Note: International press release. This is a 1:1 copy of the original issued by BMW Group headquarters in Germany. No adaptations have been made to cater for the Australian market.
1. Overall concept.
(Short version)
2. Drive.
3. Suspension.
4. Electrical system and Connectivity.
5. Design, ergonomics and colour concept.
6. Equipment program.
7. Output and torque.
8. Technical specifications.
1. Overall concept. (Short version)
The new BMW C 400 GT. The Gran Turismo among the mid-size scooters for excellent comfort and dynamic performance as well as lots of riding fun.
BMW Motorrad established its new product category in the area of urban mobility in 2011 with the debut of the C 600 Sport and the C 650 GT as premium vehicles for the maxi scooter segment. These were then followed by the C 400 X, which was first presented in autumn 2017 – a dynamically oriented premium vehicle for the mid-size scooter segment. Now BMW
Motorrad introduces the BMW C 400 GT, the Gran Turismo variant of the mid-size scooter, geared towards further increased comfort and enhanced touring capability. Whether riding into the city centre, travelling to the office or enjoying a tour after work or at the weekend – the new C 400 GT is the perfect partner on which to enjoy free-time riding to the full: not just as alone but with a passenger, too.
Powerful, efficiency-optimised single-cylinder engine combined with CVT transmission, vibration decoupling and ASC.
The C 400 GT is powered by the efficiency-optimised single-cylinder engine
with an output of 34 hp (25 kW) as is also used in the C 400 X. Power
transmission is via a CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) gearbox and a
torsionally stiff drivetrain swing arm with innovative swing arm bearing for
minimum vibration and therefore maximum comfort. Automatic Stability
Control ASC ensures increased safety during acceleration, especially on
slippery surfaces.
Rugged tubular steel frame, telescopic fork and high-performance brake system with ABS as standard.
Like the BMW C 400 X, the new C 400 GT features a rugged tubular space
frame made of steel. Suspension and damping are taken care of by a
telescopic fork at the front and two spring struts at the rear. The set-up and
spring travel have been selected so as to ensure that sporty, dynamic riding
fun is combined with a very high level of comfort. Supreme brake
performance and outstanding safety are provided by the twin disc brake at the
front in conjunction with a single disc brake at the rear, along with ABS as
standard.
LED lighting technology as standard and BMW Motorrad Connectivity as an ex-works option.
In addition to standard lighting in LED technology, the new C 400 GT also
offers a range of highlights in the area of connectivity that are new to the
segment. A multifunctional instrument cluster with 6.5-inch full-colour TFT
screen is available as an ex-works option, for example. In conjunction with the
further advanced BMW Motorrad Multi-Controller offering integrated
operation, this means the rider can access vehicle and connectivity functions
quickly and without being distracted from what is happening on the road. In
addition to the convenience of being able to use the phone and listen to
music during travel, there is also the benefit of effortless navigation by means
of a practical system of arrows.
Modern, innovative design with excellent wind and weather
protection as well as an ingenious storage concept including
flexcase.
In terms of its styling, the new C 400 GT can be instantly identified as a
member of the BMW Motorrad C family: it is elegant and functional in appeal –
always ready and waiting for laid-back urban cruising or else more extended
tours with a passenger. Viewed from the front, it is dominated by the
aerodynamically designed twin LED headlight with the distinctive design of
the LED daytime running light (country-specific) in the form of fibre optic
elements. Together with its smooth and very organically designed body
element with integrated turn indicators, this ensures the new Gran Turismo for
the mid-size scooter segment is clearly set apart from its competitors. With
enhanced wind and weather protection due to a higher windshield than in the
C 400 X as well as a carefully conceived storage concept comprising two
glove compartments and the flexcase under the comfortable, single-section
seat, the new mid-size scooter also offers everything that is needed to meet
the demands of both everyday practicality and touring suitability. As an
additional comfort feature, the new C 400 GT is fitted with Keyless Ride as
standard. This makes for highly convenient operation of the ignition, steering
lock, seat, filler cap and storage compartments. The new C 400 GT features
enhanced comfort properties in the form of a seat with separate rider backrest
and passenger footboards instead of footrests.
Attractive paint finishes for distinctive character qualities.
There is a choice of two paint finishes for the new C 400 GT. Alpine White
impressively highlights the scooter's distinctive styling. As a fresh colour with
a sense of lightness, it also emphasises the new Gran Turismo's key qualities
such as agility, easy accessibility and effortlessness. The counterpart to this is
Moonwalk Grey, which bears out the supreme, contemporary and harmonious
character of a dynamic Gran Turismo. This paint finish gives the new
C 400 GT a particularly modern touch, harmonising with the contrast colours
applied to create a coherent overall appearance. The third paint finish is
Blackstorm metallic, which highlights the distinctive, high-quality look of the C
400 GT.
The highlights of the new BMW C 400 GT:
- Efficiency-optimised single-cylinder engine with a capacity of 350 cc, high
torque and CVT gearbox.
- Highly compact design with wet sump lubrication.
- 25 kW (34 hp) at 7 500 rpm and 35 Nm at 6 000 rpm.
- Electronic fuel injection, digital engine control and ASC.
- Suspension with rugged tubular steel frame.
- Torsionally stiff drivetrain swing arm with innovative swing arm bearing for
minimum vibration.
- Telescopic fork at front and two spring struts at rear with ample spring travel.
- Powerful braking system with ABS as standard.
- Passenger footboards instead of separate footrests.
- Seat with separate rider backrest.
- LED lighting technology as standard.
- LED daytime riding light as option.
- Keyless Ride as standard.
- Connectivity: Multifunctional instrument cluster with 6.5-inch full-colour TFT
screen and numerous features as an ex-works option.
- Distinctive, dynamic design.
- Increased wind and weather protection and sophisticated ergonomics.
- Generous storage space with two storage compartments and flexcase.
- Attractive colour variants with different characters.
2. Drive.
Powerful, compactly designed single-cylinder engine for an ideal combination
of dynamic riding fun and a high level of efficiency.
The entire drive unit of the new BMW mid-size scooter has been completely
newly developed and includes a directly integrated CVT gearbox as well as a
secondary drive in the form of a drivetrain swing arm. The liquid-cooled
single-cylinder engine has a capacity of 350 cc, derived from an 80 mm bore
and a 69.6 mm stroke. Its rated power output is 25 kW (34 hp) at 7 500 rpm
and the maximum torque of 35 Nm is reached at 6 000 rpm. The maximum
engine speed is 8 800 rpm.
Like all BMW Motorrad drives, the engine of the new mid-size scooter
features a carefully conceived overall design as well as a space-saving
arrangement of all ancillary units and the integrated CVT (Continuously
Variable Transmission) gearbox. With the aim of providing a highly compact
scooter drive with optimum mounting position, a liquid-cooled single-cylinder
engine has been created with a horizontal, forward-facing cylinder. This
makes for a low installation position of the engine: this is favourable in terms of
the vehicle's overall centre of gravity while at the same time allowing for the
step-through in the rider's leg area that is typical of a scooter.
With an output of 25 kW (34 hp) and a maximum torque of 35 Nm, the drive of
the new BMW C family member provides the perfect basis for dynamic riding
performance and excellent pulling power. Aimed at achieving optimum
efficiency, its design also results in a pleasantly low engine speed level, high
gas velocities, efficient combustion and minimised friction. This thoughtfully
designed overall conception makes the new single-cylinder engine highly
efficient.
Counterbalance shaft and vibration-decoupled engine mount for
excellent running smoothness and a high level of comfort.
A high level of running smoothness is ensured by a counterbalance shaft
positioned above the camshaft which is powered directly by the latter via a
spur gear. It rotates in the opposite direction to the camshaft, thereby
counterbalancing the forces of inertia almost perfectly and therefore reducing
vibration to an absolute minimum. In addition, the entire drive unit is
connected to the suspension by means of silent blocks for vibration
decoupling so as to meet best-in-class standards in terms of both running
smoothness and vibrations.
Compact cylinder head with 4-valve technology, overhead camshaft
and forked rocker arms.
The four valves in the compactly designed combustion chamber are
controlled by means of an overhead camshaft powered by a roller chain and
two forked rocker arms. The roller chain is guided by a slide rail, with a
manually adjustable mechanism ensuring the correct tension. On the intake
side the valve angle is 13 degrees while on the exhaust side it is 14.5 degrees
to the longitudinal axis of the cylinder. The compression ratio is 11.5:1. The
diameter of the valve heads is 32.5 mm on the intake side and 27.2 mm on
the exhaust side.
Electronic fuel injection and digital engine control.
Carburation is taken care of by an electronic fuel injection system in
conjunction with a desmodromically activated 40 mm throttle valve unit and a
very compact BMS-E2 engine control. This engine management system
takes account of numerous parameters, and its striking features include a low
level of power consumption and optimum cold start response.
The control system is based on the volume of intake air which is determined
indirectly via the throttle valve angle and the engine speed. Drawing on
additional engine and environmental parameters (including engine
temperature, air temperature and ambient air pressure), the engine control
calculates individual figures for injection quantity and ignition timing. The fuel
used is premium unleaded with at least 95 octane (RON 95) including E10
compatibility. The fuel tank has a capacity of 12.8 litres (four litres reserve).
Together with the efficient design of the engine, this makes for extremely
favourable fuel consumption and emission levels.
Carefully conceived overall design with wet sump lubrication and
effective cooling system.
The engine housing is compact in design and made of die-cast aluminium. An
oil pump driven by a spur gear takes care of lubricant circulation: an electronic
oil warning alert provides feedback when the lubricant reaches minimum level.
The oil level can also be checked using a dipstick. The total oil quantity is
approximately 1.8 litres. The drive unit as a whole weighs some 47 kg. A
sophisticated cooling concept designed to BMW Motorrad standards ensures
an optimum thermal balance in the single-cylinder engine. Coolant flows
through the cylinder head, entering at the front of the cylinder head on the
hotter exhaust side . The intensive cooling effect rapidly dissipates the heat
precisely at the point of maximum thermal stress, thereby ensuring excellent
temperature compensation. The water pump positioned on the right-hand
side of the engine ensures circulation of 1.6 litres of coolant (50 % water, 50
% glycol).
The aluminium water radiator with plastic tanks and integrated thermostat is
located at bottom front in the area of the frame downtubes, benefiting both
centre of gravity and aerodynamics. Due to its high degree of efficiency as
well as excellent air intake and through-flow, a relatively small surface is
sufficient for operationally reliable heat dissipation in all conditions. In the
event of prolonged stop-and-go operation or stationary idling, an electrical fan
is automatically activated in addition.
Convenient CVT gearbox, virtually maintenance-free secondary
drive and Automatic Stability Control ASC.
On the left-hand drive side, the power flow within the drive unit runs from the
camshaft to a continuously variable gearbox (CVT) with automatic radial
centrifugal dry clutch on the output shaft. Secondary power transmission to
the rear wheel is taken care of by a gear stage that is positioned directly at the
output shaft. The new BMW Motorrad mid-size scooter is additionally fitted
with the automatic stability control system ASC, ensuring extra safety during
acceleration even in adverse road conditions.
High-quality stainless steel exhaust system with closed-loop
catalytic converter.
The exhaust system is fitted with a rear silencer and is made entirely of rustproof
stainless steel. Noise reduction is effected by means of an elaborate
combination of absorption and resonance damping. The mid-size scooter
features a closed-loop catalytic converter and oxygen sensor in the exhaust
manifold and meets the EU4 emission requirements.
3. Suspension.
Newly developed suspension with rugged tubular steel frame for
excellent handling as well as outstanding comfort and ride stability.
The foremost aim in developing the suspension of the new BMW Motorrad
mid-size scooter was to combine excellent handling qualities and a high level
of comfort with directional stability at high speeds and the robustness
required for day-to-day use.
The frame is a torsionally stiff tubular construction supplemented with a solid
cast iron unit in the area of the swing arm bearing. This gives the overall
combination of this hybrid structure an extremely high degree of stability.
With a wheelbase of 1 565 mm, a steering head angle of 63.8 degrees and a
castor of 81 mm, the new mid-size scooter has basic geometrical suspension
data that are quite similar to those of a motorcycle. On the road, the
sophisticated overall conception of the suspension is reflected in easy
manoeuvrability – especially in urban traffic – and a high level of ride stability
when travelling swiftly along country roads or at even faster speeds on the
motorway.
Torsionally stiff drivetrain swing arm with innovative swing arm
bearing for minimum vibration.
Rear wheel control is taken care of by the double-sided drivetrain swing arm
made of chill cast aluminium. It is a single unit supplemented with a bolted
side cover for additional torsional stiffness. The innovative connection
between the engine or drivetrain swing arm and the frame is specifically
designed to achieve maximum comfort: it consists of two attachments bolted
on to the left and right-hand side of the frame via hard, rigid rubber elements.
The latter ensure vibration decoupling while at the same time providing the
necessary stiffness and stability.
On their lower surface, the two attachments each have a soft rubber element
to support the engine or drivetrain swing arm. This makes for additional
vibration decoupling, reducing any perceptible vibrations to a minimum in the
interests of maximum comfort. An additional link element that is rigidly bolted
to the frame between the two attachments ensures the necessary extra
stiffness of this connection.
This elaborate form of engine mounting was developed to as to achieve
optimum comfort in terms of vibration reduction. As a result, the very soft
engine mount set-up combines optimum vibration suppression with high
rigidity – for performance, agility and stability. The innovative design of this
decoupling system allows the vibration sources from all directions to be
separated while at the same time ensuring the required stability.
Entirely in line with rigorous BMW Motorrad quality standards, this vibration
decoupling system is designed to be durable and maintenance-free so as to
ensure uncompromising comfort and performance throughout the entire
lifetime of the vehicle. As a result, excellent ridability and stability on both
straight roads and bends can be enjoyed without irritating vibrations, making
for particularly pleasurable and comfortable riding fun on a lasting basis.
Telescopic fork at front and two spring struts at rear with ample
spring travel. 15-inch tyre at front, 14-inch tyre at rear.
The job of suspension and damping is performed by two directly articulated
spring struts. Generous spring travel of 112 mm provides not just a perfect
basis for comfort and ride stability but also the necessary reserves for carrying
a passenger and luggage. Front wheel control consists of a telescopic fork
with a tube diameter of 35 mm and a spring travel of 110 mm.
At the front the new BMW Motorrad mid-size scooter rolls on a light alloy diecast
wheel with a size of 3.5 x 15 inches. The tyre size is 120/70-15. The
dimensions of the rear wheel are 4.25 x 14 inches and it is fitted with a tyre
size of 150/60-14. The reduced rear wheel diameter of 14 inches at the rear
allows the use of the flexcase for ample storage space.
High-performance brake system with twin disc at the front, single
disc at the rear and ABS as standard.
The generously designed brake system in conjunction with the standard
BMW Motorrad ABS ensures maximum active safety. The latter is a
Continental MK 100 MAB 2-channel ABS unit weighing just 700 g: it allows
independent control of the two brake circuits for the front and rear wheel.
At the front, a twin disc brake with a diameter of 270 mm and two radially
bolted 4-piston floating calipers with a piston diameter of 28 mm ensure
powerful and stable deceleration. Rear wheel deceleration is taken care of by
a single disc brake with a diameter of 270 mm and a single-piston floating
caliper with a piston diameter of 32 mm. High-quality braided steel brake lines
are used to achieve a stable pressure point and optimum controllability.
Convenient side stand and stable centre stand with kinematics for
ease of use.
The new BMW Motorrad mid-size scooter is equipped with both a side stand
and a centre stand. The latter has a cleverly devised kinematic system that
makes propping up the motorcycle simple and effortless.
4. Electrical system and Connectivity.
High-performance electrical system in CAN bus technology.
The electrical system of the new BMW Motorrad mid-size scooter is based on
the well-established system to be found in other BMW Motorrad models. It is
a CAN (Controller Area Network) bus system. This means that the instrument
cluster, the ABS and engine control unit, the electronic immobiliser and the
optional alarm system (DWA) are all interconnected.
A power socket in the right-hand storage compartment comes as a standard
feature. A mobile phone can be charged here during travel, for example, while
at the same time being connected to the BMW Motorrad Communication
System in the rider's helmet via Bluetooth. The alternator with an output of
316 watts ensures an efficient and stable power supply in all operating
conditions. The 12-volt battery has a capacity of 9 Ah, thereby offering
considerable reserves. The wiring harness of the new BMW Motorrad midsize
scooter is designed in such a way that all optional electrical equipment
features such as heated grips and the alarm system can easily be retrofitted
ex works; this also applies in the case of optional accessories or individual
optional equipment items.
Highly luminous lighting technology as standard.
Seeing and being seen is particularly crucial for scooter riders. This is why the
lighting technology of the new BMW Motorrad mid-size scooter features
highly luminous LED technology. The optional daytime riding light (countryspecific)
in the new C 400 GT likewise features LED technology. The front
and turn indicators are organically integrated in the trim panel.
Multifunctional instrument cluster with on-board computer.
The instrument cluster in the new BMW Motorrad mid-size scooter
comprises a considerably wider range of functions than is commonly found in
this category of vehicle. It has a large, easily readable LCD screen with
integrated engine speed display and an analog speedometer with a scale that
is perfect for reading. In addition, all indicator lights such as the ABS, engine
and oil level lamps are integrated in the instrument cluster.
Particular importance was attached to excellent readability, as well as avoiding
reflections on the screen. For this reason, the lighting of the analog
speedometer and LCD screen is orange-coloured for easy readability. When
the daytime riding light is switched on, the speedometer lighting is
deactivated. In addition to showing the fuel level by means of eight bar
symbols, the instrument cluster also draws on the on-board computer – which
comes as standard – to provide information on routes travelled as well as
figures such as remaining distance and outside temperature.
Connectivity – the multifunctional instrument cluster with 6.5-inch
full-colour TFT screen and numerous features as an ex-works
option.
Fast, clear information for the rider with minimum distraction from the road
based on a unique operating concept – this is provided by the new optional
equipment item Connectivity, featuring an instrument cluster in the form of a
6.5-inch full-colour TFT screen. In conjunction with the further advanced
BMW Motorrad Multi-Controller offering integrated operation, it allows
the rider to access vehicle and connectivity functions.
This means it is possible to enjoy the convenience of making a phone call or
listen to music during travel. If a smartphone and a helmet with the BMW
Motorrad Communication System are connected via Bluetooth to the TFT
screen, for example, the rider can conveniently access media playback and
telephone functions. These functions can also be used without the need to
install an app. With an active Bluetooth connection to any standard
smartphone, the rider can enjoy the pleasures of listening to music during travel.
In addition, the freely available BMW Motorrad Connected App offers handy arrow-based navigation suitable for day-to-day use directly via the TFT screen. The BMW Motorrad Connected App is available for free from the Google and Apple app stores. It also comprises attractive additional functions such as route logging and the display of other travel statistics and information. This basic navigation system will be of particular interest to scooter riders for convenient organisation of day-to-day travel and short trips without the need for additional equipment. The new TFT display also features the On-board Computer PRO with numerous display and setting options.
5. Design, ergonomics and colour
Dynamic, distinctive styling by BMW Motorrad.
The new C 400 GT features the unique BMW Motorrad styling. Modern and future-oriented in appearance, it perfectly exemplifies the BMW Motorrad design philosophy. The front silhouette is dominated by the aerodynamically designed twin LED headlight with the distinctive design of the LED daytime running light (country-specific) in the form of fibre optic elements. This sets the new BMW Motorrad mid-size scooter clearly apart from its competitors, giving it a particularly classy, functional and dynamic look.
The smooth, aerodynamically motivated designed with accentuated body edges also embody lightness, dynamic performance and touring proficiency. In line with its comfortable yet dynamic character, the new C 400 GT also has turn indicators into the body elements at the rear.
Meanwhile so-called bash plates – side trim elements at the front – underscore the new Gran Turismo among the mid-size scooters' membership of the BMW Motorrad family. The LED turn indicators are integrated in these, too – another unique styling feature. The twin-tipped engine spoiler with integrated radiator grille is also a clear reference to BMW motorcycle design. The distinct, dynamic styling of the new mid-size scooter is also to be seen in its uncluttered cockpit layout.
Excellent wind and weather protection and sophisticated ergonomics.
The windshield, which is higher than that of the C 400 X, was developed with the aim of increasing possible wind and weather protection as well as reducing wind noise to a minimum. It is rigidly mounted on the trim and provides perceptible relief for the rider's upper body, thereby enabling lengthier rides at higher speeds. The optional accessory program also allows the new C 400 GT to be fitted with a higher windshield.
The seat height of the new C 400 GT is 775 mm: here the aim is to ensure perfect integration of taller riders, too. With a view to ensuring the best possible comfort, the seat surfaces for rider and passenger are each designed as individual seats, which especially benefits the passenger in terms of ergonomics. The new C 400 GT also has a separate rider backrest. A seat with a reduced height of 760 mm is available as an optional accessory.
In conjunction with a favourably designed step-through and broad, ergonomically shaped handlebars, this makes for very simple and straightforward controllability and a focused, sporty seating position oriented towards the front wheel for dynamic scooter fun. Both the rider's and passenger's feet rest on comfortable footboards integrated in the body.
Generous storage space with two storage compartments and flexcase.
Although it is intentionally designed in an athletic style, the generous storage space of the new C 400 GT also makes it perfect for shopping trips into town, riding to work and even lengthier tours.
The flexcase under the seat provides ample room for storage. It comprises a flap in the rear base which can be opened to provide a downward extension of the storage space. This versatility is enabled by the use of a highly rigid but pliable material based on Kevlar that creates a flexible yet dirt-resistant, waterproof and more durable connection between the flap and the rear base. This unique storage solution developed and patented by BMW Motorrad is able to accommodate an integral helmet and a jet helmet when the scooter is parked. The BMW flexcase is closed during travel.
In the front section of the step-through there are two additional storage compartments, each of which is opened by means of a button. In conjunction with the standard equipment item Keyless Ride, both compartments are locked automatically with the scooter itself. Keyless Ride controls the following lock functions: ignition, handlebars, seat, fuel filler cap and storage compartments. In the right-hand storage compartment – large enough to hold an iPhone 6/7, for instance – there is a 12-volt power socket for electronic devices. A USB adapter is also available as an optional accessory.
The new C 400 GT can also be fitted with a luggage bridge (optional accessory) for transportation purposes that enables attachment of a topcase (also an optional accessory).
Attractive paint finishes with distinctive character qualities.
The new C 400 GT has a classy, contemporary look while at the same time coming over as functional and dynamic. Its trim parts with their pronounced smoothness and aerodynamic design highlight the scooter's compact styling. At its market launch, the new BMW Motorrad mid-size scooter will be available in three different paint finishes.
Alpine White impressively highlights the distinctive styling of the new C 400 GT. This fresh colour with a sense of lightness also emphasises the new Gran Turismo's key qualities such as agility, easy accessibility and effortlessness. As an alternative, the paint finish Moonwalk Grey metallic bears out the supreme, contemporary and harmonious character of a dynamic Gran Turismo. This paint finish gives the new C 400 GT a particularly modern touch, harmonising with the contrast colours applied to create a pronounced high-quality yet at the same time coherent overall appearance. The third paint finish is Blackstorm metallic, which highlights the distinctive, high-quality look of the C 400 GT.
6. Equipment program.
Optional equipment items and special accessories for a wide range of customisation opportunities.
Optional equipment is supplied directly ex works and integrated in the production process. Optional accessories are installed by the BMW Motorrad dealer or by customers themselves. These are features which can be retrofitted, too.
Standard features.
- BMW Motorrad ABS.
- 12V socket.
- LED lighting (headlight, tail light, brake light, turn indicators).
- Flexcase.
- Traction control (ASC).
- Centre stand.
- Storage lighting.
- Side stand.
Optional equipment packages.
- Comfort package (heated grips, heated seat).
- Connectivity (colour TFT screen, Multi-Controller).
Optional equipment items.
- Alarm system.
- LED daytime riding light.
Original BMW Motorrad accessories.
- Windshield, high.
- Luggage bridge.
- Topcase 2, small (as for R 1200 R, 30L).
- Topcase Light (29L).
- Liners for topcase.
- Scooter cover.
- Safety bar incl. holder for additional LED headlight.
- Additional LED headlight.
- Seat, low.
- BMW Motorrad dual USB charger.