BMW updates C650 Sport and GT maxi-scooters

BMW has released details of the 2016 C650 sport and C650 GT maxi-scooters which have both been given a mid-life refresh with a host of changes aimed at separating the two versions more effectively.

The two scooters are now more closely targeted at a sporting and touring aspirations with BMW claiming the changes will enable the pair of scooters to appeal to a broader audience. The C650 Sport is aimed at more sporty riders and the GT at touring riders with more comfort and long distance capability.

Changes include new CVT transmission, new exhaust, revised suspension and some design changes differentiate the two bikes from the outgoing models.

The parallel-twin 647cc engine is the same in both models and produces 60bhp but is also available in an A2-licence friendly 37bhp variant thanks to restrictor kit. The engine has been remapped for both versions and they are now Euro4 emissions compliant. A new exhaust gives a better sound according to BMW.

BMW’s press release explains: “A new CVT transmission set-up in conjunction with new clutch linings enables optimised clutch engagement and therefore a significantly more dynamic set-off response. This was achieved by changing the transmission ratio spread of the CVT as well as by fine-tuning the centrifugal force weights.

“The suspension construction of the new C 650 Sport and C 650 GT continues to use a torsionally stiff hybrid composite structure consisting of a tubular steel bridge frame and a die-cast aluminium unit in the area of the swinging arm bearing.”

Both version of the C650 still have ABS braking systems and additionally they now have Automatic Stability Control (ASC) and a new technology called Side View Assist (SVA) which is an option on the GT model and helps when changing lane by monitoring the blind spot for any other vehicles that may be to your side.

The press release adds: “The new edition of the two models particularly features a more modern, dynamic and future-oriented design for the C 650 Sport. This integrates it seamlessly in the BMW Motorrad design philosophy. By contrast the C 650 GT – positioned in the Comfort subsegment – has been fine-tuned with new rear side trim panels and a new rear light unit. Both models have also been fitted with newly designed instrument dials as well as new handlebar trim. Other new features include the revised kinematics of the centre stand and the automatic daytime riding light function.”

An overview of the new features in the C 650 Sport and C 650 GT:

New CVT set-up in conjunction with revised clutch linings for more dynamic clutch engagement and a more spontaneous set-off response.

New suspension and damping set-up for an ideal compromise between sport and comfort.

In addition to ABS, now also ASC as standard for maximum safety when accelerating.

Completely new, dynamic design for the C 650 Sport.

Detailed stylistic fine-tuning for the C 650 GT.

New silencer for a fuller sound and more dynamic appearance.

New instrument dial design.

New handlebar trim elements with chrome applications.

New, higher-quality surfaces (graining effects).

Automatic daytime riding light.

Revised centre stand for easier use.

New rider assistance system Side View Assist (SVA) for the C 650 GT.

New paint finishes for the C 650 Sport: Valencia Orange metallic matt,
Lightwhite non-metallic and Blackstorm metallic.

New paint finishes for the C 650 GT: Blackstorm metallic, Frozen Bronze metallic and Lightwhite non-metallic