The BMW CE 02 represents an innovative leap, targeting younger, eco-conscious riders who might overlook traditional BMW motorcycles. In India, it appeals to a niche audience with higher disposable incomes, valuing style and badge value over practicality. While its price may seem steep, the CE 02 offers a compelling case, particularly when compared to its more expensive sibling.
Love it or hate it, the CE 02’s design is undeniably catchy. Neither a bike nor a scooter, BMW dubs it an “e-parkourer” meant for fun, short-distance commuting. Practicality, however, takes a backseat with no storage or additional seating space, making its heavy charger or a pillion inconvenient to carry. Upon first glance, the rider footpegs seem like an afterthought and feel out of place in the otherwise cohesive design.
With minimal bodywork, a low stance and a futuristic aesthetic, the CE 02 captures attention from a diverse range of onlookers. During my time with it, teenagers, adults, and even senior citizens frequently enquired about it.
The bike’s low 745mm seat height and light 142kg weight make it approachable for beginners, but the bench-like seat limits comfort as it is best suited for solo riders. Additionally, the low-mounted tail-light is poorly positioned, making it less visible to tailgaters.
On the features front, the CE 02 comes equipped with LED lighting, a 3.5-inch TFT display, keyless start, two riding modes, a reverse feature, adjustable levers, a Type-C charging socket and Bluetooth connectivity.
Our test unit included the Highline package, an optional upgrade costing Rs 50,000. This adds features like a fast charger, additional switchgear, a smartphone holder, an extra riding mode called “Flash”, a tri-coloured seat, heated grips, a gold-finished fork and some graphics.
The Highline package is worth considering for a more enriched experience overall. Additionally, the accessory comfort seat, priced at Rs 12,000, is also recommended due to the limited cushioning of the standard seat. Besides this, if you buy the standard version and wish to add the fast charger, it will cost you Rs 70,000, which makes the Highline package a no-brainer.
The CE 02 offers three riding modes: Flow, Surf and Flash. Flow combines high regenerative braking with a linear throttle response, Surf disables regen for a freer ride, and Flash delivers maximum regen with a sharp throttle response. There’s an additional Battery Saver mode that requires manual activation via the menu, while a Low Power mode automatically engages at alow charge. Surf mode proved ideal for my highway commutes to work, offering effortless coasting. Riding the CE 02 in Mumbai was a joy, thanks to its ample torque and quick acceleration.
In our tests, the CE 02 accelerates quicker to 80kph than most 160cc motorcycles, aligning closer to a fast sub-160cc or a slower 200cc bike. Its lightweight build enhances its agility and pace, especially in city conditions, and the traction control ensures confidence on loose surfaces. The claimed 108km range holds up well for regular commutes, and the fast charger tops up the battery in about three and a half hours.
While the brakes offer excellent feedback, the lack of dual-channel ABS is a drawback since the rear wheel is prone to locking under aggressive braking. This is especially so when paired with the CE 02’s strong regenerative braking, which reduced how much I found myself using the brakes.
It is lightweight and has a low centre of gravity, which makes it highly manoeuvrable and enjoyable for city commutes. The suspension provides decent comfort at moderate speeds but struggles over potholes or bumps, often unsettling the rider. Ground clearance seems decent, but BMW would not share the exact figure with us. The fork is non-adjustable, and the rear shock is preload adjustable.
The Michelin City Grip 2 tyres deliver reliable traction overall despite varying riding styles.
The CE 02 is an otherwise comfortable little commuter, but its thin and minimally padded seat becomes a pain after about an hour. The riding posture is upright, with wide bars allowing for better control.
This is by no means a practical purchase. Despite being made at TVS’ plant in Hosur, at Rs 4.99 lakh for the Highline package-equipped CE 02, it is an expensive proposition. Then again, it is the most affordable BMW EV and offers a blend of bold design, high-quality construction and engaging performance.
Its quirky styling may not appeal to everyone, but it undeniably turns heads. For those well-heeled few who can afford this and are looking for an easy, stylish and completely left-field city-centric two-wheeler with superb badge value, the CE 02 promises a unique and fun experience.
Dinshaw Magol
Rishaad Mody
