The C1 is arguably underpowered: an MCN review of the 125 model said, "The BMW C1's 125cc engine is an unremarkable four-stroke single producing a respectable 15bhp.

[1][2] The space behind the rider and outside the "cage" has one of three interchangeable uses: a large, lockable external storage box; a luggage rack; or a pillion seat.

However, being secured by a seat belt could make slow speed handling and manoeuvring rather tricky until experience is acquired.

It claimed that in a head-on collision, the C1 offered a standard of accident protection comparable to a European compact car.

That was the prime marketing strategy to convert car buyers; the C1 was claimed to be so safe that the rider did not need to wear a helmet to ride it.

However, poor C1 sales in the United Kingdom may in part be attributable to the British government's refusal of BMW's request to change helmet regulations for C1 riders.

It is a shame that the UK government is slow to foresee change when other countries have grasped the idea of a convenient, environmentally sound and safe solution to urban personal transport.

The BMW C evolution introduced in 2014 was a similar maxi-scooter aimed at the same market segment, powered by an electric traction motor.