BMW K1600GTL or R1250RT? Three old bikers - honest BS about these two bikes and the R1250GS. In 4K!
Vložit
- čas přidán 24. 05. 2021
- The Jed, Kenny and a friend admire and bash each other's motorcycles. Which one is the better sport touring bike? Which performs better? Which is the better chick magnet?! The answers to these questions and more await within!
Thanks for watching. Please hit the like and subscribe button!
Need riding jeans? Here's a link to a discount for you: dynsjeans.com/discount/THEJED...
The Jed Rides a 2019 BMW R1250GS motorcycle most of the time.
Other times he rides a 1991 Harley Davidson FXLR.
Motorcycling is an inherently dangerous activity. Please acquire the proper skills, and practice them, please wear proper gear, and please obey the law. Ride safe.
© 2021 The Jed Rides. All rights reserved. - Auta a dopravní prostředky
This was Awesome! I'm a long-time biker and Harley guy, and while I still have a Harley, a few years back, I crashed my 2012 Electraglide classic and replaced it with a K1600GTL. I did this because I was pissed at the lack of safety and performance; even though it's a cruiser, it was slow, handled like crap, and tore through fuel; yes, it was certainly pretty. While some may disagree, there is no argument against utilizing science and math in decision-making; the BMW K1600GTL is an absolutely amazing machine and far surpasses any other bike in its class. The power, fuel economy, braking, handling performance, and comfort are mindblowing.
I just traded in my k1600b for the new 21 model RT with the new 10" tft and active cruise, etc.
For me, the RT is at least 10 times better.
what a bike, easy to ride, handle, more stable, easier on walking speed, etc, etc. keep safe folks, from South Africa 🇿🇦
Big congrats, Zunaid! Thanks for watching, and enjoy that RT!
thanx4post. the 2008 r1200rt , purchased 2023 w/30,000, is my ‘first’ (road ‘trail’ & 175s ‘dirt’ bikes in 1960s) motorcycle. primary drawback for me are the Stock Mirrors. Michelin road 6 are a dream. it does rebalance/reupright it self hypereasy.
The K1600 is a great long distance cruiser. The knock on it for me is that it is just too heavy to be a daily rider. I ride my RT on daily errands when It seems most K1600 owners do not. The proof is in the classifieds. I can find, all day long, K1600’s for sale that are 2-3 years old with just 5000 miles. Guy bought it, took one, maybe two trips and then it sits in the garage. It’s just too much of a beast to run around town on. If the BMW gave me a reason to leave the brand or I just wanted something a little smoother, I’d be looking at an FJR. My dirt riding days are behind me so I have no interest in making all the compromises needed to be a GS owner. Full disclosure, I am a 65 year old guy with a 28” inseam.
Fun video!
Age should not be an issue if you are fit and healthy, I am older than you and still on my GSA1250.
@@ironhorsegladiator5034
We are all fit until we are not. Age, ultimately gets everyone. Friend of mine just sold his GS at age 79. Hope I'm still riding then.
Greetings from the UK.
I traded in my K1600GTL Exclusive for a 2021 R1250RT.
This is my second RT and it is so much more fun to ride quickly than the K was.
Keep up the good work with the vids!
Great to hear! Thanks for watching, and thanks for the feedback.
Great video boys! Enjoyed it while having my morning cigar!! Keep em coming!!
Smoke ‘em if you’ve got ‘em! Thanks Jim. 👍🏼
Big beautiful full dress luxo tourer versus sporty beautiful Bagger. BMW 7 series sedan versus BMW 3 series coupe. Both great bikes feel entirely different. The K bike is not slow into a corner, but sure planted if you ride it like you know it. It is heavy which does take acclimatization. But not slow by any means. It goes where you point it. The RT with it’s legendary Boxer does feel gyroscopic. It’s what a Boxer motor feels like. You know this. Engine, Frame and weight differences make these two bikes vastly different. But nice to hear Owner’s remarks. BMW’s are unique and full of their own special ethos. Why folks love or hate them. The 21 Honda Gold Wings now, are on another level. The DCT transmission is super slick. When you ride one, they’re surprisingly quick off the line, Sport mode is another movie. Over time your mind becomes less cluttered about what gear your in. Your “pillion” doesn’t knock helmets with you on aggressive up/down shifts. Funny vid you did here.
Thanks guys, had me laughing right along with you. Can't say it helped me decide between the two, but I suspect that won't be determined until I put my butt on the seat and get a few miles down the road.
Good luck, Matt.
First of these I have watched -Great stuff guys - thanks and btw Subscribed 👍
Thanks! More content coming soon! ;-)
hey Jed and Kenny - Simon from the Rock Store this morning, just giving you guys an update, MADE IT HOME after stopping at 5 different gas station to air up the tire lol, anyways, the bike is now at BMW taking advantage of the tire hazard package I bought with the bike, really appreciate all your help today, thank you gentlemen!! P.S. still not sign of the puncture lol but the dealer's taking care of it now
Simon, great to hear you made it back, and great to meet you today. Let us know what they find! See you on the road. 👍🏼
Have the 2023 RT n i totally love it❤
Kenny brings a great point about the. Blind spot detector. C400 and C650 scooters (do not dismiss these vehicles) both have it.
We're actually trying to get a set of aftermarket blind spot mirrors to review. Personally, I love them in my truck, but I don't feel the need for them on a bike, I suspect because I just don't feel like I have a blind spot on the bike, But, yes, Kenny really likes the idea of them. Looks like they are on certain new Ducatis and Triumphs.
You guys are hilarious. Agree 100% with the blindspot monitoring mirrors. I would like to have that. I just bought a used RT after thinking a lot about getting a GS (former adv enthusiast here). Glad that I made the right choice since the RT is a chick magnet! Hahahaha. Great video!
Oh yeah, chicks clearly dig it. 😂
I’m in Vegas and I went from from an 07 Ultra Classic to a then brand new R1200RT. I do miss the community around the Harley and maybe the Harley itself, until, I get on the RT and then I wonder what I’m thinking about.
Couple things.
1. As far as riding with a passenger, the RT is made for two skinny Europeans and not two typical overweight Americans. No big deal because my wife has her own BRP Spyder now so she would rather take that than ride with me.
2. I was split between the GTL and the RT though I wanted a lighter bike than the Ultra. One intimidating factor for me at the time was that LARGE looks of both the RT and the GTL, even sitting on it in the showroom. The Harley fuel tank sits low, the tank and plastic on both BMWs are up in your face.
Anyway, I went with the RT for the weight reduction, sometimes I think I should’ve gone with the GTL but I love that bike. No need to change now.
I’ll do a California trip/ride anytime you want to. Need to get a better idea how that guy gets “chicks” with that bike! LOL.
You guys are hilarious. This was more entertainment and comedy routine than motorcycle review. I'd love to hang and ride with you on my 1250GSA.
Thanks for the kind words!
I went in wanting the new RT and ended up with a B specifically for the motor it’s just magical…Would the RT have worked for us sure loved everything about it except the motor. Seemed to have to work it more than I prefer for 2up riding…
Great to hear praise for the B. I am a huge fan of it’s aesthetics - it’s a gorgeous bike. Of course the K engine is a dream. And for 2 up, what you’re saying makes sense to me.
Nice video. Great subject since I am endeavoring to decide between a R1250RT and a K1600GT. My current bike is a 2013 R1200R. The one before was a CBR1000F. I miss the power, but love the handling. I see test rides in my future.
I have new RT also have a K1600GTL which I am selling and test road a GSA before I decided on the RT. They are all very different bikes, if I was doing 2up long distance touring on the highway the K bike is 1st choice, the GSA would be a good choice if you want to do a little highway some backroads and gravel roads but I don’t think it does any of them really well. I chose the RT based on my love of covering long distances riding backroads, I disagree with the review about the RT handling, in dynamic mode not only does it turn in well but you can nail apexes and corner exits (I ridden lots of sports bikes that aren’t as precise in a corner), it’s a truly amazing bike!
Bill, fantastic feedback from someone who has ridden all three -- exactly what I hope for on the channel. Thank you so much for offering your perspective. Re the RT handling, if you are referring to my comments about turn in, I was trying to get across (and it may have been minimized in editing) that my experience was from a demo ride and it may have been a function of that particular bike, its tires, etc.
I agree... In the last 10 years I've gone thru 8 brand new bikes. 7 BMW 1 Honda, including 2014,2016,2018, 2021 GSA then 2014,2018 and now 2021 RT, also a 2018 Goldwing DCT and a 2014 K1600GTL... Now, after all these bikes I agree with one thing. Even though I ride since I was 17 (and I am 63 now) ONLY on an RT I feel like I am an expert rider. All GSA models feels more wobblier at slow speed or at times coming to a stop or at tight U turns. Other touring model bikes are not as wobblier but still doesn't't feel as stable as an RT at parking lot speeds and parking lot maneuvers.I feel nimble and punchy as if I was on a sports bike and comfy as if I was on a touring bike on an RT. When I compare bikes to cars GSA models are like Hummers or Jeeps, K1600GTL is like Mercedes 500 series and RT is like Porsche. Well at least IMHO... Especially my new 21 RT.
@@CaptJimDavis How do you compare the RT to the GSA in long distance (highway) comfort? I went from a K1600GTL (used) to a 2020 KTM Super Adv (not impressed) to a 2021 GSA. I'm 6'0', and am trying to make this bike comfortable. I have the Russell seat, Wunderlich straight bar risers, and although reach to the ground isn't a problem, I just can't seem to get comfortable on long distance rides, 500+ /day, and I have 5800 miles on it since May 2021. I've been riding for years and I even had a Yamaha Tenere 1200 before the GTL that I bought in 2014 which I put over 25k on, but I can't seem to get the pain between my shoulders to go away on this GSA. Maybe I just need more miles on it.
rt is a person magnet; as are all bikes, ESPECIALLY BMW😊
I liked this, I cant decide what bike to buy, you helped a little, but still cant decide. lol
You guys are so funny. Much love and be safe.
Thanks AB!
I'd like to ride with you guys some day. Try to come a little bit closer to my region. I live in Los Banos, CA and riding 2021 R1250RT... So, eat your hearts out ;)
Sounds good! We'll let you know if we are headed that way!
The RT is also a police bike. Known for it’s handling and maneuverability capabilities. Both are great performers. It’s all what you love to ride. What ever inspires with it’s ethos and looks. Whatever you ride. Just ride. Ride safe and ride often. Peace.
Well said -- thanks!
1250RT or 1600GTL.....if I had the time to do longer trips (and the money) it would be a tough choice.....but as of now I would be leaning towards the RT. If the wife agreed to come along, maybe the GTL. Until then very happy with my KTM.
Fair enough! Nice choices to make!
Ok, I liked and subscribed. I sure wish I could ride with you guys. I am trading my '22 GS (brand new) for Kenny's exact bike. A 2020 R1250 RT. It's in brand new condition. I just didn't like the buffeting and lack of wind prtection of the GS. I used to ride a '14 RT. And, like Kenny, I prefer the round speedo and tach, and stereo. Anyway, nice video! Keep 'em coming.
Kyle, thanks so much. 👍🏼I don’t know if you’ve seen more recent videos - I’m on an RT now and I’m really enjoying it!
Lol - severed head, good at being single, angry bird, thong... Good stuff - lots of laughs! Love those convertible Clearwater lights.
We try to keep it fun! 👍🏼
This was fun
to haul a TimeOut Deluxe and mount a premium side car; go with the 6 cyl. for perfect combo backroad redwood forest paradise touring (my daily commute) i’ll stay with our rt
I have Blind Spot Montior on my 22 Kawasaki H2SXSE and radar cruise and collision mitigation such a game changer !!!
Thanks for adding that comment. I was unaware that bike is so hi-tech -- very cool.
Ride a K16. Preferably a GT. And ‘16 or older. More power than the newer ones (unless they’ve squared the gap with a BrenTune). It will leave a huge impression. Power, torque, smoothness, suspension…really no weak points. O:K … BMW stock seats are subpar. As far as weight; it’s an advantage in a strong crosswind & less of a matter of concern for larger, stronger folk. Could be more of an issue for those who are physically small. It’s truly an amazing motorcycle.
Greg, thanks for weighing in. (Pun intended!) I had a '16 GTL, and I agree the power feels endless. The suspension set up and capabilities of the GTL were tremendous for its size, but the GS absolutely turns in quicker in tight twisties, which we ride a lot. I did love the weight/size/presence of the GTL on the highway, and from a performance and handling perspective it is way more capable that rivals in its class from other manufactures. I've ridden a new B, but I didn't get to take the B out long enough to notice a power deficiency if there is one. Curious, why do you suggest riding the GT (rather than a GTL)? Sidenote: a GTL would have been fun on a run Kenny and I just did up to the Tioga Pass and back to LA. About 850 miles or so. It was a combination of long stretches of highway and technical mountain passes across the Sierras. That video will probably be up this weekend.
I agree. There is a good case to be made that the RT is the better tourer. For most. If you’ve had a taste of that in-line 6 tho….I suggested the GT strictly because it is the quickest & fastest of the K16’s. Not by much but it is the performance king of the K family.
@@gregfleenor9654 Agree that the in-line 6 is a unique and extremely satisfying bit of engineering!
I sat on a K once; tilted it up off the side stand and straight away thought it was just too heavy. I'm now on my second RT and can't see myself owning any other model.
I hear you! She's a beast, but she moves!
Agree with you about taking it off the side stand. Very heavy.
I had an ultra classic and I now have an RT. I considered the GTL, however, you think that’s heavy, take a ride to the BMW dealer like I did last week and try to get their new R18 Transcontinental off it’s kickstand. Holy crap, what are they thinking?
Stick the round small blind spot mirrors on the outer part of the bikes mirror. Problem solved
The K has a lot more power feel and is much smother. Heavy yes but im 5 feet 7 and manage ok on my K16GT.
Colin, thanks. Are you saying the seat height on the GT is lower than the RT?
100%!
When I get younger, I want to be like these guys. I tend to keep my cars, vans and bikes for many years, so a BMW is not for me just because of the high upkeep on them, I really like they way they look and work but I will end up with a Yamaha FJR or Honda Gold Wing just for the bullet proof reliability and they also have things going for them these BMW's don't, so it not just for reliability but that's my main concern with buying an expensive bike I want to keep and ride far away from home.
Those are great bikes and that’s a totally valid perspective, Bill.
I had on my last r1200rt 190k km. And it was as smooth as when I just got it. I traded it for 1250rt. So about reliability I wouldn't be so concerned. Also I met a lot of ppl with over 250k on the clock.
Hey guys, I just picked up 2021 RT option 719 just before memorial day, which has the radio wiring and speaker grill pre-installed. Once the radio module is available I should be able to plug it in.
Congrats! Did they say when the module would arrive?
@@TheJedRides No did not. But, it appears news of the rest of the chip industry is improving so, they might be able to ship by late summer. An educated guess at best.
@@dickydesai7609 Hope you get it soon. I can't wait to ride the new RT. I need to make time to schedule a demo.
I owned K 1600 B, 1200 GS and GSA, 1250 GS and 1250 GSA and now the 2022 1250 RT - 1250 RT is the best bike I've ever owned in so many ways. It's nimble, much lighter than the K, very stable at highway speeds and with every option K has still $5K cheaper. So far, I am getting almost 50 miles per gallon. I am 6' tall (34" inseam) and I have no problems with the pegs (like some complain), however I wish the bars very an inch taller. Unfortunately, you cannot raise the bars in 30 min like the GS with only 4 bolts. The new headlights (high beams) blind the idiots on the road, so they freeze up instead of jumping in front you. The Horn is like the horn of the 18 wheelers (not a joke). I have no idea why BMW does not put this horn on every bike. The RT truly deserves the stellar reputation it has. No wonder it is the choice of the Police Departments in so many Countries, including the US.
All well said, Becker. I’ve owned a GTL, GS, GSA and now the RT. All great bikes, but the RT is even more special (to me) than the others.
This has been an very insightful video! Thanks for the frank discussion.
I'm on a Road Queen (Dyna Switchback) and I'm about ready to pull the plug on a BMW. I like my Dyna but I don't love my Dyna. I live in Palmdale with 30°F winters and 105°F+ summers. It's sweltering hot in the summer and bone-chilling with no wind protection in the winter.
My main reason for cross-decking to a BMW is mostly about comfort. Although, I can't imagine I'll be complaining about the better performance and handling. Our cross-country trip for the end of July has been canceled so now would be a good time to put my Dyna up for sale.
I'm a fairly new rider, but I've got some miles in the saddle. The wife (she rides her own ride on a 2020 Indian Scout) and I have put about 20k miles on our bikes in the last 3 years - up the coast to Monterey; through the San Jauqin valley to Jamestown; back thru Yosemite and down the east side of the Sierras; weekend getaways to San Diego; multiple day trips to the beach, etc.
Honestly, the size of BMWs (the RT and K) seem a little intimidating but damn I sure do dig 'em. I rode my son's 1200 GSA to work (about an hour one-way) a few weeks ago and other than having to think ahead a little bit at stop signs and hang my ass off the side of the seat it wasn't too bad. So I think I'd get used to the size easy enough. At first I was leaning towards the K 1600 B but lately the RT seems to be more reasonable.
I'm not really sure where I'm going with all this other than I don't know what's holding me back.
Hey, Bud, thanks for sharing all of that. I have a lot to say here, and I apologize that it's not particularly well organized. (1) Whether you go with an RT, a GS/A or a K, you will notice a HUGE improvement in both handling and power delivery. Just yesterday, I rode my 1991 Harley Davidson FXR (which is highly modified for performance, and which I love) in the morning, and then got on my RT (purchase this year) in the afternoon. I had never really A/B'd the two so closely together, and while I knew the BMW is the better handling bike, I was SHOCKED at how much more capable the RT really is, and how much more I can do on it. (2) For the riding that you do, unless you are doing a bunch of offroad riding you didn't mention, an RT is likely the best choice among the three bikes. (3) You didn't mention exactly what your inseam length is, but from your comment about the GSA it sounds like you are not tall. If you are looking to come closest to the seat height of the Dyna, the K1500B is the best choice. That said, I have a 30 inch inseam and can just flat foot it on my RT (which I bought after this video). (4) I have posted videos on all three of the BMWs you are considering that may provide a thought more here and there. But definitely go ride them all if you haven't already. BMW dealers are pretty great about demo rides. (5) Let us know what you end up doing. See you on the road!
@@TheJedRides Thanks for the reply. I'm 5'8" with a 30" inseam. The B fits well. I rode a K 1600 B a year or two ago at the Burbank store right before they had the recall for the tranny issues. I haven't demo'd the RT, yet, but I can't imagine it will disappoint. I'll keep you informed of my lack of progress...
Good luck in your hunt for the right one! 👍🏼
@@TheJedRides
czcams.com/video/q3PrzWGfU5Y/video.html
That wasn’t so painful…😂
@@TheJedRides if we do side by side comparison then which one is also best for off road as well??
Acceleration and engine braking vary greatly depending on which engine mode you have selected: Rain Mode is soft on and off throttle while Dynamic Mode is abrupt roll on and aggressive engine braking. You decide.
Thanks Mike. What I was attempting to describe rather ineloquently is driveline lash that I felt particularly on downhill sections of road. My recollection (though it could be faulty) is that it happened regardless of ride mode. Have you experienced otherwise?
@@TheJedRides I find that the lash/jerkiness is greatly reduced in the K16 in Rain mode. I use it descending hills and in bumper to bumper traffic.
@@mddale Thanks Mike! I am going to give that a try next time I ride my friend K bike.
IS the R1250RT a good bike for a beginner? I really like all the safety features it has especially the ABS system. I also like all the add on's radio, etc in a sub 700lb bike.
No, I would not recommend it for a beginner. Yes, the technology in this bike is amazing and yes there are many safety features built into that technology, but It’s a big, heavy, powerful bike that could quickly get a beginning rider into trouble. I would recommend a lighter, less powerful bike for a beginner. Ideally, take some time on a smaller bike to build some riding skills. Take as many classes and you can. Then move up to the RT. You’ll be a better, and safer rider.
Nice bikes. Hey guys what kind of chairs are you using?
There are a bunch of different versions of this chair at REI, and cheaper knock offs on Amazon. www.rei.com/product/164382/rei-co-op-flexlite-camp-chair
I traded in my 2016 r1200rt for a 2021 Indian challenger.... the RT has now ruined my from every other motorcycle... no other bike had the ability to do so much so well.. no bike is perfect but the RT gave me so much flexibility that I have 4 other bikes that the RT could do everything that they all do better... just not the looks.. and doesn't do what my 98 softail springer...
That said the Indian challenger and the Indian FTR1200s will be traded in for a new 2022 RT next year..
I understand! :-)
Didn’t think I needed it, but my Ducati Multi V4S Sport came w/ blind spot detection, my favorite feature on the bike, won’t trade till next bike has it
I’ve test ridden several bikes with it now. It is a nice to have for me, but maybe not essential.
Really, you’ve ridden several bikes other than the V4S w/ blind spot detection? I’ve seen others w/ ACC but didn’t know if BSD. Which bikes & how did you like it?
@@THEelduderino yes, the Triumph Tiger 1200s have it, and I have ridden a couple of variants - the GT Explorer and the GT Pro, plus the Multistrada itself. I’ve read or seen someone say they preferred the way Ducati executed the feature to the Triumph, but they seemed very similar to me. One thing I noted was that the Triumph allowed you to disable the feature fairly easily. I didn’t note whether the Ducati does?
@@TheJedRides great feedback! Don’t know if Ducati allows a full “disable”, not sure why anyone would but it does allow for adjusting the mirror light intensity from bright to very low. Obviously there is no sound so light only
@@THEelduderino Interesting. I don't think Triumph has that adjustability, but admittedly I did not dive too deeply into the menus, which, by the way, are not executed as well as the Ducati, in my opinion.
I test rode a K1600GT it was the first time in my life I didn’t blink for 10 minutes due to the velocity of that engine. I took it back and said thanks but i could tell it would would either kill me or take my license and just throw it in the garbage. But damn I just remember laughing so hard in my helmet and swearing (in a good way) lots merging onto the freeway 🤣🤣🤣🤣. I also could see the misses holding on for dear life and beating the shit out of my helmet all day 🤷♂️🤷♂️🤷♂️🤷♂️🤨🤨🤨 great chat guys, I’m looking at either the gold wing or grand America next year. Every time the wife climbs onto the Trophy she nearly pulls me off it 🙄🙄🙄 be safe and ride safer 👍👍👍👍
LOL! I think between those two I would be inclined toward Gold Wing, truth told. Both great bikes but for some reason I have never warmed to the the Grand America. To my eye, the tour back takes away from the sexy lines of the B.
Until you get the blind spot detection, check out the Rider Scan mirror. You not only know something’s in your blind spot, you can see what it is without turning your head.
Interesting. I’ve not seen that before. Does it obstruct your forward vision?
@@TheJedRides No, it’s below your forward vision. At a glance you see everything around you. No forward obstruction.
Don’t know why that jacket is laying on the ground. A. The reflective and high colored pieces dull once they get dirty. B. Ants (hopefully not red ants) and such crawl inside the garment to later bite your body parts
Both true, Sally!
Crazy thing now is you can pick up a beautiful K 1600 GTL exclusive for $10-12k.
Gentlemen, I am very interested in a used Grand America and would like to hear your thoughts on your maintenance of the BMWs. How has it been owning one? Have you had to bring it in for tech issues? How is the cost to take it in for maintenace etc. I am curious the overall expense of ownership vs the harley? thank you
Hi Kevin. I've owned several, and I have never experienced a tech issue that required service. That said, I do spend several hundred dollars per year on scheduled maintenance, which I have chosen not to do myself on the BMW. With Harley's, well, I have never owned a Harley with any real tech, so I can make no comparison. Because my Harleys have been relatively simple bikes, I have chosen to do my own basic maintenance, and some more advanced mechanical work as well. For example, I just rebuilt my own shocks on an FXR. It's very much apples and oranges. If tech and performance are your primary motivators, BMW is to me an obvious choice. That said, I would encourage you to do some more specific research on the K1600s. I believe there is a fairly expensive valve service that will eventually be required should you choose that bike. If memory serves, some have had difficulty with the reverse gear on that bike as well.
Price on the RT is close to 30, and no, price is not an issue. I waited for 30 years on this, I was not to be denied, and I used Easy ride, and will keep it after it is paid for.
I'm looking at either the RT or the Grand America. 2 up combined weight and luggage is 500lbs. My question is will the RT handle everything COMFORTABLY and keep us COMFORTABLE? I have a R1250GSA and it's more than enough power but man were we uncomfortable on a simple 4 hour ride.
This isn't my only bike. I have the GSA and an XR for solo riding.
Man, Kefalos, that is SO subjective and I don't want to steer you wrong. It is dependent, too, on a number of factors. Are you going to be riding mostly highway, or lots of twisties/canyon roads? Any offroad? (I am guessing "no" if you are moving away from a GSA.). Can you and your pillion get to a dealer who will let you demo both bikes you are considering? I think both of those bikes will give you better wind protection than the GSA. But arguably the GSA has better legroom than either of those bikes, at least for the rider. The Grand Am is the heaviest, and may offer the most stability/presence on the road. The RT will handle better than both on road (in my opinion, but some will differ), and has the most creature comfort. Some say there is too much built-in vibration in the R18, so you may find that uncomfortable. It will handle the worst of the three. Dude, you have a lot to think about! Let us know where you end up. And thanks for watching! 👍🏼
No way, I got on my 2018 BMW k1600 test ride, I went down one block and came back to dealership and bought the bike. I knew I wanted the bike too. And I still have it..
I believe it! That kind of power can be magical!
@@TheJedRides Where are you guys located at. I live in the Bay area. Like to ride with you guys sometimes. Or if I'm ever in the neighborhood, I'll stop by and say hi.
@@jt.4930 we’re in LA.Let me know if you’re down this way. 👍🏼
@@TheJedRides Absolutely. I have two girls going to college in socal. So hopefully when the weather is up to par, I'll be seeing you guys. I might have seen you guys once on the freeway coming back up, haha.
You ignored the elephant in the room, weight. The K1600 GTL is about 175 lbs heavier than the RT. The RT on the other hand weighs pretty much the same as the GS, remove the extra gas and bags that come standard on the RT to do a far weight comparison. Also, if you add in the cost of the bags for that GS, include the same options as the RT, and you'll find the price is pretty much the same for a GS or RT as well. The real comparison here should be the GS vs the RT and which one is really better for your type of riding.
All excellent points, John. All contributed to my purchase of an RT two weeks ago after selling my GS!
BMW’s rock!
18:29 I dont think Kenny finished a single sentence he was saying here. The ADD is real lol
LMAO! 🤣 😂 The camera don’t lie!
CA is a 360d riding. But! Here is my question to you. Do you ride everyday or only on weekends and for trips?
I am in the MW and as long as:
1- Temp is above 35F and below 95F
2- It is not raining or super windy
3- No salt, Ice or Snow
You bet! I am on two wheels on either of my 2 R1150RTs.
I am not that tough! I am good for 50 degrees to 95! Any colder or hotter and I look for something else to do! The blessing here is the weather. The curse is the traffic. In answer to your question, no, I don't ride every day. If I try to ride into my place of work during the week, I am splitting lanes on some of the busiest highways in the country and it is just no fun. I like to get out early mornings when I can. If I am lucky, I am riding 3 days a week, plus a couple of motorcycle trips a year.
You guys are fantastic. Fun, Informative. Where are you located. I will come hang with you.
Los Angeles - any time, Frank!
I pulled the trigger on a 2022 R/T should have it by December...
Congrats. What color are you going for?
@@TheJedRides Alpine white...I will look like a cop...
@@masterspin7796 I like it in white!
@@TheJedRides Im supposed to get it before thanksgiving!
I have about a thousand miles on it now, I feel like I'm king of the highway!
I have the different letters for a bike, XR, and I would like to pick up chicks with you guys 🤣!
Yes! I think the XR would make us irresistible to all the chicks! 😂👍🏼
TFT is way overrated, it's a cost cutting measure
I actually enjoy it on the GS, and to me the old dash was not good. The old dash on the RT, though, was great.
Can someone tell me what the yellow lights are? Background noise covered it up.
Jonny, those are Clearwaters. Good lights.
@@TheJedRides thank you
Coming from HD , I think RT is for me even do I am 5’7 -185 lbs
I wish I had some middle-age friends I could ride with...
If you find yourself in Los Angeles, let us know! Good friends make for good riding for sure.
looking for a 2-up touring bike. that K1600 looks like the one.
I bet it would be extremely comfortable for 2-up touring, particularly if you find one with the arm-rests for the pillion.
All of RT riders sound the same (I'm one of them)
You do have a point!
@@TheJedRides HAHAHAHAHAHA!!!!!
Backlit switches
Would be nice to have for sure.
3 best bikes 🏍
Three of the best, I agree!
Ever notice that sportbike reviewers don’t talk so slowly?! 😅
True!
Ride a Valkyrie before a 1600 or RT 😍
Interstate or Rune?! 😎
Had a Rune. New for 16 k OTD in 08. MS go figure lol. Too low and nowhere to put feet but down. Not many shields back then either. I now have a mint condition 2000 Valkyrie in yellow and black and those are great with bags. Also have a silver 06 FJR I found 5 mos ago with 15 k miles and auto clutch. Love it!!!!!
We happy Subscribe
Oh hi!
😂👍🏼
Now and again BMW makes useless, unnecessary expensive vehicles, such as the X6M or this K1600. It’s super heavy without an engine punch and without illuminated handlebar switches. No blind spots indicators, no adaptive cruise control. Wind buffeting and clunky gearbox. Crappy BMW connectivity pack and a useless sound system. Last but not least is the massive depreciation!
For me it’s the GS all the way!
Maybe a little harsh, but I don't disagree with the core position you take, And the owner of the bike in the video sold it and is now on a GSA!
if only BMW could match Japanese manufacturers in terms of reliability ... the rest of the manufacturers would be screwed
The more complex a system you build, the more vulnerability you build into it, generally. It's all a balance. Thant said, I would argue the core components of the bike BMW builds -- the frame, powerplant, wheels, etc., are as reliable as anyone's. The ghosts in the machine are another matter!
@@TheJedRides thats a brilliant assessment actually.... i have 135000 on mine and its also gizmos and gadgets needing replacing not the engine or transmission... these gizmos can be pricey
@@bobbymanning5808 careful, man. You'll lose all credibility if anyone catches you referring to anything I say as "brilliant"! ;-)
.... in the right hands the k1600 is easily superior ... yes its a tad bit heavier but it will absolutely eat the other two bikes..
In the right hands, and the right track/road, it's faster for sure.
K1600 cheaper and easier to put a clutch in it
Cheaper? I believe they are more expensive.
Engine valve adjustment!! K1600 mega money every 32k!😂