The BMW C400X is a more affordable take on the idea of a Beemer maxi-scooter.
BMW has been building scooters since 2012, but the step-throughs have all been in the 600-class, except for the C Evolution electric scooter.
The C400X has a smaller single-cylinder 350 cc engine, with CVT. That should bring the price down, while still providing sufficient power for urban riding. BMW rates the machine at 34 hp at 7,500 rpm, and 25.8 lb-ft of torque at 6,000 rpm.
The engine is liquid-cooled and counterbalanced, with single overhead cam. As you’d expect on a modern Euro machine, it’s fuel injected. BMW also included traction control, which might seem a bit extravagant on a machine in this class.
Two-channel ABS is standard, as is LED lighting. Pay extra, and you can get a 6.5-inch TFT screen; that screen can be used to connect to the BMW Motorrad Multi-Controller. These can be used to control BMW’s proprietary communication system for media playback and phone communication. BMW’s Connected app is also compatible, for turn-by-turn navigation.
Heated grips and a heated seat are also optional, along with an alarm system, LED running lights, and keyless ignition. The topboxes designed for BMW’s touring bikes will fit; buyers can also spring for a tall windshield, and there’s also an optional low seat.
The machine has a 1,565 mm wheelbase, and BMW says the scooter’s overall geometry is similar to a motorcycle’s proportions. There’s a 15-inch tire up front and a 14-inch tire in back, with 112 mm of suspension travel. Braking comes from dual 270 mm discs up front, with radially-mounted four-piston floating caliper. The rear brake is a single 265 mm disc with single-piston floating caliper.
Centrestand and sidestand are standard.
The C400X will be available in Canada next spring, although we haven’t seen pricing yet.
GALLERY
Check out all the pics that go with this story!
