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xcel
07-02-2010, 06:36 PM
http://www.cleanmpg.com/photos/data/2/AmericanFlag.jpg The BMW K 1600 GT and BMW K 1600 GTL. (cleanmpg.com/forums/showthread.php?p=273128)

http://www.cleanmpg.com/photos/data/501/2011_BMW_1600_GTL.jpgWayne Gerdes - CleanMPG (cleanmpg.com) – July 2, 2010

BMW K 1600 GTL Concept drawings… Production is all but assured.

Since BMW Motorrad presented the Concept 6 last fall, the six-cylinder in-line engine featured in it has been watched closely by BMW motorcycle fans the world over. With BMW, six-cylinder in-line engines have stood for fascinating engine technology in automobiles for over seven decades, in a way which is unique among brands. In the near future, BMW motorcycles will also be available with an internally developed six-cylinder in-line engine.

With the BMW K 1600 GT and the BMW K 1600 GTL, BMW Motorrad is penetrating a whole new dimension in the world of long distance on-road Touring with a distinctive appearance, arousing a desire to hit the slab running.

Riding Dynamics

The key to a supreme touring bike is comfort and dynamics. With the most compact in-line six-cylinder engine in a serial motorcycle production to date, the K 1600 GT and the K 1600 GTL penetrate a whole new realm in terms of long-distance riding comfort. They combine excellent riding dynamics with a luxurious surround. With an engine output of 160 HP and a maximum torque of approx. 129 Lb-Ft., the six-cylinder engine provides superb propulsion in all conditions.

Active riding ergonomics for proactive touring

The dynamic BMW K 1600 GT is characterized by an active seating position offering a high level of long-distance comfort. The reason for this is the favorable set-up of the ergonomics triangle made up of footrests, seat and handlebars. The K 1600 GT has a very extensive range of standard features including a xenon (HID) headlight, heated grips and seat, cruise control and on-board computer. These features in conjunction with the supreme riding qualities of the new BMW Motorrad six-cylinder engine leave nothing to be desired.

Comfortable, relaxed ergonomics set-up for long trips even two up

The luxurious BMW K 1600 GTL Touring bike meets the highest demands. Both rider and passenger benefit from a relaxed, upright seating position that can be appreciated over long distances. The ergonomics design is geared towards even further enhanced comfort and derives from a two-level seat in conjunction with rider footrests which are positioned further forward and lower down, as well as handlebars which reach further back. The standard top case rounds off the range of comfort features. Like the K 1600 GT, the K 1600 GTL has a very extensive range of standard features consisting of xenon headlight, heated grips and seat, cruise control and on-board computer. The overall impression of this fascinating six-cylinder motorcycle with a carefully conceived storage concept, audio system as standard and numerous design elements make the BMW K 1600 GTL the flagship among BMW touring bikes.

BMW K 1600 GT/GTL Highlights
Supreme in-line six-cylinder engine with a high level of pulling power, especially in the lower and medium engine speed range.


Engine output 160 HP at approx 7,500 rpm and maximum torque approx. 129 Lb-Ft. at approx. 5,000 rpm.


Over 70% of maximum torque available from 1,500 rpm.


Lightest and most compact six-cylinder in-line engine in serial motorcycle production, weighing just 102.6 kg and measuring 560 mm in width.


Consistent lightweight construction throughout the entire vehicle (magnesium front panel carrier, aluminium rear frame, crankshaft etc.).


E-Gas (ride-by-wire).


Three modes to choose from ("Rain", "Road", "Dynamic")


High active safety due to standard BMW Motorrad Integral ABS (part integral).


Traction control DTC (Dynamic Traction Control) for maximum safety when accelerating (optional extra).


Chassis with Duolever and Paralever and ideal concentration of masses for dynamic riding properties combined with optimum comfort.


Electronic Suspension Adjustment ESA II for optimum adaptation to all uses and load states (optional extra).


World premiere in motorcycles: Adaptive Headlight (optional extra) in conjunction with standard xenon headlight and lighting rings for increased safety at night.


Integrated operating concept for the first time with Multi-Controller, TFT color screen and menu guidance.


Audio system with preparation for navigation device and controllable interface for iPod, MP3, USB, Bluetooth and satellite radio (only USA and Canada) (standard in the K 1600 GTL).


Innovative design with outstanding wind and weather protection.


K 1600 GT with active riding ergonomics for proactive touring.


K 1600 GTL with very comfortable, relaxed ergonomics set-up for long trips with pillion passenger, as well as luxury touring features.


Extensive fittings and individually tailored accessories at the familiar high level of BMW Motorrad.

Early Conclusions?

The former BMW Road King, the R 1200 RT, with its included 1.2L boxer engine is already extremely smooth for the open road. If the new 1.6L Inline 6 reduces Fuel Economy all for the sake of a “bigger” moniker, this is not a good direction for future sustainability. Leave the over blown 1.8L equipped and 35 mpg capable Goldwing’s to those with ego problems and take the current 1200 RT’s capabilities up a notch with the much needed ergonomic improvements incorporated into the 1600 GT and GTL. All the while reducing fuel consumption to the best of BMW’s abilities… At some point, sustainability does and will include bikes.

Earthling
07-03-2010, 03:07 PM
While a 1.6 liter motor seems big for BMW, the Goldwing has been at 1.8 liters for years, and Harleys are 1.688 liters.

BMW already has their 1.2 liter K1200LT which is aimed to compete with Goldwings and Harley touring bikes. Bumping up the displacement in a new model to fit the competition's is an understandable marketing strategy.

I would say the new 6-cylinder BMW bike would attract some interest because it will be unique, as the only current inline 6-cylinder bike out there. The Honda CBX 6-cylinder was a sensation when it came out. BMW should make the engine visible, and audible, muffling it, but not too much. If you are going to have a unique engine on a motorcycle, you should be able to see it and hear it, while not making it objectionably loud.

If the BMW K1200LT seems too heavy for some, they also have their sportier K1300GT which has massive horsepower and excellent handling. And there's always the supremely capable R1200RT, lightest of the bunch. The R1200GS bikes make excellent tourers as well.

The K-bikes have an edge over R-bikes with longer maintenance intervals, which some high-mileage riders taking note of.

If you go into a BMW bike dealership, there are so many models available it can be difficult figuring out which is best, and now it looks like there will be another, the K1600GT.

Harry



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