Bmw K 1600 Gtl
The Bmw K 1600 Gtl has a top speed of 250 km/h (electronically limited), produces 160 hp and weighs 348 kg. Motoryk rates it 8.5/10.
The BMW K 1600 GTL was introduced in 2011 as the luxury touring variant of BMW's K 1600 family, distinguished from the GT by its taller windscreen, greater passenger comfort, and added touring features. It represented BMW's flagship luxury tourer, featuring a groundbreaking inline six-cylinder engine — a first for a production motorcycle — offering exceptional smoothness and power. Over the years it received updates including optional features like a reverse gear, electronic suspension (ESA), and an audio system, cementing its status as one of the most technologically advanced touring motorcycles ever built.
160 hp
Power
175 Nm
Torque
348 kg
Weight
250 km/h (electronically limited)
Top Speed
6.5 L/100km (approx. 15.4 km/L, typical real-world average)
Fuel
Faired
Body
Video Review
What Buyers Should Know
Smooth Six-Cylinder Engine
The K 1600 GTL is powered by a 1649cc inline-six engine, the smallest production six-cylinder motorcycle engine ever made. It produces exceptionally smooth, vibration-free power that rivals luxury cars.
Watch the Electronics
Early models (2011-2013) had known issues with the ESA (Electronic Suspension Adjustment) and infotainment system glitches that required dealer resets or software updates. Always verify these systems work fully before buying used.
Strong Resale Value
The K 1600 GTL holds its value well compared to most touring bikes, typically retaining 60-70% of its value after three years due to strong brand loyalty and limited competition in the luxury touring segment.
Generations & Specs by Year
Introduced inline-six 1649cc engine, shaft drive, ESA, optional audio system, full touring fairing.
Updated electronics, new TFT display option, revised suspension, improved LED lighting, updated engine mapping.
New 6.5-inch TFT dash standard, updated connectivity, revised ergonomics, updated rider aids suite.
Used Buyer Review
"The finest touring bike money can buy, if you can afford upkeep."
$12,000-$22,000 usedThe K1600 GTL is genuinely one of the most accomplished touring motorcycles ever built, and buying one used makes a lot of sense — BMW's build quality means a well-maintained example at 50,000 miles is nowhere near finished. That six-cylinder engine is the real story here. It pulls from nothing, sounds incredible, and never feels strained. The electronics package is genuinely useful rather than gimmicky, and the heated everything makes cold-weather riding almost pleasant. That said, go in with your eyes open. These bikes are heavy — seriously heavy — and if you drop one in a parking lot, you're looking at expensive cosmetic repairs fast. Servicing costs will shock you if you're coming from a Japanese touring bike. Always verify the service history religiously. Check the final drive for play, inspect the fairings for stress cracks, and make sure every electronic feature actually works before handing over money. Deferred maintenance on these is expensive to catch up on.
Top 10 Accessories
Curated picks for the Bmw K 1600 Gtl — owned, ridden, recommended.
Common Problems
🔥 1 CRITICALListen for clunk during acceleration/deceleration changes
Test all suspension modes, look for oil residue
Check screen clarity and touch response when warm
Idle smoothness, any hunting or surging at low RPM
✅Pre-Purchase Checklist
Solid bike, maintain it and it lasts
Full Specifications
Rivals & Alternatives
Bikes that buyers cross-shop with the Bmw K 1600 Gtl
Bmw K 1600 Gt
Bmw R 1250 Rt
Yamaha Fjr1300es
Bmw R 1200 Rt
Bmw K 1600 Grand America
Compare Bmw K 1600 Gtl Side-by-Side
compare_arrowsSpecs, power, weight & buyer verdict — head-to-head with the bikes most often cross-shopped.
Bmw K 1600 Gtl vs Bmw K 1600 Gt
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Bmw K 1600 Gtl vs Bmw R 1250 Rt
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Bmw K 1600 Gtl vs Yamaha Fjr1300es
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Bmw K 1600 Gtl vs Bmw R 1200 Rt
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Bmw K 1600 Gtl vs Bmw K 1600 Grand America
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
More Bmw K 1600 Gtl Guides
More from Bmw
View all Bmw models →Community Reviews
Discussion
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common problems with the Bmw K 1600 Gtl? +
Final drive spline wear causing clunking: Listen for clunk during acceleration/deceleration changes (serious) | ESA rear suspension failure or leaking: Test all suspension modes, look for oil residue (moderate) | Infotainment screen delamination or failure: Check screen clarity and touch response when warm (minor)
Is the Bmw K 1600 Gtl a good motorcycle? +
The finest touring bike money can buy, if you can afford upkeep. Rating: 8.5/10. Best for: Experienced tourers who prioritize refinement over running costs. Avoid if: You hate dealerships and prefer DIY servicing.
What is the horsepower of the Bmw K 1600 Gtl? +
The Bmw K 1600 Gtl produces 160 hp @ 7,750 rpm, with 175 Nm @ 5,250 rpm of torque. Top speed: 250 km/h (electronically limited).
Is the Bmw K 1600 Gtl good for beginners? +
Not really — the Bmw K 1600 Gtl is better for experienced riders (160 hp can be intimidating). Experienced tourers who prioritize refinement over running costs Avoid if: You hate dealerships and prefer DIY servicing
Is the Bmw K 1600 Gtl reliable? +
Owners report 1 critical issue to watch for on the Bmw K 1600 Gtl, notably: Final drive spline wear causing clunking (Listen for clunk during acceleration/deceleration changes). Buy with a pre-purchase inspection.
Is the Bmw K 1600 Gtl good for daily use? +
Experienced tourers who prioritize refinement over running costs Fuel: 6.5 L/100km (approx. 15.4 km/L, typical real-world average).
How fast is the Bmw K 1600 Gtl? +
The Bmw K 1600 Gtl reaches a top speed of 250 km/h (electronically limited), producing 160 hp at 348 kg curb weight. Real-world performance depends on rider weight, gearing, and road conditions.
What gear should I buy for a Bmw K 1600 Gtl? +
Motoryk has curated a Top 10 gear list specifically for the Bmw K 1600 Gtl, covering engine oil, tires, chain, battery, and brake pads — see motoryk.com/bikes/bmw/k-1600-gtl/top10. Each pick is matched to this bike's spec.
