The amazing thing about this bike or the grand America is that it is cheaper than a goldwing or a Harley ultra limited considering what comes on the bike. Nice job on the review.
Neil knows his bike more than most reviewers. Very informative. Thank-you. BTW, the 2017 K1600GT has Shift Assist Pro, Hill Assist, and the reverse gear.
Just bought the 2020. 1 month = 3000 miles. Maybe the most amazing bike made for the public. I've over 200K miles and most on cafe bikes. The lead angle the throttle response, the comfort. My wife loves the ride and EVERYTHING is adjustable. So stable so powerful. I. LOVE. MY. 2020 BMW GTL. Thanks for the review..
Just found this. Bought one this year after getting a bit disillusioned trying to do miles on 1000cc superbikes. Which have always been my love but I’m getting older I guess ! This bike gives you a lot of power but with loads of comfort and tech. Enjoying my gt se. Got akraprovic cans on mine. Sounds lovely. Thanks for your thoughts.
You forgot to mention that the bike has hill hold which I find comes in handy. Simply pull the front brake a little harder at a light while you are on a hill and the bike will not roll forward or backward until you let the clutch out in gear.
Looks like your in the small town of Derby In. About 10 miles from my place. Hwy 66 along the Ohio River in Perry County is a good road to ride . I ride it a few times a year. Good review.
This gentleman looks like he's my height,about 6'3"? I was hoping he would have sat on the bike so to gauge the head and eye level. Also how comfortable the legs and knees look?
I’m looking to possibly trade my ultra in on one of these next year! How is the sound of the sterile oat highway speeds? Is it able to be heard easily? I appreciate ur time!
You can also fit two full face helmets in there if you lay them in their sides and position them neck roll to neck roll. Now if you have a com unit mounted on the side it may restrict this due to their size or if the helmet is a modular style (generally modular are wider by design).
@@maxwellmark You mentioned comm's which caught my attention. I'm soon to buy a couple new 3/4 helmets and want to add comms to the helmets. My local BMW store is absolutely clueless so I'm wondering if you can point me to a retailer or etailer that can help me with both the helmet and comms. From what I've read it looks as if Cardo has a formal relationship with BMW overseas, but I'm open.
TIM MCMILLAN Cardo and Sena are the two leading wireless comm systems. I prefer the Cardo brand and have used it now for several years with no issues. I did upgrade the mount they used so I could plug an ear bud into it for much, much better sound. Now both companies offer that type of connection. Check Revzilla.com for very good reviews of both systems.
TIM MCMILLAN Also, neither system pairs perfectly with the bike. Unless you get the BMW branded systems. I don’t go through the bike for audio at all. I only pair to my phone and other riders. I use the bike GPS for visual reference only, the phone is my voice prompt, music and obviously phone connection
@@maxwellmark Thanks for the reply!! I bought one of my helmets from Revzilla and like dealing with them. I live in the Washington DC area so was looking to find a dealer that would both sell and help me configure. On my bike there from the menu selection under Audio, there is a process to connect Helmet 1 and then to connect a Helmet 2. It turns out from everything I've read that there is nothing that will work here in the US. Cardo designed a system that allows you to connect two helmets to the bike audio/nav system. Were you successful in connecting 2 helmets to the bike?
There are multiple ways to disconnect and each is covered in the owners manual. Forward twist of the throttle, micro switch in the clutch lever and brake lever all are acceptable methods....
Jedz, how does the pricing compare with the GTL vs a 2018 Goldwing? Goldwings can fetch up to $28K for the super wizbang version. I would think the GTL would cost more, but not much more. I would consider the GTL more refined but perhaps more costly service wise over time. Enjoyed the video. I'll get back on my cheapy Triumph TEx now and slink away. AmenMoto Rules!
Believe this one was 24K. This was the first BMW I’ve ever ridden! Quite an awesome machine. Quick! Yeah like wise my Triumph..ant.. brother. Amen Moto for life!!!!! Can’t wait to ride with ya next month!!!
2018 K 1600 GTL Model Updates (arriving May 2017) MSRP: $25,595. So I think that is in line with the Goldwing. MSRP on the 1200GSA is just under $25K. I am impressed with the GTL.
Thanks for the update on the price! It's very nice. Weight is definitely all there at a stop but it looses it's weight as soon as it starts to roll. Nice bike for sure and compared to the Honda a good value...
My 2018 GTL was a few ticks over $30,000 USD... and worth every penny. The difference in maintenance cost to a Goldwing should hinge almost squarely on the difference, if any, in the hourly rate of BMW versus Honda. Both have virtually identical maintenance items (oil, air filter, brakes, rear differential, valve checks) and quite similar recommended intervals. Further, both bikes being fared, require about the same disassembly labor time in getting to some things like the air filter.
@@user-cx2bk6pm2f I just bought a brand new, zero miles, 2018 GTL Option 719 in Sparkling Storm Metallic for $24,407 on clearance. Subtract from that the $750 Emergency Purchase Plan credit I got from BMW, and I got in well under $24K. The Option 719 bikes are loaded with almost all optional equipment. I got the dealer to toss in the Nav VI at his cost and the top case brake light installed with free labor. Couldn't pass that deal up.
Beautiful bike and very amusing video, but so much mis-information...y'all need to learan more about this bike!! OMG!! "..the headlight turns with you..."??? Really?!?!? NO!! IT DOES NOT LEAN.....IT STAYS LEVEL while the motorcycle leans SO THE HEADLIGHT ILLUMINATES THE ENTIRE WIDTH OF THE ROAD!!! Wet weight is actually 768 lbs....considerably lighter than other comparable touring bikes with the same features...oh yeah...thre's only one bike with similar features...the Honda Goldwing Tour!!! Actually BMW requires the K1600GTL and GT to use 91 and above octane fuel....If you ride very cautiously you can get away with regular and little to no problems. If you ride like most, and use regular, you will eventually experience engine damage from detonation. The electronics will compensate as much as they can but damage is very possible and you will not hear the damaging detonation. Also, using regular will increase exhaust emissions and likely fail a CA in-use test. BMW recommends Premium to deliver maximum power, durability, and comply with CA emission requirements. There are EPA rules for what and how gasoline is recommended by OEMs based on emissions and mpg tests but using regular and riding agressively can lead to engine damage. Frankly, I can't imagine why anyone would risk damage and use regular gas and/or a non-approved oil. As far as the lean angle and the side cases go, you will NEVER come close to touching down the side cases....if you do you're sliding on your side!!!
LMAO guilty as charged budy!!!, I don't know much about anything BMW however this motorcycle is an exceptionally well built and I would even say fair priced (coming from a guy that refuses to spend over $12K on anything brand new with 2 wheels). Thanks so much for your comment and please plug some actual fact! Best, -Jedz
@zulu: THANK YOU. My sentiment also about all the mis-information... but it wasn't as much Jed as it was the clueless owner. My comment above lists some other stuff he said.
Yes, the headlight turns with you - it’s some pretty cool tech. BMW’s Adaptive Xenon headlight with a reflector has an on-board gyroscope which feeds the headlight computer with the bike’s lean angle data, which in turn instructs the stepper motors to turn the reflector in the direction you’re turning. By this tilting of the reflector, the headlight beam is focused in the direction you’re headed just enough to compensate for the bike’s lean angle which is capable of carrying out up to 25 degrees in each direction. The headlight computer is also fed with the speed of the bike travel along with the lean angle data. With these two pieces of information the computer can calculate how tight or relaxed the corner is. For example -20 degrees lean angle at 80 Mph means a much broader curve than a 20 degrees lean at 20 Mph. So the bike then turns the headlight into the left or right, to light up as much of the road ahead as possible all while it also keeps the beam level. There’s a lot more going on that most riders realize.
All BMW K1600 have serious issue - They all pull to the left! My one pull so hard that if I barely touch handlebar in split second I am on left lane. ( after hour ride my shoulder is in agony from constant pull handlebar to correct it and BMW don’t seem see the problem like I will not pay £ 24000) And after owning this bike for 3 months from brand new and having already swap engine for new one I can truly said it’s crappy bike. Go do yourself favor and bike Japanese bike
I owned the bagger last year and just bought the 19 gt sport a few weeks ago. No left pull at all. In fact with cruise control on, the bike tracks straight as a ruler for as long as I have the guts to keep my hands of the handlebars.
The amazing thing about this bike or the grand America is that it is cheaper than a goldwing or a Harley ultra limited considering what comes on the bike. Nice job on the review.
Neil knows his bike more than most reviewers. Very informative. Thank-you. BTW, the 2017 K1600GT has Shift Assist Pro, Hill Assist, and the reverse gear.
Just bought the 2020. 1 month = 3000 miles. Maybe the most amazing bike made for the public. I've over 200K miles and most on cafe bikes. The lead angle the throttle response, the comfort. My wife loves the ride and EVERYTHING is adjustable. So stable so powerful. I. LOVE. MY. 2020 BMW GTL. Thanks for the review..
Good review. Im looking at one of these.
Just found this. Bought one this year after getting a bit disillusioned trying to do miles on 1000cc superbikes. Which have always been my love but I’m getting older I guess ! This bike gives you a lot of power but with loads of comfort and tech. Enjoying my gt se. Got akraprovic cans on mine. Sounds lovely. Thanks for your thoughts.
You forgot to mention that the bike has hill hold which I find comes in handy. Simply pull the front brake a little harder at a light while you are on a hill and the bike will not roll forward or backward until you let the clutch out in gear.
Nuts, great point sir!
I just bought a dealer demo (with 1.1 miles) and included was a new Schuberth helmet and the GPS to get it up to 24k.
Real good job dude... enjoyed the video and talk..
Looks like your in the small town of Derby In. About 10 miles from my place. Hwy 66 along the Ohio River in Perry County is a good road to ride . I ride it a few times a year. Good review.
Love that plate! Aww Yea is the perfect comment on this bike. 😃
Great Review, Amazing bike!
great review and very helpful. thank you. i am buying one myself so this was very useful.
This gentleman looks like he's my height,about 6'3"? I was hoping he would have sat on the bike so to gauge the head and eye level. Also how comfortable the legs and knees look?
What would be the price for a bike like that?
quite thorough, dug it
I’m looking to possibly trade my ultra in on one of these next year! How is the sound of the sterile oat highway speeds? Is it able to be heard easily? I appreciate ur time!
no, it's not heard easily, it's definitely not a loud bike.
Wanna fit 2 full faced helmets in the top case? Remove the top case's mat; It works for me. Nice bike!
You can also fit two full face helmets in there if you lay them in their sides and position them neck roll to neck roll. Now if you have a com unit mounted on the side it may restrict this due to their size or if the helmet is a modular style (generally modular are wider by design).
@@maxwellmark You mentioned comm's which caught my attention. I'm soon to buy a couple new 3/4 helmets and want to add comms to the helmets. My local BMW store is absolutely clueless so I'm wondering if you can point me to a retailer or etailer that can help me with both the helmet and comms. From what I've read it looks as if Cardo has a formal relationship with BMW overseas, but I'm open.
TIM MCMILLAN Cardo and Sena are the two leading wireless comm systems. I prefer the Cardo brand and have used it now for several years with no issues. I did upgrade the mount they used so I could plug an ear bud into it for much, much better sound. Now both companies offer that type of connection. Check Revzilla.com for very good reviews of both systems.
TIM MCMILLAN Also, neither system pairs perfectly with the bike. Unless you get the BMW branded systems. I don’t go through the bike for audio at all. I only pair to my phone and other riders. I use the bike GPS for visual reference only, the phone is my voice prompt, music and obviously phone connection
@@maxwellmark Thanks for the reply!! I bought one of my helmets from Revzilla and like dealing with them. I live in the Washington DC area so was looking to find a dealer that would both sell and help me configure. On my bike there from the menu selection under Audio, there is a process to connect Helmet 1 and then to connect a Helmet 2. It turns out from everything I've read that there is nothing that will work here in the US. Cardo designed a system that allows you to connect two helmets to the bike audio/nav system. Were you successful in connecting 2 helmets to the bike?
BMW the way cancel the cruiser control is twisting the throttle forward, don't use breaks or clutch.
There are multiple ways to disconnect and each is covered in the owners manual. Forward twist of the throttle, micro switch in the clutch lever and brake lever all are acceptable methods....
maxwellmark。yes i knew that , but not many people knows there is better way to do it. Still nice video, keep it up 👍
Jedz, how does the pricing compare with the GTL vs a 2018 Goldwing? Goldwings can fetch up to $28K for the super wizbang version. I would think the GTL would cost more, but not much more. I would consider the GTL more refined but perhaps more costly service wise over time. Enjoyed the video. I'll get back on my cheapy Triumph TEx now and slink away. AmenMoto Rules!
Believe this one was 24K. This was the first BMW I’ve ever ridden! Quite an awesome machine. Quick! Yeah like wise my Triumph..ant.. brother. Amen Moto for life!!!!! Can’t wait to ride with ya next month!!!
2018 K 1600 GTL Model Updates (arriving May 2017) MSRP: $25,595. So I think that is in line with the Goldwing. MSRP on the 1200GSA is just under $25K. I am impressed with the GTL.
Thanks for the update on the price! It's very nice. Weight is definitely all there at a stop but it looses it's weight as soon as it starts to roll. Nice bike for sure and compared to the Honda a good value...
My 2018 GTL was a few ticks over $30,000 USD... and worth every penny. The difference in maintenance cost to a Goldwing should hinge almost squarely on the difference, if any, in the hourly rate of BMW versus Honda. Both have virtually identical maintenance items (oil, air filter, brakes, rear differential, valve checks) and quite similar recommended intervals. Further, both bikes being fared, require about the same disassembly labor time in getting to some things like the air filter.
@@user-cx2bk6pm2f I just bought a brand new, zero miles, 2018 GTL Option 719 in Sparkling Storm Metallic for $24,407 on clearance. Subtract from that the $750 Emergency Purchase Plan credit I got from BMW, and I got in well under $24K. The Option 719 bikes are loaded with almost all optional equipment. I got the dealer to toss in the Nav VI at his cost and the top case brake light installed with free labor. Couldn't pass that deal up.
Hi guys. Can you tell me which RAM mount it is? I mean this mounted to the handlebar with a ball...
Spili - that’s the RAM Tough Claw mount with X grip
the best k 1600 video thanks guys.
Beautiful bike and very amusing video, but so much mis-information...y'all need to learan more about this bike!! OMG!! "..the headlight turns with you..."??? Really?!?!? NO!! IT DOES NOT LEAN.....IT STAYS LEVEL while the motorcycle leans SO THE HEADLIGHT ILLUMINATES THE ENTIRE WIDTH OF THE ROAD!!!
Wet weight is actually 768 lbs....considerably lighter than other comparable touring bikes with the same features...oh yeah...thre's only one bike with similar features...the Honda Goldwing Tour!!! Actually BMW requires the K1600GTL and GT to use 91 and above octane fuel....If you ride very cautiously you can get away with regular and little to no problems. If you ride like most, and use regular, you will eventually experience engine damage from detonation. The electronics will compensate as much as they can but damage is very possible and you will not hear the damaging detonation. Also, using regular will increase exhaust emissions and likely fail a CA in-use test.
BMW recommends Premium to deliver maximum power, durability, and comply with CA emission requirements. There are EPA rules for what and how gasoline is recommended by OEMs based on emissions and mpg tests but using regular and riding agressively can lead to engine damage.
Frankly, I can't imagine why anyone would risk damage and use regular gas and/or a non-approved oil.
As far as the lean angle and the side cases go, you will NEVER come close to touching down the side cases....if you do you're sliding on your side!!!
LMAO guilty as charged budy!!!, I don't know much about anything BMW however this motorcycle is an exceptionally well built and I would even say fair priced (coming from a guy that refuses to spend over $12K on anything brand new with 2 wheels). Thanks so much for your comment and please plug some actual fact! Best, -Jedz
@zulu: THANK YOU. My sentiment also about all the mis-information... but it wasn't as much Jed as it was the clueless owner. My comment above lists some other stuff he said.
Yes, the headlight turns with you - it’s some pretty cool tech. BMW’s Adaptive Xenon headlight with a reflector has an on-board gyroscope which feeds the headlight computer with the bike’s lean angle data, which in turn instructs the stepper motors to turn the reflector in the direction you’re turning. By this tilting of the reflector, the headlight beam is focused in the direction you’re headed just enough to compensate for the bike’s lean angle which is capable of carrying out up to 25 degrees in each direction. The headlight computer is also fed with the speed of the bike travel along with the lean angle data. With these two pieces of information the computer can calculate how tight or relaxed the corner is. For example -20 degrees lean angle at 80 Mph means a much broader curve than a 20 degrees lean at 20 Mph. So the bike then turns the headlight into the left or right, to light up as much of the road ahead as possible all while it also keeps the beam level. There’s a lot more going on that most riders realize.
All BMW K1600 have serious issue - They all pull to the left! My one pull so hard that if I barely touch handlebar in split second I am on left lane. ( after hour ride my shoulder is in agony from constant pull handlebar to correct it and BMW don’t seem see the problem like I will not pay £ 24000) And after owning this bike for 3 months from brand new and having already swap engine for new one I can truly said it’s crappy bike. Go do yourself favor and bike Japanese bike
No, they don't all pull to the left. My '18 does not have this issue.
I owned the bagger last year and just bought the 19 gt sport a few weeks ago. No left pull at all. In fact with cruise control on, the bike tracks straight as a ruler for as long as I have the guts to keep my hands of the handlebars.
My 2018 does not pull at all. Could cruse for miles with my hands of the handle bars