Love my 2020 GT SE model which I have fitted with akrapovic cans, a comfort brown seat package, a new screen i fitted last week, the GPS system and I just fitted quad lock for my iphone as well (which was a bit messy). Love the bike, the engine is immense, and I have tended to own S1000RR;s, Fireblade, and R1s most of my life. Getting close to 50 now and wanted something more relaxing for longer miles. Very impressed with it.
Great review - just ordered the 2018 - easy choice if you not upgrading. The only thing I think you missed is the reverse gear. Also totally agree with you regarding the quickshifter - smoothest I have ever felt and probably what swung me to buying a new one.
Rob Kennedy cheers mate appreciated and yes your 100% right, I did fail to mention the reverse gear as it was pointed out to me but I totally forgot about it and didn’t even try it 🤔🤪. I think I’ll eventually go over to a new model but not until the TFT is introduced...!!!! Agreed the quick shifter, it’s the best I have used - safe riding on your new steed and thanks for the comments 👍
Just had my 2018 K1600b re mapped by BrenTuning and the throttle response issue is fixed with the speed limiter removed along with a little extra HP added.
Harley tech hello mate, would you believe I only recently found the info on Bren Tuning and have just purchased the 2019 K1600, therefore in the new year will be contacting them to fix my horrible throttle response - really glad to read it has been so successful for your 1600b 👍👍👍
Thanks for this. I was looking at a R1250RT or a 2015 K1600GT. Thanks to this video I bought the K1600 and have no wish to own or ride any other machine. It must be (2015 model) the last of the truly insane long haul touring bikes. I find that Dynamic mode is just not needed, Road mode is plenty fast enough. I saw this around a month ago (July 2022) and after much searching came back to give you the thumbs up. A Goldwing was thought of but as the have a reverse gear why not just go and buy a Honda Civic instead?.....
Hello! I have a choice of buying a used 2018 GT with a premium package and top box for 5000 more than a 2015 GT orange (just like yours) do you think the 2018 is worth it ? with the hill assist, reverse gear? Other than those 2 the bike seems the same, and I will have to do the ECU flash on the 18 anyways...
Thanks for sharing I have a K1300GT love the bike and due to the EU regulations the K1300 was phased out to be replaced by the K1600... I'm keeping my K1300GT as it has the same power like the K1600GT a little less weight obviously we'll see what the future brings but I can say I agree with you that the K1600GT 2015 model would stay in my garage also... ;) BTW I had a R1200GS 2007 which i did in excess of 160 000km in 5 years without an issue except the same issue I have now the RH heated grip giving up, before the K1300GT (2010 model) and it was like moving from a tractor to F1 car. Many safe km's buddy and once again thanks for sharing.
Paul Malyjurek G’day Paul, pleased you liked the review, I also had a K1300 GT but sold it and have regretted the sale every day since, it was the perfect sport / touring bike as the K1600 is just a very big girl (I’ve call mine a whole lot of Rosie after the AC/DC song). The 2015 is a great bike but around town she shows her girth and this is why I purchased the 2018 R1200 GSA as it’s just so nimble to ride although doesn’t have the power of the 16 😱 but I would trade both to be back with my K1300.!!! Safe riding mate and many thanks for the comments 😎👍
Paul Malyjurek: Any issue with the bike pulling to the left after the bike got some long distance behind it? One of the things I've seen posted on some of the owner's forums.
@RM K Very interesting! I am looking hard for a nice K13GT. I currently have K1300S, K1200S and K1200R... Safe to say I love my K bikes. I just need something bigger for my partner and I as I am sore from 2 up touring on the K13S. I am torn between K16GT and K13GT
@@metal2metallica I sold mine last year and went for the R1250RS, I love it it's a little more nibble than the K1300GT performance wise it is about the same in the real world maybe slightly better in the Switchbacks in Italian Dolomites due to the lower center of gravity. Hope you find your dream bike
@Paul Malyjurek Wow the R1250Rs does look nice! However, it doesn't look any better for two up. K1300S is my dream bike (would like the HP model or 2016 model) so already nailed that.. Just need a big tourer that I can enjoy with the Mrs.
Great bike but be sure to check its not on the recall for the transmission before purchasing or it will sit in the garage for 4 months (as my did), until repaired by BMW recall...
Steve Kioussis transmission failure due to 3rd party producing a faulty gear selector which locks up rear wheel, therefore when identified back in Nov 2019, I made the required contact with my dealership and basically waited until 2 weeks ago to get it fixed under warranty
Maybe so, but I thing Bren Tuning can help you out. Besides that, I think the speed shifter may have made it worth the wait. I did, finally buy the '18 GTL, and after getting used to it, I really like it. The thing just screams.
I just bought the 2018GTL. Let me tell you this: 1) There are tuners out there that can 'adjust' the performance 'more to your liking'. 2) The 'Shift Assist Pro' cannot be understated. A little clunk in/out of 1st, but after that, the gear changes are beyond 'buttery smooth'. You's swear it was either a CVT or a DCT. It's THAT GOOD. Don't have much time on it yet as the weather and road conditions turned soon after my purchase. I can hardly wait for the winter to clear and the sand to dissipate. And yeah, I know... My last bike was ridden in every month except February. With a New, 768 Lb Mega-beast with no crash bars, I'm feeling a little more cautious. Just coming off a T-Bone that totaled my bike and put me in the hospital and out of work for 3 weeks, so, yeah, a little extra cautious this time around. At least until I learn the new beast.
HI nice video. The first thing I notice on both bikes is that there is no crash bar. Theprotection I got when I tipped My 1100 over was amazing.picked up road on. Uneven dirt parking lot. Crash Bars More of a after market Thing!
Thank you and much appreciated. The K16 don't have crash bars and definitely worth having although I must say, mine hasn't been down the road - touch wood... :)
@@RMK67 That's my biggest concern right now. Don't care about any embarrassment or some such. Just the cost of repairs. New fairing, pannier and possible engine damage. Haven't asked but I'm sure it's '2nd mortgage' level cost.
R. Duane Thornton silly me, went against my assessment and purchased the 2019 model but did substantial alterations including flashing the ECU back to the 2015 model and now have a package that is exceptional but the cost, well that’s another story...
I have your exact bike here in Arizona. Agree it looks better than the new one and the engine performance does not match the 15. In the southwest we often ride at 100mph plus and have a lot of twisty roads as well. I like the 1600 much better than the 2010 Kawasaki Concours I had.
TheAfterBurnner Breneman Oh how I would love ❤️ to ride my K16 @ 100mph but the coppers would take my licence and throw me in jail for many years 😱, Arizona great to hear from our mates in the US, now your just making me jealous 😏, agreed the 2015 is a better bike and I won’t be selling my girl anytime soon, ride safe and great to hear from you 👍👍👍
Software updates took out most of the throttle softness, but, the Bren tune makes it a total different bike. Currently waiting for the Transmission recall fix, 25,000 + miles on a 2018, with a deposit on a R18/2
Flying Dog the Bren tune just changed my bike substantially but like you, it’s waiting on a new cartridge gearbox so it garaged waiting on BMW to confirm the repair sometime late January / February 2020 😩
@@RMK67 Rather nice in Vitoria, Espirito Santo, Brasil, last time I checked that was in the Southern Hemisphere. Bastante agradável em Vitória, Espírito Santo, Brasil. A última vez que verifiquei isso foi no Hemisfério Sul.
@@RMK67 Bastante agradável em Vitória, Espírito Santo, Brasil. A última vez que verifiquei isso foi no Hemisfério Sul. Vai viajar para o Rio de Janeiro para fogos de artifício na praia de Ipanema na próxima semana. Very nice in Vitória, Espírito Santo, Brazil. The last time I checked this was in the Southern Hemisphere. Will travel to Rio de Janeiro for fireworks on Ipanema Beach next week
Amazing review, this gives me so much context before making a final decision. I have few questions, if I may: - so does it mean that in 2015 bmw wasn't even installing quick shifter into K16's? - how tall are you. How is seating position for you in a GT, especially in longer journeys? Have you tried GTL? From my research - I found that GTL has a bit more relaxed seating position
Thank you for your kind comments and Hello, Unfortunately no, the 2015 GT & GTL did not come with the "quick shifter" from the factory until the 2018 model. I'm 6' 2" and its an extremely comfortable to ride on the GT variant, I have looked at the GTL but its just too big for me as I do a-lot of solo riding and prefer a sportier riding position and the longer journeys, I always stop every two hours to relax, hydrate and stretch the body. Hope this helps and I have done a vlog on my channel as I purchase the 2019 GT and it will give you some insight to what I have done to personalise this bike to the 2015 model i loved soooo much... :)
Can the Euro 4 standard limiting throttle control be undone on the 18 model? Also I think the reverse gear makes the K1600 so much more nimble as a commuter bike. It is only 9cm wider than the R1200
L M Unfortunately from a number of blogs I’ve read on guys trying to remove the Euro4 haven’t been successful due to the complicated nature of the CanBus system - thanks BMW 🤬. As for the reverse gear, I’m old school and was taught without a reverse gear, therefore I think it a waste for me and more of a gimmick but that’s me, others may like the system but for me it’s a waste, BMW would be better served reducing the weight of the big K16 to where the K12 & K13 use to be - thanks for the comments and ride safe 😎👍
From a 2015 to a 2018.. no huge compelling reason to make the jump I agree. From a 2012.. or no K1600 at all.. the 2018 is the way to go unless you find a great deal on a used 2015. I don't think emissions laws are going to be a problem in the long run. People have been saying that since emissions laws started and last I checked bikes (and cars) are only getting more powerful and faster over time. Technology had to catch up is all.
candlstudios or better still, I have it on trusted authority that the 2019 / 2020 will be a major overhaul including removable TFT screen which will have the IOS / Apple CarPlay software installed 😱, thanks for the comments 😁👍
I had the bike in Dynamic mode during the vlog and unfortunately it didn't make any difference to the response of the throttle compared to the 2015 model - shame.... :(
@@EXTRA300s I have put over 25,000 miles on my 2018 K1600B. Nice weather this weekend and will put more than 800 miles in the next few days, despite the the transmission recall. The Brentune does not add more Horse Power, pea brain. The thing it does do is improve throttle response, most notable at low speed, parking lot and traffic light roll off speeds, but still welcome at highway speeds. The July, 2019 factory software update improved the throttle response but the Brentune essentially eliminated the initial hesitation in the throttle very noticeable and welcome improvement. Try it you will like it. Either you do not own one or you are a Garage rider. czcams.com/video/YP3_6in71Eg/video.html
Eli Jackson I have an Akrapovič on my GSA which sounds great with the twin but the K16 has the original exhaust and honestly, I love the sound of the OEM. There are so many different varieties on the market but as I have Akrapovič on one of the bikes, therefore I would recommend this one ☝️😁👍
Good review! I agree with you about the exhausts, there's something special about that clear statement for those following that this baby is a big 6!!! Great track by the way! Would it by any chance be the 12" version where it is Tainted Love/Where Did Our Love Go?
Biker Paul Thank you so much Paul and coming from a past owner of the K1600, it’s a great vote of approval 👍, Oh and the track at the beginning of the vlog, I’m sorry you were wrong 🤓 its from Lethal Weapon 3, sung by Sting - “It’s Probably Me” and the lead actor, the great Aussie himself and staunch Jewish support 😱, Mel Gibson 😂
BMW was becoming my first choice for a new bike this fall..then thank god I came across not 1...but 2..vedios of new BMW buyers getting screwed by dealer and company itself..those S.O.B."s..
Every buyer has had those terrible experiences with dealers and manufacturers but to date, I’ve experienced a very good level of support from BMW and especially the dealer but it does require some effort on the buyers part to build a good working relationship prior to placing an order 😁👍
Have been dealing with the same dealer since 1973, 2 Triumphs and 3 BMS. Have dealt with 2 other dealers on warrantee issues on my present bike, 2018 KB. Actually have a deposit on an R18 when it becomes available. Never had a bit of problem from any dealer, if fact would rate them 4.5 0ut of 5. Loose nuts on the handlebars are generally hard for dealers to deal with.
@@RMK67 Depends on the intended use. The GW is probably better for the highway and long touring days. The GT/L is probably better for more aggressive sport oriented 'touring' but shorter days.
I just purchased a 2015, k1600 gt, and that was exactly what I was worried about. The transmission is not smooth at all, there’s a big clunk in every gear. So you do think that is normal for that motorcycle thanks.
@@RMK67 I tried shifting at low RPM high RPM with no success, still a big clunk. I taught I needed a new Clutch or something. I'm coming from a Honda shadow. Not the same at all. Your video gives me peace of mind. Would you have any suggestions on shifting gears to get the best results? Thanks
@@monsternorm4245 no special knowledge or trick on getting past the clunky gear changes, it’s part of the design and was only slightly improved on later models, so just learn to live 👍
I am hugely interested in the K1600 series. Been hearing different things from reviews and forums. Can anyone get back to me on BMW's customer service responses? I know no manufacturer that puts out mass produced products gets it right 100% of the time, and even if they could, sometimes things just fail. I want to know if BMW and their dealer network are eager to make things right or is it always an uphill battle while the warranty is still active. Lot o' cash on the line and at this point I've got one shot to get a bike of this caliber so if anyone can post anything meaningful, I sure would appreciate it.
john hanrahan mate like all businesses, it’s based on the dealership first and foremost and the relationship you have built, and then comes the manufacturer who will always make the final decision on a warranty issue. Suffice to say, I’ve had a good experience with BMW although at times a little slower than I would have liked but again that’s par for the course. You’ll always hear the negatives and the upmost positives on all manufactures but my experience to date has been a favourable one while the bikes I have owned and produced by BMW have been covered by a warranty, after that it’s expensive so be warned. I would suggest if this purchase it a substantial cash investment, you negotiate an extended warranty from the dealership which I believe BMW offers for the cars but the bikes, well you’ll need to ask that question - good luck with the decision 😎👍
Love the video! As much fun as a new bike is, with bikes like this that don't change much year to year you can really improve your current one for a LOT less money than trading it in for the latest model year. Here's a list of everything I've done to my 2012! czcams.com/video/8eJJjku11fc/video.html
Bernard Lim the “Sport” version you are referring to does not exist anymore here in Australia or for that fact O/S that I know of as my bike was the very last import of the “Sports” version into Australia, therefor the bike I reviewed and comparison IS the correct bike as the link you provided
Your dog is the star of the show! It doesn’t get scared by the noise and it’s so tiny compared to the GTs!
Love my 2020 GT SE model which I have fitted with akrapovic cans, a comfort brown seat package, a new screen i fitted last week, the GPS system and I just fitted quad lock for my iphone as well (which was a bit messy). Love the bike, the engine is immense, and I have tended to own S1000RR;s, Fireblade, and R1s most of my life. Getting close to 50 now and wanted something more relaxing for longer miles. Very impressed with it.
Thanks for the review......thanks for the effort you put in....
p glad you liked the review 😁👍
Great video! thank you Rodney.
Exploring Switzerland cheers mate much appreciated , must keep in contact as I should be in the UK by July with the K16 & GSA 😱😁👍
Nice review! Keep up the great work.
Mike J thanks mate 😁👍
love the editing :)
Moto Michelle cheers mate 😎👍
Great review - just ordered the 2018 - easy choice if you not upgrading. The only thing I think you missed is the reverse gear. Also totally agree with you regarding the quickshifter - smoothest I have ever felt and probably what swung me to buying a new one.
Rob Kennedy cheers mate appreciated and yes your 100% right, I did fail to mention the reverse gear as it was pointed out to me but I totally forgot about it and didn’t even try it 🤔🤪. I think I’ll eventually go over to a new model but not until the TFT is introduced...!!!! Agreed the quick shifter, it’s the best I have used - safe riding on your new steed and thanks for the comments 👍
I went for 2015 and I have regretted it every day since. Stopped riding it seven months ago. Keeps breaking. Nothing but sheer hatred for that bike.
Brentune fixes the 80% throttle cap.
Just had my 2018 K1600b re mapped by BrenTuning and the throttle response issue is fixed with the speed limiter removed along with a little extra HP added.
Harley tech hello mate, would you believe I only recently found the info on Bren Tuning and have just purchased the 2019 K1600, therefore in the new year will be contacting them to fix my horrible throttle response - really glad to read it has been so successful for your 1600b 👍👍👍
The 15 for sure!
Thanks for this. I was looking at a R1250RT or a 2015 K1600GT. Thanks to this video I bought the K1600 and have no wish to own or ride any other machine. It must be (2015 model) the last of the truly insane long haul touring bikes. I find that Dynamic mode is just not needed, Road mode is plenty fast enough. I saw this around a month ago (July 2022) and after much searching came back to give you the thumbs up. A Goldwing was thought of but as the have a reverse gear why not just go and buy a Honda Civic instead?.....
Hello! I have a choice of buying a used 2018 GT with a premium package and top box for 5000 more than a 2015 GT orange (just like yours) do you think the 2018 is worth it ? with the hill assist, reverse gear? Other than those 2 the bike seems the same, and I will have to do the ECU flash on the 18 anyways...
Hey what’s the green A light symbol in front of the ride mode icon. I have a 2016 and have never seen it. You have a 15 and 18 both have
Thanks for sharing I have a K1300GT love the bike and due to the EU regulations the K1300 was phased out to be replaced by the K1600... I'm keeping my K1300GT as it has the same power like the K1600GT a little less weight obviously we'll see what the future brings but I can say I agree with you that the K1600GT 2015 model would stay in my garage also... ;) BTW I had a R1200GS 2007 which i did in excess of 160 000km in 5 years without an issue except the same issue I have now the RH heated grip giving up, before the K1300GT (2010 model) and it was like moving from a tractor to F1 car. Many safe km's buddy and once again thanks for sharing.
Paul Malyjurek G’day Paul, pleased
you liked the review, I also had a K1300 GT but sold it and have regretted the sale every day since, it was the perfect sport / touring bike as the K1600 is just a very big girl (I’ve call mine a whole lot of Rosie after the AC/DC song). The 2015 is a great bike but around town she shows her girth and this is why I purchased the 2018 R1200 GSA as it’s just so nimble to ride although doesn’t have the power of the 16 😱 but I would trade both to be back with my K1300.!!! Safe riding mate and many thanks for the comments 😎👍
Paul Malyjurek: Any issue with the bike pulling to the left after the bike got some long distance behind it?
One of the things I've seen posted on some of the owner's forums.
@RM K Very interesting! I am looking hard for a nice K13GT. I currently have K1300S, K1200S and K1200R... Safe to say I love my K bikes. I just need something bigger for my partner and I as I am sore from 2 up touring on the K13S. I am torn between K16GT and K13GT
@@metal2metallica I sold mine last year and went for the R1250RS, I love it it's a little more nibble than the K1300GT performance wise it is about the same in the real world maybe slightly better in the Switchbacks in Italian Dolomites due to the lower center of gravity. Hope you find your dream bike
@Paul Malyjurek Wow the R1250Rs does look nice! However, it doesn't look any better for two up. K1300S is my dream bike (would like the HP model or 2016 model) so already nailed that.. Just need a big tourer that I can enjoy with the Mrs.
Thanks for the awesome review. At about 4:35 in the video you talk about shift assist lever for the 15's. Where can i find them?
Neil Antonio take a look at this web site - www.dmacmachining.com/bmw-k1600-short-throw-shift-kit 🤔😁👍
IMHO, having installed and used one of these, they don't make much difference and can make the lever action harder to use.
I'm looking at purchasing a K1600B. Great vid.
Great bike but be sure to check its not on the recall for the transmission before purchasing or it will sit in the garage for 4 months (as my did), until repaired by BMW recall...
@@RMK67 I heard about that what happened?
Steve Kioussis transmission failure due to 3rd party producing a faulty gear selector which locks up rear wheel, therefore when identified back in Nov 2019, I made the required contact with my dealership and basically waited until 2 weeks ago to get it fixed under warranty
@@RMK67 Good to know glad BMW recognizes that and can repair it. Thankyou for the info take care.
Steve Kioussis 😁👍
Definitely a muted throttle response on the new bird. I love my 2012 model.
Stephen Boneau yep agreed mate 😁👍
Maybe so, but I thing Bren Tuning can help you out.
Besides that, I think the speed shifter may have made it worth the wait.
I did, finally buy the '18 GTL, and after getting used to it, I really like it.
The thing just screams.
ive got a 2015 and was thinkin of up grading but not now. might get the shifter upgrade
thx
Marc Martirosi yes mate also considering doing exactly the same to improve the gear changes 😁👍
I just bought the 2018GTL. Let me tell you this:
1) There are tuners out there that can 'adjust' the performance 'more to your liking'.
2) The 'Shift Assist Pro' cannot be understated. A little clunk in/out of 1st, but after that, the gear changes are beyond 'buttery smooth'. You's swear it was either a CVT or a DCT. It's THAT GOOD.
Don't have much time on it yet as the weather and road conditions turned soon after my purchase. I can hardly wait for the winter to clear and the sand to dissipate.
And yeah, I know...
My last bike was ridden in every month except February.
With a New, 768 Lb Mega-beast with no crash bars, I'm feeling a little more cautious.
Just coming off a T-Bone that totaled my bike and put me in the hospital and out of work for 3 weeks, so, yeah, a little extra cautious this time around. At least until I learn the new beast.
HI nice video. The first thing I notice on both bikes is that there is no crash bar. Theprotection I got when I tipped My 1100 over was amazing.picked up road on. Uneven dirt parking lot. Crash Bars More of a after market Thing!
Thank you and much appreciated. The K16 don't have crash bars and definitely worth having although I must say, mine hasn't been down the road - touch wood... :)
@@RMK67 That's my biggest concern right now. Don't care about any embarrassment or some such. Just the cost of repairs. New fairing, pannier and possible engine damage.
Haven't asked but I'm sure it's '2nd mortgage' level cost.
The '18 has a detuned throtte, shift assist, ABS Pro, and reverse. No way I can justify upgrading my '12 GT for an '18...
R. Duane Thornton silly me, went against my assessment and purchased the 2019 model but did substantial alterations including flashing the ECU back to the 2015 model and now have a package that is exceptional but the cost, well that’s another story...
While I previously rode a Gold Wing GL1100 Interstate, I'm no on a PCX150 scooter. I'll take either of these bikes, I'm not fussy. :)
Visionery1 as long as you enjoy motorcycle riding, any bike should be enjoyable 😁👍, ride safe and thanks for the comments
Look at the bright side , you probably get better milage .
Do they make handlebar risers for the 2015 with those style of handlebars that you have?
I’m sure they do, I would suggest looking at Wunderlich products for what you need
I have your exact bike here in Arizona. Agree it looks better than the new one and the engine performance does not match the 15. In the southwest we often ride at 100mph plus and have a lot of twisty roads as well. I like the 1600 much better than the 2010 Kawasaki Concours I had.
TheAfterBurnner Breneman Oh how I would love ❤️ to ride my K16 @ 100mph but the coppers would take my licence and throw me in jail for many years 😱, Arizona great to hear from our mates in the US, now your just making me jealous 😏, agreed the 2015 is a better bike and I won’t be selling my girl anytime soon, ride safe and great to hear from you 👍👍👍
TheAfterBurnner Breneman
You ever do the azratpack rides?
I too have the same bike and live outside of Phoenix.
Sgt Garnier what’s a “azratpack” mate....?
RM K
Azratpack is a meetup motorcycle group here in Arizona. We do group rides.
Yes I do
Software updates took out most of the throttle softness, but, the Bren tune makes it a total different bike. Currently waiting for the Transmission recall fix, 25,000 + miles on a 2018, with a deposit on a R18/2
Flying Dog the Bren tune just changed my bike substantially but like you, it’s waiting on a new cartridge gearbox so it garaged waiting on BMW to confirm the repair sometime late January / February 2020 😩
@@RMK67 Mine is not garaged rode 100 miles today.
Flying Dog not willing to take the chance plus it’s too bloody hot 🥵 to ride a motorcycle in the Southern Hemisphere 🤓
@@RMK67 Rather nice in Vitoria, Espirito Santo, Brasil, last time I checked that was in the Southern Hemisphere. Bastante agradável em Vitória, Espírito Santo, Brasil. A última vez que verifiquei isso foi no Hemisfério Sul.
@@RMK67 Bastante agradável em Vitória, Espírito Santo, Brasil. A última vez que verifiquei isso foi no Hemisfério Sul. Vai viajar para o Rio de Janeiro para fogos de artifício na praia de Ipanema na próxima semana. Very nice in Vitória, Espírito Santo, Brazil. The last time I checked this was in the Southern Hemisphere. Will travel to Rio de Janeiro for fireworks on Ipanema Beach next week
Looking at 2014. Am I shorting myself any amenities I might like on the newer ones?
Yep a good year for the K1600 and amenities, where do you start, Admore Lighting is a good start point
Amazing review, this gives me so much context before making a final decision. I have few questions, if I may:
- so does it mean that in 2015 bmw wasn't even installing quick shifter into K16's?
- how tall are you. How is seating position for you in a GT, especially in longer journeys? Have you tried GTL? From my research - I found that GTL has a bit more relaxed seating position
Thank you for your kind comments and Hello, Unfortunately no, the 2015 GT & GTL did not come with the "quick shifter" from the factory until the 2018 model. I'm 6' 2" and its an extremely comfortable to ride on the GT variant, I have looked at the GTL but its just too big for me as I do a-lot of solo riding and prefer a sportier riding position and the longer journeys, I always stop every two hours to relax, hydrate and stretch the body. Hope this helps and I have done a vlog on my channel as I purchase the 2019 GT and it will give you some insight to what I have done to personalise this bike to the 2015 model i loved soooo much... :)
@@RMK67 thanks, this helps with my choices. Hoping to join the road this summer :)
@@RobbieKiama enjoy and be safe out there... :)
Can the Euro 4 standard limiting throttle control be undone on the 18 model?
Also I think the reverse gear makes the K1600 so much more nimble as a commuter bike. It is only 9cm wider than the R1200
L M Unfortunately from a number of blogs I’ve read on guys trying to remove the Euro4 haven’t been successful due to the complicated nature of the CanBus system - thanks BMW 🤬. As for the reverse gear, I’m old school and was taught without a reverse gear, therefore I think it a waste for me and more of a gimmick but that’s me, others may like the system but for me it’s a waste, BMW would be better served reducing the weight of the big K16 to where the K12 & K13 use to be - thanks for the comments and ride safe 😎👍
@@RMK67 BrenTune fixes that.
Flying Dog done that as well 😁👍
From a 2015 to a 2018.. no huge compelling reason to make the jump I agree.
From a 2012.. or no K1600 at all.. the 2018 is the way to go unless you find a great deal on a used 2015.
I don't think emissions laws are going to be a problem in the long run. People have been saying that since emissions laws started and last I checked bikes (and cars) are only getting more powerful and faster over time. Technology had to catch up is all.
candlstudios or better still, I have it on trusted authority that the 2019 / 2020 will be a major overhaul including removable TFT screen which will have the IOS / Apple CarPlay software installed 😱, thanks for the comments 😁👍
Throttle response can be controlled by changing it into Dynamic mode at least here in the United States
I had the bike in Dynamic mode during the vlog and unfortunately it didn't make any difference to the response of the throttle compared to the 2015 model - shame.... :(
@@RMK67 It Only Changes when standing still, or wen changing let go the throttle. They're 3 MODES: RAIN-DYNAMIC-ROAD. Yes it is a huge different!
@@EXTRA300s Brentune
@@flyingdog1498 Why? The bike has 160hp and that's more than enough. Do you own a K1600?
@@EXTRA300s I have put over 25,000 miles on my 2018 K1600B. Nice weather this weekend and will put more than 800 miles in the next few days, despite the the transmission recall. The Brentune does not add more Horse Power, pea brain. The thing it does do is improve throttle response, most notable at low speed, parking lot and traffic light roll off speeds, but still welcome at highway speeds. The July, 2019 factory software update improved the throttle response but the Brentune essentially eliminated the initial hesitation in the throttle very noticeable and welcome improvement. Try it you will like it. Either you do not own one or you are a Garage rider. czcams.com/video/YP3_6in71Eg/video.html
What's the best aftermarket exhaust for these bikes?
Eli Jackson I have an Akrapovič on my GSA which sounds great with the twin but the K16 has the original exhaust and honestly, I love the sound of the OEM. There are so many different varieties on the market but as I have Akrapovič on one of the bikes, therefore I would recommend this one ☝️😁👍
Ok. Thanks!
Good review! I agree with you about the exhausts, there's something special about that clear statement for those following that this baby is a big 6!!! Great track by the way! Would it by any chance be the 12" version where it is Tainted Love/Where Did Our Love Go?
Biker Paul Thank you so much Paul and coming from a past owner of the K1600, it’s a great vote of approval 👍, Oh and the track at the beginning of the vlog, I’m sorry you were wrong 🤓 its from Lethal Weapon 3, sung by Sting - “It’s Probably Me” and the lead actor, the great Aussie himself and staunch Jewish support 😱, Mel Gibson 😂
Mel was born in New York.
The k 1600 GT is a love fest in every way.
David Hammond totally agree, she’s the best 😁👍
Also where you want to jump on the depreciation ban wagon.
What if you re-map the ECU on the 18 ?
Re-mapped a 2022 model after selling the 2018
BMW was becoming my first choice for a new bike this fall..then thank god I came across not 1...but 2..vedios of new BMW buyers getting screwed by dealer and company itself..those S.O.B."s..
Every buyer has had those terrible experiences with dealers and manufacturers but to date, I’ve experienced a very good level of support from BMW and especially the dealer but it does require some effort on the buyers part to build a good working relationship prior to placing an order 😁👍
Have been dealing with the same dealer since 1973, 2 Triumphs and 3 BMS. Have dealt with 2 other dealers on warrantee issues on my present bike, 2018 KB. Actually have a deposit on an R18 when it becomes available. Never had a bit of problem from any dealer, if fact would rate them 4.5 0ut of 5. Loose nuts on the handlebars are generally hard for dealers to deal with.
Nice little dog.
Neil Carrington my only true supporter 😜👍
wow...
탱그리 😁👍
Vs Goldwing ......i am more inclined to get the K1600....
p yep I agreed, the Goldwing is a great bike but the K16 is just a step above the Honda
@@RMK67 Depends on the intended use. The GW is probably better for the highway and long touring days. The GT/L is probably better for more aggressive sport oriented 'touring' but shorter days.
I just purchased a 2015, k1600 gt, and that was exactly what I was worried about. The transmission is not smooth at all, there’s a big clunk in every gear. So you do think that is normal for that motorcycle thanks.
Definitely normal - unfortunately
@@RMK67 I tried shifting at low RPM high RPM with no success, still a big clunk. I taught I needed a new Clutch or something. I'm coming from a Honda shadow. Not the same at all. Your video gives me peace of mind. Would you have any suggestions on shifting gears to get the best results? Thanks
@@monsternorm4245 no special knowledge or trick on getting past the clunky gear changes, it’s part of the design and was only slightly improved on later models, so just learn to live 👍
I am hugely interested in the K1600 series. Been hearing different things from reviews and forums.
Can anyone get back to me on BMW's customer service responses?
I know no manufacturer that puts out mass produced products gets it right 100% of the time, and even if they could, sometimes things just fail. I want to know if BMW and their dealer network are eager to make things right or is it always an uphill battle while the warranty is still active.
Lot o' cash on the line and at this point I've got one shot to get a bike of this caliber so if anyone can post anything meaningful, I sure would appreciate it.
john hanrahan mate like all businesses, it’s based on the dealership first and foremost and the relationship you have built, and then comes the manufacturer who will always make the final decision on a warranty issue. Suffice to say, I’ve had a good experience with BMW although at times a little slower than I would have liked but again that’s par for the course. You’ll always hear the negatives and the upmost positives on all manufactures but my experience to date has been a favourable one while the bikes I have owned and produced by BMW have been covered by a warranty, after that it’s expensive so be warned. I would suggest if this purchase it a substantial cash investment, you negotiate an extended warranty from the dealership which I believe BMW offers for the cars but the bikes, well you’ll need to ask that question - good luck with the decision 😎👍
In 2012-2013-2014 BMW has every year new homologations and improvements added on the K1600. Never buy a 2011 model I think.
You forgot to say rear clutch
Too much weight and power for me.I think the RT is a good compromise.
Mate the K16's are very big girls and yes agreed, if you don't want such girth, the RT is definitely a great alternative... :)
RM K
Thank you for your feedback.👍
Love the video! As much fun as a new bike is, with bikes like this that don't change much year to year you can really improve your current one for a LOT less money than trading it in for the latest model year. Here's a list of everything I've done to my 2012! czcams.com/video/8eJJjku11fc/video.html
Should compare the new 2018 BMW K1600GT SPORT with your old girl...
czcams.com/video/FT716HBKMCo/video.html
Bernard Lim the “Sport” version you are referring to does not exist anymore here in Australia or for that fact O/S that I know of as my bike was the very last import of the “Sports” version into Australia, therefor the bike I reviewed and comparison IS the correct bike as the link you provided