BMW unveils maxi scooters

Following several concepts, the production versions of BMW’s maxi scooter have been revealed at the EICMA bike show in Milan.

Called the C 600 Sport and C 650 GT, the naming is somewhat confusing as both feature the same 647 cc twin-cylinder engine. Connected to a continuously variable transmission, it develops 59 bhp (44 kW / 60 PS) at 7,500 rpm, with a peak torque figure of 66 Nm (48 lb/ft) at 6,000 rpm.

Those outputs are similar to the recently-announced 670 cc Honda Integra but, understandably, a bit less than larger-capacity maxi scooters such as the Gilera GP800 and Aprilia SRV 850.

BMW C 600 Sport (2012) Front Side
The BMW C 600 Sport...
BMW C 650 GT (2012) Rear Side
... and the C 650 GT. Scroll down for more images.

The motor, which is angled forward by 70°, sits in a tubular bridge frame and acts as a load-bearing element for enhanced rigidity. Combined with 40 mm front forks and a single rear spring strut, the chassis set-up has been tuned to offer both high-speed stability and motorcycle-like agility.

Anti-lock brakes are going to be fitted as standard, as is a ‘hold brake’ that’s automatically activated when the side stand is down - a useful feature to have when parking on a slope.

With the two versions being technically identical, the differences between them are purely cosmetic.

The C 600 Sport has more minimal bodywork with a manually-adjustable windscreen, and includes the ‘FlexCase’ under-seat storage system that can accommodate two helmets.

Its riding position has been optimised for a more dynamic riding style, characterised by flatter handlebars with an 810 mm (31.9 inches) seat height. Colour choice comprises Sapphire Black Metallic, Cosmic Blue Metallic Matt or Titanium Silver Metallic.

Designed mainly for long-distance comfort, the C 650 GT comes with higher-set handlebars, a lower 780 mm (30.7 inches) seat height, an adjustable backrest for the rider and floorboards instead of footrests for the pillion passenger.

For extra weather protection the body panels are larger, as is the screen which is electrically adjustable on this model. The C 650 GT will be available in Sapphire Black Metallic, Platinum Bronze Metallic or Vermilion Red Metallic paintwork.

The new generation of BMW scooters may not be as daring as the firm’s previous effort, the C1, but they’re bound to gain market acceptance more readily. Prices and on-sale dates for the C 600 Sport and C 650 GT have yet to be confirmed.

BMW C 600 Sport (2012) Riding 2BMW C 600 Sport (2012) Side 2
BMW C 600 Sport (2012) DashBMW C 600 Sport (2012) Rear Side
BMW C 600 Sport (2012) Side 1BMW C 600 Sport (2012) Riding 1

BMW C 650 GT (2012) Riding 1BMW C 650 GT (2012) Side 1
BMW C 650 GT (2012) DashBMW C 650 GT (2012) Front Side
BMW C 650 GT (2012) Side 2BMW C 650 GT (2012) Riding 2

Related posts:
BMW maxi scooters coming
BMW E-Scooter concept
BMW Concept C unveiled

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