Vehicle Segment:
Unique urban mobility scooter/microcar hybrid
Target Audience:
Urban commuters seeking an enclosed, weather-protected alternative to motorcycles and scooters, with a focus on safety and practicality.
Key Competitors:
Traditional scooters (e.g., Honda PCX, Yamaha XMAX), small displacement motorcycles, enclosed scooters (e.g., Peugeot Metropolis, Piaggio MP3 - though the C1 predates these significantly in concept).
Safety Cage:
The C1's defining feature is its integral safety cell and rollover structure, offering significantly enhanced protection compared to conventional scooters.
Weather Protection:
Enclosed cockpit provides excellent protection from rain, wind, and cold, making it a more comfortable all-weather transport solution.
Storage:
Ample storage space, including a large rear compartment accessible from inside the cockpit.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete overhaul, cylinder head, piston, crankshaft, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system (carburetor/injection), ignition system, exhaust system
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery, starter motor, alternator, lighting, ignition control, instruments, fuse box, electronic control units (ECUs)
Drivetrain:
Transmission (variator/CVT), clutch, drive belts, final drive
Chassis And Suspension:
Front suspension (fork), rear suspension (shock absorber, swingarm), steering system, frame inspection and repair
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum), hydraulic lines, brake fluid, calipers, master cylinder, parking brake
Body And Fairings:
Panel removal and installation, seat assembly, storage compartment, fairing components, windshield
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, chain/belt adjustment, brake inspection, tire pressure checks, coolant checks
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common starting, running, electrical, and braking issues; fault code interpretation
Major Repairs:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement, electrical system diagnostics and repair, body panel repair
Component Replacement:
Detailed instructions for replacing parts such as exhaust systems, batteries, light bulbs, brake pads, and wear items
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Advanced diagnostic procedures, including troubleshooting charts, wiring diagrams, and component testing specifications
Rebuild Instructions:
Comprehensive step-by-step instructions for complete engine, transmission, and other major component rebuilds, including torque specifications and clearances
Special Tools:
Identification and usage instructions for any specialized tools required for specific repair or maintenance procedures
Engine Type:
Four-stroke, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled gasoline engine
Displacement 175Cc:
Approximately 175cc (specific model may vary)
Displacement 200Cc:
Approximately 200cc (specific model may vary)
Bore X Stroke 175Cc Est:
Est. 62mm x 57.8mm (typical for 175cc variants)
Bore X Stroke 200Cc Est:
Est. 64mm x 62mm (typical for 200cc variants)
Power Output 175Cc Est:
Approx. 15-18 HP @ 7,000-8,000 RPM
Power Output 200Cc Est:
Approx. 18-22 HP @ 7,000-8,000 RPM
Torque 175Cc Est:
Approx. 14-16 Nm @ 5,000-6,000 RPM
Torque 200Cc Est:
Approx. 16-18 Nm @ 5,000-6,000 RPM
Fuel Delivery:
Likely fuel injected (EFI) for 200cc, potentially carburetor for early 175cc models. Manual will cover both possibilities.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Fuel Tank Capacity:
Approx. 10-12 Liters (specific to model)
Oil Type:
Refer to manual for specific BMW recommended oil grades (likely synthetic 5W-40 or 10W-40)
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 1.0-1.2 Liters (with filter change)
Length:
Approx. 2,000-2,200 mm
Width:
Approx. 800-900 mm (at widest point including mirrors/body)
Height:
Approx. 1,500-1,600 mm (including windshield/roof structure)
Dry Weight Est:
Approx. 170-190 kg
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Est:
Approx. 300-340 kg (including rider and passenger)
Crash Protection Design:
Integral safety cell, crumple zones, safety steering column, ABS as standard or optional
Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS):
Standard on most models or a highly recommended option
Integrated Braking:
Combined braking systems for enhanced stability
Seatbelt:
Standard integrated safety belt within the cockpit
Airbag:
Not typically equipped, focus is on structural integrity.
Rollbar:
Integrated into the safety cell structure
Instrument Cluster:
Digital and analog displays for speed, RPM, fuel level, engine temperature, etc.
ABS:
As mentioned, ABS was a key safety technology offered.
Lighting System:
Halogen headlights and LED taillights/indicators (depending on model year and region).
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 km or annually. Consult manual for exact interval.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 10,000-15,000 km. Refer to manual for correct spark plug type (e.g., NGK CR8EB).
Air Filter Service:
Inspect every 5,000 km, replace as needed or every 10,000-15,000 km.
Cv Belt Inspection:
Inspect for wear and tension every 10,000 km.
Brake Fluid Change:
Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.
Engine Oil Spec:
BMW recommends specific grades; consult manual for API, JASO MA, and viscosity ratings (e.g., SAE 5W-40)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze/coolant (BMW blue coolant or equivalent specified in manual)
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 4 brake fluid
Electrical Gremlins:
Some owners report occasional minor electrical issues; the manual's wiring diagrams are crucial for diagnosis.
Cv Belt Wear:
Like all CVT systems, the drive belt is a wear item and requires periodic inspection and eventual replacement.
Plastics And Weatherstripping:
Over time, plastic components and weatherstripping can degrade; the manual covers disassembly and replacement.
Bmw Motorcycles:
BMW has a long and storied history in motorcycle manufacturing, known for engineering excellence and innovation.
Bmw C1 Concept:
The C1 was a groundbreaking concept, aiming to merge the agility of a scooter with the safety of a car. It was one of BMW's more experimental ventures.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily manufactured in Italy (at the Bertone plant) and then later in South Africa.
Sales Performance:
While innovative, the C1 did not achieve mass-market success and was discontinued. Its niche appeal and relatively high cost contributed to this.