Expensive but fully loaded motorcycle lineup for our neighbors to the North.
Wayne Gerdes -
CleanMPG - Dec. 12, 2010
The BMW K 1600 and 1600 GTL – Almost 55 mpg at 55 mph.
BMW Motorrad Canada announced their expanded product lineup for 2011 with the introduction of the all-new, six-cylinder K1600GT and GTL, along with a significantly upgraded duo of R1200R models, a thoroughly updated G650GS and a new suite of color combinations for much of the model range.
K1600GT and K1600GTL – The Premiere Touring Bikes
BMW’s all-new K1600GT and GTL introduce BMW Motorrad’s first 6-cylinder powerplant in a sophisticated, all-new chassis. Housed in new aerodynamic bodywork, the new K1600GT and K1600GTL set a new benchmark for comfort and safety in Touring motorcycles.
Powertrain
The heart of both models is an all-new, transverse-mounted, DOHC 6-cylinder inline 1.65L engine, cast in aluminum. With an output of 160 HP @ 7,750 rpm and torque of 130 lb-ft @ 5,250 rpm (70% of which is available from 1,500 rpm), the undersquare configuration is both the narrowest (2.16”) and lightest (226.2 pounds - including clutch, gearbox and alternator) 6-cylinder motorcycle engine in the over-1000cc category, in production to date.
Capable of propelling the new K1600GT from 0 to 60 in just 3 seconds (3.2 for the GTL), the efficient new powerplant also maintains exceptional fuel economy, achieving 52.2 mpgUS (GT) and 51.1 mpgUS (GTL).
The new high-compression (12.2:1) engine is oil and water-cooled, with a dual-oil pump, dry-sump lubrication system and delivers its power to a 10-disc self-energizing wet clutch to a narrow, 3-shaft 6-speed transmission with a straight-toothed primary drive and helical-cut gears for low running noise.
As in all large-volume BMW touring bikes, a shaft drive delivers power to the rear wheel with a bevel gear at the gearbox output housed in the gearbox cover.
Fully electronic “ride-by-wire” throttle control is complemented by a new 3-mode control switch which adjusts power delivery to accommodate different road conditions, offering Rain, Road (default setting) and Dynamic settings. The riding mode feature fully integrates with the new Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) function, optional on both models as part of the Safety Package. ABS is not controlled by the riding mode setting as it is in the S1000RR system introduced in 2010.
Chassis
The new BMW K 1600 GT and GTL share a lightweight (35 lbs) aluminum diecast bridge-type frame, with BMW’s familiar Duolever and Paralever suspension for wheel control at front and rear. Because of the special requirements of a touring bike with a 6-cylinder engine, particular attention was paid to balancing the masses, with a near-perfect weight distribution of 52% front/48% rear (GT).
A magnesium subframe weight just over 4.5 pounds supports the forward ancillaries, headlamp fairing and instrument panel, combining optimum strength with lightweight construction.
Braking system
Latest-generation BMW Motorrad integral ABS combine with twin front wheel discs (12.6”) activated via two 4-piston calipers and a single rear disc (also 12.6”) actuated by a 2-piston caliper, to provide maximum stability and braking from the highest speeds.
Rear wheel braking is applied independently via the rear brake pedal, while application of the front brake simultaneously modulates application of the rear brake based on the motorcycle load conditions, controlled by the integral ABS control unit.
Aerodynamics
The new aerodynamic fairing incorporates adjustable wind flaps in the side trim which ensures effective ventilation for rider and passenger even at low speeds when deployed.
The electrically adjustable windshield incorporates as new memory function with anti-trap protection which lowers the windshield when the ignition is switched off and acts as theft-protection for the (optional) navigation system.
Colors
K1600GT: Vermilion Red Metallic and Light Grey Metallic, with engine finish in Platinum Metallic Matt and frame finish in Ostra Grey Metallic.
K1600GTL: Mineral Silver Metallic and Royal Blue Metallic, with engine finish in Platinum Metallic Matt and frame finish in Magnesium Metallic Matt.
Instrument Package
The K1600GT and GTL feature a newly designed instrument cluster which includes a new speedometer and tachometer based on digital technology and an information display in the form of a 5.7“ TFT color monitor with high light-intensity and resolution. A photo sensor adjusts display intensity to ambient light conditions.
New to a BMW bike is the function for the left and right direction indicators that are now clustered on the left-hand side of the handlebars. The hazard warning flashers are activated via a separate, clearly visible switch at the top of the left-hand handlebar fitting. The functions for low beam, high beam and headlamp flasher are combined in a switch which is located near the left index finger for convenient access.
Options
The K1600GT and GTL premieres an optional Adaptive Headlight. Complementing the standard xenon and two-high beam circular headlights with fiber optic rings, the Adaptive Headlight technology utilizes a swivel-mounted reflector which angles the light beam into a corner via actuators and banking-angle detection, adding a significant degree of active riding safety.
Also being introduced with the new K1600GT and GTL is the optional Central Locking System, which locks the panniers, storage compartment, audio compartment and topcase simultaneously using the remote control, or a switch mounted on the right handlebar end. An added feature of this option allows panniers to remain removable when armed (only available in conjunction with the anti-theft alarm option).
An evolutionary development from Automatic Stability Control, the new Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) option, originally introduced on the S1000RR, adds ride angle-sensing to rear-wheel slip detection to deliver the highest level of safety and traction when accelerating. DTC also controls front wheel lift, is adjustable on-the-fly, and fully integrates with the standard 3-mode throttle control.
The optional ESA II (Electronic Suspension Adjustment), allows the rider to conveniently press a button to electronically adapt not only the rebound damping properties of the front and rear spring strut but also the spring rest ("spring preload") of the rear spring strut as well as the latter's spring rate and therefore the "hardness" of the suspension. This is carried out using the Multi-Controller in conjunction with the menu in the TFT color display panel.
With both models sharing basic chassis and powertrain components, the K1600GT debuts with an MSRP of $24,100 Canadian, and an extensive list of standard equipment, including:
- Heated Grips.
- Seat Heating.
- Cruise Control.
- ABS Brakes.
- Xenon Headlight.
- On Board Computer.
- LED Indicator Lights and Rear Light.
- Removable rear panniers in body color with rear backflow function.
The K1600GTL, with an MSRP of $27,225 Canadian, the new flagship of BMW Motorrad (in addition to the equipment listed for the GT), distinguishes itself with an array of additional standard equipment including:
- A single-section seat with wider seat area lower seat height (750mm) for the rider, and more padding in the passenger seat area.
- Revised rider footrests and handlebar placement, along with an adjustable shift lever, to accommodate the lower riding position.
- 49L topcase with wider “comfort” backrest and integrated second brake light.
Wider “comfort” windshield.
- Audio system with Bluetooth Control Interface (connection for rider and passenger), GPS and Satellite radio preparation and control of the integrated navigation unit (optional accessory) from the handlebars. The audio system is housed in a lockable, waterproof compartment on the right side of the cockpit.
- Matching frame and engine color.
- Discreet yet elegant chrome features including w/shield mount covers, air foil wings, handlebar weights, pannier and top case trim and cladding tubes of rear silencer.
R1200R
BMW’s boxer-engined R1200R roadster receives an engine upgrade for 2011, now powered by the same latest-generation DOHC flat-twin engine as it’s R1200GS and RT stable mates. Equipped with two overhead chain-driven camshafts per cylinder and dual spark plugs, the new 1,170 cc engine embodies a smoother torque curve with an increase in maximum torque from 85 - 88 lb-ft at 6,000 rpm, while the (unchanged)110 HP occurs at 7,750 rpm (previously 7,500 rpm) and the overall range of useful engine speed increased by 500 rpm to a maximum 8,500 rpm.
The 2011 R1200R also benefits from a range of technical and ergonomic enhancements:
- Completely redesigned front forks with a greater standpipe diameter (now 41 mm instead of the earlier 35 mm) for even greater stability.
- Redesigned exhaust system with an electronically-controlled flap for more muscular sound.
- Redesigned symmetrical cockpit with two round analog instruments.
- New headlight cover and revised side sections.
- Revised seat modeled after the optional “comfort” seat.
- All-new cast light-alloy wheels.
- Standard centre stand.
The updated 2011 R1200R debuts with an MSRP of $15,100 Canadian, and is also available with the optional “Classic” Package ($1,000 Canadian), which incorporates metallic sapphire black paintwork in conjunction with a centre stripe in plain alpine white extending over the tank and front wheel and components like the Telelever, drivetrain, cylinder head covers, frame, and fork finished in silver. The paint scheme further complements the chrome-plated mirrors, wire spoke wheels and chrome plated stainless steel exhaust of the Classic Package.
In addition to being available with optional ABS, ASC and ESA, the R1200R is also available with four seat height options – a High Comfort Seat at 830mm, a regular High Seat at 830mm, an 800mm Sport Seat and 760mm Low Seat included with the factory-installed 750mm Lowering Kit ($225).
G650GS Enduro
The BMW G650GS Enduro, an evolution of the former single-cylinder BMW F650GS, rejoined the lineup in 2010 as the G650GS, and rides into 2011 with updated bodywork, new cockpit design with asymmetrical headlight module, new instrument cluster and dynamic new color schemes.
With an MSRP of $8,800 Canadian, the 2011 G650GS continues to be powered by the familiar 652cc liquid-cooled four-valve DOHC powerplant little changed from its predecessor, featuring BMW’s Digital Motor Electronics and fuel injection, closed-loop catalytic convertor and high-performance cylinder head technology. Producing 50 HP at 6,500 and maximum torque of 44 ft-lb at 4,800 rpm, the G650GS not only provides sparkling acceleration, but also delivers a modest fuel consumption rating of 73.5 mpgUS.
Power transmission is maintained by the proven five-speed gearbox and an O-ring chain drive while the familiar bridge frame supports a steel swing arm, telescopic forks, and monoshock (spring travel front 6.7 in, rear 6.5 in). Dynamic new cast light alloy wheels, with a 2.50 X 19” front and a wider 3.50 x 17” rear, enhance riding stability.
With single discs employed front and rear, the latest generation two-channel ABS system, weighing only 3.3 pounds, is optional and can be deactivated for off-road use. Dual-level heated grips are standard equipment.
The G650GS has a standard seat height of 30.7 in, while an optional 32.3 in high seat is available, along with a (factory-installed) 29.5 in lowering kit.
F800R
Three new colors: Shine Yellow Metallic, Granite Grey Metallic and a combination of Alpine White/Lupin Blue/Magma Red. Previous colors discontinued.
Note: The Chris Pfeiffer Edition has been discontinued.
F800ST
Two new colors: Sapphire Black Metallic and a combination of Light Grey Metallic/Sapphire Black Metallic/Granite Grey Metallic. Previous colors discontinued.
R1200GS
New color: Triple Black – includes swingarm, rear frame and valve covers in Asphalt Grey Metallic with engine and front fork in Black. Black cross-spoke wheels are also included in this package ($600).
S1000RR
Two new colors: Shine Yellow Metallic and Light Grey Metallic. Previous colors discontinued.
Note: Drop sensor is now standard equipment.
K1300R
Two new colors: Acid Green Metallic and a combination of Black Silk shining/Granite Grey Metallic.
Plus a new Dynamic Package, including: Sport Wheels, Gear Shift Assistant, ESA II, OBC and new Sport Windshield.
K1300S
Two new color combinations: Magma Red/Sapphire Black Metallic and Lupin Blue/Alpine White/Sapphire Black Metallic. Previous colors discontinued.
The balance of the BMW Motorrad lineup carries over into model year 2011 unchanged, with the total BMW Motorrad lineup now numbering fifteen models. Notable exceptions are the G450X and HP2 Sport, which are now discontinued.
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