BMW CE 02 Review: A Fun, Futuristic Ride That’s Anything but Practical
As electric vehicles gain momentum worldwide, BMW has introduced something truly unexpected—the CE 02. Not quite a scooter, and definitely not your average motorcycle, this quirky electric two-wheeler sits in its own category. With its bold design and unconventional attitude, the CE 02 is built for urban explorers who prioritize fun and flair over functionality.
We spent a week riding the CE 02 through real-world city streets, and while it delivered excitement in spades, it became clear that this isn’t a vehicle for everyone.
Eye-Catching Design That Breaks the Mold
From the moment you see it, the CE 02 makes an impression. With a boxy silhouette, oversized tires, skateboard-like footrests, and a minimalist frame, it feels more like a tech gadget than a traditional two-wheeler. The bike’s playful and futuristic look drew attention wherever we went, often stopping people in their tracks just to ask, “What is that?”
BMW calls it an “eParkourer”—an odd name for an even odder machine. It’s clear the company aimed this electric ride at a younger crowd that values uniqueness, even if it means sacrificing a bit of utility.
Zippy Performance Built for Urban Life
The CE 02 might look like a toy, but its performance is anything but childish. Powered by an 11kW electric motor, it has instant torque and can reach speeds close to 95 km/h. For city riding, it’s more than capable. The acceleration is sharp, making it easy to weave through traffic or get off the line at stoplights with a grin on your face.
Despite the small size, the bike feels stable and well-balanced. Riding it through narrow alleys and busy roads was a breeze, and the silence of the electric motor added to the futuristic vibe.
BMW offers two standard riding modes: “Flow” for casual cruising and “Surf” for a more responsive throttle. A third, more aggressive “Flash” mode is available as an optional software upgrade.
Range and Charging: Good Enough, Not Great
BMW claims the CE 02 can travel up to 90 km on a full charge. In practice, we managed between 75–85 km, depending on riding style and traffic conditions. That’s sufficient for daily city errands or short commutes, but far from ideal for longer journeys.
Charging is done through a regular household outlet, though BMW also offers an optional fast charger. Even then, topping up the battery takes a few hours. For casual riders, this might not be an issue—but for anyone relying on the CE 02 as a primary vehicle, it could become a dealbreaker.
Comfort and Storage: Not Meant for Utility
Let’s be honest—comfort isn’t the CE 02’s strongest feature. The seat is narrow and firm, and extended rides can leave you shifting around to stay comfortable. There’s also no windscreen, no protective fairings, and almost zero storage space.
Forget about carrying groceries or even a backpack unless you invest in extra mounts or accessories. The bike technically has a second seat pad, but most countries don’t legally allow passengers on this model. It’s built for solo fun, not practical commuting or errands.
For riders expecting daily utility or multi-purpose use, the CE 02 will likely disappoint. But for short joyrides or weekend zips through the city, it fits the bill perfectly.
Tech Features: Minimal Yet Modern
The digital features on the CE 02 are simple but functional. A compact 3.5-inch TFT display shows essentials like speed, range, and ride mode. It connects to the BMW Motorrad app via Bluetooth, though it doesn’t support full navigation display.
LED lighting all around, USB-C charging, and keyless operation round out the tech package. While it doesn’t have flashy bells and whistles, everything works smoothly and adds to the premium feel.
Price: Premium Tag for a Niche Ride
Here’s where things get tricky—the CE 02 doesn’t come cheap. Priced around $8,000 (or ₹7–8 lakh in India), it lands in the territory of mid-range motorcycles and high-performance electric scooters. For something that isn’t especially practical, that’s a tough sell.
This isn’t the kind of purchase you make for value—it’s a lifestyle statement. BMW is clearly targeting buyers who already own other vehicles and want something fun, stylish, and eco-friendly on the side.
Who’s It For?
If you’re someone who craves uniqueness, enjoys riding for fun, and doesn’t need a vehicle to carry much more than yourself, the CE 02 is worth considering. It’s perfect for city-dwellers looking to make a statement or for those who want a compact, electric companion for short urban rides.
But if your needs include range, storage, comfort, or budget-consciousness, this isn’t the bike for you. The CE 02 is niche—and unapologetically so.
Final Thoughts: Pure Fun, but Far from Practical
After spending a full week with the BMW CE 02, one thing is certain—it’s incredibly enjoyable to ride. The playful design, punchy acceleration, and head-turning style all combine to create an experience unlike anything else on the road.
But that fun comes with trade-offs. The high price, limited practicality, and single-rider focus mean it won’t make sense for everyone. It’s not trying to replace your daily commuter or family vehicle. Instead, it exists purely to bring a smile to your face—and maybe impress a few onlookers along the way.
In the end, the CE 02 is best described as a city toy for those with money to spare and a love for all things unconventional.
