Touring Motorcycles
2021BMW K 1600 GTL
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The 2021 BMW K 1600 GTL is a premium touring cruiser built for long-distance riders seeking ultimate comfort and refinement. Powered by a 1649cc inline-six engine producing 158 horsepower and 175 Nm of torque, it delivers smooth, effortless acceleration ideal for highway miles. Known for its luxurious features, advanced electronics, and exceptional stability, it's the choice for serious touring enthusiasts prioritizing comfort over sportiness.
- Capacity
- 1649.0 ccm
- Engine
- In-line six, four-stroke
- Gearbox
- 6-speed
- Dry weight
- 323.0 kg
- Seat height
- 750 mm
- Power
- 158.2 HP (115.5 kW) @ 7750 RPM
What’s new for the 2021 BMW K 1600 GTL
vs the 2020| Spec | 2020 | 2021 |
|---|---|---|
| Torque | 175.0 Nm (17.8 kgf-m or 129.1 ft.lbs) @ 5520 RPM | 175.0 Nm (17.8 kgf-m or 129.1 ft.lbs) @ 5250 RPM |
| Top speed | 162.0 km/h (100.7 mph) | 201.2 km/h (125.0 mph) |
How it rides
Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested- Best for
- Built for effortless long-distance touring, devouring highway miles with a smooth six-cylinder engine, full weather protection, and premium comfort features.
- Built for
- A refined, luxurious grand tourer that prioritizes silky power delivery, stability, and rider/passenger comfort over sharp sporting dynamics.
- Not ideal for
- Not a good fit for new riders, off-road enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a light, flickable bike for tight urban commuting.
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 usRange and running costs
Worked out in your browser - nothing is sent to usBased 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.
Engine
- Capacity
- 1649.0 ccm
- Power
- 158.2 HP (115.5 kW) @ 7750 RPM
- CO2 Emissions
- 160 CO2 g/km
- EPA Certificate No.
- MBMXC01.64K4-005
- EPA Est. Fuel Consumption
- 6.81 L/100km (34.5 US mpg)
- EPA CO Emissions
- 0.7 CO g/km
- 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
- 0.4898 HP/kg (dry)
- Bore x stroke
- 72.0 x 67.5 mm
- Compression
- 12.2:1
- Cooling system
- Liquid
- Fuel system
- Injection
- Starting
- Electric
- Aspiration
- Naturally aspirated
- 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
Performance
- Top speed
- 201.2 km/h (125.0 mph)
Dimensions & weight
- Wheelbase
- 1618 mm
- Overall length
- 2489 mm
- Overall width
- 1000 mm
- Overall height
- 1475 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 in Body Color. Top Box.
Chassis & suspension
- Frame
- Aluminum bridge-type frame with load-bearing engine
- Front suspension
- BMW Motorrad Duolever
- Rear suspension
- BMW Motorrad Paralever
- Front wheel travel
- 115 mm
- Rear wheel travel
- 135 mm
- Rake (fork angle)
- 27.8°
- Trail
- 108 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
- Black Storm Metallic, Manhattan Metallic, Mineral White Metallic
- Comments
- 3 Ride Modes (Rain/Road/Dynamic). Cruise Control. DTC (Dynamic Traction Control). Dynamic ESA. Heated Grips. Stepless Power Adjustable Windshield.
- Fuel Tank Material
- Plastic
- Comments
- 3 Ride Modes (Rain/Road/Dynamic). Cruise Control. DTC (Dynamic Traction Control). Dynamic ESA. Heated Grips. Stepless Power Adjustable Windshield.
Compiled from manufacturer documentation and user contributions, corrected on an ongoing basis. Spotted something wrong? Tell us.
What changed, year to year
Differences highlighted| Specification | 2011 | 2015 | 2019 | 2021 | 2023 | 2027 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 1649 cc | 1649 cc | 1649 cc | 1649 cc | 1649 cc | 1649 cc |
| Dry weight | 321 kg | 321 kg | 323 kg | 323 kg | 348 kg | 348 kg |
| Seat height | 750 mm | 750 mm | 750 mm | 750 mm | 750 mm | 750 mm |
| Fuel capacity | 26.5 L | 26.5 L | 26.5 L | 26.5 L | 26.5 L | 26.5 L |
Illustrative - generated automatically by diffing the year records already on file, not a manufacturer-published changelog.
Safety Recalls
⚠ 1 recall may applyPOWER 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. Letters informing owners of the safety risk were mailed May 28, 2026. A second letter will be mailed once the remedy is available. 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.
These recalls cover some 2021 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
Common questions
What is the engine size of the BMW K 1600 GTL?
The 2021 BMW K 1600 GTL has a Capacity of 1649.0 ccm (100.63 cubic inches).
What engine power does the BMW K 1600 GTL have?
The 2021 BMW K 1600 GTL has a Power of 158.2 HP (115.5 kW) @ 7750 RPM.
How many gears does the BMW K 1600 GTL have?
The 2021 BMW K 1600 GTL has a Gearbox of 6-speed.
What is the torque of the BMW K 1600 GTL?
The 2021 BMW K 1600 GTL has a Torque of 175.0 Nm (17.8 kgf-m or 129.1 ft.lbs) @ 5250 RPM.
How much does the BMW K 1600 GTL weigh?
The 2021 BMW K 1600 GTL has a Dry weight of 323.0 kg (712.1 pounds).
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The 2021 BMW K 1600 GTL is a sleek and powerful touring motorcycle that offers a smooth and comfortable ride. With its six-cylinder engine and luxurious design, this bike is perfect for long-distance journeys. The K 1600 GTL also features advanced technology such as adaptive headlights and a dynamic traction control system, making it a safe and reliable option for riders. Its ergonomic seating and spacious storage make it ideal for riders looking for both comfort and convenience on the road.
Overall, the 2021 BMW K 1600 GTL is a top-tier touring motorcycle that offers a balance of performance, comfort, and advanced features. Its powerful engine and luxurious design make it a standout choice for riders looking for a premium touring experience. Whether cruising on the highway or exploring scenic routes, the K 1600 GTL delivers a smooth and enjoyable ride for motorcycle enthusiasts. For riders seeking a high-end touring motorcycle, the 2021 BMW K 1600 GTL is a top contender in the market.
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