BMW C 400 X

BMW motorcycle are now given names just numbers and letters. So when I found out about the BMW C 400 X I assumed that that it would be another conventional LAMS/Commuter motorcycle, of course I was wrong. The C400X is a scooter class motorcycle!

In terms looks the C 400X is a look looking futuristic motorcycle and as a scooter it is more than just a city or suburban cruiser or run about. All the mechanicals are hidden under carefully shaped plastic that has clues of BMW’s adventure  motorcycle in the windshield and uneven lights. I think it’s one of the best and more unique looking scooters.

In terms of specifications the C400X has a powerful single cylinder 400cc engine that produces almost as much torque as the traditional LAMS sports styled motorcycles like the Ninja 400 although the BMW is down on power. The C400X is a surprising heavy weight at 200kgs which curbs it’s on road performance. Apart from the engine the instrument panel being introduced on all it’s models is worthy of a mention as it’s basically a small tablet and has connectivity to your smartphone for not only the basics of speed and distance but GPS navigation, tyre pressures, music and phone. Sure these things a basic functionality in cars but this is a first for a motorcycle and indeed a scooter.

Is the BMW C 400X any good? Yes, probably when it is finally released later in 2018 and I can safely say it’s one of the most advanced scooters ever sold. The price for the C 400 X hasn’t been announced yet but logically it will probably be under $10,000AUD since the older 650 version is priced just under $15,000AUD. One can wish for a $7000 price tag which would  be tempting considering the spec. Hmmm Kawasaki Ninja 400 vs BME C 400 X would be interesting as they would be the same price! However not all is good, the only problem with the C 400 X is whether you good on it and based on what I’ve seen, probably not.