C600 Sport
The BMW C600 Sport is a maxi-scooter manufactured by BMW Motorrad. It's the company's first scooter since the C1, which was produced by Bertone. In 2010, at the EICMA, the line was announced by BMW. Powered by 647 cc parallel-twin gasoline engine, production began in December 2011; they were expected to be made available in the Europe market in the Spring of 2012, and in the US in Fall 2012 for the 2013 model year. But before you work on your BMW C600 Sport, double check to see if you have a BMW C600 Sport service manual.
It had a powerful engine, braking system ABS, proprietary suspension mode, and electronic components. The power comes from a 79mm x 66mm parallel-twin, 4-cylinder engine. The C600’s has a continuously variable transmission (CVT). After the brief hesitation associated with centrifugal clutch CVT transmissions, it pulls away with authority. Reaching triple digits with ease, C600 Sport can hold its own on both the highway and surface streets.
With a claimed wet weight of 549 lbs, the Beemer’s CG is kept low, thanks to the cylinders’ 70 degrees forward lean and the 4.2-gallon under-seat gas tank. Although the Sport has a 26 lb weight advantage compared to the GT, any difference in handling is negligible.
The C600’s suspension consists of a single-sided swingarm and a preload-adjustable, lay-down shock in the rear and a 40mm inverted fork in the front. It connects to a tubular steel frame that uses the engine as a stressed member. The ample ground clearance, however, comes at the cost of a high 31.9 in. seat.
The C600 has three 270mm brake discs that do an excellent job of decelerating. While the brakes are powerful, lever feedback is somewhat lacking when compared to some of its sportier competitors to which they are accustomed. BMW’s standard ABS is always available to lend a hand should braking effort exceed the traction available.
Weather protection of the C600 Sport is fair but not as adjustable or complete as the GT. The windshield is smaller and only allows for three manual adjustment positions. In its highest setting, turbulent air is directed at the peak of the helmet, making the ride noisier. The other positions are more advantageous but offer less wind protection. It also had an optional feature of heated grips and seat plus a tire pressure monitor.
The popularity of these scooters is, in part, due to their convenient storage. The Sport has two cargo compartments in the fairing. The left one has an electrical outlet and locks with the fork. The C600’s under-seat storage has the unique ability to expand when the bike is parked, enabling it to hold two helmets. That storage and the LED light in the storage compartment were two premium features that make the BMW stand out among its competitors. However, if you ever find yourself showing a BMW C600 Sport some TLC, make sure you have a BMW C600 service manual to make sure the job gets done right.
