Review One Year Later on the 2012 BMW K1600 GTL - Trading Back for a Harley Davidson Touring Model
HTML-код
- Опубликовано: 23 авг 2024
- As some of you know I’m a long-time rider with a love for the freedom riding a bike across country affords. For this reason, the BMW K1600 GTL is the top of the line touring machine - the best Germany had to offer in 2012 at least. I’ve enjoyed my 4,000 miles on this incredible machine. We took two trips on it and several weekend days spent on the saddle.
However, with a 4K mile trip I just wanted the next level of motorcycle comfort and that means another Harley Davidson. But the BMW K1600 GTL is a phenomenal motorcycle loaded with performance, comfort and technology. Here is our review and thoughts of the BMW K1600 GTL.
Questions are appreciated and please subscribe and check our part 2 - the new Harley!
Even if I don't agree about Harleys I appreciate the info on the BMW. Thanks!
Big mistake dude.
I’ve been riding Harley’s for 20 years. Currently have a 2017 Ultra and last year bought a GS adventure. Unfortunately now that I’ve tasted the forbidden fruit …. The Ultra is a bone shaker compared to the BMW. My wife now prefers the beemer and we’re thinking of trading the Harley for a GTL. It’s interesting how we all differ when it comes to the perception of comfort on a motorcycle. 😳
Hi,
I’m very satisfied with my 2018 BMW K1600 GTL.
Bought it new and have all options.
One of the best bikes I have owned.
The reverse is to a good help when fully loaded.
Leif Andersson yeah it’s a great bike 👍 Planning on taking some long trips?
Driven Nashville
Yes,
I find it great for longer trips as well as just cruising around with friends on a weekend.
Would like to go to Europe next summer.
With the right maintenance, there shouldn’t be any issues.
So far the odo is almost at 20000 km.
Greetings from Sweden!
@@Driven-Productions
Sorry for the late reply!
Yes, I have plans,going to Germany, France but we all know the pandemic got in the way.
I still have the K1600 gtl. Just great. Also own a HD Road King Classic👍😃
Hope you’re pleased with the Ultra Limited HD
@@leifandersson6808 actually sold it within one month and went back to a Harley Road Glide Ultra. Since then put 20k miles on it. Just did a tour to Texas Hill country, its on the channel search recent videos. It’s another video no one watched but you may enjoy it as a real rider.
@@Driven-Productions
Thanks!
I’ll watch it. 👍
I just sold my ultra classic and have bought this exact model and year. What a huge difference. Much better fuel economy and more comfortable.
Cool. About to take a 10 day tour to Texas on my Road Glide Ultra. Still prefer it’s comfort over this, but for shorter trips these are hard to beat.
@@Driven-Productions I appreciate the video and your thoughts on the bikes.
I appreciate your honesty. The technology is superior but Harleys are comfortable!!
They also have soul or vibe. I guess after 400 miles day after day on one I’m happier.
I love my K1600GT and I can ride it for 500 miles without discomfort. But the GT has you in a slightly forward sporty position with a small amount of your upper-body weight supported by your arms. I think this helps to keep my back from taking too much abuse. I also have highway pegs, so I could kick back a bit if I wanted. But I've never even used them. We're all built a little differently, though, so I can understand your complaint. Good luck with the Harley.
Thanks Ben great comment sir. So I’ve successfully completed two 4K + trips on the Road Glide Ultra since this video came out. While I loved the BMW, the Road Glide just fits me like a glove and I love that V twin 114 vibe. Longest day of riding was 728 and other than mental fatigue I was comfortable.
good video to watch, ive a K1600 GT SE with akrapovic pipes on it (still quite reserved but a much throatier growl at higher revs), a larger, wider screen (as im 6ft 3) - deluxe hand stitched comfort seats in brown leather (awesome!), and its the most comfortable bike ive owned and im almost 50 and had a lot in my life (im lucky!) (id miss that inline 6 monster engine myself and the reliable shaft drive!) - and I know Harley are a 'way of life' in America. They aren't quite so highly regarded in Ireland/UK. Not going to argue with you - as from my point of view if you ride a bike, you are a good man. I am glad you are happy and I wish you all the best in the future with your harley ! Best from (a wet and cold) Ireland !
theonlyredspecial great comment 💪 ride safe and enjoy the nice days Ireland provides to take her out.
Although l am about to take delivery of a K1600 l am now convinced that I have made the right decision. Thanks for your honesty in reviewing the bike and I take on board your comments regarding its duel capability. I currently have an Rt 1200 and K1200s both offer different styles of riding but obviously I can only ride one at a time. Hopefully the K1600 will offer a blend of sport and touring capabilities? “ you certainly sold it to me”😊👏
how is the 1600?
Great video and perspective but Man how times have changed...I recently took a visit to a dealer to view the 2022 GT and GTL...The bikes are truly spectacular. The GTL I noticed right off the bat is a testicle killer vs the ride position of the GT. Also the resales have risen tremendously. I'm seeing used high mileage units priced with minimal decrease from what they were new!
I assume you don't live in the UK? I have been looking for a touring bike and the K1600 is my preferred choice. Best of all is the prices of used ones. So many folk over here cannot see beyond a Gold-Wing, meaning the big Beemer can be had for a bargain price..
I test drove a 2016 ultra limited. I ended up buying a 2012 K 1600 GTL and don't regret it. That said the only thing I will give credit for is HD has a better sound system than BMW.
For long distance touring, I'd definitely have the new Honda Goldwing near, or even at the top of that list. All three bikes are amazing though. I grew up around Harley's & BMW's because of my father. He started riding motorcycles legally in 1958 when he was 17. His first new BMW was a 1985 BMW K100RT when I was six years old. He's been buying new BMW's every 3-5 years ever since. His first K1600 GTL was in 2012. His second was a 2018 K1600 GTL. He kept that 2012 longer than usual because he loved it so much. Now he's riding a 2023 K1600 GTL. That's his only bike now. Once he got into his late 70's, he stopped riding as much. I don't want to make this too long, but he's had the big Harley's, along with many others... His favorite Harley was his 2007 Harley Davidson CVO Screamin' Eagle 110ci Dyna. Anyway, he's also owned a couple of Goldwings, a Honda Aspencade, a Yamaha Venture etc etc... At some points, he owned 5 motorcycles at the same time. He even owned a few sport bikes like the 1994 Ninja ZX-11, a 1993 Bimota Deici, a modified 1997 Bimota SB-6R that weighed under 400 pounds wet, and put down 168 HP @ the rear wheel. His first sport bike was a bike I actually rode recently... A 1984 Yamaha FJ1100. It's incredible all the bikes my father owned... Except for his first bike in the 1950's, they were all new when he bought them. Anyway, on my channel if you click videos and then click oldest videos, about 5-10 videos down from the top I have a quick video of his 2012 K1600GTL pulling up next to his '07 Screamin' Eagle Dyna, if you're interested. I'll subscribe after this comment.
👍
Appreciate you sharing my man. Sounds like you also have a cool dad 👊💯
Harleys are great, but their owners are... well... Harleys are great :D
I have been looking to a K1600 but much prefer the GT. I find the seat position on the GTL pushes you into the tank and squashes bits I don't want squashing....
"If you're lookin to tour, the best motorcycle in the world is gonna be the Harley Davidson" Man, that's an impressive way to lose all credibility in one sentence.
Appreciate your comment non the less. I love the BMW, but rather do 4k miles on a Road Glide Ultra anyday
I have all of them.. the bmws get the most miles...
@@skippynj1979 literally just got a GS 1200 Adventure Black series fully loaded tonight. Thats the only bike I’ve wanted but never experienced. Will do a review soon.
@@Driven-Productions it will change your life! Your back may or may not have the same issues.. you might have to work on bar placement and seat hight.... I have trouble with the American vtwin bikes and my hips rotating forward.. causes my lower back to curve.. I do much better in the sport position.. enjoy that boxer motor, I miss my R1250rt.. Best bike I ever had hands down..
@@skippynj1979 we’ll see. Look out for my thoughts in a few weeks.
Man, you must have been channeling me in your videos because you hit on several things that we have in common.
1. My Harley Road Glide Ultra was just stolen, now I'm looking at a K1600 (visa/versa)
2, Your comment about the bike that gets the most attention is not the Harley but the Ducatti...that is what I experienced.
3. Loud pipes are not for Touring..agreed.
4. I love that u mention HD AND Indian...I had both and they are really the best way to tour in America.
5. U also mentioned the depreciation of the BMW...it seems the same for Ducatti too...they are giving these bikes that are older than 5 years away!
thnx for sharing.
Appreciate you commenting. On a 8 day tour right now follow me on IG to see the daily updates.
Hello... Before I rode the gt1600, I rode the gl1800... Bmw is the top bike on the market, but Honda is Honda... Take it as my opinion
you allude to back posture. i drive a 2008 r1200rt. have noticed shoulder exhaustion. back okay.
im looking to add an k1600gtl to attach an astro sidecar and haul timeout trailer.
and do alot of miles.
my ideas include: well packed duffle bag on passenger seat, to act as back support; handlebar riser(s); highway pegs. I prefer BMW.
Please advise me as to BACK HEALTH and Posture Support
while riding 15-20,000 miles per year???
Interesting perspective. Hope you like your HD. Personally, if not K then I would prob go wing. BMW just decided to finally spread some love on the K here for 2022. Looking pretty strong again.
I was opposite. After putting 70k miles on my 2013 FLHTK I went to a K1600GT. Wife and I feel that the BMW is much more superior!
It is in my ways. But its a vibe thing with me just enjoy the V twin and the comfort of the Road Glide.
It is
Funny, I'm doing the exact opposite...and for the same reasons, comfort, technology, power, etc.
😎
Yeah - it all comes down to personal taste. Harleys are great tourers, just stay away from serious ‘mountain’ country. In Australia, with our roads and conditions, the best tourer is a BMW GS, but it’s a bit tall for some……I’ve toured on Harleys (including in the USA), BMW’s (also including one long trip in the USA) Honda Gold Wing - Triumph Trophy - Indian Chieftain and various others over the last 52 years……I certainly wouldn’t want to go back to long days on a CB750 Honda, we are very spoiled as riders today. If I was about to do a lap of Australia, taking in all the various terrains and roads, it would probably be on a big Beemer. 😎👍
You're gonna miss that 7 gallon tank and that 11.7 standing quarter.
I traded my 2015 K1600GTL in for a 2018 HD UL and agree the HD is a more comfortable touring bike, but man do I miss the BMW power..instant and endless. But for 700 mile days HD all day. Thanks for the vid.
slcea7 totally. If I could only have one bike I may actually choose the BMW. But for touring trips, just can’t beat the comfort of an Ultra Limited or Road Glide. Ride safe 💪
That's just an aftermarket seat away, getting the ultimate in comfort on a long ride. Kinda hard to get the HD to perform like the BMW.
@@dundonrl , the main problem I had with the BMW was the knee angle. So, K16 won’t work. But, I’ve been looking at the R1250GSA with high suspension, high seat, and lowered pegs. May be better than the HD for position. That my be the next bike...
@@slcea7 I understand that. I'm going to put highway pegs on my GTL, soon.
@@dundonrl, I had the Ilium Works pegs on my GTL. Worked great.
Great review, hope you are enjoying your new Harley. I am looking in this range.
Both seem like great bikes. With my money I’d go with the BMW because it seems like Harley Davidsons are a dime a dozen, but to each their own.
Did it ever have any reliability issues? Thanks..
Agree totally there Joe few bikes turn heads more than the K1600 GTL. People do think it’s special and in many ways it is. So for me the bike was rock solid not one issue. Did change the oil myself not too bad does require a longer allen wrench to get the second plug to drain. As I mentioned it does go through tires roughly 7k to a tops of 10k. The valves (they say) need adjusting every 18k which that’s not a cheap job ($700 plus). But overall, bike ran great, very fast when you want too and chill in 6th gear all day.
I totally agree HD’s are so common. They are suppose to be have a rebellious mystique to them. But these days they are basically a bandwagon brand and the motorcycle equivalent to McDonalds. I prefer some Thai or Indian food… but hey, there are people that will line up to the street for a boring old Big Mac. 🤷♂️
My 2018 gtl gets scary with crosswinds. I've learned to just tighten my cheeks and pray.
I kind of get the Comfort, although my butt can't handle the cruiser position that Harley, Indian, touring's give you. I think if my butt could handle that feet forward position I would probably take a hard look at that Indian Roadmaster, those things are beautiful! But I'm kind of stuck with either the BMW GTL or the Honda Goldwing, I love my F6B I have but I'm starting to find out there's way too many issues with gold wings in general, so looking at one of these BMWs now. Gold wings were supposed to be bulletproof, I've taken Immaculate care of this bike and have weird things happening, now it's ghost shifting which means the transmission is shot! With only twenty-nine thousand miles on it it's a shame. Let us know how you like your Harley! Thanks for the video
John Keller appreciate your comment John! I had not heard that on the Goldwings. I think you will love the K1600 GTL. Just buy a used one that has had the valve service at 18k and you will be solid for a long time. Plus you will save a ton over new since they depreciate hard. Ride safe my friend.
@@Driven-Productions yeah I just started looking back into these GTS and GTL, I saw one a 2012 premium with navigation with only six thousand miles for 11800 so you're right on the money in your video on how much they cost, of course then I would have to do that valve adjustment coming up, but like you said not necessary if it's not under warranty and I'm sure it's not by now so, if she's running good let her run, thanks
Here in Canada, the depreciation isn’t at all the same. Both Harley and BMW retain their resale values. All GTL used were in low availability until 2018. Now the pre 2018’s are coming up for sale because people are trading them in on the newer model with reverse. I just purchased a 2019 for about $2K more than the average 2016 model.
Will Roderick that is interesting. Yeah depreciation on these here in terrible.
Nashville Exotic Cars my 2019 cost me a little over $28K brand new and the best price i found on a 2016 was about $26K.
I used to own a 2004 RT and it’s still listed at $6500
Best touring bike? I’m voting for the Goldwing. Best sports touring K1600GTL.
Appreciate the comment
I just don’t know why of the necessarity to do a value job for DOHC engine. If valve gap is off, could it even be adjusted?
I agree with you about the best value. Hands down. My question is: have you found this the BMW 1600 gtl to be slightly more unstable over say 40mph (reported leaning spontaneously) or is it just something developed from the comparison to the Honda GOLDWING due to Honda's wheel base is three 3 inches longer?
Wow, are you kidding? I had my "last" HD in 2018 being they are heavy, slow and challenging while maneuvering at low speed, etc! Be careful out there with your new HD, and in closing I must admit they are nonetheless amongst the most comfortable motorcycle out there.
Yep I’ve added 13k to my Road Glide Ultra since owning it since I traded this in. Two 4K trips under my belt. As I said, love the BMW K1600GTL, but for touring, I’m taking the Road Glide Ultra everyday and twice on Sunday.
@@Driven-Productions True, and as much as l do enjoy my K1600 for every day use, one cannot challenge HD touring motorcycles for outright comfort on long hauls...
I have K1600GTL Exclusive and I've owned several Harley's. Living in Colorado I find the BMW simply handles better than a Harley for going through Canyons. The bike does everything very well..almost to the point of boring. What I've always enjoyed about Harley's is being an American iconic brand. Sure they have quality problems and yes they too depreciate....big time. I've never bought a new bike for this very reason. Purchase an Extended Service Plan from a dealer on a preowned they're selling or get a pre-purchase inspection on a private party bike and both BMW and Harley will sell you a policy. Get one that is two years old and most of the depreciation already happened. The one thing I often don't like about Harley's is this aura of being a bad ass. Just cause you have a Harley, have a rag on your head, ape hangers and a loud Steppenwolf tune does not make you a tough guy.
Yeah I wear a bright Florence jacket when I ride my Road Glide no bad ass hear. Just don’t hit me- please see me!
Ah C'mon man! lWhat if ,istening to "born to be wild" while wearing assless chaps, 10 skull rings and a leather vest? Now you gotta admit that's badass. hahahaha
Does make you wonder why you would trade it in for a Harley? I take delivery of a 2016 K1600GT next week.
I say it mostly in the video. Comfort and vibe on long distance trips mostly. Otherwise the BMW is a better bike overall and used a better value.
@@Driven-Productions yes, I posted the comment before you got to that bit. I don't get Harleys but then I am from Europe so maybe that's why. Ride safe
You'll regret getting that Harley Davidson if you can stand the excessive heat coming off the motor more power to you I traded my 2014 goldwing for a 2020 roadglide limited a big mistake I'm getting rid of the Harley and getting a 2022 k 1600 gtl I'm done with Harley there nothing but cash cows
I traded in my Harley softail for the BMW lol
M yeah I think you will like the BMW over the Softtail. Just depends on what kind of ridding you’re interested in doing.
I’m plotting going from a softail Street Bob first bike to a cruiser/ tourer. I really like the Electra Glide but the K16 is a really hard to say no to.
75% depreciation? Holy smokes!!
I'm new to motorcycles , I can't see myself spending more than $10grand on my first bike . The Harley Davidson bikes I've sat on in comparecen to the other touring style bikes seemed more expensive . I'm not a guy who buys just because it's a popular thing to do. Some of the bikes I've also been looking at 2012 TO 14 Goldwings , BMW K1600 GTL. I'm 6'4" 280 pound . My question to you, now that you've purchased the Harley was it what you expected, as far as comfort, reliability and performance. When compared to the BMW k1600 gtl . I know $10,000 for a used touring bike is not that much but if a Harley is so much better using the three examples then i can save up another 5 grand to make the better buy . I'm very interested in your response. Thanks Pete.
Check out my current Harley Road Glide in this video. I talk a good deal about it. I paid $28k for it, its got 14.5k miles now (19) so riding it when I can. Just did 230 miles Monday on Labor Day. Its a vibe and comfort thing. I think overall the BMW is technically a better bike if you’re looking for performance and touring. ruclips.net/video/RwWD-b9qr58/видео.html
As someone who lives in the UK I find it rather ironic that you find a day when it is 90 degrees as 'miserable'....Try living in the rain soaked UK...You'll soon be begging for 90f of sunshine and heat
was looking at a hondagoldwing from 2012 to 2017 but gotta say this bmw GTL has me hooked cant believe you wanna trade that for a harley touring model good luck
Yeah I’ve got a sport bike still so for me I prefer the touring nature of the Harley.
@@Driven-Productions good i am looking at the same year of the bmw GTL VERY NICE MACHINE
@@rutkowsky1000 hard to best the value prop when they’re this affordable.
500 miles a day? ummm, I do 178 miles a day, and my ass hurts like no tomorrow on the bmw K1200LT, great bike....the BMW 1600 will be my next and last bike...blows gold-wings to pieces..."no bobble head wind turbulence!"...
You should have sold it in Cycle Trader and waited a little bit. You could have got 5k more. I got a 2015 Black with 12k miles for $14k but I had to tow it from Paso Rubles to Sacramento.
Market has changed lately. But still happy with my Road Glide Ultra now. Had the Limited for just six months or so.
You make no mention of the rest of the touring motorcycles: Honda Gold Wing Tour and Yamaha Star Venture to name two.
Are they just OUT from your perspective? Thank you.
They are for me - yes. However the BMW GS1200/1250 is something I am probably buying soon.
I luv harleys and BMW's.
Yep own both still - GSA R1200 now
You can't possibly compare this to a Harley. Just the noise level long distance on a Harley will drive you insane. Quality wise BMW wins hands down, same with handling, speed, tech...etc.
You’re not wrong, I just prefer the comfort of my Road Glide. Kick my legs out, lean back, set the cruise, and ride.
Ditto on the big mistake. 70k? I put that damn near on every bike I’ve owned. 57k on the 2012 CVO Ultra I’m trading in on the BMW 1600B. Yep, had 3 BMWs & 4 Harleys & am going back to BMW. I still have the Indian if I need that v twin feel. Best of luck to ya though.
Murf Rirhke yeah I just don’t have the time to ride like I used to since I’m full steam on the career, keeping the lady happy, and raising two awesome kids. But, I’ve been around toured most the country from Key West to Utah down to Mexico. Just got back from a 7 state tour and posted a video about it. I’ve got our Ecuadorian adventure touring trip ready to post. Please subscribe and thanks for stopping by. Enjoy the new BMW. The CVO Ultra is top spec I’m sure it did ya right.
My ride experience has been the opposite. I've had Road Kings and a Road Glide Ultra, but I have found my 2014 GTS to be more comfortable and feel less beat up at the end of the day on the long haul than the Harleys. I initially didn't think that would be the case with folding my legs underneath and the bars further back, but I have been pleasantly surprised. I have hiway pegs on it if I need them. One caveat is that I'm 6'5" with a 34 inch inseam.
Appreciate you sharing. I love my 19 RG Ultra even after 500 miles I’m still not hurting and enjoying the experience.
One follow up is that I’m keeping my Road King. Sometimes I just want the rumble and sitting back. It’s kind of silly hanging to 2 touring bikes, but they are so different in how they do it that maybe it’s not so crazy after all.
Comparing this BMW to a HD is just plain not equivalent. I have ridden my K16gtl from Baltimore to Wichita and back 5 times, 2 days out, 2 days back, 650mi each day, which I would not even think about on my Electra Glide Ultra (trips were all in August to be clear, too hot for an air cooled v-twin).
I took it in for valve clearance check twice, after which the BMW shop told me they have not done valve adjustment on bikes that have 80kmi on them.
The difference in high speed cruising comfort is ridiculous. As far as maintenance, if you rely on dealers, pay up. To be honest, I service all my own vehicles in my shop (hobby amateur, electrician by trade).
I have ridden since I was 16, now 57, and I will give up my BMW when I can no longer ride. I have owned 10 HD's, 6 Japanese bikes and 2 British. My Ultra Classic? I would sell it in a heartbeat!
No Road Glide ha?
How much for the valve job on the bmw? I read into your comments & seen the cost of the valve job. I'm considering a Kawasaki Concours 14. I never rode pass 150 miles away from home in my 37yrs of riding a motorcycle. I'm 51yrs and now I will like a daily rider, but will also like something I can ride 300 miles 1 way. Put a gal on the back & go.
It’s not cheap - $900-$1.2k depending on the shop.
@@Driven-Productions thank u
A year later, how do you feel about the Harley Davidson now? How many miles in comparison with the GTL in the same time frame? I guess most people don’t consider the Star Venture or 2017 and earlier goldwings when they are looking for power, comfort and all day all weather protection touring.
I still love the vibe of the Road Glide. I’ve done now two big trips with it. A 12 day and a 15 day trip, over 13k miles in that year. The bike gets better as it’s broken in. Not one issue, and it’s just easy and comfortable to ride. Again I still like the BMW and it’s a great ride too.
@@Driven-Productions hey thanks for the reply. I’ve always been a big fan of both the K bikes and the Road Glide Ultra. I always went the more practical affordable route buying Japanese bikes but as they all seem to be making smaller boring bikes nowadays I start reconsidering maybe pulling the trigger on a BMW or HD and rolling the dice. I don’t fit the stereotype of an HD rider and don’t like how you have to “buy” in to the brand if you own a metric. But I still respect the heritage and history of both.
@@Kwhopperfan I’m not into the Harley vibe that much either but it’s a club you can join and make a ton of friends if you want to. I just love their product, on the long touring trips it’s such a great experience. Few bikes you can ride 400 plus miles day after day and not need a chiropractor when you’re done each day.
@@Driven-Productions Thanks for the review, I'm getting a 2016 K1600GTL today and coming from a big V-Twin (103/1700 first one was 125/2053) it will be different but I have changed as a rider and what is import has changed. A few years back I took my KLR650 to BC and then out to the coast with a group and did 4,800 miles in 12 days and it was a blast but after the second long trip I went back to a V-Twin. Totaled the bike in November and have been looking to replace with a like bike until one of my Canadian friends mentioned to me to check out the K1600. Main thing is you have the right bike for the time in your life, I will never go back to the KLR lol many happy miles.
hi bud. I think if you had the face lifted GTL, with the new fairings,extra winglets,.reverse gear, quickshifter pro, etc, etc, you would have kept it. they really upgraded the newer ones.
For the money I would buy the older one again. The new ones just don’t have features that make sense to spend the additional funds. Plus they depreciate hard which really is the largest issue. If I was buying a new touring bike, hands down I would buy the Road Glide Ultra or Indian Roadmaster two tone silver and white color.
The later models (2017+) have a softened throttle response for Euro 4/5 compliance. Get a tune for it and it will behave (misbehave ;-) like the earlier ones.
Soon i'll complete my 10th year as a happy owner of 2011 GTL :)
How does this 2012 model compare with the 2021 model....
Any major difference/upgrade?
No reverse gear, leather stitched seat, older tech, different colors, etc. But still recommend an older one, save the money and don’t take the depreciation hit. Engine and styling largely similar.
how did you find it in crosswind ?? mine is pretty scary in medium crosswind (say 29km/h and above)especially when riding at a speed of 100 km/h and more, any recommendations?
Yeah this bike does get effected by wind more than most. Just got to lean into it, really all you can do other than take off the back pack.
Thank you for this video. I was thinking of going from Harley to a k1600gtl. Having a problem trying to rent a gtl for a day. Tough to make a decision if I can't test ride the BMW. I did go to a Harley and BMW dealership. I have to say I get more excited looking at Harley than looking at BMW. I will probably stick with Harley unless the BMW is far better than the HD.
izzy412izzy412 it’s a totally different machine and vibe. Both are amazing bikes. You should try them both. If you’re into comfort and touring, get the Harley. If you like technology, speed, performance and looks, get the BMW. It’s still comfortable, but not like a Road Glide Ultra.
@@Driven-Productions Thanks for the reply. I ended up buying a 2019 ultra limited.
izzy412izzy412 good for you. Ride in good health. Be sure to gear up always prepare to go down. Don’t be that guy with no jacket and helmet. Mine saved my life in 2017.
12k for that?! WHAT?! Holy shit!
I don't understand it...how can you even compare your choice for a Harley with this bike? There are so much more differences than just the 4(!) cylinders....I just don't get it... with full respect to whatever you choose, I'd like to understand your need to compare these two bikes. They are both in a totally different league. Characterwise they are totally different. But if you want to drive 3000 miles on a 2 cylinder bike, you will definitely discover how tired you can get from vibrations...
Anyway..have fun either way! I like your video.
I mean they’re both long distance touring motorcycles, so they’re in the same class technically. I can also tell you maybe have not experienced a modern Harley. While at a stop light they do vibrate a good deal which is part of the fun, once you get going they are butter smooth. Overall for long distance touring, can’t beat the Road Glide Ultra/Limited. But if I could only have one bike, this is a great one.
What's the servicing of this bike like? Expensive because of this Brand?
Similar to Harley frankly per costs for oil changes and all. The more expensive aspect is the valve adjustment at 18k miles and at points thereafter. I skipped the 18k and did not have any issues. It was already out of warranty, but if you do ride it over 18k miles under warranty, you will have to pay the $700-$1k for that job. Also be prepared to go through tires every 10-12k miles especially on the rear.
bout halfway thru u say, “engineering wise” HOW ELSE do YOU MEASURE?
you say, you want the next ‘level.’ level of what? what else is there than engineering?
context: i have a 1200rt & am buying a used 1600gtl for my astro 2+2 sidecar and TimeOut deluxe rv.
I wanna know if 2019/2020 are good years.
I see little of value in a harley or honda, nothing personal.
@@larrypahl5756 yeah BMW rocks, although have since this upgraded to two other Harley biles, most recently the 2022 CVO Limited in Wicked Orange Pearl. I don’t know they do it for me. Its odd I should be more into BMW cause in the car world I’m a german can boy.
@@Driven-Productions not sure what you said. cant find a response to my question. thanx4effort
hey man how tall are you? is the height ok? do you know if this is much different than gt?
I’m 6 feet tall height for me it was fine, but higher than a Harley. GT should be similar.
It really depends on how and where you ride. Here in the mountains around Salt Lake City UT, I'd never be happy with the lack of performance with any Harley because I ride hard. Having done a 9300 mile coast to coast and back bash in 2017, I covered that distance in 17 days. It is so quiet at speed that listening to classical music in my full face helmet was easy. I chose as many twisty roads as I could find and 500-800 miles a day, day after day were effortless. But if you just want to cruise along at the speed limit on the interstate I'm sure the Harley would be fine. That's the thing about motorcycles - different strokes for different folks! If you want to see what Harleys CAN'T do, come to my page and watch the videos in the mountains... ruclips.net/user/jaybearjaysbigadventure
Great comment. Thanks for sharing.
@@Driven-Productions unfortunately Jay Bear passed away on a motorcycle accident this year. He will be missed.
@@vulkanfyre6880 that is very sad to read. Wish his family well
Bmws depreciate bad compared 2 a hd for some reason?
Must be nice to live in fantasy land.
G I’ve done 13k miles on the Road Glide Ultra and I’ve enjoyed it more. The V twin vibe and the comfort of that motorcycle is difficult to match especially on loooong touring trips. I’ve now done two 4K plus mile trips on it in a year. However, as I said, if I could only have one bike, the BMW is hard to beat.
Looks easy to change the tires 😉 easier than a harley? You betcha ☺️
Good thing since you will be changing out those tires about twice as much.
Had one Harley, never going to have another
Which one did you have?
@@Driven-Productions Had a sportster a long time ago. Had a stage two tuned Fat Bob in 2017
Why do you feel that a Harley touring bike is the best?
It’s a vibe thing I guess. It’s also comfortable
You must want some adversity in your life. Trading in that BMW for a Harley plus having to add money to the deal, you must have a great job or have rich parents... The BMW is a better bike than the Harley, but you don't have the companionship with a BMW as you will with a Harley... I have 2 Harleys and a Goldwing in my garage right now so I don't hate Harleys.. The BMW is a superior handling bike.
Full agreement regarding the "Harley" experience. I'm a "Harley" cult member also and once I joined, I quickly realized it's like a movie that is far from reality. I've never had cost and problems like I've had with the Harley. I love the look and performance (I paid the Harley Stage Upgrade Tax). The handling is improved but sub-par. You must pay to play (enjoy) on a Harley. If you want a turn-key Harley, try a $40k plus CVO. You'll still need to pay the "Harley Stage Tax" to get the kind of performance that resembles the BMW. Harley should send their top bikes from the factory with Stage equivalent performance, few mechanical issues, and quality service from dealers, but I guess it is not the American way. I love the V-Twin performance and look of my Harley. It's like the old saying...she looks good...but she is not as good as she looks!
Harley Davidson.... Hardly Driveable....abject rubbish!!!
HHAAAAHAAA,k1600 for the HD??????? gratulation.....
hahahhhhhhh ....good luck
I find it ridiculous you favor a HD a better touring bike. I sold my Ultra Classic because it is a turd next to my K16. Just rode out to Wichita and back to the top of the Chesapeake Bay.
I would not even THINK about riding a harley that far. I know some do, your choice, but you are NOT enjoying cool seat, passing power or handling.
Maybe you should get your neck checked out.
Yeah taking my Road Glide Ultra to the Ozarks Sunday for a week, leaving the GSA 1200. Only bike I can ride 400-500 miles on and arrive with energy and feel good vibes.
I chose the exact opposite ...:)
0NG ....So you jumped out of the frying pan and into the fire. lmao
You know it’s funny I actually speak highly of the bike in the video. Just for the kind of riding I do which is long distance touring, I just prefer my 19 Road Glide Ultra. I really enjoy the comfort and vibe of the bike, but the K1600 GTL is still a phenomenal ride. Especially when you can pick them up so inexpensive on the used market.
It’s better in every way than a shitty Harley
BMW for harley...Run back to the dealer dude, don't due it....
Luis E Martinez lol I’ve got 13k miles on my current Road Glide Ultra. In this video traded it for a Harley Ultra Limited. Love the BMW but for long touring trips just can’t beat the Road Glide Ultra.
Driven Nashville If you are happy this is all about it. Take care.
Luis E Martinez you as well appreciate you commenting. Ride safe
"your opinion"
Appreciate the comment. Just got back into BMW with this. Curious what you think drop a comment. ruclips.net/video/MAHGQg5bKCY/видео.html
Best touring bike is Harley lol can't be serious don't you get a free dog with a Harley so you have something to walk home with when it shits itself and its incorrect about the exhausts they only have one outlet only looks like three each side
😂 owned four now and not one single issue on any of them. If you buy a 2016 and newer model they are solid sir. Just saying
Sorry but I beg to differ, don't like Harley Davidson at all, to lardy, but each to their own, ride safe.
Harleys nothing but trouble
The five I have owned have been fault free. From 2014 onwards