Of course, you can also travel formidable with a travel enduro like the BMW R 1250 GS, not least because of some electronic helpers that have (belatedly) also found their way into motorcycles – such as cruise control. But if you like to travel really comfortably – including many long stretches on the motorway – you should fall back on a classic tourer like the K 1600 series. Because a bike like the K 1600 GT offers a lot more for the long-distance cyclist: an electrically adjustable windshield , navigation integrated into the 10.25-inch display, radio reception with loudspeakers and connection of the infotainment system to the Bluetooth system of the driver and front passenger, as well as first-class lighting.
But that’s not the end of the feel-good ambience. There are heated seats for both passengers, and for maneuvering the 343-kilo K 1600 GT, which presented itself to us in the editorial office, BMW donated a reversing aid to maneuver the 343-kilo strand out of awkward parking spaces. Mind you, the function is not a classic reverse gear like in a car, but only pushes a little. To do this, press the R button on the right-hand dashboard and hold the starter button while the engine is running. The bike then slowly rolls backwards. Very practical and sweat-saving.
Last but not least, a radio-controlled central locking saves the annoying checking of the many locks for the storage spaces on the right and left in the paneling and the two suitcases. A top case is reserved for the larger GTL variant, but can be retrofitted.
Top jobs of the day
Find the best jobs now and be notified by email.
One reason why bikes like the K 1600 GT are not found at the top end of the registration statistics is their weight and the passive and less active riding position. The front wheel is far away. When climbing the Stelvio Pass, for example, only true experts shed tears of joy; Here it is better to do gymnastics with the so popular travel enduros.
Everything in view
The 10.25-inch monitor can be subdivided and then displays the driving data on the right.
Also drives backwards
The reversing aid is activated by pressing the R button.
Hardly any other bike can outperform her on the Autobahn. Ideal wind protection thanks to the large windshield, the cruise control, the high-torque engine and enormous driving stability thanks to the semi-active chassis: the K 1600 GT is the ideal motorcycle for racking up kilometers.
Speaking of chassis: Something new has happened here too. The latest version of the semi-active damping system called Dynamic ESA now also controls automatic leveling with changing loads. The three driving modes (Rain, Road, Dynamic) are each linked to a basic setting, but the driver can easily combine the engine’s spontaneous throttle response (“Dynamic”) with the most comfortable damping.
If the customer chooses the K 1600 GT (or its derivatives GTL, B or Grand America), the unique engine is likely to be a main reason. As one of the few six-cylinders in motorcycle construction, it has received a great deal of praise since its appearance – and it has been upgraded to the Euro 5 standard for the new model year. A new engine control and exhaust system with double catalytic converters and lambda sensors were installed.
And that even provides more power. The torque increases from 175 to 180 Nm at an unchanged 5,250 rpm, the output of 118 kW/160 hp is now unchanged at 6,750 rpm (previously 7,750). The engine also provides traction in every situation.
Closed quickly
The central locking can also be operated using a button on the right-hand dashboard.
Even from low revs, the K 1600 GT pulls through confidently, but downshifting may be necessary when overtaking. The driving pleasure is refined by the great shift assistant, which steps up and down without getting stuck.
The somewhat angular pressure point of the clutch alone sometimes spoils starting. In curves, the K 1600 GT lies stoically calmly on its line, and even if it goes a little deeper into the curve, no main stand screeches over the asphalt.
Another important innovation is the 10.25-inch TFT display in the cockpit, which was adopted from the brother tourer, the R 1250 GT. It is easy to read – and more importantly: Its operating logic is quickly understood (navigation, audio, communication, vehicle settings). After a little trial and error and reading the digital operating instructions, we understood the idea behind it, with the rotary wheel on the left fitting providing valuable services.
Well built
The BMW K 1600 GT is also available in a stylish metallic white.
In addition, the system masters all types of connectivity. The smartphone can be integrated via the BMW Connect app, so you can be reached not only by phone. The navigation instructions on the mobile phone are transferred to the display and played back acoustically – if necessary via Bluetooth into the helmet system. On our tours it worked right away and without any problems. However, a map cannot be transferred to the display.
So much size and weight comes at a price, of course. The basic price of the K 1600 GT is 25,950 euros gross, which can definitely be increased. For example, light forged wheels are available for 1,600 euros. Two packages can also be purchased: the comfort package for 1,120 euros with shift assistant, central locking and anti-theft alarm system, and the touring package for 1,529 euros with LED auxiliary headlights and audio system.
Consumption leveled off at 6.2 liters per 100 kilometers, although it was higher on the motorway and under 6 liters on country roads
The K 1600 GT is a formidable tourer with lots of luxury on board. Many are likely to go over the counter fully equipped, and in view of the chances of resale, that should also be advisable when buying. What did we miss? The icing on the cake in terms of travel comfort would be an adaptive cruise control that follows the speed of the vehicle in front. But its introduction should only be a matter of time. And a few pounds less would be nice too.
More: Cruiser with power – a ride with the Harley-Davidson Low Rider ST 117