miles) or annually. Refer to specific manual.
Air Filter Replacement:
Check every 5,000 km, replace as needed or every 10,000 - 15,000 km. Refer to specific manual.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Check every 5,000 km, replace as needed or every 10,000 - 15,000 km. Refer to specific manual for correct plug type and gap.
Drive Belt Inspection Replacement:
Inspect at regular intervals, replace based on wear or mileage (e.g., every 20,000 - 30,000 km). Refer to specific manual.
Brake Fluid Change:
Every 2 years or as specified by manufacturer for optimal braking performance.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 15W-50 or SAE 10W-40 (Synthetic or Semi-synthetic, API SG or higher). Refer to manual for exact spec and capacity (approx. 1.0-1.2 liters).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze with corrosion inhibitors. BMW recommends specific coolant (e.g., BMW Antifreeze/Coolant).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.
Common Wear Items:
Drive belt, brake pads, tires, suspension bushings, starter motor brushes.
Electrical Gremlins:
As with many vehicles of this era, occasional electrical connector issues or sensor failures can occur, requiring thorough diagnostic checks.
Cooling System Leaks:
Potential for leaks from hoses, water pump seals, or radiator connections, especially with age.
Cvt Performance:
While generally reliable, wear on the CVT belt or clutch components can lead to reduced acceleration or slipping.
Bmw Motorcycle Division:
BMW has a long and distinguished history in motorcycle manufacturing, known for innovation and quality.
Concept Origin:
The C1 was developed to address urban mobility challenges, offering a safer and more weather-resistant alternative to traditional scooters, bridging the gap between scooters and cars.
Development:
Developed in collaboration with various engineering firms and utilizing BMW's automotive and motorcycle expertise.
Production Period:
Produced from 2000 to 2003.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily manufactured in Germany (Berlin plant).
Market Reception:
A niche product that garnered attention for its innovative safety features but had limited commercial success compared to conventional scooters, leading to its discontinuation.
