Ya, the bars look adjustable. Beautiful bike and a pleasant video to watch. Thanks for the great content. Love the comparison to gold wing as well. What I wanted to know.
As a K1600B owner, yes you can fit a full face helmet in the left side bag, my 2xl Shoei Gt air fits, it’s tight, it fits in with the top off the helmet going in, helmet on its side, visor facing toward the back of the bike. Some other answer to common questions Mine doesn’t wobble at any speed ever, it’s easy to put the bike on the center stand, just you just have to weigh 300lbs, the Bluetooth and stereo are horrible, just buy a Sena it’s better.
İm searching all of the google and nobody said that full face helmet fits the bagger side bags. Are u sure? İm ordered 22 bagger and bought schuberth c5 can it fit?
Hello - I have a 2010 K1300S which is like a part of me. I'm considering a new ride and trading my K1300S for the K1600B. Are you happy with this move???? tom@tgarland.com
Better revisit that fuel conversion…. 5.7 litres is not 7 US gallons, think it’s more like 25.7 litres. I just bought this bike and my ride home was 300 miles through heavy traffic (lane splitting no problem despite her girth) and open motorways touching 100mph…wobble? What wobble? Amazing bike but sadly only in black in the UK, love the blue you tested! The floorboards don’t fold out of the way as such, they just flex if you happen to catch the ground on a tight turn.
I should have added that the only changes for 2020 are: new color - Hockenheim Silver Metallic (which looks cool), black switches, and (I think) all bikes get reverse gear.
Amazing platform. I do think the electronics (speedo, radio, gps etc.) are in dire need of updating though. Seemed really cool in 2011 when it was released though... not so much today.
Agree entirely. The bike is am amazing machine (as are the GT and GTL). I suspect that the similar electronics on the R1250RT will be replaced with the TFT display, as they did last year on the RS. Whether they roll that change over to the K1600 line, though, I guess will depend on whether they intend to continue producing it. Lots of speculation that the days of the inline 6 are numbered. If they are going to keep it in the line, I I would like to see them move to radial mounted brakes as well. All that said, with the discounts available on 2019 K1600B bikes in the US, it sure is tempting!
I have seen complaints online from time to time. Having owned 3 with ESA, and having ridden with countless guys who have it, I can't recall a single issue, for what that is worth.
Premium motorcycle. Ride one. The impression it will leave is huge. The GT is even more fun. Bigger balls. Wobble? Yes; very slight wobble @ 200k+ (120mph) & above. Otherwise, smooth as silk. I made a few changes to my GT to fit me. First & foremost .... an RDL seat. Much better seat than stock BMW seat. One of the world’s truly great motorcycles.
Oh yes ! It’s scary as hell. I dealt with it when I was 13 riding my Honda CB350 on the freeway. Now I’m 58 and don’t find it acceptable for a $30k BMW in the year 2020 !
Interesting, and sorry to hear that. Coincidentally. I ran into someone this morning at our local biker hangout who has had one since 2018. He deemed it the best touring bike he has ever ridden. I can't weigh in, though I did own and enjoy a K1600GTL.
Well that’s the thing. I also rode a GT on the same freeway, and at the same speeds. Solid as a rock, but I’ve heard people say that the GT and the GTL both suffer from the same wobble. I did not experience it though on the GT, only the B. In any event I’ll keep my GSA as I know it doesn’t head shake at any speed...
Hi Mark. I own this bike for 6 months now. You're right, sometimes wobbles appears on the highway or on curves, and the first time it's very disturbing! BUT it happens only when the suspension are in cruiser mode. I guess that in this mode the suspensions adjusment can be sometimes too soft, regarding the weight and the lenght of this Panzer! This problem totally disappear when it's in road mode. This bike is so well balanced that you feel like driving on railway. And the engine is amazing and totally addicitve! Yesterday I drove it just for pleasure 1.5 hours before lunch. This is clearly the best and the most beautiful bike I ever owned. After 6 months, I'm still enthousiast every time I drive it. Cheers from Lille, north of France.
@@Donfleebie1 I’m not positive, but I don’t think the k1600b is limited. I believe that BMW limited the k1600 Grand America because of handling issues with the top box.
@@TheJedRides That’s a shame. That beast of a motor on the BMW is limited to about 100. I’ve had a few of my full dressed out bikes to 120 with no problems. My 2 Yamahas I had would get to almost 130. The Venture Royale, and my XS Eleven. My 2012FLHTK gets to about 110 pretty quickly, but I’m too old for that stuff too much anymore. I know there are ways around the limiters, but it’s a shame, those GW’s and K1600’s are shut down too early, for what they’re capable of.
Mark, thanks for your reply. I didn’t ride it at highway speeds so I can’t comment. I’ve read others mention instability at high speeds. Have you experienced it?
Eddie B. Ya, there is a wobble. I’ve been riding motorcycles for 50 years now. I’ve ridden a lot of bikes, and I’m saying there is a definite wobble (and/or weave) in the bike. (I’m also pretty sure I know the difference between a Harley and a BMW.) Why do you think they put a speed limiter on the BMW ?!? Do you think that BMW thought that would be a big selling point for them ? They made the decision because it was cheaper than redesigning the bike. But don’t take my word for it. Look it up on the internet. There are a growing number of owners that are experiencing it, and trying to get BMW to acknowledge and fix it. All bikes have design flaws. Some more than others. My Harley has them for sure, but in this case, you will have to excuse me when I go blowing by you on my 128” Road Glide... at least it doesn’t start to make me pucker until 110 or so...
@@marksandorf2072 Bwahahaha !! 🤣🤣 I’ve been riding 40 + yrs. Mine is a 2018 k1600B Absolutely NO WOBBLE ! I’ve taken it up several times to 135 mph. Seriously doubt your tractor 🚜 is gonna beat mine. Stop dreaming ! Lol- 🤣
Not a bad video, but a much less than stellar review as you (especially being a BMW owner and moreover a K1600 GTL owner) know virtually ZERO about the bike...so you say, "...it's a more useable bike..." for you compared to your GTL, but you wouldn't buy one. Don't quit you're day job and stick to talking about things you know about....
Thanks for your comments and sorry to disappoint. You’re right, the video is simply my impressions on first ride. It’s offered as another data point for those interested in the bike. Nothing more. What are your thoughts about the B?
The powerband of that 1600cc engine, the 55 degree forward tilt of the inline 6 (contributing to a lower center of gravity) and the magnificent suspension all contribute to amazing agility among all the k1600 variants. Standing still, you feel their massive weight, but once moving they are light as a feather in virtually all scenarios. The only time I used to feel it on the GTL I owned was in instances of tight chicanes in the road, where a lean one way was quickly followed by a lean the opposite. Even then though, compared to other bikes of this size, the K bikes are amazing.
Yeah, the brakes are fine, but riding it back to back after the GS, you perceive a longer braking time. I don't have any figures, but iI would guess it must be noticeably longer 60-0.
First and foremost, thanks for watching and thanks for providing feedback. I really appreciate it, and I am always trying to improve. It’s probably not accurate for me to describe the video as a “ride and review” given that a review from a 30 minute demo ride cannot by its nature be particularly comprehensive. This was the first such opportunity I had to produce video based on a demo ride, and suffice it to say I recognize that I have a lot of room for improvement.
Ya, the bars look adjustable. Beautiful bike and a pleasant video to watch. Thanks for the great content. Love the comparison to gold wing as well. What I wanted to know.
Thanks. 👍🏼 I liked that bike a lot. Can't wait to try the refreshed 2022 when they hit the dealers.
I bought it k1600b EL I’m so happy one of the best ever. I done 2000km on it and feels good every time I go for a ride.
Enjoy it! It’s an impressive (and beautiful) bike.
As a K1600B owner, yes you can fit a full face helmet in the left side bag, my 2xl Shoei Gt air fits, it’s tight, it fits in with the top off the helmet going in, helmet on its side, visor facing toward the back of the bike.
Some other answer to common questions
Mine doesn’t wobble at any speed ever, it’s easy to put the bike on the center stand, just you just have to weigh 300lbs, the Bluetooth and stereo are horrible, just buy a Sena it’s better.
Tony, thanks -- good honest info!
İm searching all of the google and nobody said that full face helmet fits the bagger side bags. Are u sure? İm ordered 22 bagger and bought schuberth c5 can it fit?
Great review and thank you. I just ordered this Beauty! Very excited to give it a go. A nice addition to my K 1300S.
That sounds like a great pair, Sean!
Hello - I have a 2010 K1300S which is like a part of me. I'm considering a new ride and trading my K1300S for the K1600B. Are you happy with this move???? tom@tgarland.com
@@thomasgarland9407 dont buy the 1600B, two meny transmission and revers problems,, stay with the 1300s
Better revisit that fuel conversion…. 5.7 litres is not 7 US gallons, think it’s more like 25.7 litres. I just bought this bike and my ride home was 300 miles through heavy traffic (lane splitting no problem despite her girth) and open motorways touching 100mph…wobble? What wobble? Amazing bike but sadly only in black in the UK, love the blue you tested! The floorboards don’t fold out of the way as such, they just flex if you happen to catch the ground on a tight turn.
Ha! My metric math is not ready for prime time! An amazing bike indeed -- congrats on yours!
You can fit a full face helmet in the bags. My Schuberth C3Pro size large fits in the bags on my B.
Wow, thanks - that’s good to know. It really looked too narrow to me.
I should have added that the only changes for 2020 are: new color - Hockenheim Silver Metallic (which looks cool), black switches, and (I think) all bikes get reverse gear.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts and insights with respect to this motorcycle...
My pleasure -- thanks for watching and providing feedback.
Amazing platform. I do think the electronics (speedo, radio, gps etc.) are in dire need of updating though.
Seemed really cool in 2011 when it was released though... not so much today.
Agree entirely. The bike is am amazing machine (as are the GT and GTL). I suspect that the similar electronics on the R1250RT will be replaced with the TFT display, as they did last year on the RS. Whether they roll that change over to the K1600 line, though, I guess will depend on whether they intend to continue producing it. Lots of speculation that the days of the inline 6 are numbered. If they are going to keep it in the line, I I would like to see them move to radial mounted brakes as well. All that said, with the discounts available on 2019 K1600B bikes in the US, it sure is tempting!
Any word when they will update it
@@socalgolf9978 the new 2022 have a 10" TFT LIKE THE R18 TRANS
Good review of a nice bike
Thanks for watching and providing feedback, David. Hoping to ride the new R18 this week.
Heard the ESA suspension tends to have problems and is not covered by warranty and is pretty pricey. I could be wrong what I read in the forums.
I have seen complaints online from time to time. Having owned 3 with ESA, and having ridden with countless guys who have it, I can't recall a single issue, for what that is worth.
You bought a 1250 R/T same as me...any regrets? I kinda like the reverse on this and the wing...
I like the styling of the K1600B, and that engine is simply cool, but what wins it for the RT is weight and handling. No regrets!
Premium motorcycle. Ride one. The impression it will leave is huge. The GT is even more fun. Bigger balls. Wobble? Yes; very slight wobble @ 200k+ (120mph) & above. Otherwise, smooth as silk. I made a few changes to my GT to fit me. First & foremost .... an RDL seat. Much better seat than stock BMW seat. One of the world’s truly great motorcycles.
Agree! The GT(L) is a beast in the best way!
Everyone complaining about the outdated dash... The new 2022 have the 10" tft similar to the r18 trans
Yes, that will be nice. I wonder, though, why don't seem to have upgraded to radial mounted brakes on the K?
@@TheJedRides I'm not 100% sure on new specs
So so beautiful bike
It's a tempting bike for sure.
Wish to own one
Oh yes ! It’s scary as hell. I dealt with it when I was 13 riding my Honda CB350 on the freeway. Now I’m 58 and don’t find it acceptable for a $30k BMW in the year 2020 !
Interesting, and sorry to hear that. Coincidentally. I ran into someone this morning at our local biker hangout who has had one since 2018. He deemed it the best touring bike he has ever ridden. I can't weigh in, though I did own and enjoy a K1600GTL.
I love it, but, two meny transmission and Electric problems
There are certainly lots of anecdotal reports of transmission issues. Haven’t heard any electrical issues, though.
Well that’s the thing. I also rode a GT on the same freeway, and at the same speeds. Solid as a rock, but I’ve heard people say that the GT and the GTL both suffer from the same wobble. I did not experience it though on the GT, only the B. In any event I’ll keep my GSA as I know it doesn’t head shake at any speed...
Good choice! 👍🏼
Hi Mark. I own this bike for 6 months now. You're right, sometimes wobbles appears on the highway or on curves, and the first time it's very disturbing! BUT it happens only when the suspension are in cruiser mode. I guess that in this mode the suspensions adjusment can be sometimes too soft, regarding the weight and the lenght of this Panzer! This problem totally disappear when it's in road mode. This bike is so well balanced that you feel like driving on railway. And the engine is amazing and totally addicitve! Yesterday I drove it just for pleasure 1.5 hours before lunch. This is clearly the best and the most beautiful bike I ever owned. After 6 months, I'm still enthousiast every time I drive it. Cheers from Lille, north of France.
I Road Glide will go around that thing at 110.
I find that hard to believe.
@@TheJedRides I don’t believe the RG is speed limited like the Goldwing is at 112.
@@Donfleebie1 I’m not positive, but I don’t think the k1600b is limited. I believe that BMW limited the k1600 Grand America because of handling issues with the top box.
@@TheJedRides That’s a shame. That beast of a motor on the BMW is limited to about 100. I’ve had a few of my full dressed out bikes to 120 with no problems. My 2 Yamahas I had would get to almost 130. The Venture Royale, and my XS Eleven. My 2012FLHTK gets to about 110 pretty quickly, but I’m too old for that stuff too much anymore. I know there are ways around the limiters, but it’s a shame, those GW’s and K1600’s are shut down too early, for what they’re capable of.
@@Donfleebie1 again, I may be wrong, but I don’t think the K1600b is limited. Could be wrong.
Those and the f6b are crotch cruisers.
Great name for them!
Any mention of the dangerous wobble at speeds over 70mph ?!?
Mark, thanks for your reply. I didn’t ride it at highway speeds so I can’t comment. I’ve read others mention instability at high speeds. Have you experienced it?
No such wobble ..... you’re thinking HD I think
Eddie B. Ya, there is a wobble. I’ve been riding motorcycles for 50 years now. I’ve ridden a lot of bikes, and I’m saying there is a definite wobble (and/or weave) in the bike. (I’m also pretty sure I know the difference between a Harley and a BMW.) Why do you think they put a speed limiter on the BMW ?!? Do you think that BMW thought that would be a big selling point for them ? They made the decision because it was cheaper than redesigning the bike. But don’t take my word for it. Look it up on the internet. There are a growing number of owners that are experiencing it, and trying to get BMW to acknowledge and fix it. All bikes have design flaws. Some more than others. My Harley has them for sure, but in this case, you will have to excuse me when I go blowing by you on my 128” Road Glide... at least it doesn’t start to make me pucker until 110 or so...
@@marksandorf2072 Bwahahaha !! 🤣🤣 I’ve been riding 40 + yrs. Mine is a 2018 k1600B Absolutely NO WOBBLE !
I’ve taken it up several times to 135 mph.
Seriously doubt your tractor 🚜 is gonna beat mine. Stop dreaming ! Lol- 🤣
Not a bad video, but a much less than stellar review as you (especially being a BMW owner and moreover a K1600 GTL owner) know virtually ZERO about the bike...so you say, "...it's a more useable bike..." for you compared to your GTL, but you wouldn't buy one. Don't quit you're day job and stick to talking about things you know about....
Thanks for your comments and sorry to disappoint. You’re right, the video is simply my impressions on first ride. It’s offered as another data point for those interested in the bike. Nothing more. What are your thoughts about the B?
How are the brakes compared to GS?
I spoke too early!
748 pounds! Seemed pretty nimble and lighter when you were riding.
The powerband of that 1600cc engine, the 55 degree forward tilt of the inline 6 (contributing to a lower center of gravity) and the magnificent suspension all contribute to amazing agility among all the k1600 variants. Standing still, you feel their massive weight, but once moving they are light as a feather in virtually all scenarios. The only time I used to feel it on the GTL I owned was in instances of tight chicanes in the road, where a lean one way was quickly followed by a lean the opposite. Even then though, compared to other bikes of this size, the K bikes are amazing.
Yeah, the brakes are fine, but riding it back to back after the GS, you perceive a longer braking time. I don't have any figures, but iI would guess it must be noticeably longer 60-0.
Terrible review, you go into a review without knowing details of the bike?
First and foremost, thanks for watching and thanks for providing feedback. I really appreciate it, and I am always trying to improve. It’s probably not accurate for me to describe the video as a “ride and review” given that a review from a 30 minute demo ride cannot by its nature be particularly comprehensive. This was the first such opportunity I had to produce video based on a demo ride, and suffice it to say I recognize that I have a lot of room for improvement.