BMW K 1600 GTL - 2018 Specifications and Reviews
The 2018 BMW K 1600 GTL is a luxurious touring cruiser designed for riders seeking ultimate comfort and long-distance capability. Its 1600cc six-cylinder engine delivers smooth power, while comprehensive equipment including saddlebags, top box, and advanced ABS braking makes it ideal for extended highway adventures. The K 1600 GTL is renowned for its refined engineering, exceptional stability, and touring-focused features.
About the BMW K 1600 GTL
Powered by a Euro 4 compliant compact liquid cooled 1649.00cc in-line 6 cylinder engine, producing 160.5bhp .
The engine is angled forwards for optimum weight distribution and a low centre of gravity.
Compared to the 2011-2016 BMW K1600GTL model there is a revised engine mapping to make the emissions Euro 4 compliant, ESA and DTC are now included as standard, the new side fairings offer improved wind protection and there are new silencer ends.
Essentially the same bike as the 16kg lighter BMW K1600GT but with some changes to make it more suitable for longer distance touring, especially with pillion. It comes with a large top box with luxurious padding for the pillion, lower 750mm single piece seat, larger comfort screen and more relaxed rider position with the pegs further forwards and bars further back.
For storage there are large panniers and a waterproof lockable glove box in the right fairing.. When the satnav is fitted a cover pops down when parked up to keep it secure.
There is a 5.7" TFT dash in the centre of the clocks, along with a multi controller on the left bar (like the R1200RT), which gives access to the range of options on the bike.
Optional Extras include reverse assist, hill start control, adaptive headlight, heated grips, heated seat, side-mounted additional LED headlights, see me home lights with the optional central locking, computer, tyre pressure monitor, engine bars, cruise control, quickshifter, keyless start and Akrapovic silencers.
In some countries you also have option of fitting BMW-s Intelligent Emergency Call system, operated from the right handlebar. It activates automatically to send your coordinates to the emergency services, via the BMW call centre, and can also be activated manually using the SOS button on the bar.
The K1600GTL Exclusive comes with a shiny headlight, tyre pressure monitor, hill start control, reverse assist, daytime running light, keyless start, side-mounted additional LED headlights, ground lighting, additional brake light on the top box, engine guard and three layers of paint. It is also 14kg heavier though.
Model Updates
2018: Revised LED fog lights and a selection of "BMW Motorrad Spezial" items including a luxury brown seat and special blue or brown colour schemes.
General information | |
| Category | Touring |
| Year | 2018 |
| Model | BMW K 1600 GTL |
Engine and Transmission Specifications | |
| Emission details | Closed-loop 3-way catalytic converter, emission standard EU-3 |
| Greenhouse gases | 132.2 CO2 g/km. (CO2 - Carbon dioxide emission) |
| Fuel consumption | 5.70 litres/100 km (17.5 km/l or 41.27 mpg) |
| Clutch | Multi-plate wet clutch, hydraulically operated |
| Transmission type,final drive | Shaft drive (cardan) |
| Gearbox | 6-speed |
| Cooling system | Liquid |
| Lubrication system | Dry sump |
| Fuel control | Double Overhead Cams/Twin Cam (DOHC) |
| Fuel system | Injection. Electronic intake pipe injection, digital engine management (BMS-X) |
| Valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Bore x Stroke | 72.0 x 67.5 mm (2.8 x 2.7 inches) |
| Compression | 12.2:1 |
| Torque | 175.00 Nm (17.8 kgf-m or 129.1 ft.lbs) @ 5250 Revolutions">RPM |
| Power | 160.00 Horsepower">HP (116.8 Kilowatt">kW)) @ 7750 Revolutions">RPM |
| Engine type | In-line six, four-stroke |
| Capacity: | 1649.00 ccm (100.62 cubic inches) |
| | |
Brakes, suspension, Frame and wheels | |
| Wheels | Cast aluminium |
| Rear brakes diameter | 320 mm (12.6 inches) |
| Rear brakes | Single disc. ABS. Two-piston calipers. |
| Front brakes diameter | 320 mm (12.6 inches) |
| Front brakes | Double disc. ABS. Four-piston calipers. |
| Rear tyre | 190/55-ZR17 |
| Front tyre | 120/70-ZR17 |
| Rear wheel travel | 135 mm (5.3 inches) |
| Rear Suspension | BMW Motorrad Paralever |
| Front wheel travel | 115 mm (4.5 inches) |
| Front Suspension | BMW Duolever, central spring strut |
| Trail | 106 mm (4.2 inches) |
| Rake (fork angle) | 27.8° |
| Frame type | Aluminum bridge-type frame with load-bearing engine |
Physical measures and capacities | |
| Reserve fuel capacity | 4.00 litres (1.06 gallons) |
| Fuel capacity | 26.50 litres (7.00 gallons) |
| Wheelbase | 1,680 mm (66.1 inches) |
| Overall width | 1,000 mm (39.4 inches) |
| Overall length | 2,489 mm (98.0 inches) |
| Overall height | 1,465 mm (57.7 inches) |
| Seat height | 750 mm (29.5 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting. |
| Power/weight ratio | 0.4954 HP/kg |
| Weight incl. oil, gas, etc | 350.0 kg (771.6 pounds) |
| Dry weight | 323.0 kg (712.1 pounds) |
| | |
Other specs | |
| Comments | Windscreen |
| Carrying capacity | Saddle bags. Topbox. |
| Electrical | 12 V / 19 Ah, maintenance-free battery. Three-phase 580 W alternator. |
| Starter | Electric |
| Color options | Thunder Grey Metallic, Light White, Ebony Metallic |
Rider Reviews
MotorcycleDB Review
The 2018 BMW K 1600 GTL is an impressive touring motorcycle that offers a smooth and powerful ride. With a 1649cc inline-six engine, this bike has plenty of power to tackle long distances with ease. The GTL model also features luxurious amenities such as heated seats, electronic suspension adjustment, and a high-quality sound system, making it a top choice for riders who value comfort and convenience on their journeys. Overall, the 2018 BMW K 1600 GTL is a top-tier touring motorcycle that offers a superb combination of performance and luxury. Whether you're embarking on a long-distance road trip or simply cruising around town, this bike delivers a comfortable and exhilarating riding experience. With its powerful engine and premium features, the K 1600 GTL is a standout option for riders who demand the best in both performance and comfort from their touring motorcycle.Add a Comment
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⚠ Safety Recalls (2)
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2017-2025 K 1600 GT, GTL, B and 2018-2025 Grand America vehicles. The seal for the reverse gear control unit may deteriorate and allow moisture inside the control unit, which can result in the unit overheating.
Risk: An overheated reverse gear control unit increases the risk of a fire.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the reverse gear control unit, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed May 25, 2026. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will be searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning May 25, 2026.
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2017-2020 K 1600 GT and 2018-2020 K 1600 GTL and K 1600 B motorcycles. Certain transmission parts may not have been produced to the appropriate hardness level. This could affect the function of the transmission, possibly causing double engagement of two gears and/or the damage of transmission parts.
Risk: Double gear engagement or transmission damage can cause the rear wheel to lock up, affecting the vehicle stability and increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the shift forks, the selector sleeve of 5th/6th gear and the gear wheel of 6th gear, free of charge. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk was mailed November 1, 2019. A second letter will be sent once the remedy is available. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Source: NHTSA. View all BMW recalls →
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