Market Position:
The BMW C1 200 represented a unique segment of the personal mobility market, often positioned as a premium, enclosed scooter offering enhanced safety and weather protection, bridging the gap between traditional scooters and small cars.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed with other high-end scooters and very small city cars, emphasizing its innovative safety cage, optional ABS, and enclosed cockpit for all-weather usability.
Key Features:
Patented safety cell, integrated roll-over protection, optional ABS, single-cylinder engine, comfortable seating for one, luggage compartment, enclosed cockpit.
Systems Covered:
Engine mechanical and electrical systems, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system, transmission (automatic), braking system (ABS optional), suspension, steering, chassis, bodywork, electrical systems (lighting, instruments, power accessories), troubleshooting, diagnostic codes.
Procedures Included:
Routine maintenance, scheduled servicing, disassembly and reassembly of all major components, engine tuning, clutch service, brake pad replacement, shock absorber replacement, electrical component testing and repair, body panel repair, diagnostic procedures, torque specifications, wiring diagrams.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission overhauls, electrical system diagnostics, and body repair procedures. Suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Diagnostic Tools:
Procedures for using BMW's proprietary diagnostic tools (e.g., GT1, DIS) and generic OBD-II scan tools where applicable for engine and ABS systems. Troubleshooting guides often reference specific fault codes.
Bodywork Repair:
Procedures for removing and installing body panels, minor dent repair, scratch removal, and touch-up painting techniques.
Primary Engine:
198 cc, four-stroke, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine.
Horsepower:
Approximately 15-16 HP (at specified RPM)
Torque:
Approximately 18-20 Nm (at specified RPM)
Fuel System:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) - Bosch Motronic (typical for BMW)
Engine Features:
Overhead Camshaft (OHC), four valves, electric starter.
Bore X Stroke:
Typical dimensions for a 198cc engine, precise figures in manual.
Engine Cooling:
Liquid-cooled
Engine Layout:
Single Cylinder
Standard:
Automatic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission)
Optional:
N/A (CVT was standard)
Features:
Belt drive, automatic clutch, smooth acceleration.
Fluid Type:
Specific Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) - refer to manual for exact specification (e.g., BMW ATF Dextron III equivalent).
Fluid Capacity:
Specific capacity for CVT gearbox, detailed in manual.
Overall Length:
Approx. 2,050 mm (exact figures in manual)
Overall Width:
Approx. 800 mm (at handlebars, exact figures in manual)
Overall Height:
Approx. 1,500 mm (to top of roll bar, exact figures in manual)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 180 kg (exact figures in manual)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 340 kg (exact figures in manual)
Cargo Capacity:
Integrated storage compartment behind seat, approximate capacity detailed in manual.
Wheelbase:
Approx. 1,425 mm (exact figures in manual)
Front Tire Size:
120/70-13 (typical, consult manual for exact OE specification)
Rear Tire Size:
140/70-14 (typical, consult manual for exact OE specification)
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
N/A (Scooter wheel mounting, not a bolt pattern)
Safety Ratings:
Not subject to typical automotive crash ratings, but designed with enhanced safety features for its class.
Active Features:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for front wheel, responsive braking system.
Passive Features:
Integrated safety cell/roll-over protection structure, seat belt, enclosed cockpit for weather and impact protection, integrated handlebar fairing.
Lighting:
Halogen headlights, LED rear lights (typical for the era).
Seatbelt Type:
Three-point seatbelt (standard equipment).
Infotainment:
Basic instrument cluster including speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, coolant temperature gauge, and warning lights. No advanced infotainment systems.
Driver Assistance:
Optional ABS on the front wheel. The inherent design of the C1 provides a unique form of driver assistance through its safety cell.
Connectivity:
N/A (No external connectivity features).
Lighting Tech:
Halogen headlamps for primary illumination, often integrated indicator lights within the bodywork. Rear lighting typically uses incandescent or early LED technology.
Service Intervals:
Minor service every 3,000-5,000 km or annually, major service at 10,000-15,000 km. Specific intervals for oil changes, filter replacements, spark plugs, brake checks, CVT belt inspection, etc., are detailed in the manual.
Engine Oil Type:
Synthetic or semi-synthetic SAE 10W-40 or 10W-50 engine oil (API SG/SH or JASO MA rating recommended, consult manual for exact BMW specification).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 1.2-1.5 liters (including filter, exact amount in manual).
Coolant Type:
BMW Advanced Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based) or equivalent, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 brake fluid.
Gear Oil Type:
Specific gear oil for final drive, details in manual.
Known Issues:
CVT belt wear, electrical connector corrosion, exhaust system heat shielding issues, potential issues with starter motor and charging system if not properly maintained, ABS sensor issues (if equipped).
Oil Filter Part Number:
BMW Part No. 11 42 1 455 909 (example, consult manual for definitive or aftermarket equivalents)
Air Filter Part Number:
BMW Part No. 13 72 1 458 728 (example, consult manual for definitive or aftermarket equivalents)
Spark Plug Part Number:
NGK CR8EB or equivalent (consult manual for exact specification).
Suspension Maintenance:
Inspection of front fork seals and gaiters, rear shock absorber, and associated bushings. Lubrication of pivot points.
Brand Heritage:
BMW has a long history of engineering excellence in motorcycles and automobiles, known for performance, quality, and innovation. The C1 was an extension of this, applying automotive-like design principles to a scooter.
Model Evolution:
The C1 was a groundbreaking concept, first introduced in 2000. The 200cc model was a significant iteration, offering more power than the earlier 125cc version. Production ceased around 2003.
Production Years:
2000-2003
Manufacturing Location:
Germany (primarily)
Recognitions:
While not tied to specific awards in the traditional automotive sense, the C1 was recognized for its innovative safety concept and unique approach to urban mobility. It received acclaim for its design and engineering.
Ratings:
The manual itself is rated highly for its technical accuracy and comprehensive coverage by users and mechanics familiar with BMW service documentation.
Certifications:
N/A for the manual; the vehicle was built to meet relevant European safety and emissions standards of its time.
