THE BMW C1 200 - MORE POWER, MORE PERFORMANCE ...

The world première of the new C1 200 will take place at the Brussels Motorshow on 12th January 2001. The C1 200 is the more powerful version of the original C1 that was launched in May 2000. The C1 represents a world first for BMW - a bike/car hybrid that combines the best aspects of both modes of travel to create a real solution for the problems of city driving.

The safety credentials of a small car have been matched with the manoeuvrability and low costs of a scooter to create a unique and environmentally attractive mode of transport. The BMW C1 200 builds on this proposition, offering more power and even more fun. The C1 200 will go on sale in the UK this spring.

More Power:

The maximum output of the C1 200's 176 cc power unit is 13 Kw / 18 bhp which represents an 18% increase over the 125 cc standard version. More significant though is the increase in maximum torque, boosted from 12 to 17 Nm (8.8-12.5 lb-ft), an increase of 42 per cent.

Acceleration from 0-31 mph on the C1 200 is 3.9 seconds compared to the 5.9 seconds recorded for the C1. At typical city traffic speeds the C1 200 is 51 per cent faster than the smaller engined C1, thus giving the driver more confidence in overtaking manoeuvres.

At 11:5:1, the 176 cc power unit has a lower compression ratio than the 125 cc engine (13:0:1). Together with a different torque curve, this modification creates an entirely new exhaust note. In every other way, with the exception of its designation badge and two new colour designs, the C1 200 remains identical to the original C1.

Reduced journey time, reduced emissions, increased safety:

Urban congestion is a growing problem in the UK. Casting aside the financial cost, that the RAC estimate at around £23 billion annually, there is also a human cost. The stress caused by traffic congestion has been linked to increased blood pressure and heart rates whilst the environmental impact results in reduced air quality. The despair and frustration felt by drivers has also been linked to outbursts of road rage.

Currently out of the 1.1 million commuters that travel into London daily only 12,000 use a motorcycle or a scooter despite the fact that tests comparing journey times have proved powered two wheelers to be twice as fast as cars on urban journeys. The average commute in London stands at 55 minutes.

The BMW C1 and C1 200 not only allow the driver to get around the city more quickly, they also ensure it is done efficiently. Fuel consumption for the C1 200 at a constant 56 mph is 3.2 litres/100 km compared to 2.9 on the C1. This is far less than most motorcycles.

Many commuters cite safety as the main reason for not using a motorcycle in the city. The BMW C1 and C1 200 feature a passive safety system that is unrivalled in the market. The fixed aluminium safety shell provides much more than just protection from the elements, in fact it gives so much protection that in many countries C1 drivers are exempt from having to wear a helmet. The main safety features include energy absorbing crumple zone above the front wheel, two seat belts, optional anti-lock brakes, aluminium safety cell, special seat and headrest and BMW Telelever front suspension as an additional energy absorbing component.

Driving requirements:

Due to the more powerful engine on the C1 200 a full motorcycle licence is required. The C1 can be ridden by any holder of a full car driving licence plus completion of a CBT course (Compulsory Basic Training). L-plates must then be displayed until the full motorcycle test is taken.

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