While the international customizing scene around BMW Motorrad focuses primarily on the BMW Motorrad Heritage models BMW R 18 and BMW R 12 nineT with inspiring creativity, high levels of craftsmanship and new ideas, Austria has now developed an extraordinary project based on the BMW CE 02.
In collaboration with BMW Motorrad Austria in Salzburg, the Design & Makers Studio VAGABUND in Graz created the BMW CE 02 x VAGABUND — a stylish eParkourer based on the BMW CE 02 for urban areas.
“We were immediately in love when we saw the CE 02 for the first time at the BMW Motorrad Days in Berlin. The overall design of the CE 02 was simply a “perfect match” for us, as we at VAGABUND are always trying to break new ground and reinterpret existing products in our own way. In this project, we would define the general design approach as a “retro-future.” We tried to combine the very futuristic original design with some retro vibes and thus give the viewer a familiar feeling,” Paul Brauchart, founder and managing director of Vagabund Moto GmbH, explains the philosophy behind the project.
The custom bike Made in Austria not only impresses with its unique, futuristic design, but also with various functional “retro” elements, which were designed in a modern, fresh way and with a focus on a young target group.
For example, the musical integration of the “OB-4 Magic Radio” from “Teenage Engineering” underlines the young and creative philosophy of custom bikes. The “electric exhaust” serves as a practical style element and visual highlight. This offers space for an umbrella. Design elements such as the running board with skateboard grip tape reflect the sporty, urban eParkourer style.
BMW Motorrad and VAGABUND create another absolute eye-catcher with the custom bike’s 3.6 meter high packaging. This is part of the overall concept.
BMW CE 02
With an output of 15 hp and 40.6 lb-ft, the new CE 02 accelerates quickly from traffic lights and offers a dynamic riding experience. With a top speed of 59 mph (95 km/h), progress is speedy and a range of more than 56 miles (90 km) (according to WMTC) allows for extended urban adventures.
Thanks to its low weight of only 132 kg and the low seat height of only 29.5 inches (750 mm), the new CE 02 is also characterized by its flickable handling characteristics.
Torque is transmitted from the synchronous motor on the right-hand side of the vehicle via a toothed belt to an intermediate shaft. From there, another toothed belt on the left side takes over the function of the secondary drive to the rear wheel. This sophisticated construction ensures the best possible center of gravity for neutral handling. ASC (Automatic Stability Control) ensures safe power transmission between the rear tire and varied road surface. RSC (Recuperation Stability Control) functions similarly to an engine drag torque control and specifically reduces the drag torque in overrun mode to keep the vehicle stable. At the same time, recuperation takes place in overrun mode. Reversing aid makes maneuvering simple and easy.
