The BMW maxi scooter has long been a favourite of this column, not just for its exemplary combination of looks, performance and practicality, but for its fun factor.

In its latest– form, the C 400 X ion brings worthwhile improvements including chassis updates, and a new 350cc single-cylinder engine. This develops 25kW and 35Nm, enough to make the 400 a zippy city commuter and a quite reasonable highway machine, even two-up. Fuel economy is improved marginally, and it’s quiet, too.