BMW K1600GT (2017 - on) Review

Overall rating

There is no smoother or arguably safer way to travel on two wheels than the BMW K1600GT. It consumes miles and is now more comfortable than ever. If you tick all the accessory boxes it becomes the limousine of the bike world, but at a price.

This model replaced the 2011-2016 BMW K1600GT.

Ride quality & brakes

For 2017 BMW have added clever self-levelling next generation ESA. Previous-gen K1600GT owners have to adjust the damping manually to either soft, medium or hard settings, but now it’s all automated. This is done via numerous sensors, including one for lean angle for the first time. Pre-load is electronic but still done manually by the rider when stationary. There’s no getting away from the fact the 1600 is big, but for the first time BMW have made life easier with an optional reverse gear. 

What are the best tyres for the BMW K1600GT? 

When BMW developed the bike they will have worked with Bridgestone and Metzeler to put the rubber through as general type approval for the whole bike.

So you have a choice of Bridgestone 021 and 022s and also Metzeler Roadtec Z8 Interact C (the C refers to the construction, which is stiffer than normal to take account of the bike’s weight andperformance).

Engine

The BMW K1600GT engine is a water-cooled 1649cc, in-line six-cylinder motor that remains unchanged from the previous generation's, but now meets tight Euro 4 emissions regulations. This means peak power of 160bhp and peak torque of 129ftlb are the same as the previous model. The engine is as smooth as it is powerful.  

Reliability & build quality

Re-sale values are high because BMW’s reliability and service are top level. The new K1600GT continues this high level of quality, feels robust and secure. There are very few bikes on the market which have the level of sophistication and quality of the K1600GT. 

We don't currently have any 2017 BMW K1600GT owners' reviews on the site. 

Value vs rivals

There’s no getting away from the fact the big K1600 is expesnive, however its build quality is not in doubt. 

Equipment

The K1600GT comes fully loaded with adapative headlights, Dynamic ESA, daytime running lights, ABS Pro, Audio system with GPS preparation, reverse gear (for the first time), Dynamic traction control, hill start control and tyre pressure control. The optional gear shift pro is an extra £375. Optional Intelligent Emergencey e-Call will also be available in the UK from September onwards.

From August 2020, all the K1600 models (that’s GT, GTL and Bagger) come with reverse, cornering lights, tyre pressure monitors and DRLs as standard, which is a very healthy saving for your wallet. There’s new colours all over the shop but the GT is now only available with a black frame and engine, while the ‘Safety’ pack has been ditched for the entire range.