Review of BMW CE 02 2024
In a live presentation, tucked away amidst a rather unnecessary meta-verse introduction, audio glitches, and a skatepark-themed backdrop that wouldn’t be out of place for Steve Buscemi to casually appear and ask, “How do you do, fellow kids?” BMW has unveiled a new electric urban motorcycle that promises an enjoyable ride.
Introducing the CE 02, BMW’s inaugural electric motorcycle (or “eParkourer” as they prefer to call it), follows the CE 04 maxiscooter. Geared towards a younger urban audience, BMW hopes potential riders will overlook the cringe-worthy marketing. The CE 02 is set to hit the U.S. market as a 2024 model with a starting price of $7,599.
The 2024 BMW CE 02 is equipped with an air-cooled synchronous motor powered by two removable 48V lithium-ion batteries, each boasting an energy content of 1.96 kWh. In the U.S., the CE 02 features a motor delivering 15 hp and 40.6 lb-ft, enabling it to reach a claimed top speed of 59 mph. Other markets will offer a reduced-power version, limited to 5 hp and a top speed of 28 mph.
Power is transferred from the motor to the rear wheel via a toothed belt and an intermediate shaft. Automatic Stability Control (ASC) ensures smooth power delivery based on road conditions, and Recuperation Stability Control combines drag torque control with energy regeneration.
The CE 02 includes two standard ride modes: “Flow” for urban riding with a softer throttle response and medium energy regeneration, and “Surf” for dynamic acceleration with no energy recuperation. An optional Highline package introduces a sportier “Flash” mode.
BMW claims a range of 56 miles on a full charge. The standard 0.9 kW external charger boasts a 0 to 100% charge time of 312 minutes, with a 20% to 80% time of 168 minutes. An optional 11 kW quick charger claims a full charge time of 210 minutes, with just 102 minutes needed to go from 20% to 80%.
The CE 02 utilizes a double-loop steel tube frame, a 37 mm telescopic fork, and a preload-adjustable monoshock with 4.6 inches of travel. Rolling on 14-inch cast alloy disc wheels, the bike features a 120/80-14 tire upfront and a 150/70-14 tire at the rear.
Braking consists of a 239 mm front disc with a two-piston floating caliper and a 220 mm rear disc with a single-piston caliper, with ABS available on the front wheel. Adjustable hand levers control both front and rear brakes, and riders can choose between front or rear footpegs.
The flat seat sits at 29.5 inches from the ground, and BMW claims a curb weight of 291 pounds, making the CE 02 manageable for less experienced riders. A TFT display provides crucial vehicle data, and a USB-C charging socket comes standard. The Highline option includes gold-colored forks, a 1.5 kW quick charger, Flash ride modes, heated grips, a colored seat, a smartphone cradle with Bluetooth, and BMW Motorrad Connected Services.
The 2024 BMW CE 02 comes in Cosmic Black with Granite Grey Metallic and Silver contrasting elements, featuring a black seat for $7,599. The $875 Highline Package adds several enhancements, including a cradle that turns a Bluetooth-enabled smartphone into a secondary display working with a keypad on the handlebar. Available accessories include luggage options and an anti-theft alarm.
