IT has to be said that BMW’s range hasn’t always had the affections of younger riders in mind. With an expansive range that covers everything from adventure bikes, retros, nakeds and sports bikes, gaining the youth vote doesn’t seem to have been high on BMW’s list of priorities.
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That could be about to change though after the funky BMW CE02 concept broke cover late last night. Clearly aimed at younger riders (note the skateboard nestled beneath the battery!), the CE 02 is an all-electric machine, with tiddly 15-inch wheels and a super accessible 730mm seat height.
Eyeing up the trendy urban set, the CE 02 has a claimed top speed of 90kph (55mph) and a range of around 55-miles – perfect for gadding around town and heading to the skate park!
While the CE 02 concept just that, a concept, I can’t imagine BMW would have to do much to get a bike like this over the line. The current range is, with the exception of the G310-powered machines, aimed at existing riders and those in the premium sector of motorcycling. There really isn’t anything out there as a driver to scoop up riders fresh from their CBT. And with the much-talked-about petrol car ban looking in 2035, a funky fresh electric model with bags of character could be just the ticket that BMW needs.
Speaking of the bike, Alexander Buckan said:
“We wanted to develop an easily accessible two-wheeler for everyone who wants to be mobile and independent. The BMW Motorrad Concept CE 02 is a reliable companion on a day-to-day basis. You love it because it’s always there for you and it just works – even if you occasionally don't treat it as carefully as you might. And there are stickers, tapes and other forms of customisation that make it quite clear to everyone that it belongs to you. It embodies youthful freedom and a carefree spirit – rather like a skateboard on two wheels.”
