BMW C 650 GT & Sport (2016-2021): The Maxi-Scooter That Thinks It’s a Motorcycle

Introduction

The BMW C 650 series redefines what a maxi-scooter can be. From 2016 to 2021, the C 650 GT and its sportier sibling, the C 650 Sport, blended motorcycle-like performance with scooter practicality, creating a niche that appeals to urban commuters and touring enthusiasts alike. Having spent a week weaving through city traffic and carving open roads on both models, it’s clear these machines aren’t just about convenience—they’re about experience. Whether you’re dodging potholes in rush hour or leaning into a mountain pass, the C 650 generation delivers a ride that’s as engaging as it is versatile.

Design & Ergonomics: Two Personalities, One DNA

BMW C 650 GT: Touring Comfort Meets Urban Elegance

The GT is the sophisticate of the duo. Its full-body fairing, adjustable electric windscreen, and plush, 805 mm (31.7") seat scream long-distance comfort. The sculpted lines and metallic finishes (like Frozen Bronze or Sparkling Storm) give it a premium feel, while the asymmetrical LED headlights add a touch of BMW Motorrad’s signature aggression.

Storage? It’s a class leader. The under-seat compartment swallows two full-face helmets (60L capacity), and the locking glovebox fits a tablet—perfect for riders who treat their scooters as mobile offices.

BMW C 650 Sport: Urban Predator

The Sport trades elegance for adrenaline. The 2018 redesign sharpened its stance with a raked front, angular bodywork, and Valencia Orange Metallic paint that echoes BMW’s S 1000 RR. The seat is slightly taller (810 mm / 31.9") and firmer, pushing you into a forward-leaning posture that’s ideal for aggressive city riding.

Both models share a hybrid steel-aluminum frame that balances rigidity and lightness, but the Sport’s 22 kg (49 lbs) weight savings (249 kg wet vs. the GT’s 261 kg) is palpable when flicking through traffic.

Engine & Performance: Twin-Cylinder Muscle Meets CVT Smoothness

The Heart of the Matter

The 647cc liquid-cooled twin is a gem. With 60 HP (44 kW) at 7,500 rpm and 66 Nm (48.7 lb-ft) of torque peaking at 6,000 rpm, it’s overkill for a scooter—and that’s the point. The GT accelerates to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 7.1 seconds, while the Sport shaves it down to 6.8, thanks to its lighter build. Top speeds hover around 175-180 km/h (109-112 mph), depending on wind resistance.

The CVT transmission is butter-smooth, but BMW’s 2018 tweaks (revised clutch linings and centrifugal weights) made throttle response crisper. Roll-ons from 50 km/h (31 mph) are punchy, and the exhaust’s muted growl under load is oddly satisfying for a scooter.

Fuel efficiency sits at 4.4-4.6 L/100 km (51-53 MPG), though aggressive riders will see closer to 5.0 L (47 MPG). The 16L tank offers a 300-350 km (186-217 mi) range—enough for a day of touring.

Handling & Ride Quality: Scooter Agility, Bike Stability

Urban Playground

The Sport’s 15” wheels and inverted 40mm fork make it a cornering fiend. It leans deeper than the GT, and the Michelin Pilot tires (120/70 front, 160/60 rear) grip like glue. In Milan’s chaotic traffic, the Sport’s narrow profile (877 mm / 34.5" width) slipped through gaps even some motorcycles couldn’t.

The GT, meanwhile, prioritizes stability. Its longer wheelbase (1,591 mm / 62.6") and softer suspension soak up potholes, while the electrically adjustable windscreen eliminates helmet buffeting at 130 km/h (81 mph).

Both models share a Bosch 9.1MB ABS and ASC (traction control). On rain-slicked cobblestones, the ASC intervened subtly, cutting power without jarring—a lifesaver for slippery urban rides.

Features & Technology: Beyond the Basics

Safety First

The GT’s optional Side View Assist (SVA) uses ultrasonic sensors to detect vehicles in blind spots up to 80 km/h (50 mph). During lane changes on the A4 highway, the mirror-mounted LEDs flashed warnings that felt almost intuitive—no obnoxious beeps.

Both scooters feature a CAN-bus system with auto-canceling turn signals and a multifunction LCD dash. The GT’s analog speedometer exudes classic BMW flair, while the Sport’s digital tach leans modern.

Storage & Customization

The Sport’s flexcase—a collapsible under-seat extension—is genius. Folded, it maintains the Sport’s sleek profile; expanded, it fits a helmet. Heated grips and seats (optional on GT Highline trims) turned a chilly Alpine morning ride into a cozy journey.

Competition: How the BMW Stacks Up

Yamaha TMAX 530

The TMAX is lighter (213 kg / 470 lbs) and sharper in corners but lacks the BMW’s torque (53 Nm vs. 66 Nm) and tech features like ASC.

Honda X-ADV 750

Honda’s ADV-styled scooter offers more off-road pretension and a 745cc engine but feels bulkier in traffic. The BMW’s storage and wind protection are superior for urbanites.

Suzuki Burgman 650

The Burgman matches the GT’s comfort but trails in performance (55 HP) and lacks the BMW’s premium finish.

Verdict: The C 650 twins dominate in tech and torque, though rivals undercut them on price. For riders valuing build quality and innovation, BMW justifies its premium.

Maintenance: Keeping the Twin Purring

Owners praise the C 650’s reliability, but proactive care is key:
- Oil Changes: Every 10,000 km (6,200 mi) with BMW-approved 15W-50.
- CVT Belt: Inspect every 20,000 km (12,400 mi); replace if cracked. MOTOPARTS.store stocks OEM-spec belts.
- Brakes: The 270mm discs wear evenly, but swap pads at 3mm thickness.
- Coolant: Flush every 2 years—BMW’s liquid cooling hates neglect.
- Tires: Stick to OEM sizes; the Sport’s grip benefits from Michelin Road 5s.

Pro Tip: The centrifugal clutch loves smooth throttle inputs. Jerky starts accelerate wear.

Conclusion: Who’s It For?

The C 650 GT is the ultimate urban tourer—a scooter for riders who refuse to compromise on comfort or cargo. The Sport? It’s for the adrenaline junkie who’d lane-split through a hurricane. Both models, now discontinued, remain benchmarks in the maxi-scooter realm.

Whether you’re upgrading brakes, adding heated grips, or chasing OEM body panels, MOTOPARTS.store has the gear to keep your BMW sharp. After all, why settle for ordinary when your scooter can be extraordinary?

Specifications sheet