2017 BMW K1600GT Review
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- Опубликовано: 18 сен 2024
- 2017 BMW K1600GT Review - At long last I get to try the flagship of the BMW tourers, the mighty six cylinder, 1649cc leviathan of the road, the brand new 2017 BMW K1600GT SE. But how does it compare to the firms own favourite the R1200RT???
Huge thanks to the guys at Bahnstormer BMW in Maidenhead for letting me borrow the bike for review...much appreciated!
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I bought my low mileage K1600GT from Fort Worth BMW and this machine is fantastic. The power, breaking, acceleration give you the feeling of flying a fighter jet on the pavement. If you want to get the blood pumping, rev this baby up the motorway. We ran up to the Smoky Mountains and thru the "Tail of the Dragon" and this amazing piece of machinery handled everything with ease. When we pulled into the launchpoint of the "Tail of the Dragon" I felt like I was riding the King machine out of 100's of bikes in the area. When I pulled out I hammered the accelerator and left all the observers with that trademark K1600GT exhaust notes - revving on the redline. "Buy one - life is not a dress rehearsal."
+Tommy Blake Have you ridden a Yamaha MT10 SP or KTM Super Duke R? ....but agree, the K is an amazing bike...
I just switch from a 2012 GSA to the K1600GT last month. It is a rocket ship :) Did almost 1k miles in 2 days and felt great afterwards.
A lot of people complain about that little push in the back with the screen fully up. Like you, I don't like looking through the screen at all.
Great video and one hell of a bike.
With no doubt a price tag to match!
I totally agree- we don’t need radios or in fact cup holders for that matter on bikes! Put the hammer down occasionally on the motorcycles so we can see the acceleration vision if you would. Thank you.
Let's be honest. That's the lord of the bikes. Best motorcycle ever made. Hopefully GT will be produced for many many years. There is nothing better than this bike!
Kostas Chaldoupis Honda goldwing?
@@michaelletford4786 nope. Goldwing can be considered more touring, but overal K1600 is better in every aspect, handling, braking acceleration, quality etc.
Great review. I had my K1600GT for four years and it was brilliant. I took it from one corner of North America to the other in comfort with out any issues several times. I had a great time with it on the Tail of the Dragon or the Triple Nickle...would recommend this bike to anybody looking for a touring bike. Just sold the K16 and am waiting on new S100XR as I do less touring now and am looking for a little more excitement. Enjoying your channel, thank you!
Thanks for the feedback Michael - so pleased you like my channel...good to have you along! All the best - TMF
I don't plan on doing any long commutes but more leasure riding in comfort. Do you still recommend the K1600? I had a gsxr 600 and it was too uncomfortable for longer rides of more than an hour.
Most definitely, it is one of the best one the market and really good all around street bike. The power plant guarantees you a sporty ride but with comforts you won't get on many bikes.
Wow, I'm so envious of you!
I have a Goldwing now. I'm looking at options now. How is this bike regarding dependability? Maintenance requirements reasonable? Passenger opinions on long rides? Thanks for any opinions.
I bought a 2015, It's very top heavy making for questionable maneuvering in uneven ground. I've logged 1100 miles on the one I have now, love it. Handles town OK but i'd probably pick a different bike for town like a Zero or something. The suspension is flawless.
The question is, top-heavy compared to what? It is 200 lbs lighter than a full dress Harley, with twice the power, and 100 lbs lighter than a Gold Wing. That tall seat makes it super-comfortable for long distances at high speeds. I'd LOVE a Zero for around Salt Lake City, UT, but nothing eats big miles like this bike. And when you run across a convoy of exotic cars in the mountains - well, just watch the video! "When you absolutely, positively have to be there overnight..." Love the review. Even at 100,000 km it can easily outrun most exotic cars. Just caught a cadre of them on a road I know well. Nobody was going all out, but is sure was fun! ruclips.net/video/TWQyUwrRYv0/видео.html
I rode the RT and GT back-to-back. I loved the GT's engine smoothness, noise and power. But it's a little long, a little heavy, and lacks a twins character. The RT ran rings around it handling wise on the tight and twister roads, has decent power and is far better balanced, helping mid corner line changes for instance. Both are good machines, but my preference was for the RT.
Yes I completely agree Richard, the 1600's engine has to be tried to be believed but if it were my money, it'd be on an RT....
The GT is a great bike, it only lacks one thing...
A boxer engine.
I owned the K1600GT, loved it for many reasons. On a long ride the K bike is brilliant. That said, the RT wins out as a daily driver. So flickable, great fuel economy, light in weight compared to the K bike.
But every time I watch a review or vid of the 1600, It brings back memories of how wonderful this monster truly is. The whine of the motor and gear box is undeniably one of the best sounding motorbikes ever built. (In my humble opinion)
@@jeffreyscott4564 Yes, I recently tested the K1600B (search for my test videos on it) and BMW has fixed all of my gripes with the original model. And it howls like an F1 car when wound up. Sixes, whatever their configuration are exceptional, for sure. I'd be torn over which one to go with now. But I'm erring on the side of the K - just so refined now.
After watching your review I went ahead and pulled the trigger on my BMW K1600GT. Ive had it for 60 days now and it's really been a treat. Thanks again for everything. Cheers pal!
Wow congratulations Rick - amazing bike!
TheMissendenFlyer by the way Andy, because I appreciate you and your channel. I became a patron this morning after watching the news video. Keep up the good work!
Rode this bike a number of years ago and was amazed by how fast this bike gets up and going on the freeway. It’s nice to watch you riding the motorway, understanding I’m originally from the UK, and here in the U.S. the freeways are a little crazy, especially in Arizona where I now live. I spend most of my time riding through the mountains between Scottsdale, AZ and Flagstaff, AZ and then up to the Grand Canyon.
Nice!
Never in my life time would I have thought I would warm to a bike like this but I think its growing on me.Must be an Age Thing.Thks.
What do you make of the Bagger? I'm due to ride that next week ;0)
Bruce Kendall Ride one pal, it'll blow you away, I'm only 37 but had a belly full of litre sports bikes, I'm on a new GSA currently and love it ( my 3rd gs ) ... this hyper tourer has got me thinking though ....
Just by watching you riding this motorcycle on winding roads as from 05:30 puts a smile on my face. It's such a great motorcycle.
Yes love it :)
Great review TMF, referring to the gear shift assist pro on a touring bike. I have this set up on my R1200RS and find that on overtakes it reduces the time spent on the wrong side of the road. A definate safety pluss.
Yes agreed, I have it on my R1200GS and love it.....
The looks... the gadgets.. the power.. the comfort, love everything about it....except the heft!! Think we've all had one of those moments when the bike tips a few degrees further than we'd like, especially when loaded up for touring, and the thigh muscles start creaking to save it falling over. I'm no dwarf but I'd never save this one! I'll leave it for the big and brave 😀
Yeah - I'm with you on that (having nearly broken my wrist in the past saving a bike from falling....not worth it!)
Everyone’s different, of course, and this bike can be difficult to handle when slowing and on less-than-solid surfaces (i.e., gravel parking lots). However, one does get accustomed to keeping the bike upright when you need to: Keep the front wheel straight when stopping (especially with a pillion); giving one’s self adequate braking distance; and practice. The bottom line is riding style. In my experience, if you ride mostly on paved roads and do long-distance touring, the K1600 variants may be best for you. If you are very uncomfortable with the weight, the R 1250 RT is a great choice. If you’re going off-road on occasion or more often, the GS seems like a better choice to me! The most important thing is that the bike has to “fit” you and your riding style. Otherwise, you’ll have a poor experience.
Had two of those, a GT & GTL. Nice comfy bus, but prone to corrosion woes.
Really? I'd not heard that...surprises me...
@@TheMissendenFlyer As a GT owner and forum member, I can tell you the weird thing is most of those reports seem to be from the UK, and no one knows why, but the incidence of UK corrosion has decreased over the last several years, since you did your video, so BMW seem to have it fixed/sorted. But never any issue in even coastal USA. Most frequent complaint is overheating at constant, very slow speed (1st, or low rpm in 2nd gear) uphill in 90+ F temps, as in following a truck pulling an RV camper in the Alps. Keep up the good work.
Great video. I have been flipping around with trading the GSA for one of these. I have found myself doing more road miles, since my mates have stopped camping out. Road the RT and loved the old girl, but road the K1600 and fell in love. Enjoy long rides and was not interested in the GTL and I do enjoy a few twists from time to time :)
The 1600 is so smooth. That engine is amazing. With the RT I notice the same little engine vibration, I get with the GSA. Hard decision, because I do honestly love my GSA and even on the road, the GSA is great.
Great video as always.
Thanks Bryan....
For the kinds of roads you guys ride, I can't see the weight being that big of an issue for most. More of an effort in much tighter switchbacks like the Alps or the mountains in the eastern US. The weight/power also might be more than the tires can handle in high speed sweepers, though TC corrects that for most over eager riders these days. Biggest issue with the weight I see is pushing it around the garage.
As to engines, there's certainly nothing wrong with one that's electric smooth, but I also prefer the thrummy feeling of twins.
Personally, I'd put my own money on the RS, but that's as much about its looks as anything. Not really a bad bike in the lineup.
Thanks for taking us along again!
You're welcome saddlebag - thanks for watching as ever!
The weight isn't an issue anywhere...ride it...enjoy it!! :))
Having spent a month getting to know my 2017 1200RT I just recently realized one touch mutes the audio and a longer touch will turn it off and show your speedo. Nice review
Thanks for that :0)
You didn't mention the three coffee cup holders and the heated rear window but nevertheless it was good to see the M40 free flowing!
Oops my bad!
Hardly a place for a 3 cup holder. This is no road sofa..This is an absolute beast of a hot rod. Not for the faint of heart. This will get you in trouble real quick.
R1200rt IS a great touring ,strong winding days no problem for such a light weight bike ,handles like a big bike,,.NOW,THE 1200 RT ,LOW C.G.,IM 6'2",,& 500 MILES PER DAY WITH COMFORT,.(THE 1600GT IS JUST AFEW $ MORE THAN THE 1200RT, AND THE EFFICIENCY IS BETTER THAN THE GTL ,NOT A WHOLE LOT LESS EFFICIENT THAN THE BOXER(.LIGHTER THAN THE GTL EXCLUSIVE.,BUT THATS WHY THE 1600GT IS ALMOST THE SAME $$AS A R1200RT((.I OWN 2014 RT ,2017 1600GT SE,,BOTH ARE SAFE ,SMOOTH AND RELIABLE""",GREAT REVEIW.""!☆☆☆☆
used to have a 2013 Se model, bought it because i was very in to the comfort :) commute to london and in london with bags for a year , never felt the weight as much as kawasaki GTR1400. I ride it always top heavy as i carry my wife with me to work :) , anyway we went from London to Edinburgh around 6 hours :) it shines on motorway , great bike but the weight gets you after a while.
Wow I had no idea the big Kawa would feel even heavier...and yes, in the main, light bikes work for me! Thanks for watching and for stopping by - TMF
did you try the new Yamaha MT 10 SP ? yet :) i put it on my list :) and new Aprillia Tuono v4 1100 with cruise and tft screen :) i am definetly getting rid of the KTm GT too many problems not worth it, i dont have time for it.
I sold my K1600 and bought the R1200R. Some may think the weight isn't an issue but with panniers and topbox the weight is an issue, it gets tiring in traffic with awkward stopping and setting off. The R1200R was so refreshing on my test ride, easy, light and a breeze in traffic and elsewhere so I bought it and felt relieved. Other observations were the chirping engine in the K1600, it doesn't sound good, the linked brakes felt odd and wind protection just didn't work for me, I changed the screen but still felt choppy. However the bike is effortless once moving, it feels like a big scooter, any gear wind it on and off you go but this, for me, just didn't compensate for the issues I had with the bike. If your'e going on a long tour it would be great, otherwise buy something else.
I completely get all that knitware, I think I pretty much came to the same conclusion....lovely bike, but not for me!
As always an excellent review. Looking forward to seeing that Street Cup in the background. Love the look of that. Probably the only bike I'd buy in yellow!
Hehe, well spotted - I'm riding the pants off that little Triumph at the moment ;0) Lots more to come on that one...
Love the look without the bags. Add a set of Akropovic exhausts and this bike is a beast. This is a hot rod. Just a beauty Matey.
I put a new exhaust system on the k1600gt and it sounded great :)
Top Gear for bikes would be great with you presenting. Definitely worth getting some backers and getting it up and running. Perfect reviewing as always!
I had a 2015 one of these and loved it; only problem I had was if it started to slide it was chuffing difficult to get it back into line. It did it quite a lot even at relatively low speed at which point you find out that the traction control actually isn't all that good and seems to act against your natural instincts when a bike slides. I ended up writing mine off in one such instant. Brilliant engine though with absolutely no vibes. Old exhaust pipes looked better too.
Ooh crikey that sounds a bit scary WIlliam! Hopefully it was only the bike that got damaged?
I get the key to riding this bike is DONT drop it. Looks lovely though, I could quite ride down to the south of Germany on that.
Fully agree with you about this bike being on a class of it's own, I can tour with a full load or take the boxes off and throw it around the twisties, admittedly with some effort.
+Cliffodemus Glad we concur!
Well done review, thank you. I have a 2013 GTL in the States but rented a GT the past two years in the Alp's. Works well on the Stelvio switchbacks (with practice) or on the Autobahn at triple digit speeds.
Nice :0)
I also have a 2012 K1600 GTL. Regarding long distance comfort, there are many who agree that the seat is uncomfortable. I replaced my seat with a custom seat from Russell Day Long. It was the best investment that I ever made. It is all day long comfortable.
Absolutely fantastic review. Most informative. Many Thanks. Gives me food for thought. Love my GSA, but I only do big miles in Europe and K16GT may be more suited. Thank You
Ooooh! Dribble! I was a born again biker, had a K1200GT for five years for what I thought was my final fling ...... I found its seat a bit high, so the low seat options here would have been really helpful - and I'm still about 6 ft 1 inch with standard legs! Reverse would also have been very welcome, very difficult to push back if on any sort of down slope and no way out forward. One of the best things I ever did was my back to biking course. I enjoyed the ride immensley, very nicely presented. Thank you. Bob.
Thank you Bob - good to have you along!
Hi MMF
I've been waiting for you to review this bike. I owned a 2014 model from new, and it was a really fantastic bike, which I rode through France and up to Scotland, amongst other places. I really loved it, such a fantastic long distant bike. But there were a couple of big "buts". As you touch on - weight!! I dropped mine once and nearly dropped it another couple of times, and around town or filtering in traffic jams was hard work, my other personal issue was that I never quite got completely comfortable - always ending up with a crick in my neck for some reason despite trying various mods to resolve the situation.
Now with quick shift and reverse I'd love another one, but would still want my GS (which is what replaced the K1600) and garage space doesn't allow for two bikes, sad to say. Such a fantastically powerfully engine and a great tourer.
My favourite trips? I have a picture in the man cave of me with the K1600 at both Lands End and John O'Groats. Happy Days.
So what do you prefer, the 1600 or the GS???
On the whole the GS. It's just such a great all rounder. But I do miss that K1600 silky smooth straight six! But I don't miss the weight of the thing, both would be an ideal garage to me.
I think riding two up with luggage the K1600LT is the way to go. I sold my 2009 K1200LT for a 2013 R1200RT and love the lighter weight and great handling. But I do miss the smoother motor and dead smooth highway ride, it also is a bit more cramped for me and the wife!
Thanks Norm -- you in the US by chance?
I loved the I-phone camera view, that was excellent!!
A very nice looking bike and again a great review as always. Really enjoying your channel. Big thumbs up!!
Very kind of you to say so - cheers - TMF
Thanks for the video and review. For me, most heavy weight luxury tourers can blast easily on motorways with pillion and luggage. That's the easy (boring bit). The thing that separates an average heavy weight luxury tourer from an extraordinary one is how it behaves on the tight twisties that we are rewarded with after the boring motorway mile munching....
Yes very good point....
...I'd never consider such a ride but thought I'd check your review of the K1600GT since of course, you're style of review is enjoyable and I wanted to see what you saw in this to be taking time to review it. Lots of video editing involved in any such presentation after all. This really is in a category all to itself - thanks for the review/ride along and sharing it!
You're very welcome - what did you make of the bike? Not convinced still??
...it's funny but after a short amount of time on my R1200GS, I really get the unique, appropriate nature of this design - considering I've always preferred big single Dual Sport rides and come from a racing development background, the jump to GS was an adventurist jump (slight pun intended). Now that I'm here, I've begun considering what rides I'd add to my stable. The GS line is a keeper, perhaps the KTM 690 might meet my need for more serious offroad adventure (80/20 off/on road). But what about a long distance tour that's 100% road with a passenger? I'd never have a Goldwing, so that's out, so what about Ducati or BMW? Well, I'd not ever seen a K1600GT here in Southern Oregon but now that I've seen your review, I'm considering that this could be a good addition for it's intended purpose while having a bit more spice, certainly to my liking... Appreciate your style of review - succinct, and to the point with style!
Ah, very kind of you sir!
You should keep one or two fingers always positioned on the front brake lever......the one second that it takes to take your fingers off the throttle to apply the brake eats up precious real estate that you need in an emergency stop situation. Keeping a couple of fingers on the front brake lever will reduce reaction time and save you like 20 feet or more of reaction time/distance at highway speeds.
We need you to do a back to back road test of the GTL & the new 2018 Goldwing, also BMW needs to update there dash display, as the new wings is amazing
The dash setup ain't bad, a newer design might be better.
The key items I need to keep an eye on are below my eye line, forcing me to take my eyes off the road to physically look down, a bike like the k16 has so much grunt in it it's very easy to find yourself doing far in excess of what you thought you were doing compared to whats legal. Third gear tops out at around 110 mph! :)
Have a 2013 K1600GT now at 35000km. Have done France, Italy, Switzerland and soon Spain which will bring it up to 40+ 000km. I have highway/motorway and toll roads de-activated on GPS. I often import my routes and it's the same NO straight roads, no highways and no boring toll roads. BMW engineers have given us a Sport GT that begs for the twisty bits. All that engineering is so wasted on straight roads, highways and toll roads that you'd better off buying a Goldwing and saving money. BMW have put this bike in a class of it's own. It's not an RT nor a Goldwing. Those do what they do very well but you don't go canyon carving on an RT and much less the Goldwing. When using the quickshift on the 2017 model, apart from using the clutch to start of, you don't need again unless you comming to a halt. The other reason for the shifter on this is that the three piece drive train did have a 'lash' that was not justified for a 20K+€ bike. I've tested the 2017 and there is NO lash thank god! People, many reviewers of this bike think tourer = highway. That is true for most tourers with retired old people on it. At 42, I swopped a ZX10r (bought 0km and did track and road till 30K km with it) for the K16. It was a surprise because I initially wanted a 1200 GSA LC. Having test driven both, the transition from a sport bike rider to something of this nature was much more naturel moving to a K16. GSA is an awesome bike, efficient chassis but the boxer engine seemed all but dead in comparison! As an owner now heading for 40000km on K16, don't waste your time buying this if you want to do highwway riding. Get an RT or Goldwing. This is truly a Sport GT. It's got power, chassis and brakes to boot. Sitting even on small sections of motorway at the legal limits with this is like taking a sleeping pill.....completely wasted. BMW have created something unique. Forget the weight. The chassis and brakes and rake angle let you have loads of fun. Most impressive is 70% torque available at 1500rpm. 50km/h in 6th gear, you blip the throttle and it hauls ass without any form of vibration whatsoever. BMW did not put ESA and DTC and different engine modes so you could waste it and 'cup' your tyres on a boring motorway!
Well thank you very much for watching anyway - I'll let others consider your comments and draw their own conclusions. All the very best to you sir....TMF
No Problem. It would be great to hear from other owners as well. I am biased towards SportGT as opposed to tourer/maxi tourer/ giant scooter .. :p
Best bike reviews on RUclips - thanks
You are too kind sir!
that would be a fantastic way to slip across America!
Wouldn't it just! Thanks for watching - TMF
Excellent review , looks like they have done an great job on the quick shifter and the other enhancements for 2017
Thanks Keith....and yes, lovely machine, super refined...
Beautiful bike! You can't beat the upright riding position and the comfort it provides. Paired with the big engine and the German engineering, it makes for a memorable experience.
Agreed, until you stop on a camber with full luggage and a pillion!! Me thinks this is for rugby players only! Beautiful machine though I agree, if only I was a giant.....
I do love these bikes, the thought of having one brand new and keeping it for years and doing tens of thousands of miles really appeals to me but the downsides are money and size/weight. Can't imagine using one of these to filter it'd be near impossible. And to think that with a rider, pillion and luggage this bike could easily hit 500kg which is mental! 😁
Isn't it - but people do do this stuff so it must be possible!
TheMissendenFlyer Without panniers I imagine it's do-able but not exactly confidence inspiring having that weight beneath you
Great review - keep em coming!
I bought the Trophy SE - guess I'm a Triumph man but watched the 1200RT review as you referred to in the Trophy review, this review followed on from that. I have the same suction effect with the screen on the Trophy but as you say you once you know it's going to happen it's not a problem.
I think I prefer the RT dash though - or parts of it, the 1600GT looks a little dated by comparison.
I think the guys should have fitted the panniers and possibly the top box - these do change the feel of the bike and it's most likely the way people would purchase the bike.
Great review though and look forward to more of them.
Beautiful bike. "Turbine Smooth" is how I would describe my FJR1300. I'd love to have that cruise control. Thanks for the video.
Another fantastic review. Thank you.
You're very welcome - thank you...
I've ridden a few 1600GT's...I found the bike let down by very agricultural gearbox! The backlash/gear change clunking is unacceptable for a bike in this price class...I'm surprised you don't mention it as its clearly audible when your changing gears. :(
In 1985 I rode from Ireland to Italy on my MZ 250 ETZ. I think this would be a different experience :) Having said that the MZ did a superb flawless job.
Yeah, how things have moved on eh?
Excellent rate at which you're producing these reviews, hate having to wait weeks or months as with some. Good work.
Thanks Tim, not sure how long I can keep it up - I'm knackered!!
I had a K1600GTL for three years and I think it was the best motor I've ever ridden. But last year went back to the RT mainly because of the weight and heft of the GTL. I am a touring rider but I live in midtown Manhattan which is not friendly territory for big bikes. I love the hill start assist but have never used the shift assist. Must give it a go sometime!
Yeah I completely get that Vincent, lovely bike the K1600 but just too darn big for me!
Many thanks for the review, I'm buying one of these beauties this weekend coming from an FJR, I fancied a bike with a few more luxuries and tech. Plus that engine is just intoxicating. Take care.
Enjoy!
@@TheMissendenFlyer Cheers :)
I test rode a K1300S. A big fast sports tourer. With a unique steering set up, which left it feeling vague and delayed on the turn in. Very nice rocket of a bike. Looks wise it didn't look so middle age biker as that. All those GT BMW's are touring only really. Thanks for the look sir.
Hmmm, I'd like a go on the K1300 at some point though, it's great to experience different bike set ups as it really helps focus what you want out of a bike (at least in my case it does)....cheers for watching as ever - plenty more coming the next couple of days!
TheMissendenFlyer Yeah the K1300s had the same front steering set up as your test bike I think. I could definitely feel it turn in a good deal after you had made the input at the bars. And it wasn't as precise as a standard set up. You have to ride them enthusiastically having said that to really notice it. Did you notice?
Nope - but then I'm a rubbish rider with little skill or understanding of what's going on - I just like riding 'em....
TheMissendenFlyer That I doubt. But if so a lot like myself!
Great video.
I can see myself hitting the four corners effortlessly on this machine. I have had three Goldwings, and currently own a kawasaki cruiser and a Harley ultra classic. I plan to take the 2017 for a test ride real soon. Looks like time for a change.
Take a hefty wallet!
Superb video. I had a K100RT many years ago, followed by a K100RS 16V. Your video reminds me of both of them. Thanks very much.
Nice one TMF, like you say the RT is a very viable and less hefty alternative, obviously it wouldn't match the performance
of an aggressively ridden K1600 but it would probably help to keep ones licence for longer.
cheers
..to be fair the RT is no slouch either...
This is a great motorcycle I made the right decision when I replaced my 2016 goldwing that was stolen.
I just did a 2,550 mile round trip ride from my home starting point here in Texas 1,200 miles to las Vegas Nevada....THIS BIG BMW EATS UP THE ROADS!
Very comfortable it's made for the highway riding 70 mph to 95mph for hours no problems I rode 830miles in 11hours... And I felt great! I definitely made the right choice I don't like the 2018 goldwings it's not for me.
But now the only thing that maybe a problem is tires looking like it's will be hard on tires? I do a lot of very long highway riding. This set of tires I'm putting on will be Metzelers Road tec.
Those Metzelers are brilliant for big miles - used them on my trip to the Arctic on my GS...
BMW 4- and 6- cylinder engines wear the cats' pajamas. Outstanding engines. Were it not for these I may not be a BMW rider.
No wind screen wiper.. I'm bitterly disappointed!
Fascinating to get an insight into such an extreme part of motorcycling.Size,weight,complexity,price versus comfort,quality,luxury and confidence in the brand.
On a personal level it's not for me even if i had the funds but i enjoyed that review.I wonder what the actual difference between two riders would be after say a 300 mile day on a machine like this and my bandit1250 or vfr.
Great review,cheers Mr Flyer.
Yes, would indeed be interesting..thanks for the kind words and thanks for stopping by - TMF
Great review,great bike,I don't think it's built for UK though...Maybe for USA...
Yeah I think you may be right...thanks for the kind words - TMF
I have rented a GTL twice. Once to tour the Alps in Switzerland and Italy and again to tour the UK. The mighty K worked just fine in both environments. I am renting one again to tour Ireland later this year. Not quite as comfortable as my K1200LT, but much lighter and more powerful.
Im in Australia and this is one of the bikes Im looking at now.. It would really suit the long distance riding here I reckon. Cheers for the review again mate
@@LTVoyager that sounds fantastic and something I'd love to do. Where did you hire them from? Cheers.
The aesthetics, especially the front, reminds me quite a bit of the Triumph Sprint, which despite not being evolved much over the last 10 or so years, I still find appealing.
+Sergi Vega Yes I love the look of the Sprint too, in fact I think it looks better than this mighty BMW...but I sort of get the resemblance- thanks for watching and for stopping by- TMF
Thanks for the vid, a good one indeed.
Lovely bike, that engine is superb, I had a demo for a full day ... really impressed by it .
Yes smooooth isn’t it
Great review again MFT, I love my R1200RT which is powerful enough, agile and gives significantly better mpg than the K1600GT I had during a short term lease. One of the benefits of commuting on a bike is being able to get through the traffic and whilst the RT is quite wide it is noticeably lighter and gives me more confidence pushing it through the gaps than the K1600GT ever did.
Yep - I can relate to that Guy - thanks for watching and for stopping by once again...all the best - TMF
love your reviews. your voice sounds like a british airways captain !
+Cj Seymour Well I have flown a few British Airways owned aircraft in my time! :0) Thanks for the kind words - TMF
Not my type of bike in the slightest but love watching your reviews, keep up the good work 👊😁
Thank you Ginger Nomad - appreciate your support - TMF
I didn't see any mention of it in the preview, but I presume it has a 6 speed gearbox with a gear indicator on the display? And a centre stand?
It a masterpiece mate
I'm curious how many of the years of the K16 has a quickshift pro option, i'm still figuring out what mine has or doesn't have.
I don't know - should be easy enough to work out if yours has it or not though!
Awesome review I have a 2016 GTLE Exclusive and wondered what the 2017 model was like to compare so thank you
Beautiful bike
Rode a hiredb2016 GTL with the wife for 7 days around the south island of New Zealand... It is a handfull in the carpark but defies its size when on the move... Effortlessly rolling through 85kph signposted bends at 110.. It sounded like a Ferrarri when stirred up and like a jet turbine when touring along... Best bike ive ridden... I wasnt sure if I could go back to my VTX1300 after our tour... Still not..
Glad you liked it Mitch - I think it's just a bit too big'n'heavy for me...at least once on every ride you have to stop, and I would be too concerned about dropping the beast...nice bike though as you say....thanks for watching - TMF
Good review. I really like the K1600GT, but I went for the RT instead because of budget. The RT is more or less like the GT, with a few options less and a different engine. By the way, you turn off the radio by pressing and holding the on/off button of the radio for a few seconds. A short press of the button mutes the radio.
Aha, radio issue solved! Thanks for the intell!
Appreciate your taking the time to post, again: Thank you. Interested in your comment: "It has all the electronics you need"... Would somebody please explain why you need any of these newfangled and expensive "rider aids"? Other than to bore your mates with down t'pub, of course...
Well you don't really need any do you - but I for one prefer a bike to have ABS and Traction control - the rest (riding modes, etc) I'm not bothered about....
The Flyer Rules!
I had one of these on test a while back, and it's a magnificent machine, however, once I got over the initial wonderment of the bike, I actually found it a bit boring. I think it's so good, it actually defeats itself as a riders bike. I preferred the RT, it felt a bit more engaging.
Yeah I preferred the RT overall too - the 1600 is all about the engine....
How nobody complains about the miserable gearbox? I had a 2015 and a 2018 with quick shifter and both were a nightmare in terms of gearbox.
You should try one in the dark, the adaptive headlight is absolute genius. PS love the "70 mph or thereabouts"!
Yes sadly I didn't have the chance too...but thanks for the feedback and for watching. All the best - TMF
Nice review as always have to say it looks a beast!! , much prefer the look of the BMW 1200R that you reviewed recently.
Fair enough, thanks John - TMF
Thks again for the honest review.Just a note:I would think to maintain the RT is a lot cheaper and easier than the Big Six.
Yes good point, it may well be (on spark plugs alone!) - thanks for watching - TMF
My first commen on your channel...I coudn't resist as I'm considering this bike. First of all, I've grown to really appreciate all of your videos (bike reviews, how-to's, and explorations on your personal bikes). Second - your communication skills are excellent and I truely enjoy the fact that you are in England (Blighty as you call it) and I'm in the USA, yet I feel a connection to you. Background: I currently own a 2013 Triumph Tiger Explorer and a 2014 Ducati MTS Pikes Peak. My question: I noticed you've used the phrase "Turbine Smooth" to describe an engine only twice - when you reviewed the 2017 Triumph Tiger Explorer and now on this review of the BMW K1600 GT. Could commment on why you used this phrase for both of these bikes and which one you think is truely worthy of the phrase? Keep up the good work. P.S. I'm also considering the BMW R1200 GS Rallye as well, so I'm looking forward to your review on that bike. Thank you.
+Jim Watts Hi Jim, thanks for your support and kind words. Well at the time the big Triple did seem very smooth, turbine like - but in comparison to the big BMW it's not as turbine like. Both smooth but the 6 cylinder is the winner in that department. Thanks for watching and for stopping by - all the best - TMF
Great concise, entertaining review as always! I have been tempted to trade my '05 FJR for an earlier model K1600, but, my FJR doesn't miss a beat unfortunately! Can't believe you haven't had the 'hand' pushing you along before! You clearly ride fast bikes :) Curious - how many miles do you ride per year? Thanks!
...I dunno - I guess about 15,000 across my bikes....why do you ask?
I rode this bike recently and was really worried before but after riding it I wouldn't hesitate to ride it again.
Yes I know what you mean, I have to admit I was a little scared of it too....
Your selection of bikes has gotten my attention! Hope to get my Sprint ST up and running this week. Ride Safely.
Ooh, I love the Sprint ST, it's the machine that got me back into biking! All the best - TMF
Andy, which one do you prefer : the Honda Gold Wing DCT since you"ve tested it earlier this year or this one here ? Difficult question ? Honestly !
Easy question - Gold Wing hands down - carries it's weight lower, much more manageable - awesome bike...
@@TheMissendenFlyer , thank you, Andy, for your answer ! I tried the K 1600 GT for only one hour in 2015 and only after a few miles I was convinced it wasn' t ever going to be mine because of the handling. The engine itself was ok. Such was not the case when I tested the HGW DCT early april 2018 : after a few miles, I was assured that this would be the right choice if ever I purchased. And after more than 5.000 miles not regretting a single moment ! Thanks for your RUclips channel ! So nice to watch your recordings and commentary ! Best regards, Alain from Belgium.
It is a beautiful bike, with the smoothness of the K comparatively to the R.
The biggest downside (for me) is probably the weight, especially for town riding, doing U-turns in tight spots and pushing it about when the need arises.
Exactly, and that's a show stopper for me (as I'm not a particularly big fella)....
They should have done what they did with the R1200rt, where they 'shaved off' lots of weight when they updated from the R1150rt.
I do enjoy my biking, (but BMW should by now already know about the practicalities of owning & riding a bike) as it's not going to be sitting in a garage.
Having ridden this beautiful machine, my 4 cylinder K1300GT is actually racier and faster with much higher red line, but less torque. As you noted the engine is like a turbine and confidence inspiring. Overtaking and quick lane changes are elementary. With that, I would likely stick with the BMW K machines. I've riden the RT too which is a bit more nimble and also a very fine machine as well. You can't go wrong with either machine. Once again a very fine review! Cheers!
Thank you T Sav appreciate the kind comments
The Engine and the Transmission is worth the price difference between the RT and the K1600 in my opinion. I cannot get over the smoothness of this bike comparison to the GS and GSA that I owned back to back. Since I got the K 1600 B, I just don't want to go back home at the end of the ride :) Cheers and be safe!
Good to hear from you again, it’s been a while!
Have you ever considered being a football commentator!!?!?! Hehe
As I hate football - no!
I've got a 1st gen RT at the moment. When I can save enough I'm torn between a ZZR1400 and 16GT at my next bikes, mainly because they are such different beasts. At the moment the K16 is winning simply because I'll be using it as the ultimate blood bike (Main reason for getting the RT)
Have you ridden one yet Mark?
TheMissendenFlyer neither yet. used too big heavy bikes thought because I've had original pan Europeans lol. They're only an extra 30kg on them lol
Thanks again for the reviews TMF. Died laughing at the "Jolly Woodman". Aren't we all jolly? I may make that my new moniker. Where is it so I can get a pic next time I'm in blighty?
It's on the road from Burnham to Beaconsfield in Buckinghamshire...well worth a visit, I happen to know it does a pretty spectacular lunch too! Thanks for watching....TMF
Great review as always. Not a bike I'd ever own - the thought of a bike that weighs nearly 5 times as much as I do is frankly terrifying!
I'm with you on that thought!
Great review again TMF. Couple of comments: Turning off the radio on both the GT and the RT is less than obvious. A short press only mutes, hence it's back on each time you start. Hold down for a couple of seconds, and it turns off fully. Took me a while to figure it out. Having ridden the 1600 I'd fully agree with your comment on the weight being the deal-breaker. For me it was weight, fuel consumption and, of course, price. Having said that, if I regularly rode across continents with a passenger, the GT would may be the better choice.
One request on a different subject - would you plan a review of the new Navigator 6 once it's released and you are able to borrow one from the dealer - would like to hear your comparison compared with your current Nav 5.
Yes a few people have asked for that - I will if I can!
For emissions the 2017+ GT has a somewhat "neutered" throttle mapping (Euro-4/5). This is easily fixed with an aftermarket tune, and some of the newer enhancements are probably worth that annoyance. I recently bought a 2016 GT Premium which has the much more lively throttle response (almost scary in dynamic mode at first). But it lacks the Shift-Assist-Pro. I'll have to decide if it's worth getting that retro-fitted. I'll probably just enjoy it as is until future features entice me to buy new. I'm 6'1", 200 lbs. and I need the standard seat in the high setting to feel comfortable. But I think in the low setting the bike will accommodate average-sized riders who are okay handling the weight. It really is quite heavy, but the balance and handling are exquisite, so it's very easy to ride even at parking lot speeds. This is a beautiful specimen of engineering. If I wanted less weight, I think for ergonomics I'd probably choose a GSA over an RT. I've only sat on the RT in a showroom, but the triangle felt a little cramped for my build. I'll have to explore the seat options a bit more for that model when I'm next in the market. But for now, I'm very happy with my GT. It's awesome.
Thanks for the real world feedback Ben - appreciated...
Kudos to you for showing this great bike w/o the traveling bags on it. I never use mine. I have the 2017' GT model. Love it. Rides and handles unlike any other 750 LB bike. But non kudos to BMW for those fugly factory, monstrous mufflers. I put slip-ons on my bike. Mush smaller and sound better. GREAT review sir.
Thank you Louie, glad you found it of interest - do you largely concur with my thoughts having lived with the bike??
Absolutely. Handles unlike its weight. Power at low RPM and then if you want to let it go you'll be over 100 MPH in seconds. Wife rides a Ducati X Diavel S which is much lighter. She can ride my bike with ease. I saw the new K 1600 B version at EICMA. All black and more slung in the rear. Wouldn't mind owning one of those too.
You make us want to change our bikes the whole time!Nice bike for sure.
:0)
The review hasn't started and I want to give a huge thank to all those that helped TMF get to review this bike!
Hi great review as always I would just like to say that I have the 2016 k1600gt sport and I am still struggling with the screen as you commented when it's in the upmost position you are looking through it and when it's in the lowest position there's a lot of wind noise.I have recently changed the screen and made it worse I think its got a lot to do with the rider and position of every individual there for no advise could be given also I'm 5 ft 10 with fairly short legs and I do struggle with the weight and seat height but I wouldn't let this put anyone of buying one,I came of a r1 straight onto this bike was hell of a shock for me as I didn't even road test the bike before I brought its a silly thing to do most people would say but I haven't looked back I still go for rides with friends on super sport bikes and keep up with them if not better than them and I'm not the one shaking there hands and feet whilst going along,one last thing the k1600 gt sport is faster than most or more of all the super sport bikes 0 to 60 it's actually point 3 of a second faster than a zx10 it's just when you get past 60 they have the advantage also the gtsport has a way faster top speed than the gtlux and I believe it's mapping is different anyway, sorry to go on looking forward to the next review!
Thanks for all the info Matt - good to hear from an owner with some time in the saddle - awesome machine....that engine!
Why do you hate the radio ?? Its a great addition to a bike !!
I don't hate the radio, it's just wrong on a bike...as is a reverse gear and a sunroof.....
The GT is a little more sporty, like the older K1300GT. Although the 1600 sounds more like an old Kawasaki K1300 six cylinder bike. Bike looks great. Would like to ride the 1600GT. I rode two 1600LT bikes and I didnt like the fairing or handling. Bike was too big for me but i do want to ride a GT.