For 2017 BMW have added clever self-levelling next generation ESA. Current 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.
The water-cooled 1649cc, in-line six-cylinder motor remains unchanged, 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.
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.
There’s no getting away from the fact the big K1600 is expesnive, however its build quality is not in doubt.
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.