I'm with you Craig. I plan to ride as long as I can. I'm 67 and wrecked my 2020 K1600B Grand America on January 13. While the crash itself wasn't so bad for me, the motorcycle flipped multiple times and was totaled. I broke my ankle and am working towards a full recovery. I purchased another K1600B Grand America three weeks later. Driving from Northern California to Southern California to pick it up and tow it home. Hopefully I'll be on it in April.
Robert. Been there twice with broken bones. It's not fun but if motorcycling is in your blood you eventually return. I always say, If your not doing the things you love are you really living or just existing?
Me too brother. As long as we can stay up riding 2 up. It’s on. 2014 GTL exclusive. Va to Florida 3 times over the years, not including the auto train.
As a recently retired (Dec. 2020) 63 year old, you are preaching to the choir brother! Two friends and I are chartering a sailboat out of Split, Croatia April 30th for 2 weeks, then another friend and I are hiking the Tour de Mont Blanc July 5th to 17th. Planning on buying a bike in Europe and riding...wherever...in between. Not sure my savings will last till I die, but I'm gonna do it while I can. You can't take it with you! (You can quote me on that.) Keep us posted and keep posting (redundant, I know).
That's why I own five bikes right now. BMW k1600 GTL, Indian Roadmaster, Honda Goldwing, Kawasaki Vaquero, and a Harley Streetglide... And I'm looking at a BMW GSA haha. Enjoy life. Live to the fullest and you can't take it with you. Me and my girl has so many memories with each bike. Priceless...
Love it. Absolutely nothing wrong with occasionally splurging and buying exactly what you want, without compromise. Think of all the joy you will get out of riding the motorcycle over the next 15 years. I'm at a similar age where I realize now is time to check some things off of the wish list. Hmmmm, maybe I need to upgrade my bike.
Well worth spending a little more to get and enjoy what you want. Who wants to be the richest guy in the cemetery is beyond me anyway. Great review Craig!
Great video. Love the footage of the Notch Road (Rt100) in Stowe. That is a favorite. I have the same bike and went into it with the knowledge that the valve check was going to be the big ticket maintenance. I do everything else so in the end, it works out. Worth it for that engine and how smooth it is. I just did 2500 miles in about 10 days and it was a blast.
I have a Goldwing. Maintenance costs at dealer after 91,000 miles is $475. Oil changes are simple, no stupid 2nd drain plug. Air filter I do, 4 hours and $21. No computer to reset. 57mpg regular gas. Enjoyment 100%!
I'm 57 and look in the mirror thinking the same things as you. Is my BMW R1250RS expensive to buy, maintain, and run? Yes. I've waited most of my life for this and knew exactly what I was getting into.
Very well done brother, thank you. You mentioned in one of your previous vids that the Beemer didn’t work out for you. What didn’t work out about it? I’m curious bc I was planning on buying a used one. Jesse
Thanks! The bike was amazing when it worked but I had some warranty issues just after I bought it and then on it first trip it started overheating. These bikes are prone to this, I guess. No one could tell me why other than the radiator gets dirty. I do a lot of long trips and having to deal with that was not what I wanted. That, along with the higher costs of ownership made me decide to go a different direction.
@@LivingOffTheSlab again, thanks for that personal experience anecdote. It’s what I thought and basically why I’ve been reluctant to pull the trigger on that idea.
Couldn't agree with you more. I really appreciate your logic and thought process. All motorcycles at the end of the day are at best toys or tools. No one needs a motorcycle. You don't buy a motorcycle because its cheaper to run. That's a false economy......We buy motorcycles for the experience. I've had them all and my current GTL is a blast. The tires and the valve adjustments are the biggest expense. Since I mount and balance my own tires that's of no concern to me. As for the Valve adjustment, BMW will do mine but I'll wait till closer to 25,000 miles as all the reports Ive read state that they are always in tolerance at 16K. Since I have 2800 miles on the bike now that's a long way down the road for me.
Great analysis both on the bike and on life. We are both at the same point and I say the same thing - maybe 20 years to go. Buy a premium brand (or really any brand these days), pay for the maintenance, and enjoy the ride and don’t count every nickel. I’ve been thinking about an RT because I love my GSA, but also thinking about a K1600 because I’m used to having a big Harley touring bike. Question is, how long will I want to move around all that weight.
Awesome information. I do all my own BMW K1600 work including the overwhelming valve adjustments. Now at 100k miles I need to replace #2 and #3 spark coils. I decided, after speaking with a BMW service tech, to just replace all six coils. waiting for cooler weather as my garage is very hot. Engine lamp warning pops up daily but resets hopefully until October. The coil replacement is easy but draining the coolant is a PIA. I replace rear tires three times a year and front once a year. Brake pads every other year. Air filer once a year, oil changes every 5k miles. If you remove the rear saddle bags you should get 44mpg
Thanks, I have have heard from riders like yourself who have 100k on their bikes, and others who have had issues. Just got back from my first big trip on this bikes and unfortunately, it seems I have one prone to issues. Overheating with only 15k on the bike.
I am also a 2018 BMW k1600 gtl owner and can say this is a fast and awesome machine. I do alot of my own maintenance. Making it cheaper than bringing into shop. Its an enjoyable machine. And yes parts and labor expensive but the price u pay for having a great bike. I spend on what makes me happy. Great video sir.
Wonderful review. Thank you. Life is short. Just buy the bike you want. The bike that makes you turn around one more time and love what you see as you turn off the garage light. Ride safe and rode often. Peace
I like working on my RT, but when I finally pull that trigger and get a K16, that top end work is going to the shop. I can adjust the valves on my RT in under an hour. Just getting the the valve on a K16 would take me nearly as long. Will I eventually do my one valves on a K16? Maybe, but will have all day to do it because I'll be retired and my RT will be sitting nearby to run out for lunch and supplies. You ain't gonna take it with you, might as well enjoy it here.
YOLO!!! LOL! People need to stay out their feelings when others do what they want and can afford. Glad you were actually able to get what you wanted. Looking forward to the vids from your upcoming trip! Stay safe and have fun!
Good summary, I was surprised that the labor per hour for the Vision was so expensive, we don't pay that much up here in and that is in Petro Loonies! If you have the funds and it will not effect your long term life style then I say go for it, I guess I still believe in the "Borrow to Invest and pay cash for your toys" saying. If I want a new bike and I don't have the money, we'll, I don't buy it. Enjoy it!
Very good video, I appreciate the time put into it. I am victory owner myself and know what the cost is for maintenance. I was wondering how the BMWs compared. I did just buy a k1600b that I'll be picking up in a week and I can't wait to ride it.
When you have worked hard your entire life you deserve to enjoy the fruits of your labor. There is a big difference between spending your money wisely and spending your money foolishly. I have not seen any people say gosh I wish I wouldn't have taken that trip where I have had the opportunity to see and experience things that I never have before in my life. Life doesn't offer any Mulligans you can't go back and relive yesterday. Enjoy life while your health still allows you to do so.
My living situation and wealth level is far, far below yours, and BMW service and parts are a huge slice out of my budget. I share your BMW sentiments about my R1200RT though. At 67, I've probably got 10 active years left, and I may threaten to sell this moneypit, but won't. It's my ticket to at least one glorious road adventure per year.
I have been enjoying your videos for a while before I even subscribed. This was a great one until the end when you used the F word. I presume you to be a very smart and educated man who has a firm handle on the English language. I’m sure you could have found a better word to use than that. Like I said I have enjoyed your work for a long time and I want to continue to watch them. Thanks Craig.
I’m in the DIY camp as I enjoy turning wrench’s still. Oil changes are simple on this bike granted the twin oil sumps are a bit odd. Brake bleeds are simple as are brake pads. The 18K service is probably the most daunting and while I did mine I would highly recommend that most leave that to the pros. The big issue I have with this bike is having to own a GS911 OBD2 reader in order to reset the maintenance lights.
I know its not a bmw but i had an 05 gsxr 600 and i got my 1st valve adjustments checked at 42k and all where still good but some were getting close so I had those ones adjusted. But the k1600 will be my next bike!
I always drove old cars/pickups/bikes and fixed myself while raising a family and saving. I'm at a point where I can now easily afford new, but now have a hard time justifying. 🙄 I need to get over it soon because I'm on your heels. 😬 Take care and enjoy. That's a nice bike!
Interesting. The only bikes I've purchased new were a 2010 Honda Shadow (that I purchased in 2012. It had never been assembled in the dealer's shop until the day I bought it. the recession of 2009-2011 was brutal on M/C sales) when I began riding and a 2012 Honda Stateline in 2014. Never had either of them in the shop for "initial service" or otherwise. Just did it myself. Though 8 years your senior, guess I'm still young in heart (and knees) as I enjoy doing the work myself.... at least up to the "top end" valve adjustment coming up at 40,000 on the current Super Tenere. I will be holding my breath. Oh well, great value on the road when figured in mileage, tire wear, and moto-camping cost and the incalcuable cost of FREEDOM!!!!!!!
My question has to do riding positions and maneuvering at slow speeds. The Vision, Goldwing, and Road Glide have feet forward in a natural position. All the touring BMWs are feet more tuck in under the seat, knees more sharply bent. Have you and others found this comfortable under various riding durations and commutes. I am eager to hear. Thanks
I talked about this a little in my first video. Yes, I like the feet under me riding position. It is much better for my back and neck in that it forces me to sit up straighter, so I do not slouch. It also gives you better control over the bike. You can more easily use your body or peg pressure to maneuver the bike. My knees do get a little stiff so I either stand up, which is much easier, or I just straighten the legs. I generally stop about every 100 miles to walk around etc. This was true with the Vision as well. For slow speed maneuvering, this bike is much better than my Victory or any other touring cruiser I have ridden. I very rarely have the need to duck walk the bike and can easily touch with both feet, but most often I do not need more than one. I am 5'9" with a 31 inch inseam.
You must be riding your beemer very conservatively as my average mileage is 39 on GTL however mine is 2012 yours 2018 may be leaner on mixture due to EURO5 regulations. Btw I do my maintenance myself so cost is very acceptable. At 18k you probably won't need any valve adjustment, mine still did not needed any at 36k and based on my predictions and measurement from previous checks I expect no adjustment at 56k. Cost of 18 check up should be lower if no adjustment is necessary due to shorter labor time. Beemer is very straight forward machine to work on compared to Japanese bikes.
Very helpful by chance have you ever locked at a cost on the RT or GS? Your video is so very helpful… same information is hard to come up with on the boxer. Appreciate your efforts! 👍
I love the "Elton John" glasses! Just curious to see if you even rode or considered a Honda Gold Wing? The service would be farther apart and less costly. It's not a BMW K1600, I know. I identify as frugal as you mentioned you were. That's why the question about the G/Wing. The Beemer is beautiful and I know it's a rocket to ride!
It was, but I did not like what they did with the storage on the new model. I know they have improved the top case, for this year. The GW tour was also more expensive than the K1600, but that was not the issue.
I am looking at a 2018 BMW K 1600 Grand America with 65K miles on it, They want 10.5 for it. I have watch your videos on this bike and then I search for issues with this bike. Have you heard of these issues and would you recommend this bike today?
The GA is know to have issues with wobbling at highway speeds. For some this is manageable and for others it is not. I had a friend who got rid of his because he did not like the way it rode on the highway. The K1600 did the same thing to a lesser degree. I got a Jurok 7 flip windscreen and found the right height position that smoothed things out. I ended up getting rid of the K because it over heated after 15000 miles. You have to be very diligent about keeping the radiator clean. Mine did not look dirty and I could never get a cause out of the dealers. Would I buy it? No. I did not find mine to be reliable enough for a long distance touring bike. But, obviously these folks had theirs for a lot of miles. Find out if the had issues and get the service documentatiin if possible.
So.....I've naturally got to ask: 1) How many miles do you have on your bike now? 2 ) It sounds like it's been reliable....and that's the biggest thing. Has it? 3) How much IS the 18,000 mile service these days?
I 10,000 on it and with the exception of a warranty replacement of the throttle body assembly, it has done well. I am told that the 18k will run around $2000. We shall see.
Brakes at 10K, is that a typo? For me I've had to put new pads on 4 times over three different Goldwings totaling 200K+. I do most of my riding on interstates so maybe that helps. For my Wings, it's at home oil changes and dealer for 25K valve adjustment and tires at 15-17K, I'll stick with Honda's I guess. The BMW is a nice looking machine though.
Yeah, it seemed early to me as well. I guess I use the rear a lot for slow speed maneuvering...in fact, I know I do. I also use the hill hold a lot, that may also play a role.
My 2018 GW big service intervals were at 16k and 32k. There, they replace the air filter which requires them to dismantle the entire front plastics to get to the air box. That 16k service took all day. They also adjusted the valves and replaced the front brakes. That cost about $1k. I did my own font/rear brake change at 32k and saved a ton of $$. I did my own oil change too. The service department can have my bike to change the air filter since I have no garage to disassemble the bike. I too love the styling of the K16 bikes, but their reliability really scares me.
Another great video C! Curious to know if you've had any starter or reverse issues with your k1600. I have a 2018 k1600b and I've discovered alot of owners having major issues with these 2 items. Mine is in the shop now for both. 😡 1st estimate was approx $1600
@@109rfan1 I wish....according to my bmw dealer in Ft Lauderdale, it's not.....but I will revisit that with another service department because you're the 3rd or 4th person who has said that.
Maybe prepare for the major service at around 32,000 km not sure of the mileage they call for this one on the K1600. But my Triumph Trophy SE cost $1850 Canadian dollars for that service. They literally had to disassembled the bike to get to the valves it took them 12 hours of labor. I just about had a heart attack paying 10% of the bike price for a service.
Seems a little high. I usually pay around $850 or so for the 20K (miles) service on my Trophy here in So Cal. I thought that was a lot! For my Tiger 900, I purchased a maintenance contract for $1400, and it includes the first 6 services with no additional charges. In the end, I’ll probably end up spending about half of what I would have otherwise.
My thinking is you pick your ride, and take care of it. If you can’t afford to buy it AND take care of it, then you shouldn’t get it. With every bike I’ve owned, I’ve calculated insurance, fuel, maintenance, and payments into the affordability factor. The riding pleasure factor is incalculable, but is the determining factor.
I have to chuckle as I also drove a standard shift Chevy truck from 1994 to 2014. When I bought my new Chevy truck in 2014, I could only get automatic and power windows. Neither a manual transmission nor hand crank windows were available any longer. I knew a BMW could be costly to maintain, but by doing all of my maintenance and repairs since the warranty expired I have kept costs in control. Unfortunately, now that BMW has a new corporate policy to no longer make service manuals available to anyone other than dealers, this is no longer an option. Given the costs of dealer service and, more importantly, the fact that my nearest dealer is 148 miles away, I will not likely buy another BMW once my LT bites the dust. It is an unfortunate BMW policy, particularly given their scarcity of dealers.
I actually prefer the stick, but the new truck has an auto so the wife can drive it. At some point in the future it will be are lone vehicle. I agree that is a dumb policy on BMWs part. It might be a good opportunity for someone with knowledge to create some online classes on various models.
@@LivingOffTheSlab It will be hard to hold classes on new models without any reference material. Unless a dealer tech makes the videos and I suspect BMW would be all over any dealer that does that. And, unfortunately, it appears the aftermarket is falling behind as 10+ years after release, I still don’t see a manual from Haynes or Clymer for the K1600. It’s a shame as I was planning to buy a GA this summer or next, but now will likely get a new Wing instead and live with the smaller luggage and fuel capacity.
@@LivingOffTheSlab I remember going to the local BMW dealer for free mechanical training classes in the 80's. The owner/mechanic went over throttle, carb and valve adjustments along with other maintenance items. He had no issue talking deeper if you wanted. It was a great experience. Amazing how much has changed.
Call me contrary wise, but I see the BMW less expensive overall and overall is the money you spent or will spend (in the case of the BMW) without regard to what it was spent on. For example if you did not do all the oil changes on the Victory and went to the dealer, plus all the $3000 to try to get it to but certainly not as powerful as the BMW, and then the minor gas mileage difference between the two bikes, the BMW overall is or will be less expensive overall. And you purchased the BMW because you wanted one to the exclusion of other bikes, and that has a value also. Ride on!
It is too early to say. There are many things I like about the BMW. As long as it continues to be reliable I will most likely keep it. If my wife decides not to ride with me, then I will get something smaller. Most likely an adventure bike or sport touring bike. If I was looking for another two up touring bike, I would look more closely as the Goldwing. Or the R1250RT.
@@LivingOffTheSlab The Gold Wing DCT Tour is amazing and also in airbag model too. Just saying. The RT a nimble Police bike. Nimble bike period. Plenty of power, and coveted by BMW sport touring aficionados. But probably not optimal for 2 up. Keep us in the loop.
@@rockyj2769 My videos are monetized, but that does not mean you can take all your bike maintenance off as deductions. Just like using your personal car for business, you can take a mileage deduction, but not all of your routine maintenance.
I'm with you Craig. I plan to ride as long as I can. I'm 67 and wrecked my 2020 K1600B Grand America on January 13. While the crash itself wasn't so bad for me, the motorcycle flipped multiple times and was totaled. I broke my ankle and am working towards a full recovery. I purchased another K1600B Grand America three weeks later. Driving from Northern California to Southern California to pick it up and tow it home. Hopefully I'll be on it in April.
Glad to hear you are on the mend and working toward new adventures! Life is short.
Robert. Been there twice with broken bones. It's not fun but if motorcycling is in your blood you eventually return. I always say, If your not doing the things you love are you really living or just existing?
W
That’s the attitude I’m looking for.
Me too brother. As long as we can stay up riding 2 up. It’s on. 2014 GTL exclusive. Va to Florida 3 times over the years, not including the auto train.
As a recently retired (Dec. 2020) 63 year old, you are preaching to the choir brother! Two friends and I are chartering a sailboat out of Split, Croatia April 30th for 2 weeks, then another friend and I are hiking the Tour de Mont Blanc July 5th to 17th. Planning on buying a bike in Europe and riding...wherever...in between. Not sure my savings will last till I die, but I'm gonna do it while I can.
You can't take it with you! (You can quote me on that.)
Keep us posted and keep posting (redundant, I know).
Those sound like some great adventures you have planned! Absolutely agree, do it while you can!
100%!
That's why I own five bikes right now. BMW k1600 GTL, Indian Roadmaster, Honda Goldwing, Kawasaki Vaquero, and a Harley Streetglide... And I'm looking at a BMW GSA haha. Enjoy life. Live to the fullest and you can't take it with you. Me and my girl has so many memories with each bike. Priceless...
Love it. Absolutely nothing wrong with occasionally splurging and buying exactly what you want, without compromise. Think of all the joy you will get out of riding the motorcycle over the next 15 years. I'm at a similar age where I realize now is time to check some things off of the wish list. Hmmmm, maybe I need to upgrade my bike.
Well worth spending a little more to get and enjoy what you want. Who wants to be the richest guy in the cemetery is beyond me anyway. Great review Craig!
Just the info I needed. Great material and content! The ending summed it all up for me. 👏🏼
Great video. Love the footage of the Notch Road (Rt100) in Stowe. That is a favorite. I have the same bike and went into it with the knowledge that the valve check was going to be the big ticket maintenance. I do everything else so in the end, it works out. Worth it for that engine and how smooth it is. I just did 2500 miles in about 10 days and it was a blast.
"Wasn't that a fucking blast?" I'm 63 and hope I can ride for at least ten more years. Love your videos!
Im 75 and like your outlook on life,,,have to agree with you and I still ride both a Harley and bmw
The comments you made at the end of the video resonated with me.
I have a Goldwing. Maintenance costs at dealer after 91,000 miles is $475. Oil changes are simple, no stupid 2nd drain plug. Air filter I do, 4 hours and $21. No computer to reset. 57mpg regular gas. Enjoyment 100%!
Amen, Craig! That’s why I picked up my K1600B Grand America.
Well said, every minute is a gift, the BMW is a great ride. Enjoy every moment, it is a gift! Have fun.
I'm 57 and look in the mirror thinking the same things as you. Is my BMW R1250RS expensive to buy, maintain, and run? Yes. I've waited most of my life for this and knew exactly what I was getting into.
Agreed. If you can do it- enjoy it. 👍
Very well done brother, thank you. You mentioned in one of your previous vids that the Beemer didn’t work out for you. What didn’t work out about it? I’m curious bc I was planning on buying a used one. Jesse
Thanks! The bike was amazing when it worked but I had some warranty issues just after I bought it and then on it first trip it started overheating. These bikes are prone to this, I guess. No one could tell me why other than the radiator gets dirty. I do a lot of long trips and having to deal with that was not what I wanted.
That, along with the higher costs of ownership made me decide to go a different direction.
@@LivingOffTheSlab again, thanks for that personal experience anecdote. It’s what I thought and basically why I’ve been reluctant to pull the trigger on that idea.
What about reliability in the long run??? Could you tell us your experience with it??
Just got back from a long trip. I will be doing an after trip review.
Loved your summery at the end Craig.
Couldn't agree with you more. I really appreciate your logic and thought process. All motorcycles at the end of the day are at best toys or tools. No one needs a motorcycle. You don't buy a motorcycle because its cheaper to run. That's a false economy......We buy motorcycles for the experience. I've had them all and my current GTL is a blast. The tires and the valve adjustments are the biggest expense. Since I mount and balance my own tires that's of no concern to me. As for the Valve adjustment, BMW will do mine but I'll wait till closer to 25,000 miles as all the reports Ive read state that they are always in tolerance at 16K. Since I have 2800 miles on the bike now that's a long way down the road for me.
Great analysis both on the bike and on life. We are both at the same point and I say the same thing - maybe 20 years to go. Buy a premium brand (or really any brand these days), pay for the maintenance, and enjoy the ride and don’t count every nickel. I’ve been thinking about an RT because I love my GSA, but also thinking about a K1600 because I’m used to having a big Harley touring bike. Question is, how long will I want to move around all that weight.
I can relate to everything you said from 8:32. Always enjoy your video's...saty safe!
Thanks 👍
Awesome information. I do all my own BMW K1600 work including the overwhelming valve adjustments. Now at 100k miles I need to replace #2 and #3 spark coils. I decided, after speaking with a BMW service tech, to just replace all six coils. waiting for cooler weather as my garage is very hot. Engine lamp warning pops up daily but resets hopefully until October. The coil replacement is easy but draining the coolant is a PIA. I replace rear tires three times a year and front once a year. Brake pads every other year. Air filer once a year, oil changes every 5k miles. If you remove the rear saddle bags you should get 44mpg
Thanks, I have have heard from riders like yourself who have 100k on their bikes, and others who have had issues. Just got back from my first big trip on this bikes and unfortunately, it seems I have one prone to issues. Overheating with only 15k on the bike.
I am also a 2018 BMW k1600 gtl owner and can say this is a fast and awesome machine. I do alot of my own maintenance. Making it cheaper than bringing into shop. Its an enjoyable machine. And yes parts and labor expensive but the price u pay for having a great bike.
I spend on what makes me happy.
Great video sir.
To make it a fair comparison, you should use the shop charges for each oil change on the Vision, as you are using the dealer for the BMW service.
Wonderful review. Thank you. Life is short. Just buy the bike you want. The bike that makes you turn around one more time and love what you see as you turn off the garage light. Ride safe and rode often. Peace
I like working on my RT, but when I finally pull that trigger and get a K16, that top end work is going to the shop. I can adjust the valves on my RT in under an hour. Just getting the the valve on a K16 would take me nearly as long. Will I eventually do my one valves on a K16? Maybe, but will have all day to do it because I'll be retired and my RT will be sitting nearby to run out for lunch and supplies. You ain't gonna take it with you, might as well enjoy it here.
YOLO!!! LOL! People need to stay out their feelings when others do what they want and can afford. Glad you were actually able to get what you wanted. Looking forward to the vids from your upcoming trip! Stay safe and have fun!
Good summary, I was surprised that the labor per hour for the Vision was so expensive, we don't pay that much up here in and that is in Petro Loonies! If you have the funds and it will not effect your long term life style then I say go for it, I guess I still believe in the "Borrow to Invest and pay cash for your toys" saying. If I want a new bike and I don't have the money, we'll, I don't buy it. Enjoy it!
Very good video, I appreciate the time put into it. I am victory owner myself and know what the cost is for maintenance. I was wondering how the BMWs compared. I did just buy a k1600b that I'll be picking up in a week and I can't wait to ride it.
You make me cry at the end of a video, that's life like after all. Nice review (all parts) Tnx
Great video, totally agree with your views!
When you have worked hard your entire life you deserve to enjoy the fruits of your labor. There is a big difference between spending your money wisely and spending your money foolishly. I have not seen any people say gosh I wish I wouldn't have taken that trip where I have had the opportunity to see and experience things that I never have before in my life. Life doesn't offer any Mulligans you can't go back and relive yesterday. Enjoy life while your health still allows you to do so.
Well said!
My living situation and wealth level is far, far below yours, and BMW service and parts are a huge slice out of my budget. I share your BMW sentiments about my R1200RT though. At 67, I've probably got 10 active years left, and I may threaten to sell this moneypit, but won't. It's my ticket to at least one glorious road adventure per year.
I have been enjoying your videos for a while before I even subscribed. This was a great one until the end when you used the F word. I presume you to be a very smart and educated man who has a firm handle on the English language. I’m sure you could have found a better word to use than that. Like I said I have enjoyed your work for a long time and I want to continue to watch them. Thanks Craig.
I’m in the DIY camp as I enjoy turning wrench’s still. Oil changes are simple on this bike granted the twin oil sumps are a bit odd. Brake bleeds are simple as are brake pads. The 18K service is probably the most daunting and while I did mine I would highly recommend that most leave that to the pros.
The big issue I have with this bike is having to own a GS911 OBD2 reader in order to reset the maintenance lights.
Thanks for the input!
I know its not a bmw but i had an 05 gsxr 600 and i got my 1st valve adjustments checked at 42k and all where still good but some were getting close so I had those ones adjusted. But the k1600 will be my next bike!
Thanks for making this video, I agree with you.
What a great video!
I always drove old cars/pickups/bikes and fixed myself while raising a family and saving. I'm at a point where I can now easily afford new, but now have a hard time justifying. 🙄 I need to get over it soon because I'm on your heels. 😬 Take care and enjoy. That's a nice bike!
Interesting. The only bikes I've purchased new were a 2010 Honda Shadow (that I purchased in 2012. It had never been assembled in the dealer's shop until the day I bought it. the recession of 2009-2011 was brutal on M/C sales) when I began riding and a 2012 Honda Stateline in 2014. Never had either of them in the shop for "initial service" or otherwise. Just did it myself. Though 8 years your senior, guess I'm still young in heart (and knees) as I enjoy doing the work myself.... at least up to the "top end" valve adjustment coming up at 40,000 on the current Super Tenere. I will be holding my breath. Oh well, great value on the road when figured in mileage, tire wear, and moto-camping cost and the incalcuable cost of FREEDOM!!!!!!!
Another excellent video,
My question has to do riding positions and maneuvering at slow speeds. The Vision, Goldwing, and Road Glide have feet forward in a natural position. All the touring BMWs are feet more tuck in under the seat, knees more sharply bent. Have you and others found this comfortable under various riding durations and commutes. I am eager to hear. Thanks
I talked about this a little in my first video. Yes, I like the feet under me riding position. It is much better for my back and neck in that it forces me to sit up straighter, so I do not slouch. It also gives you better control over the bike. You can more easily use your body or peg pressure to maneuver the bike.
My knees do get a little stiff so I either stand up, which is much easier, or I just straighten the legs. I generally stop about every 100 miles to walk around etc. This was true with the Vision as well.
For slow speed maneuvering, this bike is much better than my Victory or any other touring cruiser I have ridden. I very rarely have the need to duck walk the bike and can easily touch with both feet, but most often I do not need more than one. I am 5'9" with a 31 inch inseam.
@@LivingOffTheSlab You helped me make the decision. I am 71 and enjoy every mc mile. Keep it up. You are inspiring all of us.
@@charleschilders6388 Thank you, much appreciated!
Nice, enjoy your life and your adventures.
You must be riding your beemer very conservatively as my average mileage is 39 on GTL however mine is 2012 yours 2018 may be leaner on mixture due to EURO5 regulations. Btw I do my maintenance myself so cost is very acceptable. At 18k you probably won't need any valve adjustment, mine still did not needed any at 36k and based on my predictions and measurement from previous checks I expect no adjustment at 56k. Cost of 18 check up should be lower if no adjustment is necessary due to shorter labor time. Beemer is very straight forward machine to work on compared to Japanese bikes.
Thank, appreciate the information! I might need to start doing more of my own work.
Very helpful by chance have you ever locked at a cost on the RT or GS? Your video is so very helpful… same information is hard to come up with on the boxer. Appreciate your efforts! 👍
Wow, $257 for an oil change!?! I have a K1600gt and use a high grade oil and filter, remove 2 bolts and only spend $35
I love the "Elton John" glasses! Just curious to see if you even rode or considered a Honda Gold Wing? The service would be farther apart and less costly. It's not a BMW K1600, I know. I identify as frugal as you mentioned you were. That's why the question about the G/Wing. The Beemer is beautiful and I know it's a rocket to ride!
It was, but I did not like what they did with the storage on the new model. I know they have improved the top case, for this year. The GW tour was also more expensive than the K1600, but that was not the issue.
I am looking at a 2018 BMW K 1600 Grand America with 65K miles on it, They want 10.5 for it. I have watch your videos on this bike and then I search for issues with this bike. Have you heard of these issues and would you recommend this bike today?
The GA is know to have issues with wobbling at highway speeds. For some this is manageable and for others it is not. I had a friend who got rid of his because he did not like the way it rode on the highway. The K1600 did the same thing to a lesser degree. I got a Jurok 7 flip windscreen and found the right height position that smoothed things out. I ended up getting rid of the K because it over heated after 15000 miles. You have to be very diligent about keeping the radiator clean. Mine did not look dirty and I could never get a cause out of the dealers. Would I buy it? No. I did not find mine to be reliable enough for a long distance touring bike. But, obviously these folks had theirs for a lot of miles. Find out if the had issues and get the service documentatiin if possible.
So.....I've naturally got to ask: 1) How many miles do you have on your bike now? 2 ) It sounds like it's been reliable....and that's the biggest thing. Has it? 3) How much IS the 18,000 mile service these days?
I 10,000 on it and with the exception of a warranty replacement of the throttle body assembly, it has done well. I am told that the 18k will run around $2000. We shall see.
Brakes at 10K, is that a typo? For me I've had to put new pads on 4 times over three different Goldwings totaling 200K+. I do most of my riding on interstates so maybe that helps. For my Wings, it's at home oil changes and dealer for 25K valve adjustment and tires at 15-17K, I'll stick with Honda's I guess. The BMW is a nice looking machine though.
Yeah, it seemed early to me as well. I guess I use the rear a lot for slow speed maneuvering...in fact, I know I do. I also use the hill hold a lot, that may also play a role.
i have 12 on my k1600 other than the schedule brake flush no issues as of yet
My 2018 GW big service intervals were at 16k and 32k. There, they replace the air filter which requires them to dismantle the entire front plastics to get to the air box. That 16k service took all day. They also adjusted the valves and replaced the front brakes. That cost about $1k. I did my own font/rear brake change at 32k and saved a ton of $$. I did my own oil change too. The service department can have my bike to change the air filter since I have no garage to disassemble the bike. I too love the styling of the K16 bikes, but their reliability really scares me.
Another great video C!
Curious to know if you've had any starter or reverse issues with your k1600. I have a 2018 k1600b and I've discovered alot of owners having major issues with these 2 items. Mine is in the shop now for both. 😡
1st estimate was approx $1600
I don't like to hear that...but so far, I have not had issues.
@@LivingOffTheSlab yeah me too....I found a bunch of guys on the k1600 forum and RUclips aswell. 😞
Mine happened rather quickly at the 6k mile mark
hasn’t that been a recall issue? they supposedly remedied those issues on the early reverse models
@@109rfan1 I wish....according to my bmw dealer in Ft Lauderdale, it's not.....but I will revisit that with another service department because you're the 3rd or 4th person who has said that.
@@109rfan1 I did a quick search and found posts on 2012 through 2016, but none after. Hopefully they corrected the issue.
Thanx
Maybe prepare for the major service at around 32,000 km not sure of the mileage they call for this one on the K1600. But my Triumph Trophy SE cost $1850 Canadian dollars for that service. They literally had to disassembled the bike to get to the valves it took them 12 hours of labor. I just about had a heart attack paying 10% of the bike price for a service.
Yeah, it is going to be expensive. Nature of the beast, if you want anything other than a v-twin.
Seems a little high. I usually pay around $850 or so for the 20K (miles) service on my Trophy here in So Cal. I thought that was a lot! For my Tiger 900, I purchased a maintenance contract for $1400, and it includes the first 6 services with no additional charges. In the end, I’ll probably end up spending about half of what I would have otherwise.
I think I will keep my victory 👍
You should get the Super Tenere, longevity and low maint.
My thinking is you pick your ride, and take care of it. If you can’t afford to buy it AND take care of it, then you shouldn’t get it. With every bike I’ve owned, I’ve calculated insurance, fuel, maintenance, and payments into the affordability factor. The riding pleasure factor is incalculable, but is the determining factor.
I have to chuckle as I also drove a standard shift Chevy truck from 1994 to 2014. When I bought my new Chevy truck in 2014, I could only get automatic and power windows. Neither a manual transmission nor hand crank windows were available any longer.
I knew a BMW could be costly to maintain, but by doing all of my maintenance and repairs since the warranty expired I have kept costs in control. Unfortunately, now that BMW has a new corporate policy to no longer make service manuals available to anyone other than dealers, this is no longer an option. Given the costs of dealer service and, more importantly, the fact that my nearest dealer is 148 miles away, I will not likely buy another BMW once my LT bites the dust. It is an unfortunate BMW policy, particularly given their scarcity of dealers.
I actually prefer the stick, but the new truck has an auto so the wife can drive it. At some point in the future it will be are lone vehicle.
I agree that is a dumb policy on BMWs part. It might be a good opportunity for someone with knowledge to create some online classes on various models.
@@LivingOffTheSlab It will be hard to hold classes on new models without any reference material. Unless a dealer tech makes the videos and I suspect BMW would be all over any dealer that does that. And, unfortunately, it appears the aftermarket is falling behind as 10+ years after release, I still don’t see a manual from Haynes or Clymer for the K1600. It’s a shame as I was planning to buy a GA this summer or next, but now will likely get a new Wing instead and live with the smaller luggage and fuel capacity.
@@LivingOffTheSlab I remember going to the local BMW dealer for free mechanical training classes in the 80's. The owner/mechanic went over throttle, carb and valve adjustments along with other maintenance items. He had no issue talking deeper if you wanted. It was a great experience. Amazing how much has changed.
Call me contrary wise, but I see the BMW less expensive overall and overall is the money you spent or will spend (in the case of the BMW) without regard to what it was spent on. For example if you did not do all the oil changes on the Victory and went to the dealer, plus all the $3000 to try to get it to but certainly not as powerful as the BMW, and then the minor gas mileage difference between the two bikes, the BMW overall is or will be less expensive overall. And you purchased the BMW because you wanted one to the exclusion of other bikes, and that has a value also. Ride on!
If I added up all the accessories I added and had everything done at the dealer, you might be correct. It would be close.
So funny. As well as purchasing my 2017 K1600 GTL, after I started partial retirement, a bought a Mercedes after having Toyotas for years🤣
Part about aging- AMAZING!!!!
I have toured about 30.000 miles around Europe on a K1600, its a great bike... do I still own one....nope...
Should I ask?
@@LivingOffTheSlab Yes, you should, i just need to think for a minute how put my experience of the bike in words.
Would you buy another BMW? If not what? Demo rides are free.
It is too early to say. There are many things I like about the BMW. As long as it continues to be reliable I will most likely keep it. If my wife decides not to ride with me, then I will get something smaller. Most likely an adventure bike or sport touring bike. If I was looking for another two up touring bike, I would look more closely as the Goldwing. Or the R1250RT.
@@LivingOffTheSlab
The Gold Wing DCT Tour is amazing and also in airbag model too. Just saying. The RT a nimble Police bike. Nimble bike period. Plenty of power, and coveted by BMW sport touring aficionados. But probably not optimal for 2 up. Keep us in the loop.
You should mention that you can claim all these expenses on your taxes and us average Joes can't
Yeah right...
@@LivingOffTheSlab i didn't know you're not monitised
@@rockyj2769 My videos are monetized, but that does not mean you can take all your bike maintenance off as deductions. Just like using your personal car for business, you can take a mileage deduction, but not all of your routine maintenance.
👍👍👍👍🇨🇦🇨🇦
Sorry mate what's a borrring story