BEFORE YOU BUY: 2020 BMW K1600B "Bagger" In-Depth REVIEW
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- Опубліковано 5 вер 2024
- We take BMW's 2020 K1600B Bagger for a long distance spin and uncover it's dirty secrets in this in-depth motorcycle review.
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#motorcycle #bagger #review
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Is it enough to compete with the Road Glide?
I think it’s a strong competitor with RG. - Especially if add Remususa exhaust it will go to 180 HP. 😉 - more enough
Music listening is an important part of the HD bagger ride for me; sounds like this BMW couldn't get a passing grade...
Reg McCourt I changed the speaker on my k1600b and added an amp, also changed the windshield Tom a bigger touring one and I’m extremely happy with my music now.
i never thought i'd say this.. but as a honda boi.. (yeah those types:) i kinda like my r1150rt.. but that thing.. dear god.
I have had both. RG and BMW different bikes. K1600 B is a great bike. I wear ear plugs and can still hear radio at 70 mph. I wear custom ear plugs with speakers to listen to music so no big deal to me. On my road glide I got nervous going over 85- 90 mph. You have to be careful on BMW or you will easily exceed 100 mph before you know it. I am 5’ 9” tall and windshield seems to work ok at highway speed for me. I like the dash. Very functional. I just put thumb drive with my music into usb port to listen to my music. Never going back to RG.
I just bought one,and i love it. I have been riding non stop for 66 years, born 1943
Good Morning All,
Having Owned a K1600B for two years now I can say this Is an excellent review.If you’ll allow me id like to highlight a few points mentioned.
There is an option to get two little lockable cubby holes, around the place where your knees sit, however not in conjunction with the floor boards
And I highly recommend to have the floor boards instead.Sure you can’t shift gears from there but that’s not their intended design.They are for long sections of road/ drives and offer a great leg stretch.
The windscreen is too small and it’s a rare case of function followed form instead of visa versa.The K 1600 B is not alone with this issue as my Harley Davidson Street Glide Cvo ( took delivery in May) has the same issue.Both can be easily remedied.
On my K1600 B I installed the GTL screen and on the HD I ordered the 5 “ black screen instead of the standard 3” screen.
You may wonder why I bought two seemingly similar bikes that are both designed for the same purpose.
I can tell you right here and now that both are marvellous in their own unique way.
Obviously the Bmw out performs the Harley in the handling and performance departments.
But that’s missing the point.
One buys motorcycles like this to enjoy and savour as one would a fine malt whiskey.
Yes the dashboard on the Bmw looks slightly dated.But understand that these motorcycles were designed with a mature audience in mind.Ditto
The R1200-1250 RT.
The simplicity to instantly read and interpret the info on round dials especially with tired eyes,cannot be overstated enough and is lost on all but the world’s most exotic cars/ objects
One only has to look At Zonda and the Bugatti Veyron or a Patek wrist watch and you’ll see my point.
On the Handling Department... the Bmw is susceptible to camber changes and that may cause leaning.. a little.That said I’ve not found it an issue.
Lastly the Engine.Bmw motorcars have a history dating back to the 1930’s with their inline 6’s
The second and third generation M3 and First an second Generation M5 all had them up to 325 HP if memory serves.
I’ve driven those cars in anger in years gone by... and the wail from above 5000 rpm to that crescendo’s just below 8000 will make you smile each time again.
So to have an engine of this caliber sitting between two wheels should be celebrated.Thank you BMW.
Yes the lights have a combination of zenon and led.
The led lights are on the flanks for cornering and around the two headlights for daytime ( creating those traditional angel eyes).
I ride mostly in the hours from 0400 till daybreak and the lightning ability is on par with that of a decent motorcar.
In conclusion.
I can highly recommend buying a Bmw Bagger.if you’re buying a used one make sure the gearbox recall has been carried out.
This motorcycle is so accomplished and refined that it’s only overtime and one peels back the layers...one appreciates it.
It’s 90 years plus of their knowledge and experience expressed on two wheels.
Pls enjoy.
Kind regards
Tibor
Thanks great review
Well said Tibor. I have owned a Bagger for 4 months and absolutely LOVE it. It's good to know that I will continue to appreciate this bike as the years go on.
COMMANDER REVZ Thanks commander,
Ride safe ,fly safe Cx 096
Tibor Horvath You Sir are a legend! BMW deserves to pay you because you just sold tons of K1600B's because of this comment. 🙂
Osama Bin Laden
Charmed,
No rewards from bmw required.
I suspect we may have met but i can’t recall.
Thank you for your kind words.
Best T
I bought the K1600B in 2018. 14,000 flawless miles. Amazing do it all bike. I sold my FJR and Streetglide and will never to back.
Owning these bikes exposes the scam that is HD. 🤷♂️
I traded in my CVO Streetglide for this bike, I have no regrets, it's an awesome bike, handling around the twisties is far superior than the Harley, no flex with the frame around fast sweepers. Braking is also fantastic and the suspension works flawlessly.
Yep..and ZERO vibration ! Any HD will shake your teeth out in short order.
@@geraldfrieberg7921 the new harleys have minimal vibration. A big attraction to harleys is the muscle car sound. This bike sounds like a Honda
how is it in urban areas
I bought a K1600B two weeks ago because I couldn't justify the extra cost for a Goldwing Bagger that doesn't have heated seats, nor panniers large enough to take helmets, unlike the K1600B. The Goldwing is better looking in my opinion and has a much more modern colour TFT dash with Apple carplay, but dynamically the K1600B wins hands down. The BMW is considerably faster and more agile than the Honda. It has way exceeded my expectations and I'm delighted with it. I respect Harleys and Indians, but as the saying goes they are yesterdays' technology for tomorrows' prices.
That motor at higher revs is so 6 cylinder Porsche sounding. AWESOME.
Sounds like a 7 series BMW to me. Pure luxury power
600 mile day/night ride and I’m impressed with everything it has to offer.
Engine power, suspension, physical balance while riding, lighting, storage, bells and whistles, looks and ENGINE POWER.
6th gear pulled through anything type of freeway pass or hill climb.
Don't know.....personally I love the Goldwing myself...but the BMW is a runner up before even thinking of a HD or Indian...I guess the styling and tech is the main attraction. 🏍🌫
Goldwing has WAY, way too much gear noise...can't even hear the engine...nothing but GEAR NOISE and driveline lash.
Gold wing sounds awful and is pig slow for an 1800cc
Nailed it with the 2022 model. Got rid of the old dash. Not a good reason to buy a bike, but its my reason. Liked everything about the bike but hated the dash. NOW its a must have.
You can play your own music. Load music onto a flash drive and plug it into the bike's USB port. Use the wonder-wheel to browse folders or playlists.
hello from South Africa. I traded my k1600b for a new wing and have never looked back. Best biking decision I made. the bmw is outdated, is very unstable at higher speeds, the wind buffering will drive you nuts, and did i say how old the tech is. The wing is miles ahead. I have an airbag, DCT, CarPlay and android auto, lower center of gravity, led lights, illuminated switch gear, etc, etc, etc. Oh I also have Honda reliability.
A B is a competitor to Harley and Indian. A K1600GTL is the competitor for the 'Wing. If you like going quickly, there is no competitor. Otherwise a Wing is an amazing motorcycle. Just not a sport touring bike like the BMW. Different tools for different jobs...
I have a 2018 Bagger. Its been a great bike. Smooth, comfortable, powerful. Only issue was the transmission recall. As far as I know my bike didn't need a rebuilt trans but BMW paid to have it done anyway. The Road Glide does look better, but as a whole, the K1600B is the better bike.
Overall, I say yes. The one thing that bugs about all the bikes: no matter what you buy something always has to be changed or upgraded. In this case the windscreen. I wish just once we could buy a bike and not have to do anything. Oh well.
I bought a K1600B in March 2018......best bike I've owned (previous bike's include Z1000, ZX9R,ZX6R , Goldwing '78 and Guzzi V50) was going to write a decent review, but Tibor (below) beat me to it. All I would say, is you won't be disappointed if you buy one :-)
Would love to see you do a HD review! Not a HD fan myself, but your brilliant ways of producing amazing review, would be highly entertaining!!!
I purchased one of these first year out and still have it. I agree with most all of your assessment. I love the bike. It's extremely comfortable and crazy fast for a monster this size. I have had Harley's and yes this bike will ride circles around them. They only real issue is a slight wobble at extremely high speeds especially if you get behind a truck that's moving the wind around. They did have a recall for a transmission issue. BMW takes care of that by appointment in about 5 hours. Great review!
Thought long and hard about the K1600 gt/l & Bagger. Decided on the 1250GSA. The deciding factor was the GS/A's off - road ability. There are too many waterfalls, lakes & vineyards to be explored. Safe travels 🏍️✌️🏍️
But, could my 76-year-old self pick up a GS or GSA after a stop on wet leaves at that Shell gas station (the way I could on my former 2010 Gold Wing or current 2019 Road King Special)? Center of Gravity, McCavity, Center of Gravity ! [A Boxer Beemer is on my Bucket list, probably a R1800, after Bey Em Vey sorts out some things.]
I owned the k1600 for 2 yrs 22k miles. Owned 3 gold wings and many Harley’s. (Still do). Ride daily for 53 yrs...I Could compare details all day... in short :
Many things you don’t pick up in a test ride. It’s a bike in a category it’s own. A good bike. But unlike a hold wing and a road glyde. It dosent benefit from decades of refinement. To many issues. If it’s produced for at least a decade maybe BMW will address them all..Having owned all three brand bikes. I would pick either of the other two..witch I still have
I just picked up my new 2022 K 1600 Bagger in Midnight 719 options and I must say this is the best bike I have ever rode and the look of this new color with the water Graphics are amazing, I have a 2020 G A to the both are awesome bikes in every way. Got off Harley and then Goldwing and there’s really no comparison in my humble opinion.
I had a K1200RS in 2005 and with cruise control, big bags, electric windscreen and ABS it was one of my most liked motorcycles. I used it to ride around the city I lived in and jump between cities as well as a 4000 kilometer trip and it handled it all beautifully. Why BMW decided to build this monster is something I have yet to figure out. I’m sure the price went up with the engine size so maybe that satisfies my ponderings.
33% more power.
ive the 2020 GT SE with akrapovic pipes on it (and a few other mods such as a wider, taller screen as im 6ft3), sounds amazing. love the bike. The Bagger isn't really popular in UK but its basically close to being the same bike - the inline 6 engine is amazing. For a guy like myself who always owned 1000cc Fireblades, S1000RR's and R1's, this bike still has great power, but you are able to sit in it all day and put up serious miles without discomfort. I love it. I demo'd the Goldwing as well as I am really a Honda man, but the K1600 is a lot more engaging and has a bigger tank for longer distances between stops, as well as better luggage. I know a few people who wanted a K1600 but they really didn't want to deal with the weight as it can be a little bit of a handful at the lights etc.
You can play your own music (Well on the GT SE) there is a USB slot on the right in the waterproof drawer/tray, you format a stick in FAT 32, copy MP3s in and you can use the MODE button on the left to go through track listings, folder listings etc. works great. You can also apparently put an iPOD in there, but you may need to get the BMW cable for audio etc to use it. I just use a large FAT 32 formatted USB stick and the dash even shows you track names etc.
Quad lock works on the bars as I like to use the calimoto app on the iphone - its a bit of work as you need to buy additional spacers, I can't really share a photo here. but you can see the image here: ibb.co/Pxm2bBQ
I have the 2014 BMW 1600 GTL exclusive and yes you pretty much nailed it. I love the bike and some of the things you suggested they still haven’t fixed by now is crazy. But the Bluetooth connectivity. Yes you can buy the cable on Amazon that allows you to play your music. But for it not to be Bluetooth even now is crazy to me. But I’m glad they finally got a reverse. But as far as a holder for your phone you just pop out the BMW emblem and they have an adapter that screws in which holds your phone. Great honest assessment of the bike.
Love the bike, but not sure I'd give up my ADV for a something that seems so bulky. Yet you covered the ease of maneuverability nicely. I just don't know if that look is for me, but thumbs up for the engineering that went into it.
As the flagship bike I bought new 9 months from a manufacturer that shall remain nameless for the moment ago has unsolvable electronic issues resulting in it taking up extended residence in the bike shop this year i am contemplating a B. Bought a new K1200s in 2005 and rode it for 7 years - loved the bike, amazed that my mailing address wasn't changed to the local federal pen, was amazed at BMW support even after the warranty expired has me thinking about replacing my current non-ride with a B.
“ Germans have nailed it “ 😂😂😂 Great to see your subscriber numbers going up, well deserved! 👍🏻
WOW, this was the longest video I've ever watched from you and it still seemed to fly by. Good job and a very good review. Would I want a Bagger , no my wife still likes the back seat on our 2006 K1200LT.
Love that bike!
I think it is a beautiful machine. The engine is sublime. I thought I wanted one when I decided to sell my Harley. But...alas... nothing compares to the fun factor of a GS.
I've bought the 22 bugger hands down the best motorcycle I've ever driven. Fast agile and comfortable. The sound system needs more work and I could use a higher windshield but overall I am happy with my purchase.
I had a 2015 K1600GTL, magnificent ride !! That six cylinder is SOOOOO smooth
I found the GTL to be top heavy when fully-fuelled. Bought a traded-in 2010 GL1800 at the Harley-BMW stealership in Louisville. That was in 2012; therefore the GTL was fairly new. Perhaps BMW modified the GTL's ergonomics subsequently. My 28" inseam coupled with 5'9" height of a 76-year-old male makes low Center of Gravity and Reverse ideal. Come on R1800 !!
I love my 2013 GTL. 48,000 miles. Mostly long trips. No issues.
I have the GTL version of this bike, it rocks. Put it in comfort mode to tour long distances, dynamic for the twisties and unlike the "Bagger" version you can take off all the luggage and leave it in your five star hotel to engage hooning mode.
The engine is a work of art and pulls like a train anywhere in the rev range.
Unfortunately my bike is a 16 model and dose not have a quick shift, I looked into retrofit, only available 17 models and later. No worries. 😎
Never once had stability problems at warp speed, it must be a "Bagger" issue. The yanks don't drive fast enough to notice I expect!
Take the bags off and you have no rear light !!!
I love the styling. Very impressive. Concerned about the stability issues at high speeds. Would like more clarification or examples.
I’d heard that the Grand America, similar to the bagger but with a top box, isn’t sold in huge numbers in the U.K. because they recommend you only do 80mph max for the stability. Well 80 is good enough for me I’m for the ride, not flat out speed. I would suggest the bagger stability may be the same issue although it doesn’t have a box so not sure why it would be an issue.
I have the 2019 model. No issues at 100mph sustained. Perhaps they’re sorting that out?
Am not a biker and definitely cannot afford this BMW 😂 ... this is also my first view of your video/channel, but I have to say I truly like your video, especially the way you tell your reviews, the story of the bike. Although very substantive, but you present it in a very light, easy and fun to hear. Keep up the good work and all of the best 🤘🏼😄
It looks so good, very sporty. I want either this one or the latest version of the Goldwing which also looks sporty.
The GW is so heavy at low speeds you won't use it for day to day travel. I have the K1600 GT and do normal city riding without feeling it as heavy, my old CBR1000F felt heavier in the city and couldn't turn as well.
@@BjarkeBruun Yeah there's a reason why a lot of the police force are going to the K1600 for a duty bike.
These bikes are nice, but some serious flaws exist.
My 2018 K1600GTL is the best and worst bike I've ever ridden.
To help convey the basic concept, it is safe to say this is the most "Anti-Harley Davidson Road Glide and Honda Gold Wing possible". From sound, to handling, to, stability, to center of gravity, to power delivery, to ergonomics.
These engines don't "rev", they "spool up". Under a bridge, banging gears around 6K rpm and they sound like F1 engines.
They don't roar as much as sing. Soprano at speed, alto soprano at ludicrous speed. I think it goes ultrasonic after that as I can't hear it anymore through the wind and road noise.
Handling at speed is not as stable as I'd like. "Holds a line like it's on rails" definitely does NOT apply here.
Some will like it, most probably won't.
Not for the beginner nor the faint of heart.
I could go on, and will if anyone asks...I will tell you what most won't. Some good, some bad, but ALL true.
Tell me more!!!!!
Great review. Re windscreen, one can bolt on the regular gt higher one
I'm America and would want the GTL not the Bagger but my wife won't let me have the BMW she says they're ugly so for the time being I'm stuck with the 2020 CVO RG her happiness is #1 around here she won't even go on a test ride if she did she might change her mind
@Evel 1 thanks
Individual perspective. I've had several passengers on my GTL and I asked each, specifically, how was the experience (wind, comfort, buffeting, etc)? All said it was great and had zero complaints. Maybe they were all being nice, idk, but point being try it before knocking it.
How about getting a second bike for your wife? Don’t understand this hole two up thing...
@@user-cx2bk6pm2f thanks i will
@Evel 1 you dont like to drive with your wife in the same car but on the same motorcycle its ok? Doesnt make much sense...
The only thing that sticks out glaringly are the exhaust cans. Did they jack a Peterbilt at the truck stop or what? But what a beautiful machine.
The engine is awesome! If I could afford a second bike I would get this bike!
Seems like a great bike, but when I was in the market to purchase from BMW, they could have cared less. This was in NJ, Cross Country BMW. I love their bikes, but service and sales is something to be desired.
Yes, Cross Country is lame so far as follow-through is concerned. Try one of the Max BMW dealers (Connecticut one is closest but the one East of Albany is the coolest one). Yes, they Are a trip, but...anything to avoid BMW Moto in Manhattan. I bought my 2006 K1200R (with everything available in accessories and performance...Remus Carbon Fiber muffler, BMW expando Bags, et cetera) in October 2005 and the dealership closed up in January 2006 due to a divorce fight never to be replaced here in Zinzinnati until the Columbus, Ohio dealer opened in Middletown (Ohio) in 2019. No dealers in Southwestern Ohio, Northern Kentucky or Eastern Indiana for more than 13 years!! BMW apparently makes it even more difficult than Indian does to open a stealership.
QuidEst Nunc thank you for the info, much appreciated!
Trading my 2015 BMW R1200 RS tomorrow for a 2018 bagger. So much more comfortable. Physically a very big bike though. Hope I've made the right decision....
Rebuilt 4 of these engines last year for corrosion under warranty all because the owners didn't look after them, Nice bike just try get one that didn't require the gearbox recall because it's all dependant on the skill lvl of the tech doing the job.. You're fine if I did it btw ;)
I would like to see you compare the BMW to a Honda F6B. Both are 6 cylinders. BMW's is an inline 6 whereas, Honda's is a Flat Boxer style 6.
Both of those layouts have perfect balance !
A video week is quite a ripper, I find it easy in the summer but relying on the summer vids to get me through the winter... I may drop to one a fortnight in the summer due to so much going on but I said that in 2021😂
I had a 2018 model which I kept for 12 months. Alongside a KTM 1290 super adventure in my garage it was not flexible enough and I just kept riding the 1290. 1600B is a special occasion ride. It’s amazing on the open road for a long tour and I can imagine high speed runs across your European autobahns. However around town if you get caught in traffic it’s clunky and clumsy. Once you are rolling along at some speed it is very good in the twisties considering its weight. Don’t be mistaken, this is a high-performance tourer. I miss that engine but my choice next time would be a 1250 RT.
The term "Cats and Dogs " is used in regards to RAIN! Like it's Raining Cats and dogs. In fact "I am sweating Bullets " is what you are looking for.
Good on yuh, Mite!!😂😆😀
Okay, okay, here are my head-scratching two cents worth of observations: 1) weaving back and forth above 80 mph sounds like a serious engineering flaw; 2) self-leveling/adaptive headlights appear to be useless for those of us who actually perform Counter-steering (as all accurate motorcyclists are supposed to be doing).
And, do I genuinely care about speakers...unless I want to impose my music or talk-radio tastes upon others in town and at restaurant drive-throughs and gasoline/petrol stations ?
While I appreciate your excellent review and the BMW seems to be a very competent motor. I highly doubt that it will pull a lot of real Harley people away from the Road Glide. The Harley 'Murica crowd do not really care that much about whether the Road Glide is a better motorcycle. The thing that matters most to them is that it is a Harley. I believe that this motorcycle will draw people that would already be looking at BMWs as a possibility (among others), but also like the status that the "American Bagger" scene brings. Lastly, I would just have the Yamaha Eluder if I wanted a bagger and did not buy a Harley.
If only Yamaha would Wake up and smell the...1) need for Reverse like the Star Venture has; and, 2) offer to custom paint their bikes. Note: Yamahama Starrr Aluuuderrs are selling new for $13,400 at Honda East outside Toledo, Ohio (Yamaha dealer, among other brands such as Indian). All are 2018 model year. Yamaha appears to have stopped importing Star Elders after that one Model Year !! Ouch.
Lee....all good comments. I’m a HD guy and have ridden mine all throughout the US. Not one issue. Love the faring on the Eluder. Looks badass. I think BMW has great tech and apparent dependability but their bagger loses many points in the quest against HD. I don’t know why BMW refuses to interview actual HD guys. Their new R18 is a joke. I love the look and especially while sitting on it but why did they dumb down the bike and make user unfriendly to big guys. There’s no room for your legs or feet and the add on components are a year too late. The Indian Challenger is the only bike I’d consider after the HD. It’s got all the toys that HD is late providing and it looks like a bagger, not an after-thought. In a non-US market I might go with the Honda for reliability and ease of service but in the US market, I’ve never heard a compliment that didn’t end in Harley and the service is everywhere.
HD riders like noise and vibration, and most will end up deaf due to their immersion in the HD "noise" culture.
Those Harley guys are a stone throws away from a nursing home. Appealing to them is a lost cause.
@@Dorque19 the reality is, BMW did poll HD owners when designing the R18. The feedback was BMW "cruisers" are too bland, too quiet. So they used that as their influence with the R18. 🤷♂️ so maybe they polled HD trolls I dunno.
As far as the space goes, BMW flat twins are not friendly for the cruiser segment. They engine design robs space. That's why the K bikes came to life. It started with the K100's, and on to present day.
After owning one for 2 years now, you are a spot on. The bike is so wonderful to ride. I love every minute of it. Super beast. If you need the power, boy she can give it to you. Super comfortable in cruise more, super smooth, amazing linked braking, sounds like a Porsche turbo, tires will not survive more than 7k average, hate the dash. It's time for TFT. Also correct, lack of front storage. Shame on BMW. Crazy about the shift assist. Go and ride one, please !!!!
Update: Spoke too soon !!! When I hit 12K, problems started to come upon me. Like a curse.....Injection, cold starts, reverse clutch, I had enough and sadly, I loved the bike. I got burnt heavy cause the GA was not cheap. If you get one, make sure a BMW dealer is near by and it is a large dealer cause it will be easier to get a loaner. No one else will touch the bike !!! Maint. is very costly. I sold it and I don't think I will sit on a BMW again. I got the new GW DCT Tour. So far so fantastic.
My Ural has a trunk to put stuff in. Good enough for me.
Yes indeed. Old school gear box. I was expecting shards of gears with my first oil change, but no, all good. Part of the Ural experience.
I have ridden Harley for 20 years. I now have had a KB for two years and will never go back. The KB out performs any Harley in performance, hp, technology, reliability. Harley does beat BMW on noise and vibration.
Nice video and critique my friend. So you know, Canadians are not as Harley focused as our friends to the south. Not by much, but there is a difference. I hope you are well and keeping safe. We are limited to riding in BC due to COVID, but weather is great, so some short rides planned. Cheers.
i do ride bagger in US so happy ,130 miles its limit but you don't need more on traffic light fasters that most bikes
I knew that your video was older but watched it anyway… enjoyed it very much and thought your review was spot on. I have a 2022 grand America k16000. Out is the best bagger I’ve ever owned or ridden. Take care. RG
Time for a new jacket bro. That's not gonna hold up in a crash. Great review as always.
@Citizenthirteen My Arma S saved my ass and held together at 70mph on tarmac. Silly comment? I don't think so.
Would have liked to have seen luggage capacity - otherwise great as usual
Fits a full helmet no problem with space for gloves and maybe a light jacket. Well designed cases
Very thorough review! The bike is way above my budget, but I really enjoyed the video.
Updating my First of two comments from a year ago (handling is "hairy"?): This high speed, apparently-sloppy weaving left and right is (or should be) easily fixed by changing the Rides Mode settings from Road (or whatever your current setting is when the Weave occurs) to Sport. If that fails to fix the Weave then the suspension bits and bobs require tightening to Deutschland specs !🤣
This is a beautiful thing I would love to just have a ride on the 1600 bagger. I do wish you would have mentioned if taller riders could be comfortable on it.
Never considered a „bagger“ but think this could change my mind.
It's far too modern to compete with HD, BMW needs to cut off 4 cylinders and bore out the remaining two just to get the old HOGs interested. Its real competitor is the Goldwing (Bagger).
and also the styling... them better with the design that appear on the reveal years ago... with minimal frontal body works
CPU UK : And introduce some more vibrations than what a BMW engineered bikes can ‘deliver’ 😉
@@sathishrao7926 hahaha well... the HD is the vibratous bike
M8 not anymore vibes like before..
LON MID WEST : Do you think M8 is as refined as an In-line 6 BMW developed engine ?
Very nice review of this bike and the different types of riding (city, highway, rain, night, back roads). I agree with you on the stereo connectivity incompatibly with your phone, seems like a misstep for sure. Same with the multiple sources of light, just use the cleaner brighter light source. It was nice to see that the adaptive lighting did work well though. I wonder if the Grand America gets more suspension travel, better wind screen, and options for mounting and storage components 🤔 Ride Often and Ride Safe ✌️
The Grand America has the bigger windshield and trunk/backrest. Get the Remus quad exhaust if you want fantastic engine sound. My GA has different handle bars and I mount a small bag on that for my air gauge and misc stuff. Love my K1600 GA and you did a good review.
Xenon HID’s especially with projectors vs reflectors, reach a little further vs LED’s. On exotic sports cars, you still find HID’s vs Led headlights. Leds are catching up. Almost like comparing a mag lite flashlight vs a cheap flashlight
Maglite IS a cheap flashlight, possibly one of the cheapest, shittiest brands on the market and just barely above Chinese junk.
The one test missed, at least for the US market, would be how does it feel after 5 hours in the saddle? I blame Dave. The wobble is also disheartening, as in the western US there are a lot of roads with a speed limit of 130kph (80mph) and some roads are ~137kph (85mph). We can ride for hours and hours at that speed. My Indian Roadmaster will glide down the road at 85mph all day long and be very smooth (doesn't vibrate like a HD).
Also keep in mind that if you are comparing horsepower numbers you are not really understanding the bagger/touring market. If I wanted bags and horsepower I would look at a Kawasaki H2 SE, but in this class of bike comfort is king.
v steel disagree with you on HD vibration my 2017 smooth as silk
That leaning issue comes up a lot in the forums…was thinking of buying this Bike but now I’m thinking the Indian Challenger might be a better buy.
After 30 years of owning BMWs that came to an end with the K1600B. BMW would not stand by their product and ended up writing a large check after they lost in Court. Bought a Road Glide (first Harley ever) and will not be back.
Enjoy the noise and vibration of your new HD !!
@@geraldfrieberg7921 You realize you're a troll right? Not a bright one at that. My statement was pure fact and that's all you can come up with is some flippant inane comment about noise and vibration? Are you aware that the so called vibration you see from a Harley at the light is the firing of one cylinder (the other one shut off)? At speed it's smooth. The stock muffler is just as quiet on the highway as the K1600. I've owned three K1600s, how many have you owned?
BTW, I've done certified 1500 mile days on GSs, K Bikes, KTMs and the Harley. What are you bona fides?
The fact that I represented myself in Court against BMW's attorneys and 'expert' witnesses, yet still prevailed, should tell you something. But, we've established you're not that bright.
Bottom line is BMW has a tooling issue with the K1600, which they admitted in Court, during sworn testimony. Go to K1600forum.com and look up the "pull to the left" poll, It's still there. 50% pull to the left, 50% track straight. There are two frame welding jigs in the factory. Hmmm... 50% error rate and two jigs. Could it be that one of the jigs has a problem? Again, BMW admitted it during sworn testimony, yet at the time of the trial had done nothing to fix it.
So again, if you have something to write that furthers the understanding and knowledge of mankind, do so. Otherwise, you're just another barking dog that the world should ignore.
Front Fairing needs something, not exactly sure.. but looks too much like the RT and GTL, needs a small well placed edges or creases to set itself apart somewhat.
I belong to a Harley only mc. One of our members also has one of these & it seems like a great bike. The foot position seems awkward though.
To me, the whole point of a bagger is a cruiser with a fairing & bags. With that rocketship motor, this bike is is not a cruiser.
I'd still have one though, if they handed them out at traffic lights...
It is a cruiser and the pegs are setup that way so they don't scrape doing 15 mph making a right turn from a stop LOL. ACAB FTOT.
@@Lex-Rex You refer, surely Shirley, to my 2019 Road King Special (aka/FLHRXS which is lower than the Road King). It scrapes whenever it can...cuz it's a Harley. My 2016 Hyperstrada Ducati doesn't (but, then, I need a Werner stepladder to clamber onto it).
Good review.....i have a bagger with the black bars and not the cast alloy type like the one on your vid...wonder why some baggers have that type fitted?
I was looking forward to your comments on this bike and the test ride. I'm very disturbed by your findings of the instability on the highway, this is supposed to be the domain of this Bagger. I also see other comments on the same issue. This has put me off altogether.
Add the winglets. My buddy has the bagger and added them, no issues well into triple digits (mph).
@@robertsnowden2474 Velly Intarestink, Numba One Son. [Not all humor is politically correct.]
@@robertsnowden2474 Are these here Winglets offered by BMW as a genuine, OEM/BMW accessory? Or are they akin to Baker deflectors on my 2010 Gold Wing ?
Speakers are a waste now with senna and Cardo/jbl ear pods.
What do you mean?
Very good review, I just bought my self one of these and I can't wait to ride it
You have a great sense of humor! Very good review. Can't wait for your review on the Brand new R18
You can plug a usb with your mp3s and it will play.
If it doesnt format the usb drive with FAT32 then try.
The wizardry is in the dropping of the back end
Best review I've seen on the K1600B. Thank you.
Traded in my 2015 Street Glide for a beautiful 2020 blue K1600B there’s just no comparison between the two won’t be going back to Harley.
Good review, personal and funny. Will definitely check out your other content.
I have a Bagger from 2020, fantastic machine
To bad that just about all of the K1600 bikes from BMW have a recall to remove and disassemble the trans. They have some bad bearings in them. Major repair job.
BMW also needs to update that old instrument cluster. The GS models have a nice bright LED display.
It leans left suddenly at 130 kph? Is that it? No further comments?
Well, i mean... sometimes it leans right...
My old Goldwing leaned after I put a lawn tractor battery in one of the bags. The default battery continually discharged and did not fire the plugs adequately.
@@LongWayHome Again...you Are a Man of Wit and Sublety. LMAO !
Baggers are the one thing Harley does right, except for the price of coarse. Not impressed with a BMW bagger with no storage. Where's Dave suppose to put his hand sanitizer?
That windshield didn’t look like it was all the way up on the highway. Was it? Would have been good if you had moved it up and down during that part.
Nice, but I’d rather have a Goldwing bagger. A Harley?... not even on my radar.
I'd go an R1250 RT . . . for the weight savings.
Lucky Larrikin 👍🏼 Yes! Maybe for 2021 the RT will get a TFT display & proper Bluetooth connectivity.
@@luckylarrikin1439 Same here, I really liked the1600B but climbing on the 1250RT that was it because of the weight. This being my first boxer engine, it did take some getting use to and changing the tires for Angle GT Pirelli Spec. A tires made the riding experience that much better.
@@ohdirtracer Thanks for the 'Angle GT Pirelli' info ~ when my rubber is worn out I'll keep that in mind. It sounds like you didn't give the stock tires much of a go. . . can you "expand" on why the Pirelli spec is so much better? Incidentally I've been day-dreaming about 50/50 tires that will handle compacted dirt/gravel roads and tarmac.
@@bukweet I understand lusting after a TFT, but the Dash on the 1250RT is classic in design and not to be tossed away too quickly IMHO . . . . . teamed with a Navigator VI and Bluetooth Helmet Comms (Cardo is best IMHO) and you're set to go. The Nav VI should come as standard equipment and be lockable to the dash.
Someone put the anti clunk gel into the oil on that machine. I do like the windscreen adjuster, wish the wind block were better. I like the stand up option, most baggers should offer that option.
Have you reviewed the new generation Gold Wing Tour or Bagger versions? And in DCT version for kicks.
I use model 2018
Great power but gear horrible and frame very heavy on front ..
Nothing compare with Gl 1800 less power but lot much better in all
One would be in my stable now if I could do basic service work on it, like changing the oil without using a magician's tools.
Service friggen nightmare. Went with the other manufacture, not that BMW would care.
That lean is quite odd. I own a 22 GT. And we have been above 130 kph from time to time. Never a wiggle of any sort.
Sorry BMW ! Unless you make an Aircooled V Twin bagger that vibrates like hell, you’ll not be able to entice your target market ! Not to mention the need for an Audio System loud enough for Newyorkers to hear songs from bikes in SFO !
Big, bold and beautiful. Shaft drive.? I would get a top box, only using panniers for long trips or salami on market day. Optional rocket pods handy for clearing slow moving Fiestas and suchlike. Taller screen a must.
RAM mounts do fit. As long as you don’t need speedo visibility. . .
The thing I hated about my road glide was the trash connectivity. If I'm paying top dollar, I shouldn't need any additional hardware to pair my phone. It's a shameless cash grab, and I was really hoping BMW would be better than this. Not being able to hear your stereo at speed is a deal breaker for me. If you're going to have a windshield, make it a windshield, and not an accessory. I love the engine, the riding tech, even the smart brakes. Why does it have to be on a bike that looks like George Jetson's car and the USS Enterprise had a baby!?
I own a Road Glide Special and yes it’s probably a competitive answer. Germans throw a lot into there premier bikes. Always comes down to that “it” factor. Would have never considered a BMW in my search for a bagger. I’m happy and quiet certain the BMW new owners will say the same. Top quality review video, put loads of work into this one and it shows. 👍🏼 😎 🇺🇸 🌎
Amazing motorcycle, great review!
Don't know how tall you are but I felt squashed at 6.3 feet in height, very uncomfortable. I hope they update the dash to their TFT on the K1600 and RT line for 2021.
The only BMW I would buy.
I have a 2019 Grand America. Change the seat, get it Brent Tuned and you can ride forever. My and buddy did the Iron Butt Coast to coast on ours in 47hrs. They are fast, comfortable and can surprise many a crotch rocket.
It looks great but what's the price range and does it compare to the Goldwing or Street Glide?