Best review I've found yet on the K1600GTL. As a result I've put down a deposit on a 2012 GT with fully history and just 4500 miles. I'm coming from a Goldwing F6C and a Kawasaki ZZR1400 and I cannot wait. Thanks for the very detailed review.
This guy's review is right on the money. Never have been much of a touring bike guy but must say one of the finest bikes I have ever road. Bike loses weight very quickly when rolling, feels like a sport bike when riding. Handling, acceleration, and braking is totally wonderful. All the goodies, "FORGET ABOUT IT!!!!!!!". Bought mine last month and can't wait to put some serious miles on it. Absolutely no buyers remorse.
Thank you! I have a 2012 K1600 gt 17000 miles on it and it’s always a Zin like experience for me and my wife. We rode to San Diego and Victoria / Vancouver BC and back; this is the sweetest ride of 52 years riding experience.
OK, seriously, this video was beyond a doubt the most interesting, informative and professional video I've EVER SEEN. I watch hundreds of motorcycle videos and this was truly superior above all others. Fantastic job I truly am blown away by the quality. Thank you ever so much. I currently ride a FJR1300 AE, however I've been thinking about the BMW K1600 GT and now thanks for this fantastic video I will begin the saving process to purchase one of these incredible machines. Thx again...
Incredible video. Excellent comments. Great video. Very professional, no silly comments or profanity and complete. The best video I have seen so far on the 1600GTL. GREAT WORK!
Well I finally purchased my 2015 GTL Exclusive and I'm so impressed with it's capabilities!! Everywhere I go, everyone is showing me much Love!! OMG, what a Fast machine it is, think I'm gonna have to purchase a Bike specific Radar Detector. I Love it dearly, now I'm looking for fellow BMW Bikers to go riding with.
What a good review. Not only did you cover all of the important aspects about the bike but your voice was clearly understandable at all times. This is the first time I have seen one of your reviews but I will be looking out for more in the future. Thank you.
One the finest review of any bike I have ever heard or seen, extremely professional, well thought out and produced. I own a 2018 k1600 Grand America, your pluses and minuses are spot on. I also have a HD Ultra Classic and the BMW is in a totally different class. The Harley Davidson CVO ultra is 45k, my grand America is 30K with all the options, Harley Davidson should be ashamed of their product for the cost they are asking. I've been riding HDs since 1982 and I am so happy that I looked at other manufactures. Point being be open minded guys there's a lot of manufacturers out there for every kind of rider.
that headlight is absolutely brilliant! the whole thing is just great, I love it. BMW making the 6 cylinder for it's bikes, it really is crazy that they waited this long, since they pretty much perfected the inline 6 in their cars. good effin job BMW
I just purchased the 1600 GTLE today and looking forward to the enjoyment of riding. Thanks for an excellent video and spot-on comments about the positive and less than positive items.
Yes, we had to give ours back! Funny that as I shot one of our recent tests two guys rode buy on my same road and they were having a blast going at it - on touring bikes! It made me wonder if they had viewed this video.
Better late than never with a reply...... :-) Still love the video and replay it periodically. I have a 2014 K1600 Exclusive for 2-years now and absolutely love it. Zero issues and one heck of a performance touring machine. Beats the pants off my previous Goldwings.
Not expecting ever, that this big boat would ever grab my attention, let alone excite the hell out of me, I finally had the exquisite pleasure of actually riding a 2016 GTL, two days ago out of Mamba Motorsports in Santa Clarita CA. I've been on RT's for more than 30 years. Between my 84 airhead RT, then my 98 oil head, we have cris-crossed North America and Canada too many times to recall exact numbers. Around 98 or so, I took a K1200LT for a jaunt out of a new Fort Meyer's BMW shop, and was wowed by how nimble such a large machine could be. I was impressed. Fast forward to Wagner's BMW of Worcester, MA two years ago. I looked at a GTL on the floor, and actually sat on it. It seemed big and awkward at the time. I wished to take a 1600GT for a jaunt, but as we spoke about going for a ride on it, word came down that it was no longer for sale; someone purchased this bike while I was sitting on it! They respectfully asked me if I'd like to take the GTL for a ride instead? Too big, too massive, too much clutter in my head; I declined. You see, snotty me, was still young and verile, my RT was as large as I dared to go, see, I still loved a very spirited ride, and the RT afforded me that. I could toss it around like a dirt bike with all its luxury, or ride it like a sport bike. My mindset: "If you ever see me on a Goldwing, SHOOT ME! And so it's no luxury cruisers for me. Here we are, two years later, surviving some 8 life threatening surgeries, and finally being recovered. Reading lots about this BMW K1600GTL, and watching video's like this, yadda yadda yadda, have somewhat swayed my opinion of this big bike, but still not a believer that this could be for me? Got to admit to being impressed with the reviews, BUT... What really had me excited, and it wasn't the GTL; the bike that really got my attention was the S1000XR! I would repeatedly fall asleep at night while watching TH-cam video's and reports about it. I read all the magazine coverage of this bike. So why am I mentioning this XR on a GTL post you ask? Well, it's because I rode both these machines back to back, that's why. And, - - - I rode the XR first. I did have expectations of the XR being a thrill to ride, but thrill proved a woeful understatement! This was hands down the most exciting and impressive bike I've ever had the pleasure of throwing a leg over. No Viagra needed!!! I'll happily give a full rundown on my XR ride if requested. So again, what's this got to do with the K1600GTL? I'll tell you what; don't get yer panties in knot. After the lovely Gena schooled me on the basics of operating their Flagship bike, I was off and running. I'm now on a bike near 300 lbs heavier than the XR, so I KNOW it's not going be even close to that experience. The XR is tall, it's designed that way. The GTL is as comfortable as your livingroom lounge chair, and I'm comfortably flat footed with knees bent, cool. Nice clutch, way responsive throttle, but not at all nasty; it won't bite you. My my my, I'm not yet at the end of the parking lot and I'm already totally at ease on this behemoth. I requested Gena send me on a good road of twisties, as I'm pretty sure what this will do on the super slab. She steers me in the right direction. Let me make this make this short and sweet. I just got off a bike that loves twisties; expected. And the thing is an outright BEAST! And now I'm on a bike that will give the hotrod XR a run for its money; shocked shocked shocked! I road this GTL hard, and it laughed at me. I could hear it saying "Is that all you've got big boy, c'mon?" Yes bikes talk to me; have been for over 55 years now. Reluctantly, I brought the bike back. When Gena greeted me, I said "I'll bet someone in this shop is capable of dragging their knees in a corner with this bike?"; she assured me there was. Later on a guy from parts or service said that person would be her! So, my fellow scooter enthusiasts, if you're of a mindset like the one I previously had, get over it and take the most impressive motorcycle I've ever ridden for a ride. If your in SoCal, go visit Mamba Motorsports in Santa Clarita and ask for Gena; she's terrific! In fact, everyone in this house is terrific and personable. What a great shop! The comfort and agility of this bike is nothing short of phenomenal, and I've pretty much ridden everything. As a long distance rider, and one who, given the choice, has always opted for my two wheeler over my cage. Subsequently, I've put a ton more mileage on my bikes than my cars; this bike would leave my car awfully lonely. This GTL does it all, and it does it with style and grace, but don't be fooled into thinking it's an old godger's putt up the highway bike, because this bike has the heart of a lion with the agility of cheetah. It is waiting and willing to do whatever you're in the mood for. When rolling, you have zero sensation that you're riding a near 800 lb machine; simply extraordinary! There's so much more to say about this bike, as it's way technically advanced. I didn't mention the sound of that six; in one word, intoxicating. I left it in 6th gear while deliberately slowing to 20 mph. It didn't care, it didn't hiccup, it just rolled back up to speed effortlessly and smoothly. I'm excited and wanting to go on and on. Forgive me. This bike is like a fine woman, you're just gitty at how wonderful she is, and you want to tell the world about your good fortune. Ride one, and bring your checkbook, cause you're gonna want to be taking her home. Let the love affair continue...
Thanks for the time given to such a great review. I appreciate your genuine enthusiasm and passion for riding and hearing your impression of the K16 complements this excellent review. How did you find the ride in city traffic?
I "call" your enthusiasm and raise you one XR ;) I'm fortunate enough to have both of these great bikes; GTL and XR. My wonderful wife appreciates my therapeutic addiction, and so I also get to spend most of my time on 2 wheels instead of 4 here in SoCal. My favorite thing to do after having a great ride on the GTL, is to jump right on the XR and go a little more!
26:17 in the video "I see a passing lane".. almost anything in the K1600 is a passing lane, due to the incredible acceleration it has! (breakfast is finished, drinking the last of my coffee and time to take my 2018 K1600 GTL out for the day, I'm thinking western Wyoming, maybe visit the Devil's tower)
A very pleasant overview of the K1600 GLT. Love the tone and the detail. Really appreciate your effort in preparing this vlog. My plan is to buy a K1600 GT here in the UK. Watching your video, it gives me great confidence in making my decision. Thank you
Excellent review. You covered all areas that I wanted to hear about. Now I need to go and sit on one because I'm 6 4 and can get uncomfortable very easily.
thank you for a really impressive video, been searching for a while and this has shown me everything i wanted to find out about the bike, and this helped me make my purchase.. i cannot wait to get my bike now!
Nicely done... I rented the K1600GTL this week and I could not agree with you any more. I had a certain coin on my face for all of 400 miles I drove in one day - I had lots of fun and I am sure one of these (not the exclusive thou) will be in my garage in the near future...
Your review is on the money, my friend. Thank you. After watching it, I sold my FJR and got 2016 K1600GTLE. What a bike !!!!! a pleasure to ride and you just want to ride and ride and ride never to end. It is built so F....N good and engineered to be a fantastic machine. This is my first BMW. Now I see what riders are saying......addiction.....Hands down !!!!!
Thank you for the video! Has to be one of the finest bikes in the world.. I'm not sure I can afford it or feel worthy of it but this bike might be in my future! I've loved inline 6's since I owned my 79' CBX years ago...
Great review , do you work for BMW ? Just kidding . I love my K 1600 GT , it's nice to hear someone talk up your own bike . Makes one feel better about all money we spend on our bikes . Keep up the great videos .
Excellent review, quite possibly one of the best that I have watched... Now to save up some dinero, I think my Victory Cross Country Tour might get traded in... sooner than I thought.
This is the best review of this machine I've yet seen online. I agree with you on the windshield and gears, they seem out of place on a top end tourer. Just a note about handling though, if you're not used to the level of countersteer needed to shuffle a machine this size around it will bite you. I came this having ridden nothing larger than a Honda NT650 before, and while I knew it was my dream machine from a quick blast down the local highway, I'm still learning to ride it properly.
I own it, and I love it. ((2014 K1600 GTL) Best bike I've owned. It's 1/2 F16 Fighter, 1/2 Tractor. Power and Finese in any situation. In a word, "Intoxicating"
Jim Sieg I'm always saying how my father's K1600 GTL looks like something from out of this world when you pass him at night when he has all the LED's on. The first time I saw him coming while driving in the opposite lane heading towards him in my car I was like WTF is that!? Sure enough I noticed it was my father on his new bike when he passed by me lol. What an incredible machine!
Excellent review. I totally agree to everything and I love my GTL, best bike ever. A german GTL rider on a 2011 have just passed 88.000 miles without any major problems, and bike runs like day 1. Ps: Price in Denmark 78.000 USD (buy 1 pay for 2 :-( )
Simply the best review of the k1600 ever i bought an exclusive on the strength of this test well done sir ! I have toured all over europe on it Italy the camarge Austria Switzerland the sound it makes is addictive !🤘
Just purchased my first bmw 1600 gtl from Cross country bmw in Metuchen, New Jersey, Al was a great salemen, put 164 miles on it in 1/2 day.love the windshield where you can adjust wind over helmet.
Hi Bill, how do you like your bike so far? I just got a pre-owned 2016 K1600GTLE with 2500 on it. The bike was serviced at Cross Country since new. Do you experience grinding noises when riding on low speeds on higher gears? and also, clunking noises when let the throttle rest on lower gears? It is like the throttle is way sensitive. Any tips on that?
Yes, you definitely give the best reviews. I rode one of these back in '13 and couldn't stand all the driveline lash and clunkiness you spoke of around town, it was unavoidable no matter how hard I tried to make it smooth. I hated it for that reason alone (and no rear speakers), but otherwise loved it. I've been forever searching for the perfect bike and it seems like I always will be, lol. I was holding out hope for the new Venture only to be disappointed that they ruined it by giving us yet another air-cooled V-Twin which is as common as the belly button these days.
Great review, and we loved the location as we are from Ottawa Canada and have been on this highway (by car) a number of times , we will travel it again by on this bike in the near future. We bought the bike this week and my only two comments are we bought it with the BMW helmets with BMW Motorrad Com System which in my view adds to the functionality/potential of the technology this bike has with the bluetooth interaction of the intercom/cell phone hands free and BMW Motorrad navigator V. As for the lack of rear speakers is concerned, this is not a factor for us as we have had them on our Gold Wing's and you really do'nt use them as at highway speed you can't hear them very well either. We prefer the helmet speakers at highway speed as we can hear the sound better. We have had two Gold Wing's and feel this bike is over all is a much better bike by far then the Gold Wing as the wing has unfortunately in my opinion not kept up to date.
Excellent review. What route were you traveling. I plan to buy the 1600gtl in the spring of 2015.I will be 71 years old. I work out and scuba dive so age is just a number.Widower for 3 years now. I am a dirt bike rider for many years. I due plan to take a riders course. Is this my bike?. Or should I look at sky diving instead. No touring bike experience. Thanks for your review. O Glasco
oral glasco " Is this my bike?. Or should I look at sky diving instead" Why limit yourself, do both. I own this bike and I can't say enough good things about it. It is heavy though and I dropped my a couple of times until I learned the muscle memory and the center of gravity. By all means, take a rider safety course. I take the advanced rider safety course every year or two. It's worth it.
Coming from a Goldwing GL1000, you don't even feel her weight when she is weaving round the Italian Alps, between 360 and 520kg fully loaded with two passengers and gear (no gyno pillion seat, no top box but luggage roll). It's just shoving her those few feet out of the stable...And she just eases herself onto the main stand irrespective of load. Why not do what we did : hire her for a week (our dealer waived hire charge on purchase ), go on a trip and put her through her paces, fully laden -THEN you'll know, BEFORE handing over a lot of money. We had never even PLANNED to buy but that first just-for-fun-test drive of K16 GT proved fatally seductive in 2011...still loving it after 70.000km, DESPITE going through darned teething problems and wear n tear repairs - mostly riding as a twosome with shared costs and fun. A reverse gear would be useful sometimes, hillstart was in planning we heard, and I love my bum heater at 4°C.Brilliant and convenient luggage system, and yes, stripped you almost have got a sports bike. Interesting, you guys (Canada, US?) get different, BRIGHTER, head lights to us Germans. She is the nearest thing yet to an egg-laying wool-milk sow, as we Germans say, anyone has come up with yet. BMW car technology on two wheels, where others will follow. Except for the clonk... Also check out BMW bike international forums for further soul searching.
***** Most of the big bikes there is a nack to picking them up, balancing them at stop should not be a problem. My sister 5ft0in 90lbs , can pick up my Goldwing when she drops it "all the time" ( One day I will get threw to her that she needs to put her feet on the ground when she stops)
Giles Craven Can you post a vid of your 5' 90lb sister picking up your Goldwing? That would be interesting to watch! BTW... if she drops it 'all the time', the why lend it to her?
I currently own 2 bikes, a Honda Black Bird that I got week ago, and a BMW K1200LT, which is of course the predesescor to this machine. I have had the BMW for quite a while, and absolutely love it. It has pretty much everything that the K1600 GTL has, although obviously not as up to date or refined? Interestingly, what the tester is saying about the wind noise and how ti effects the enjoyment of the radio is exactly the same issue I have with the 1200. The Stereo on my bike is superb, when you are sitting still, or riding at around 50 kph(30 mph). Above those speeds it is pretty much useless, even though, unlike the bike on test, it has 4 speakers, 2 in the front and 2 in the back? This the second BMW LT I have owned, the first one being a K100LT. I cannot fault the 1200, apart from the screen and the radio, and as it yet to turn over 30,000 kms (20,000 Miles) it has heaps of miles left in it yet? Would I buy a new 1600 GTL? In a Heartbeat, but for the fact that here is New Zealand they run close to $50,000 fully equipped, and I simply do not have that kind of money? For anyone looking for a great touring bike that handles well and is capable of covering BIG miles in comfort, but doesn't have the dollars to buy the 1600, I garentee you won't be dissapointed with a 1200? In case anyone is wondering, I swapped the Black Bird for a car I had, and it's up for sale already.
Excellent video! I'm going to trade my Harley Ultra Limited for a 2017 K1600GTL. I've ridden sport bikes all my life, bought the Harley and realized it's not the bike for me.
Could you get your hands on a 2022 GTL and make a new test . I had a BMW 1200 GT back in 2004 . would be great to see if it's better or just more add on's Thank you for the only real long test ride
HI, THIS IS THE BEST QUALITY FOOTAGE I HAVE SEEN. PLS LET ME KNOW THE MAKE AND MODEL OF THE CAMERA YOU HAVE USED SO I CAN BUY FOR MY OWN WORLDWIDE TOURING. THANKS. CLAYTON.
Fantastic review. Thank you. ... just need to know what audio system you were using. Very little background noise and your voice came through very clearly when speaking in normal voice. Perfect system. What is it? ... Please?
The timing of your narration with the hand signals... are you narrating while riding? I'm always making noises inside my helmet. Passing, for example, is mmmmmmeeeeeerrrroooooooaaaaaarrrroooouuuuuuuuuubrrrrr. You sound ridiculously calm.
Thank's for great Review ! Do you ride here North from Big Sur, and over the notorious Pixby Creek bridge? The same bridge Bronson used to ride in opening scene in TCB TV series? I have 2016 GTL in Garage waiting for the season to start ...
Awesome awesome review! Im curious about your camera and microphone set up. What type of camera do you have on the helmet and how do you have the microphone wired up? Audio quality is spotless!
Are you going to do a nice review like this for the new 2018 Yamaha Venture? Riders Domain is the only road test posted as of now, but nowhere even close to your reviews!
My father says it's better in every way. He loved his 2000 K1200 LT putting over 130,000 miles on it, but he tells me his '12 K1600 GTL is absolutely better in every category in his opinion. No comparison he says. That's just him though.
Read a lot on the problems, water pump, switches, trim coming loose transmission problems, back wheel coming loose, switch block issues, general electrical issues. I wonder if these are isolated incidents or more widespread or only on the early models.
The data on the headlight is incorrect the Ducati Multistrada 1200s has the adaptive headlight so will turn when your cornering and both hi and low beam are LED. But thanks for a great video
Best review I've found yet on the K1600GTL. As a result I've put down a deposit on a 2012 GT with fully history and just 4500 miles. I'm coming from a Goldwing F6C and a Kawasaki ZZR1400 and I cannot wait. Thanks for the very detailed review.
This guy's review is right on the money. Never have been much of a touring bike guy but must say one of the finest bikes I have ever road. Bike loses weight very quickly when rolling, feels like a sport bike when riding. Handling, acceleration, and braking is totally wonderful. All the goodies, "FORGET ABOUT IT!!!!!!!". Bought mine last month and can't wait to put some serious miles on it. Absolutely no buyers remorse.
What a great overview! After watching this, and carefully looking at my options, I pulled the trigger and purchased a K1600 GTL!
Overview? 24 Hours straight after lots of earlier testing? Just kidding, hope you love the bike.
Love this bike! I've owned it for 6 months and it's fantastic in everyway. This is the F-16 of sport touring.
Thank you! I have a 2012 K1600 gt 17000 miles on it and it’s always a Zin like experience for me and my wife. We rode to San Diego and Victoria / Vancouver BC and back; this is the sweetest ride of 52 years riding experience.
OK, seriously, this video was beyond a doubt the most interesting, informative and professional video I've EVER SEEN. I watch hundreds of motorcycle videos and this was truly superior above all others. Fantastic job I truly am blown away by the quality. Thank you ever so much. I currently ride a FJR1300 AE, however I've been thinking about the BMW K1600 GT and now thanks for this fantastic video I will begin the saving process to purchase one of these incredible machines. Thx again...
Incredible video. Excellent comments. Great video. Very professional, no silly comments or profanity and complete. The best video I have seen so far on the 1600GTL. GREAT WORK!
You are, by far, the best motorcycle reviewer in the business.
Well I finally purchased my 2015 GTL Exclusive and I'm so impressed with it's capabilities!! Everywhere I go, everyone is showing me much Love!! OMG, what a Fast machine it is, think I'm gonna have to purchase a Bike specific Radar Detector. I Love it dearly, now I'm looking for fellow BMW Bikers to go riding with.
If you live in SoCal look up the South Coast BMW Riders Club at www.scbmwrc.com. We cover three or four counties here.
What a good review. Not only did you cover all of the important aspects about the bike but your voice was clearly understandable at all times. This is the first time I have seen one of your reviews but I will be looking out for more in the future. Thank you.
Thank You!
One the finest review of any bike I have ever heard or seen, extremely professional, well thought out and produced. I own a 2018 k1600 Grand America, your pluses and minuses are spot on. I also have a HD Ultra Classic and the BMW is in a totally different class. The Harley Davidson CVO ultra is 45k, my grand America is 30K with all the options, Harley Davidson should be ashamed of their product for the cost they are asking. I've been riding HDs since 1982 and I am so happy that I looked at other manufactures. Point being be open minded guys there's a lot of manufacturers out there for every kind of rider.
One of the best reviews on a motorcycle I've ever seen. Nicely Done!!!
Thank You! That mean a lot.
The best commentary of any review I've watched, well done, as for the bike, I want one !
Thank You!
that headlight is absolutely brilliant! the whole thing is just great, I love it. BMW making the 6 cylinder for it's bikes, it really is crazy that they waited this long, since they pretty much perfected the inline 6 in their cars. good effin job BMW
I recently bought a 2015 1600 GT - love it ! Thx for this review!!
Best review on youtube of any motorcycle! You should do more. I currently ride the GT version and you're spot on.
If OEMs advertised we would do more. Each test is quite expensive and nobody is footing the bill. Oh wait, I am.
I must have seen this 15 times. Love the review!
Thank You! Yes, sometimes I re-watch my own videos. They are real!
I just purchased the 1600 GTLE today and looking forward to the enjoyment of riding. Thanks for an excellent video and spot-on comments about the positive and less than positive items.
Yes, we had to give ours back! Funny that as I shot one of our recent tests two guys rode buy on my same road and they were having a blast going at it - on touring bikes! It made me wonder if they had viewed this video.
Sweet review!
Thanks for taking the time to do such an in depth review of the 2014 BMW K1600 GTL Exclusive.
Very nicely done...
Thank You!
Better late than never with a reply...... :-)
Still love the video and replay it periodically.
I have a 2014 K1600 Exclusive for 2-years now and absolutely love it.
Zero issues and one heck of a performance touring machine.
Beats the pants off my previous Goldwings.
Not expecting ever, that this big boat would ever grab my attention, let alone excite the hell out of me, I finally had the exquisite pleasure of actually riding a 2016 GTL, two days ago out of Mamba Motorsports in Santa Clarita CA.
I've been on RT's for more than 30 years. Between my 84 airhead RT, then my 98 oil head, we have cris-crossed North America and Canada too many times to recall exact numbers. Around 98 or so, I took a K1200LT for a jaunt out of a new Fort Meyer's BMW shop, and was wowed by how nimble such a large machine could be. I was impressed. Fast forward to Wagner's BMW of Worcester, MA two years ago. I looked at a GTL on the floor, and actually sat on it. It seemed big and awkward at the time. I wished to take a 1600GT for a jaunt, but as we spoke about going for a ride on it, word came down that it was no longer for sale; someone purchased this bike while I was sitting on it! They respectfully asked me if I'd like to take the GTL for a ride instead? Too big, too massive, too much clutter in my head; I declined. You see, snotty me, was still young and verile, my RT was as large as I dared to go, see, I still loved a very spirited ride, and the RT afforded me that. I could toss it around like a dirt bike with all its luxury, or ride it like a sport bike. My mindset: "If you ever see me on a Goldwing, SHOOT ME! And so it's no luxury cruisers for me.
Here we are, two years later, surviving some 8 life threatening surgeries, and finally being recovered. Reading lots about this BMW K1600GTL, and watching video's like this, yadda yadda yadda, have somewhat swayed my opinion of this big bike, but still not a believer that this could be for me? Got to admit to being impressed with the reviews, BUT...
What really had me excited, and it wasn't the GTL; the bike that really got my attention was the S1000XR! I would repeatedly fall asleep at night while watching TH-cam video's and reports about it. I read all the magazine coverage of this bike. So why am I mentioning this XR on a GTL post you ask? Well, it's because I rode both these machines back to back, that's why. And, - - - I rode the XR first.
I did have expectations of the XR being a thrill to ride, but thrill proved a woeful understatement! This was hands down the most exciting and impressive bike I've ever had the pleasure of throwing a leg over. No Viagra needed!!! I'll happily give a full rundown on my XR ride if requested.
So again, what's this got to do with the K1600GTL? I'll tell you what; don't get yer panties in knot.
After the lovely Gena schooled me on the basics of operating their Flagship bike, I was off and running. I'm now on a bike near 300 lbs heavier than the XR, so I KNOW it's not going be even close to that experience. The XR is tall, it's designed that way. The GTL is as comfortable as your livingroom lounge chair, and I'm comfortably flat footed with knees bent, cool. Nice clutch, way responsive throttle, but not at all nasty; it won't bite you. My my my, I'm not yet at the end of the parking lot and I'm already totally at ease on this behemoth.
I requested Gena send me on a good road of twisties, as I'm pretty sure what this will do on the super slab. She steers me in the right direction.
Let me make this make this short and sweet. I just got off a bike that loves twisties; expected. And the thing is an outright BEAST! And now I'm on a bike that will give the hotrod XR a run for its money; shocked shocked shocked! I road this GTL hard, and it laughed at me. I could hear it saying "Is that all you've got big boy, c'mon?" Yes bikes talk to me; have been for over 55 years now.
Reluctantly, I brought the bike back. When Gena greeted me, I said "I'll bet someone in this shop is capable of dragging their knees in a corner with this bike?"; she assured me there was. Later on a guy from parts or service said that person would be her!
So, my fellow scooter enthusiasts, if you're of a mindset like the one I previously had, get over it and take the most impressive motorcycle I've ever ridden for a ride. If your in SoCal, go visit Mamba Motorsports in Santa Clarita and ask for Gena; she's terrific! In fact, everyone in this house is terrific and personable. What a great shop!
The comfort and agility of this bike is nothing short of phenomenal, and I've pretty much ridden everything. As a long distance rider, and one who, given the choice, has always opted for my two wheeler over my cage. Subsequently, I've put a ton more mileage on my bikes than my cars; this bike would leave my car awfully lonely.
This GTL does it all, and it does it with style and grace, but don't be fooled into thinking it's an old godger's putt up the highway bike, because this bike has the heart of a lion with the agility of cheetah. It is waiting and willing to do whatever you're in the mood for. When rolling, you have zero sensation that you're riding a near 800 lb machine; simply extraordinary!
There's so much more to say about this bike, as it's way technically advanced. I didn't mention the sound of that six; in one word, intoxicating. I left it in 6th gear while deliberately slowing to 20 mph. It didn't care, it didn't hiccup, it just rolled back up to speed effortlessly and smoothly. I'm excited and wanting to go on and on. Forgive me. This bike is like a fine woman, you're just gitty at how wonderful she is, and you want to tell the world about your good fortune.
Ride one, and bring your checkbook, cause you're gonna want to be taking her home. Let the love affair continue...
Can we borrow it from you?
You are quite welcomed to share it. It was a most unexpected and amazing bike. Bravo BMW!
Thanks for the time given to such a great review. I appreciate your genuine enthusiasm and passion for riding and hearing your impression of the K16 complements this excellent review. How did you find the ride in city traffic?
I "call" your enthusiasm and raise you one XR ;) I'm fortunate enough to have both of these great bikes; GTL and XR. My wonderful wife appreciates my therapeutic addiction, and so I also get to spend most of my time on 2 wheels instead of 4 here in SoCal. My favorite thing to do after having a great ride on the GTL, is to jump right on the XR and go a little more!
Best review on the K1600 gtl on the web, great job !!!!
Thank You!
26:17 in the video "I see a passing lane".. almost anything in the K1600 is a passing lane, due to the incredible acceleration it has! (breakfast is finished, drinking the last of my coffee and time to take my 2018 K1600 GTL out for the day, I'm thinking western Wyoming, maybe visit the Devil's tower)
A very pleasant overview of the K1600 GLT. Love the tone and the detail. Really appreciate your effort in preparing this vlog. My plan is to buy a K1600 GT here in the UK. Watching your video, it gives me great confidence in making my decision. Thank you
Excellent review. You covered all areas that I wanted to hear about. Now I need to go and sit on one because I'm 6 4 and can get uncomfortable very easily.
Watch this vid regularly ..... almost feels like you are on the bike ..... love it
thank you for a really impressive video, been searching for a while and this has shown me everything i wanted to find out about the bike, and this helped me make my purchase.. i cannot wait to get my bike now!
Thank you!
Nicely done... I rented the K1600GTL this week and I could not agree with you any more. I had a certain coin on my face for all of 400 miles I drove in one day - I had lots of fun and I am sure one of these (not the exclusive thou) will be in my garage in the near future...
Great! Thank You!
ONE OF THE VERY BEST VIDEO EXPOSE I HAVE SEEN!!! THANKS for your efforts
Thank you so very much.
Your review is on the money, my friend. Thank you. After watching it, I sold my FJR and got 2016 K1600GTLE. What a bike !!!!! a pleasure to ride and you just want to ride and ride and ride never to end. It is built so F....N good and engineered to be a fantastic machine. This is my first BMW. Now I see what riders are saying......addiction.....Hands down !!!!!
Wow, best motorcycle review i have ever seen! I love that bike. I have an R1200RT which shares several of the same riding features.
Thank you! The system (TH-cam) blocked your comment.
@@motorcycle-tv i picked up a 2013 GT shortly after my comment. Still have it, over 50k miles on it right now.
Probably the best on board road video in the World.
Thank You!
Fantastic review, thanks for doing that, I am purchasing a 2015 model next week, good work.
Very nice! Welcome back, Bill.
Thank You!
Thank you for the video! Has to be one of the finest bikes in the world.. I'm not sure I can afford it or feel worthy of it but this bike might be in my future! I've loved inline 6's since I owned my 79' CBX years ago...
CBX! Think of that engine on major steroids.
Great review , do you work for BMW ? Just kidding . I love my K 1600 GT , it's nice to hear someone talk up your own bike . Makes one feel better about all money we spend on our bikes . Keep up the great videos .
That was the most intelligent and thorough bike review I’ve ever seen. Thank you so much!
That was great Thanks. For a change a Mature review, with no loud background music.
Excellent review, quite possibly one of the best that I have watched... Now to save up some dinero, I think my Victory Cross Country Tour might get traded in... sooner than I thought.
Thank You!
This is the best review of this machine I've yet seen online. I agree with you on the windshield and gears, they seem out of place on a top end tourer. Just a note about handling though, if you're not used to the level of countersteer needed to shuffle a machine this size around it will bite you. I came this having ridden nothing larger than a Honda NT650 before, and while I knew it was my dream machine from a quick blast down the local highway, I'm still learning to ride it properly.
Most larger bikes take a lot more effort, by far, than this bike.
This is the best motorcycle rewiev i´ve ever seen! Good job!
Thank You!
Great, great job! My friend definitely you won a new fan. Keep going! Thanks!
Thank You!
Thanks! This is Excellent review!!
btw, I've bought this bike yesterday, Sooo happy! :)
Thank You! Did our review cost you a lot of $s?
Hi Chupo, how do you like the GTL so far? I just got my first and used 16 K1600GTLE with 2500 miles. Any tips for a first timer?
I own it, and I love it. ((2014 K1600 GTL) Best bike I've owned. It's 1/2 F16 Fighter, 1/2 Tractor. Power and Finese in any situation. In a word, "Intoxicating"
Jim Sieg
I'm always saying how my father's K1600 GTL looks like something from out of this world when you pass him at night when he has all the LED's on. The first time I saw him coming while driving in the opposite lane heading towards him in my car I was like WTF is that!? Sure enough I noticed it was my father on his new bike when he passed by me lol. What an incredible machine!
Congrats.The best review of a motorcycle that I have watched on TH-cam to date.lets see some more,thks Bruce(JHB)
Thank You!
Superb review, easily the best I've seen. Really think I'm going to have to buy one of these next year! Regards, Paul.
Thank You very much.
Excellent review. I totally agree to everything and I love my GTL, best bike ever. A german GTL rider on a 2011 have just passed 88.000 miles without any major problems, and bike runs like day 1. Ps: Price in Denmark 78.000 USD (buy 1 pay for 2 :-( )
***** Well, I must say, I feel special every time I go for a ride :-)
Here in Australia a GT sells for about $37k AU
Amazing review. I will be picking up a 2018 GTL tomorrow.
The best commentary of any review I've watched, well done, as for the bike, I want one !
Thank You! Me too!
What a great video. Its a pleasure watching you drive there.
Thank You!
Simply the best review of the k1600 ever i bought an exclusive on the strength of this test well done sir ! I have toured all over europe on it Italy the camarge Austria Switzerland the sound it makes is addictive !🤘
Great review tested one . Loved it . What do you think of the seating position after riding for a while
Excellent review. Absolutely one of the best.
You made my day! I just bought this bike! Looks like I made a right thing...
Thank You!
Now all my desire to get a harley tourer suddenly disappeared. This is amazing.
Best review ever!!!
Thank You!
I agree. I don't know how many times I've seen it.
hélicoptère lego technique
Just purchased my first bmw 1600 gtl from Cross country bmw in Metuchen, New Jersey, Al was a great salemen, put 164 miles on it in 1/2 day.love the windshield where you can adjust wind over helmet.
Hi Bill, how do you like your bike so far? I just got a pre-owned 2016 K1600GTLE with 2500 on it. The bike was serviced at Cross Country since new. Do you experience grinding noises when riding on low speeds on higher gears? and also, clunking noises when let the throttle rest on lower gears? It is like the throttle is way sensitive. Any tips on that?
BEST REVIEW BY FAR. Thanks ❤
Wonderful review, so complete yet simple. Rock on!!!
Yes, you definitely give the best reviews. I rode one of these back in '13 and couldn't stand all the driveline lash and clunkiness you spoke of around town, it was unavoidable no matter how hard I tried to make it smooth. I hated it for that reason alone (and no rear speakers), but otherwise loved it. I've been forever searching for the perfect bike and it seems like I always will be, lol. I was holding out hope for the new Venture only to be disappointed that they ruined it by giving us yet another air-cooled V-Twin which is as common as the belly button these days.
B
Great review, and we loved the location as we are from Ottawa Canada and have been on this highway (by car) a number of times , we will travel it again by on this bike in the near future.
We bought the bike this week and my only two comments are we bought it with the BMW helmets with BMW Motorrad Com System which in my view adds to the functionality/potential of the technology this bike has with the bluetooth interaction of the intercom/cell phone hands free and BMW Motorrad navigator V.
As for the lack of rear speakers is concerned, this is not a factor for us as we have had them on our Gold Wing's and you really do'nt use them as at highway speed you can't hear them very well either. We prefer the helmet speakers at highway speed as we can hear the sound better.
We have had two Gold Wing's and feel this bike is over all is a much better bike by far then the Gold Wing as the wing has unfortunately in my opinion not kept up to date.
Awesome. Watch for decreasing radius turns as you ride. There are many and it gets riders looking at the ocean or going too fast.
My partner has just bought this model in this colourway, can't wait till the spring to go touring Europe on her . 👌💜
Totally Zen dude. Nice review. I'm with it.
Thanks Dude!
Excellent review, one can feel the passion! Well done
Just another beautiful day along the Pacific Coast Highway.
Truely a great and realistic review...wow. Thanx!
Excellent review brother. Kudos!
Thank You!
Excellent review. What route were you traveling. I plan to buy the 1600gtl in the spring of 2015.I will be 71 years old. I work out and scuba dive so age is just a number.Widower for 3 years now. I am a dirt bike rider for many years. I due plan to take a riders course. Is this my bike?. Or should I look at sky diving instead. No touring bike experience. Thanks for your review.
O Glasco
oral glasco " Is this my bike?. Or should I look at sky diving instead"
Why limit yourself, do both.
I own this bike and I can't say enough good things about it. It is heavy though and I dropped my a couple of times until I learned the muscle memory and the center of gravity.
By all means, take a rider safety course. I take the advanced rider safety course every year or two. It's worth it.
Coming from a Goldwing GL1000, you don't even feel her weight when she is weaving round the Italian Alps, between 360 and 520kg fully loaded with two passengers and gear (no gyno pillion seat, no top box but luggage roll). It's just shoving her those few feet out of the stable...And she just eases herself onto the main stand irrespective of load. Why not do what we did : hire her for a week (our dealer waived hire charge on purchase ), go on a trip and put her through her paces, fully laden -THEN you'll know, BEFORE handing over a lot of money. We had never even PLANNED to buy but that first just-for-fun-test drive of K16 GT proved fatally seductive in 2011...still loving it after 70.000km, DESPITE going through darned teething problems and wear n tear repairs - mostly riding as a twosome with shared costs and fun. A reverse gear would be useful sometimes, hillstart was in planning we heard, and I love my bum heater at 4°C.Brilliant and convenient luggage system, and yes, stripped you almost have got a sports bike. Interesting, you guys (Canada, US?) get different, BRIGHTER, head lights to us Germans. She is the nearest thing yet to an egg-laying wool-milk sow, as we Germans say, anyone has come up with yet. BMW car technology on two wheels, where others will follow. Except for the clonk... Also check out BMW bike international forums for further soul searching.
***** Most of the big bikes there is a nack to picking them up, balancing them at stop should not be a problem. My sister 5ft0in 90lbs , can pick up my Goldwing when she drops it "all the time" ( One day I will get threw to her that she needs to put her feet on the ground when she stops)
Giles Craven Can you post a vid of your 5' 90lb sister picking up your Goldwing? That would be interesting to watch! BTW... if she drops it 'all the time', the why lend it to her?
Yes, age is just a number I keep forgetting.
Awesome vid. Well done. You described it similar to how I feel with my R1200GSA. BMW Motorad rocks!
Thank You!
everything was going great until 30:17.... Unleaded? 91 min man! That bike needs it!
BMW specify Unleaded super, octane number 95 (RON) which equals 85/86 MON (motor octane number) or 90/91 AKI (anti knock index)
I currently own 2 bikes, a Honda Black Bird that I got week ago, and a BMW K1200LT, which is of course the predesescor to this machine. I have had the BMW for quite a while, and absolutely love it. It has pretty much everything that the K1600 GTL has, although obviously not as up to date or refined? Interestingly, what the tester is saying about the wind noise and how ti effects the enjoyment of the radio is exactly the same issue I have with the 1200. The Stereo on my bike is superb, when you are sitting still, or riding at around 50 kph(30 mph). Above those speeds it is pretty much useless, even though, unlike the bike on test, it has 4 speakers, 2 in the front and 2 in the back? This the second BMW LT I have owned, the first one being a K100LT. I cannot fault the 1200, apart from the screen and the radio, and as it yet to turn over 30,000 kms (20,000 Miles) it has heaps of miles left in it yet? Would I buy a new 1600 GTL? In a Heartbeat, but for the fact that here is New Zealand they run close to $50,000 fully equipped, and I simply do not have that kind of money? For anyone looking for a great touring bike that handles well and is capable of covering BIG miles in comfort, but doesn't have the dollars to buy the 1600, I garentee you won't be dissapointed with a 1200? In case anyone is wondering, I swapped the Black Bird for a car I had, and it's up for sale already.
Great video & review...!!!
Thank You!
Very profesional review, great review, the best review I ever see from a gread biker. Thanks
Excellent video! I'm going to trade my Harley Ultra Limited for a 2017 K1600GTL. I've ridden sport bikes all my life, bought the Harley and realized it's not the bike for me.
I was just there HWY 1 near Big Sur Calif traveling north
Be quiet please ...
Great review. Where is this filmed. Fantastic road
Partially on CA coast.
Could you get your hands on a 2022 GTL and make a new test . I had a BMW 1200 GT back in 2004 . would be
great to see if it's better or just more add on's Thank you for the only real long test ride
HI, THIS IS THE BEST QUALITY FOOTAGE I HAVE SEEN. PLS LET ME KNOW THE MAKE AND MODEL OF THE CAMERA YOU HAVE USED SO I CAN BUY FOR MY OWN WORLDWIDE TOURING. THANKS. CLAYTON.
Maybe you already have but would you mind sharing what you are using for audio and video equipment? This is the best I've ever seen so far.
Fantastic review. Thank you. ... just need to know what audio system you were using. Very little background noise and your voice came through very clearly when speaking in normal voice. Perfect system. What is it? ... Please?
Thank You! It's magic! Well planned and choreographed filming, editing and some custom things.It doesn't happen by itself.
The timing of your narration with the hand signals... are you narrating while riding? I'm always making noises inside my helmet. Passing, for example, is mmmmmmeeeeeerrrroooooooaaaaaarrrroooouuuuuuuuuubrrrrr. You sound ridiculously calm.
Thank You! Yes, no voice overs ever! It's the real deal from beginning to end. The hand motions are in part to show it's all rel time.
Yes that calmness is part of the allure of the review. It's as though the K16 brings gravitas, and confidence. Excellent review
Thank's for great Review ! Do you ride here North from Big Sur, and over the notorious Pixby Creek bridge? The same bridge Bronson used to ride in opening scene in TCB TV series? I have 2016 GTL in Garage waiting for the season to start ...
Awesome awesome review! Im curious about your camera and microphone set up. What type of camera do you have on the helmet and how do you have the microphone wired up? Audio quality is spotless!
Well will post pictures if i pick up my bike Saturday 5/30. .
This is a great and informative review! I need to find out where he did this video, maybe US101 in California?
Great review, lot of information. Tks!
Thank you, this was one of the best and it took more work than you could believe. Love this bike.
good review trying to figure out this or another Goldwing
Tough choice. One is more sporty, one is wonderfully leisurely. Both are great.
thanks for the video. i think im going to buy one this week.
Thank You! Can you buy a second one for us?
Thanks ... Best review of the k1600.
... or GTX as I like to say while I ride.
Are you going to do a nice review like this for the new 2018 Yamaha Venture? Riders Domain is the only road test posted as of now, but nowhere even close to your reviews!
Greate review of the GTL, comprehensive and insightful. Very well done! I'm curious as to how you feel the GTL differs from the K1200LT.
My father says it's better in every way. He loved his 2000 K1200 LT putting over 130,000 miles on it, but he tells me his '12 K1600 GTL is absolutely better in every category in his opinion. No comparison he says. That's just him though.
Completely and absolutely different. As well as better.
This is Excellent review. Thanks
Excellent video, answered most my questions. Thank you.
Thank you
Read a lot on the problems, water pump, switches, trim coming loose transmission problems, back wheel coming loose, switch block issues, general electrical issues. I wonder if these are isolated incidents or more widespread or only on the early models.
Bmw always awsome
AWESOME BIKE!
Fantastic review thank you
Wow, awesome video and bike! 👍
great bike!
Pretty awesome bike .. Wow at the price .. There is a guy near me that has one . It's really a nice looking bike. I would love to test ride one 2 up.
The data on the headlight is incorrect the Ducati Multistrada 1200s has the adaptive headlight so will turn when your cornering and both hi and low beam are LED. But thanks for a great video
This video was 6 years ago, that may have an affect on what was available during that time.