Scooter specifications BMW Vision CE 2025 Archways

BMW likes to share its visions of the future - in the short, medium and long term - in the form of creations that are as realistic as they are fantastical. The F 450 GS concept, for example, announced a trail bike of the same name for late 2025. In contrast, the Next 100 showed us a glimpse of motorcycling in a century's time. For the Vision CE, these ideas combine to create a solution for urban mobility, ubiquitous protection, electric power and adventure.

A distant cousin for inspiration

With its large roll cage, this very special machine reinvents an iconoclastic machine from BMW's history: the C1 scooter of the 2000s. With its large windscreen and integrated roof, this model (available in 125 cm3 and 175 cm3) offered serious protection against the elements, and made it possible to ride legally without a helmet.

The Vision CE takes up this idea, but in a rougher, more exploratory style. It looks as if it has escaped from a laboratory or lunar station. With its tubular arches, it does away with helmets and protective gear. A safety belt prevents the pilot from being ejected.

The cockpit meets BMW's current high-end standards. The handlebars cohabit with a keyless ignition system and a large color TFT screen (the 10.25-inch of the brand's big tourers?). The technical configuration lets the outside fragrances invade the cabin as they please, but a set of transparent shells has been designed to make the Vision CE unperturbed by wind and rain.

Under the skin, the Vision CE rests on a tubular steel structure, filled with batteries and electrical systems, and housing the powertrain at the rear of the frame. The latter transmits its power (undisclosed) via a belt, while a monobracket takes care of the ground connection; a part held in place by a prominent monoshock. At the front, a classic fork hides its simplicity beneath a substantial cladding.

An idea or an announcement?

As a concept, the Vision CE is not concerned with power, weight or performance data. BMW does, however, specify that it has a function for balancing itself completely at a standstill - can it stand up on its own?

Is its presence as a production vehicle for tomorrow or a stream of years from now? Perhaps not in this form, but the idea of the "cage" is back with the Bavarian manufacturer and won't stay in the cupboard.

M.B. - Manufacturer's photos