BMW’s signature kidney grille is the quintessential feature that makes the German manufacturer’s cars instantly recognisable. And now, we have one on its most affordable scooter, the C400. A year ago, Miami’s NMoto caused a stir with its C400-based ‘Golden Age’ concept. The machine is finally in production. According to NMoto’s CEO Alex Niznik, Golden Age harks back to the design channels the famous Henderson special built in 1936 by Art Deco enthusiast O. Ray Courtney. (Source: Bikeexif)
To keep weight down, the stunning bodywork is rigid carbon fiber composite, rather than molded from plastic. This lightweight body, with its iconic ‘kidney’ grille, helps Golden Age reach a top speed of around 144 kph. That’s a fraction more than the C400X, and pretty good for a 350cc, 34 bhp engine. The body is built up from seven pieces, and attached to mounts with the same torx screws that BMW themselves use. And despite its deliciously curvaceous nature, the Golden Age can handle corners with aplomb. “The maximum lean angle is 35 degrees,” says Alex, which is about a degree more than the new Harley Sportster S. (Source: Bikeexif)Other mods include new front and rear subframes, new turn signal housings, and an exhaust system relocation kit. The muffler is heat-shielded, and a new pipe reroutes exhaust gas to a small grille in the lower part of the rear fairing. All the good stuff from the factory is still there though—including the ABS, automatic stability control, the Bluetooth dashboard with a 6.5-inch display, and capacious storage under the seat. The seat can be heated, and has a convenient central locking system for the storage area that’s shared with the main ignition. (Source: Bikeexif)NMoto have a lot of experience with kits, and are planning 100 units of Golden Age. It’s available as a completed bike, or as a fit-yourself kit manufactured in the Zillers factory. Options will include custom upholstery, air suspension, a chrome luggage rack and even LED underbody lighting. Kits can also be supplied with rear-view mirrors, headlight and turn signals certified for different markets—including the US and Europe. (Source: Bikeexif)The cost is $9,990, with unpainted carbon. There are several permutations that buyers can choose from; the bike in these images has an early R nineT headlight and Harley turn signals, but the LED headlight from the 2021 R nineT or R18 also fits via an adapter. For a little more cash, NMoto can supply single or two-tone paint, and even build up a complete motorcycle. (Source: Bikeexif)
