BMW CE 04 Expert Review

The BMW CE 04 is unlike any other scooter on sale today. Its futuristic styling, floating seat, solid disc wheels and long proportions make it look more like a concept vehicle than a production model. It attracts attention wherever it goes and delivers the premium feel expected from a BMW. The overall build quality is excellent, with every component feeling well-finished and expensive, making the CE 04 a truly special machine.

While the low seat height makes the scooter easy to manage despite its weight, comfort is one of its weakest areas. The thin, flat seat becomes uncomfortable on longer rides, and the riding position offers very little support under hard acceleration. This forces the rider to rely on their arms and core, which can become tiring over time. Thankfully, the suspension itself is well tuned and absorbs road imperfections effectively, keeping the ride comfortable over rough surfaces.

Performance is one of the CE 04's standout qualities. The electric motor delivers strong, instant acceleration, making the scooter feel remarkably quick. Even the Eco mode offers brisk performance without restricting top speed, while the more aggressive riding modes make it one of the fastest electric two-wheelers available. Strong regenerative braking also allows riders to slow down using the throttle alone in many situations, reducing the need to use the brakes frequently.

Despite weighing considerably more than a typical scooter, the CE 04 feels stable and confidence inspiring. Its handling is more like that of a motorcycle, offering excellent stability through corners rather than quick steering. The suspension, tyres and electronic safety aids work together to provide reassuring grip in both dry and wet conditions, although the scooter's size makes tight U-turns less convenient.

The CE 04 comes loaded with premium equipment, including a large TFT display, keyless operation, smartphone storage with USB-C charging, practical under-seat storage, traction control and dual-channel ABS. The large battery also supports relatively quick charging and uses a car-style charging port for greater convenience.

The BMW CE 04 is a bold and distinctive electric scooter that combines striking design with impressive performance and premium features. Although comfort could be better and its premium positioning limits its appeal, it delivers a unique riding experience that feels unlike anything else on the road.