C650GT suspensions compared to C400GT

[PeterP]

Hi everyone,

I currently own a 2024 BMW C400GT and I am very happy with it overall. I really like the riding position, wind protection, handling, power, and general comfort.

The only real downside for me is the suspension. Personally, I find it too harsh, especially on our poor Belgian roads. It is mainly the short, sharp bumps that bother me.

Tomorrow I am going to look at a privately owned 2018 BMW C650GT with 12,500 km, which is about 7,800 miles. It has a full BMW dealer service history and seems to be very well equipped: Safety Pack, Highline Pack, alarm system, original BMW top case, and BMW Navigator.

What I would really like to know is whether the C650GT is noticeably better in terms of suspension comfort and damping compared with the C400GT.

My impression is that the C650GT has most of the same advantages as the C400GT, or even improves on them in several areas. The main downside I can see is the extra weight, which will probably reduce manoeuvrability and ease of handling a bit, especially at low speeds.

What are your opinions on the difference in suspension comfort between the C400GT and the C650GT? Is the C650GT smoother and more comfortable on rough roads, or is the difference not that big?

Thanks in advance for your advice.

 

[Ceesie76]

I've never ridden on a C400 but plenty on my 2016 C650 Sport and am quite happy with its suspension and comfort level. The weight doesn't bother me in the least as its down low. Much more manageable than my K1600 GTL - everything is relative. Good luck on making your choice, "soort van luxe probleem"!

 

[wspollack]

@PeterP :

One other possible consideration ...

Some time back -- I don't remember exactly when, maybe ten years ago -- I test-rode a C650 (I don't recall which of the two models this was) at my local BMW dealership. What I do remember is that I found the seat unsatisfactorily high. So if you have short legs, this may be issue, i.e., the ability, or not, of being able to "flat-foot" a C650 at stops.

My background related to all this is:

- I have about a 29" (74cm) inseam.

- I owned two Burgman 650s (at different times, for a total of 11 years), so I'm familiar with 650-sized scooters.

- I've been a C 400 GT owner for four years now, and don't have any issues with that scooter at stops (and find it the best-handling bike I've ever owned, which also encompassed an R850R, a Valkyrie Interstate, a Victory Cross Country Tour, and a Royal Enfield Meteor 350).

Good luck in your quest.

 

[RollaCosta]

I have ridden both; the C650 GT stock suspension is way better than C400.
C650 is a way better vehicle for longer rides, or in inclement weather.

 

[Jemickarz]

Hi everyone,

I currently own a 2024 BMW C400GT and I am very happy with it overall. I really like the riding position, wind protection, handling, power, and general comfort.

The only real downside for me is the suspension. Personally, I find it too harsh, especially on our poor Belgian roads. It is mainly the short, sharp bumps that bother me.

Tomorrow I am going to look at a privately owned 2018 BMW C650GT with 12,500 km, which is about 7,800 miles. It has a full BMW dealer service history and seems to be very well equipped: Safety Pack, Highline Pack, alarm system, original BMW top case, and BMW Navigator.

What I would really like to know is whether the C650GT is noticeably better in terms of suspension comfort and damping compared with the C400GT.

My impression is that the C650GT has most of the same advantages as the C400GT, or even improves on them in several areas. The main downside I can see is the extra weight, which will probably reduce manoeuvrability and ease of handling a bit, especially at low speeds.

What are your opinions on the difference in suspension comfort between the C400GT and the C650GT? Is the C650GT smoother and more comfortable on rough roads, or is the difference not that big?

Thanks in advance for your advice.

Hello

While i have not ridden the 400 GT I can honestly say the suspension of my 2014 is very nice and barring the road condition issues you have which i don’t in the Philippines, you only have to contend with with the weight of the bike. Its easy when it starts moving anyway. YSS makes a beautiful replacement rear shock with a lot of adjustments also just in case. Cheers

 

[Ceesie76]

It looks like the op bought a C400 ...