Taking a leaf out of Honda’s book, BMW has decided that four cylinders are no longer good enough for its flagship models, and so it has developed an in-line six-cylinder unit for the K 1600 GT / GTL.
As the nomenclature implies, it may give 200 cc away to the Goldwing but, despite that, it manages to produce more power (158 bhp / 118 kW / 160 PS versus 116 bhp / 87 kW / 118 PS for the Honda) and more torque (175 Nm compared to the Goldwing’s 167 Nm).
The way that that power is transmitted to the rear wheel of the K 1600 GT / GTL is determined by three engine modes - Road, Dynamic and Rain - which the rider can switch between via a button on the handlebar.
BMW is also claiming it’s a comparatively light and compact engine, but nevertheless it weighs over 100 kg on its own. Other features, such as a magnesium front panel carrier and a light alloy bridge type frame, are further evidence that the same weight minimising philosophy has been applied throughout the rest of the K 1600 GT / GTL, too.
As a result, the K 1600 GT (without panniers) weighs 319 kg, while the K 1600 GTL with its panniers and top case tips the scales at 348 kg. You wouldn’t want to have to lift either off the deck on your own, but both are positively svelte compared to the 417 kg dry weight of their Honda rival.
BMW is also emphasising the dynamic characteristics of the K 1600 GT / GTL. It has tried to keep the centre of gravity as low as possible, in an effort to benefit both low speed stability as well as handling at higher speeds. The suspension comprises a Duolever front end, designed to prevent diving under deceleration or braking, while the rear gets the familiar Paralever system that incorporates the shaft drive.
If the standard set up isn’t enough, second generation Electronic Suspension Adjustment (ESA II) will be available at extra cost. This allows the rider to choose the spring rate and preload for the rear suspension, as well as one of three settings - Normal, Comfort or Sport - for both the front and rear dampers. Again, it’s all done at the touch of a button.
Also on the options list will be Dynamic Traction Control. This system has been tuned so that the way it works depends on which engine mode has been selected.
Pricing for the K 1600 GT and K 1600 GTL, and an on-sale date, have yet to be confirmed.
