Driving report BMW C1 (1998)
Amazing driving experience
With the C1, BMW is developing completely new perspectives in terms of passive safety. But the driving experience of the over-scooter is also astonishing.
The BMW technicians were tireless, repeatedly explaining to the journalists who had gathered for a technology conference that you VS.1 represent a completely new concept. With previously unimagined security features. It is precisely these that cannot be overlooked: The base frame made of aluminum profiles is similar to the bridge frame of a modern superbike. Year additional frame made of round aluminum tubes should protect the passenger in the event of a rollover. Tea distinctive snub nose on the front assumes the energy absorption in a frontal crash and is placed in such a way that the cabin scooter does not rise with the rear wheel and roll over in the event of a collision. Of course, the driver’s restraint system with a conventional three-point and a diagonal two-point belt also immediately catches the eye. Even in the conception phase, the enthusiastic engineers continue, BMW worked with the Federal Ministry of Transport on new guidelines which, after extensive, successful crash tests, ultimately exempt the C1 from the obligation to wear a helmet.
On the chassis side, too, your C1 with the Telelever forehead suspension offers exceptional driving stability with good responsiveness and anti-dive behavior. And the 125 four-stroke engine with engine management, injection and regulated three-way catalytic converter also set new standards.
Excited to the torture, everyone present was eager for their first driving impressions – and already paid their respects when they were seated: Leaning comfortably against the back cushion, the driver can adjust the ergonomics to his needs using the standard handlebar adjustment. Jacking off from the main stand is almost playful: after flipping a get up below the handlebar, light pressure is enough forwards – the C1 is ready to go on the wheels. But when accelerating, the engine – here still in the carburettor version – has no easy game. Significantly more slowly than a 125cc scooter of the same performance category, the engine accelerates the C1 to 90 km / h only after a long start. The conflict of objectives between 15 HP and the design-related high weight of 180 kilograms takes a toll. But a more motorized variant is also conceivable for the future, probably also planned and really justifiable. The C1 doesn’t have the nervousness of conventional 125cc scooters. It is stable and unaffected by bumps in the road, both straight ahead and in curves.
The windshield and side rails create completely new horizons, especially when cornering. When you tilt it, the whole world seems to be tilting in this window. The pilot doesn’t feel much of the airstream, a certain convertible effect occurs at the back of the head, where swirls of air blow dry the hairstyle. Spoilers in the roof area could further reduce this impairment.
The Brembo disc brakes work great and could easily cope with a significantly higher performance. Of course, this BMW can also be upgraded with ABS for a surcharge, it already worked splendidly during the demonstration drive. The starting price of around 10,000 marks can be quickly increased with additional options from the extensive range of accessories. Grip and seat heating, luggage systems, a pillion system that is only available as an option – the passenger in the mother-in-law’s seat must wear a helmet – as well as a radio with CD player, navigation system, mobile phone holder and anti-theft alarm system are on sale. Not until spring 2000, but the BMW technicians cannot do anything about that.
Related articles
-
Driving report BMW C 400 X Roller 2018
BMW C 400 X driving report (2018) Mid-range scooters from 6,800 euros BMW presented a completely new scooter in 2017 in Milan with the BMW C 400 X. It is…
-
Driving report BMW C1 Less risk, more fun Who says there is no fun without risk? The new 125cc C1 scooter is as safe as a small car, says BMW. That is…
-
Driving report Bimota SB 6 R Draft horse Often promised – never kept. Only the SB 6 R has what the SB 6 was previously lacking: power and performance….
-
Honda Forza 125 in the driving report
Honda Forza 125 in the driving report High-end scooter While the invention of the egg-laying woolly milk sow is still a long way off in the animal world,…
-
Yamaha XSR 900 Abarth in the driving report
Yamaha XSR 900 Abarth in the driving report Thrown in the shell The Yamaha XSR 900 Abarth is based on the XSR 900 and is limited to 695 pieces worldwide….
-
Crazy world: Driving report Aprilia Tuono V4 R-APRC
Driving report: Aprilia Tuono V4 R / APRC V4 naked bike with a lot of bite Aprilia is preparing to change the standards in the world of naked bikes. The…
-
Exclusive driving report Honda CBF 600 S
Exclusive driving report Honda CBF 600 S The people’s Honda A lot of quality for little money? this is how the Japanese grew up in Europe. The Honda CBF…
-
Driving report Buell Lightning Long XB12Ss
Driving report Buell Lightning Long XB12Ss Sooner or later Driving a Buell is a pleasure ?? for people of guard size so far rather a short one. The…
-
Kawasaki Z 1000 SX in the driving report
Kawasaki Z 1000 SX (2017) in the driving report This is how the 2017 model drives Kawasaki brings fresh green into autumn: the revised Kawasaki Z 1000 SX…
-
Driving report Aprilia SL 750 Shiver
Driving Aprilia report SL 750 Shiver Try and range The Aprilia SL 750 Shiver is about to go into series production. In order to secure her due attention…