Touring Motorcycles

2018BMW K 1600 GTL LE

44 fields on record

The 2018 BMW K 1600 GTL LE is a heavyweight touring cruiser designed for long-distance riders seeking ultimate comfort and stability. Known for its powerful six-cylinder engine, advanced technology, and spacious ergonomics, it excels at highway cruising with exceptional fuel capacity and low seat height. Its liquid-cooled engine and robust construction make it ideal for riders who prioritize luxury touring and all-day comfort.

Capacity: 1649.0 ccm
Engine: In-line six, four-stroke
Gearbox: 6-speed
Dry weight: 323.0 kg
Seat height: 750 mm
Power: 160.0 HP (116.8 kW) @ 7750 RPM

⇄ Compare with another bike ＋ Add to garage All model years ⚠ Recalls listed (2)

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail5%

Cornering60%

City riding45%

Daily riding65%

Touring99%

Two-up98%

Track25%

Best for: Built for effortless, high-speed long-distance touring with a passenger and full luggage in maximum comfort.
Built for: A refined, powerful grand tourer that feels more like a luxury car on two wheels than a sporty motorcycle.
Not ideal for: Not a good fit for riders wanting a light, flickable bike for tight twisties or any off-road use.

Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.

Will it fit you?

Worked out in your browser - nothing is sent to us

Your height

Inseam (optional)

Units

At 750mm, a rider of 68.9" with a 31" (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2018 BMW K 1600 GTL LE, with a cramped knee angle of around 80 degrees and an upright riding position.

Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated. This is an approximation from category-typical geometry, not a measurement of this bike or of you - sit on one before you buy.

More bikes at 750 mm or under — Short Kings →

Find bikes that fit your height →

Range and running costs

Worked out in your browser - nothing is sent to us

Units

Currency

Fuel per litre

Riding a year

Based on the maker's published fuel consumption and tank size. Real-world figures depend on how and where you ride, and the last litres of a tank are reserve. Prices shown greyed are examples - type your own.

Full specifications

Engine

Capacity: 1649.0 ccm
Power: 160.0 HP (116.8 kW) @ 7750 RPM
Torque: 175.0 Nm (17.8 kgf-m) @ 5250 RPM
Engine type: In-line six, four-stroke
Fuel consumption: 5.70 litres/100 km (17.5 km/l)
Power/weight ratio: 0.4954 HP/kg (dry)
Bore x stroke: 72.0 x 67.5 mm
Compression: 12.2:1
Cooling system: Liquid
Fuel system: Injection
Starting: Electric
Valves per cylinder: 4
Lubrication system: Dry sump

Transmission

Gearbox: 6-speed
Transmission type: Manual
Final drive: Shaft
Clutch: Multi-plate wet clutch, hydraulically operated

Dimensions & weight

Wheelbase: 1680 mm
Overall length: 2489 mm
Overall width: 1000 mm
Overall height: 1465 mm
Seat height: 750 mm
Dry weight: 323.0 kg
Wet weight: 350.0 kg
Fuel capacity: 26.50 litres
Reserve fuel capacity: 4.00 litres
Carrying capacity: Saddle bags. Topbox.

Chassis & suspension

Frame: Aluminum bridge-type frame with load-bearing engine
Front suspension: BMW Duolever, central spring strut
Rear suspension: BMW Motorrad Paralever
Front wheel travel: 115 mm
Rear wheel travel: 135 mm
Rake (fork angle): 27.8°
Trail: 106 mm

Brakes & wheels

Front brakes: Double disc. ABS. Four-piston calipers.
Front brakes diameter: 320 mm
Rear brakes: Single disc. ABS. Two-piston calipers.
Rear brakes diameter: 320 mm
ABS: Yes
Front tyre: 120/70-ZR17
Rear tyre: 190/55-ZR17

Other

Color options: Thunder Grey Metallic, Light White, Ebony Metallic
Comments: Windscreen. Dynamic Traction Control.

Compiled from manufacturer documentation and user contributions, corrected on an ongoing basis. Spotted something wrong? Tell us.

Safety Recalls

⚠ 2 recalls may apply

POWER TRAIN:MANUAL TRANSMISSION:SEALS/GASKETSApr 2026 · 26V214000

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.

POWER TRAIN:MANUAL TRANSMISSIONOct 2019 · 19V692000

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.

These recalls cover some 2018 bikes of this model. Whether one applies to a specific bike, and whether the repair has already been done, depends on its VIN — check your VIN with NHTSA or ask a dealer.

Source: NHTSA. View all BMW recalls →

Rider Reviews

—

☆☆☆☆☆

Be the first to rate

MotorcycleDB

The 2018 BMW K 1600 GTL LE motorcycle is an exceptional touring bike that combines powerful performance with luxurious comfort. With a 6-cylinder engine producing 160 horsepower, this bike offers smooth and effortless acceleration on the highway. The ergonomic design and spacious seating make long rides a pleasure, and the included top case and side cases provide ample storage for all your gear. The GTL LE also comes with advanced features such as adaptive headlight, dynamic ESA, and keyless ride for added convenience and safety. Overall, the K 1600 GTL LE is a top-of-the-line touring motorcycle that delivers an unbeatable combination of performance, comfort, and technology.

As one of the leading touring motorcycles in its class, the 2018 BMW K 1600 GTL LE offers a superior riding experience for motorcycle enthusiasts. Its powerful 6-cylinder engine, luxurious seating, and advanced features make it a standout choice for long-distance rides. Whether you're cruising on the open road or navigating city streets, the GTL LE provides a smooth and confident ride. Its spacious storage options and convenient amenities further enhance the overall touring experience. If you're looking for a high-performance touring motorcycle that prioritizes comfort and technology, the BMW K 1600 GTL LE is an excellent choice.

Own one? Add it to My Garage and write an owner review with an Owner badge.