Market Position:
The BMW C1 was an innovative urban mobility concept, a 'car in a motorcycle' or 'safecar', designed to bridge the gap between scooters and traditional cars, primarily for European city commuting. It offered enhanced weather protection and safety features over a scooter.
Target Audience:
Urban commuters seeking enhanced safety and weather protection over traditional motorcycles or scooters.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed primarily with premium scooters and microcars, offering a unique blend of motorcycle-like agility with greater occupant protection. Its unique design and safety cage set it apart from traditional two-wheelers and small cars.
Key Features:
Integral safety cell with roll-over protection, integrated crumple zones, advanced braking systems (ABS available), weather protection canopy, car-like controls, optional heating, lightweight construction.
Systems Covered:
Engine Mechanical, Engine Electrical, Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Ignition System, Lubrication System, Transmission (Automatic/Manual), Drivetrain, Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Braking System (ABS/Non-ABS), Chassis, Bodywork, Electrical Systems (Lighting, Power Accessories, ECUs), Climate Control, Safety Systems (Airbags, Seatbelts), Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Troubleshooting Guides.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical system wiring diagrams for all circuits, including lighting, ignition, fuel injection, ABS, and accessories.
Procedures Included:
Routine Maintenance, Scheduled Service, Component Removal & Installation, Overhaul Procedures, Diagnosis & Troubleshooting, Electrical Wiring Diagrams, Torque Specifications, Fluid Capacities & Specifications, Special Tool Requirements, Emissions Control Systems, Body Panel Repair, Interior Trim Removal/Installation.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Detailed step-by-step troubleshooting procedures for common and complex issues, organized by symptom and system.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic fluid changes and filter replacements to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, advanced electrical diagnostics, and body structural repairs).
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for all critical fasteners across engine, chassis, suspension, and bodywork.
Engine Type:
Inline 1-cylinder, 4-stroke, 4-valve
Displacement:
124.6 cc (for the 125 model)
Bore X Stroke:
63.5 mm x 46.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
11.5:1
Power Output:
Approx. 11 kW (15 hp) at 8,500 rpm (for the 125 model)
Torque:
Approx. 12 Nm at 7,000 rpm (for the 125 model)
Engine Code:
Likely derived from BMW's F series scooter engine platform, specific code to be confirmed within manual.
Top Speed:
Approx. 125 km/h (78 mph)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (91 RON or higher)
Ignition System:
Digital Electronic Ignition (CDI)
Emission Control:
Catalytic Converter
Length:
Approx. 2,040 mm (80.3 in)
Width:
Approx. 770 mm (30.3 in) at handlebars
Height:
Approx. 1,440 mm (56.7 in) including canopy
Wheelbase:
Approx. 1,420 mm (55.9 in)
Seating Capacity:
1 (driver)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 160 kg (353 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 300 kg (661 lbs)
Crash Safety:
Designed with a safety cell offering higher protection than conventional motorcycles, including advanced crumple zones and roll-over protection. Detailed crash test data would be within the manual's structural analysis sections.
Braking System:
Dual-circuit hydraulic disc brakes front and rear. ABS available as an option on select models.
Lighting:
Integrated headlight, taillight, brake lights, turn signals, and front marker lights within the safety cage structure.
Airbags:
Optional driver airbag integrated into the steering wheel.
Seatbelts:
Integrated 3-point seatbelt with pre-tensioner.
Chassis Structure:
Integral safety cell with impact-absorbing zones.
Infotainment Systems:
Limited by modern standards. Primarily focused on functional elements. May include an optional dashboard-mounted storage compartment/radio unit on some variants.
Driver Assistance Features:
Optional ABS, advanced braking system, and safety cell structure are the primary 'assistance' features.
Connectivity:
None in the modern sense. Focus is on mechanical and electrical systems.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 km or annually, whichever comes first.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 10,000 km.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 10,000 km or as needed based on conditions.
Brake Fluid Change:
Every 2 years.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 10W-40, API SG or higher (e.g., BMW Motorrad Special or equivalent Synthetic/Semi-Synthetic)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 1.4 Liters (including filter)
Transmission Oil Type:
SAE 75W-90 GL-4 (Manual Gearbox Oil)
Transmission Oil Capacity:
Approx. 0.7 Liters
Coolant Type:
BMW Advanced Coolant or equivalent (Ethylene Glycol based, with corrosion inhibitors)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 1.2 Liters
Fork Oil Type:
BMW Motorrad Fork Oil (specific viscosity to be detailed in manual, typically around 7.5W or 10W)
Fork Oil Capacity:
Approx. 120 ml per leg
Common Issues:
Electrical connector corrosion, stator/generator failures, occasional carburetor/fuel injection issues (if applicable to specific sub-models), wear on suspension components due to urban use. Detailed diagnostics for these are covered.
Diagnostic Tools:
BMW diagnostic tools (e.g., GT1, DIS) or compatible aftermarket scanners for ECU interrogation and fault code reading. The manual will detail DTCs and diagnostic procedures.
Brand Heritage:
BMW's history in motorcycles dates back to 1923, establishing a reputation for engineering quality, performance, and innovation in the two-wheeled segment.
Model Evolution:
The C1 was a bold departure, conceived to address the safety and weather concerns of urban scooter riders in Europe. It represented BMW's attempt to create a new vehicle category.
Production Period:
2000-2003
Manufacturing Location:
Germany
Design Awards:
While not specifically detailed in product descriptions, the C1's innovative design was recognized for its contribution to urban mobility and safety concepts.
Safety Ratings:
Achieved high safety ratings for its vehicle class, particularly in frontal impact and roll-over protection, surpassing typical scooter safety standards.
