Thanks for the detailed walk-around and added explanations - helpful for those, like me, who are considering going to the Exclusive from the GTL - possibly this coming spring.
August 8th I rolled home a 2016 K1600GTL black.. Really wanted the Exclusive but since I don't use the back seat, the $3500 just wasn't justifiable! Love the color on the Exclusive tho! Amazing bike.. so happy with it!
Congratulations!! You won't be sorry. Yes, I really thought I was going to walk out with the black as well. I'm still not sure which of the two colors I like better, but it was time to get out of my comfort zone. I'll have a couple upcoming videos on installing some accessories on the bike so subscribe and stay tuned.
+zulu I take 2-3 trips per year. I live in the midwest USA and travel from Maine to Florida and from Montana to New Mexico. There are only a few states that I haven't visited on my motorcycle. Trips are typically 2500-4000 miles and take 6-8 days. I've got a trip coming up in a few weeks, the first since I started the channel. I plan to document it and have daily (hopefully) updates from the trip. Where to? Depends on where the weather looks good.
That' awesome!!! You have right bike to be doin' it on!! I have the 2015 R1200RT...I love it!! However I'm a horsepower junkie and they making some really great deals on the leftover (2015) K1600GT's, thinkin about unloading the twin and getting the 6!! I've ridden it twice before and loved it!!
+zulu I just posted an album to my G+ account of my last trip to upstate New York. Make sure to follow me there to get my picture updates from my upcoming trip as well. +Touringamericausa
What an amazing bike! I'm a young driver that means 48 bhp but I'm already riding a F800GSA (I'm a tall rider). The K1600GTLE is definitly a bike I'll be looking for when I won't be restricted anymore! Best reguards!
That's great Brian, I'm really excited for you! You won't ride anything else (yet invented or produced) that will be as smooth and refined, yet powerful when you need it. Just watch out for those antlered creatures entering the roadway. Post up some pics, or it didn't happen :)
I have a 2018 GTL. At first, I had my doubts, as it felt as if the front geometry didn't have enough rake/trail. As I have been riding it, either it's 'settling in', or I'm 'learning the machine' or both. Either way, I am absolutely 'gobsmacked' by the incredible power, braking and handling. I must caution would be buyers: If your looking for a "Like on rails" tourer, look elsewhere. This machine is more of a heavy super sport with luggage (IMHO). Think "Lamborghini with a trunk". High spirited, ready for any canyon run, comfortable for all day rides, day after day. I can hardly wait to take on the Tail of the Dragon and similar runs.
A most impressive scooter indeed. Yes, I have ridden a 2016 GTL; let me shout it from the hilltops. This is an extremely well thought out, well made, and flat out, the best touring motorcycle ever. It handles phenomenally well; you'd never know you were on an 800 lb machine while riding it. Take on the twisties too, as this bike is likely more capable than you are? Dragging one's knees is entirely possible on this Ferrari in a Bentley suit. And stop? Oh, hell, has this thing got some stopping power! Do you get that I was impressed? I hope so. This is from a guy who's been and riding and continues to ride for some 56 years now. I've ridden most everything, so I know from whence I speak. But be forewarned, it's likely you'll fall hopelessly in love, and for a mere 30 grand, well hell, everyone should have one of these in their barn! One last thing. If you are like myself, one who once stated, "Shoot me if you ever see me on a Goldwing or anything like it." Even if you're a sportbike rider, ride this behemoth. I guarengawddamnedty you'll be impressed!
How does it handle at super low speeds with a passenger? I.e. doing a U turn or maneuvering in a driveway or parking lot, or even just stopping and starting at stoplights?
It is a big, top-heavy bike and as such will be tougher to handle at slow speeds than a lighter bike with a lower center of gravity. That being said, I'm not a tall guy and handle it fine with the standard height seat or the Corbin touring seat.
Hi, I'm thinking of buying this exact bike, my dealer has one left. Would you please share any concerns or problems you have had if any? I truly love the exclusive I just don't want to make a mistake. Thanks for any help as it is truly appreciated, Chris
This is my second K1600 GTL. The first one was not an exclusive. The downsides would be the weight (it's a heavy bike that is also top-heavy), and the cost. It rides super smooth, has amazing power, comfort, and safety features, and has storage like crazy. The Sirius radio and Bluetooth connection from bike to headset isn't the greatest either I guess. Lots of threads out there on that. Don't get hung up on the Exclusive. The features that differentiate it aren't deal breakers at all. Get the color and options you like best.
Touring America Thanks for the reply, I love the color and options it has. to me the GTL is plain where the exclusive has everything I want. My main concern is safety recalls and trying to balance it was at low speeds with a passenger. I'm 6'2 and she is 5'11. I currently own a 2016 Harley road glide ultra and it is hard to control at low speeds and take off. The Harley has what I consider a high 1st gear and it's not balanced well.
I went ahead and purchased a exclusive just like this one and love it! I've had it 2 days now. How do you wash yours? I read the manual and it really doesn't specify if it's ok to bucket wash it or not. I was wondering if you bucket wash yours?
Beautiful bike, but BMW could do more for passenger comfort and audio, complete digital dash no need for buttons and analog systems and side covers for the open spaces on the bike. Just purchase a 2017 waiting for delivery light years ahead of Harley and the Goldwing.
The audio system is one of the real criticisms on the bike that I agree with wholeheartedly. Particularly the bluetooth audio connection quality and stock speakers. For 30k you'd think they wouldn't want to skimp anywhere.... Funny thing is BMW has never upgraded any of it through the 5-6 years the bike has been out now.
Touring America I seriously considering a 2018 GTL, however do you have any opinions on the new 2018 GoldWing? Looks pretty amazing, having been trimmed of 90 lbs, moved engine moved forward allowing for a more aggressive seating position and got rid of the telescoping front forks upgrading to an entirely new suspension design and even offering an automatic version.
Mate that's a fantastic looking GTL and the colour scheme is great. Have Sub'ed to your channel and I know you asked a recent question about my Clearwater Lights LED install. Unfortunately UA-cam cannot locate the comment, so post a reply against this vlog and I'll respond 👍
Thanks for the sub. I was just commenting that I was surprised BMW didn't make the fog lights LED from the get go on the GT/GTL's, particularly for the last couple of years. I've got the ground effect light included on my Exclusive and it's not LED either as far as I can tell...
+Eric Callis yes it's pretty cheap on behalf of BMW Motorrad as I just purchased a 3 series diesel for my sons hire business here in Australia and it's comes with LED lighting standard, that is both high and low LED main lights and everything in between. The Clearwaters are very impressive US made product, I did some research and found the Californian manufacturer was the leader in LED's for bikes and I haven't been disappointed 🤗
Yes, I get quite a bit of my on-line ordered BMW Accessories from Sierra BMW. You can see the shifter cover at www.sierrabmwonline.com/product_info.php/ilium-works-large-shift-lever-pedal-bmw-r1150gs-300-300bl-p-828
Finally purchased the K1600 GTL Exclusive, amazing bike, loving it so far! Quick question for you. Is it normal to hear a loud clunk noise when shifting? Just wondering not sure if it's normal. I went back to my dealer and he said it is and it will quiet down as the bike breaks in.
It's like the color I have on my car called Havana Metallic (brown bronze color in direct sunlight grayish color other way). I personally prefer motorcycle with Matt color I have an F800ST with gray blue matt color.
The bike was available in the matte blue color, and it looked great in the showroom, but I was worried about how it would hold up over time. I think scratches show up more in a matte finish and the clear bra products that I gravitate towards don't really look right over a matte paint.
Touring America mine is 2008 model and still holds up great. You actually get less scratches on a Matt finish also dirt don't show up as much especially on a dullish color paired with matt finish.. but I do like the changing bronze color tho it's officially registered as brown but it's the most beautiful color ever. Ps. I died a little when you shove that key blade on that brand new seat😂
Harley Davidson??? No thank you. BMW K1600??? Yessssss.💪💪💪👍👍👍❤️❤️❤️
Thanks for the detailed walk-around and added explanations - helpful for those, like me, who are considering going to the Exclusive from the GTL - possibly this coming spring.
Thanks for watching. The GTL upgrades aren't really that significant for most people but hey, when you are getting the best!!
BMW is legendary for constant refinement other than that this a close too perfection as you can get on the market right now.
But not so good concerning being maintenance free. Consumer reports claims a 40% failure rate.
B Seidem Take that with a grain of salt.
August 8th I rolled home a 2016 K1600GTL black.. Really wanted the Exclusive but since I don't use the back seat, the $3500 just wasn't justifiable! Love the color on the Exclusive tho! Amazing bike.. so happy with it!
Congratulations!! You won't be sorry. Yes, I really thought I was going to walk out with the black as well. I'm still not sure which of the two colors I like better, but it was time to get out of my comfort zone. I'll have a couple upcoming videos on installing some accessories on the bike so subscribe and stay tuned.
So what long distance trips have you guys taken with these awesome bikes???
+zulu I take 2-3 trips per year. I live in the midwest USA and travel from Maine to Florida and from Montana to New Mexico. There are only a few states that I haven't visited on my motorcycle. Trips are typically 2500-4000 miles and take 6-8 days. I've got a trip coming up in a few weeks, the first since I started the channel. I plan to document it and have daily (hopefully) updates from the trip. Where to? Depends on where the weather looks good.
That' awesome!!! You have right bike to be doin' it on!! I have the 2015 R1200RT...I love it!! However I'm a horsepower junkie and they making some really great deals on the leftover (2015) K1600GT's, thinkin about unloading the twin and getting the 6!! I've ridden it twice before and loved it!!
+zulu I just posted an album to my G+ account of my last trip to upstate New York. Make sure to follow me there to get my picture updates from my upcoming trip as well. +Touringamericausa
Man that color is very nice
What an amazing bike! I'm a young driver that means 48 bhp but I'm already riding a F800GSA (I'm a tall rider). The K1600GTLE is definitly a bike I'll be looking for when I won't be restricted anymore!
Best reguards!
Best touring bike on the planet. Beautiful.
excellent video - thanks. i am debating whether to get a GTLE or a Goldwing.
what bike did you end up with goldwings i like are 2000 to 2017 and first first year of the GTL
Just got my 2016 Exclusive, amazing bike. Your overview was spot on.
That's great Brian, I'm really excited for you! You won't ride anything else (yet invented or produced) that will be as smooth and refined, yet powerful when you need it. Just watch out for those antlered creatures entering the roadway. Post up some pics, or it didn't happen :)
I have a 2018 GTL. At first, I had my doubts, as it felt as if the front geometry didn't have enough rake/trail.
As I have been riding it, either it's 'settling in', or I'm 'learning the machine' or both.
Either way, I am absolutely 'gobsmacked' by the incredible power, braking and handling.
I must caution would be buyers: If your looking for a "Like on rails" tourer, look elsewhere.
This machine is more of a heavy super sport with luggage (IMHO).
Think "Lamborghini with a trunk".
High spirited, ready for any canyon run, comfortable for all day rides, day after day.
I can hardly wait to take on the Tail of the Dragon and similar runs.
A most impressive scooter indeed. Yes, I have ridden a 2016 GTL; let me shout it from the hilltops. This is an extremely well thought out, well made, and flat out, the best touring motorcycle ever. It handles phenomenally well; you'd never know you were on an 800 lb machine while riding it. Take on the twisties too, as this bike is likely more capable than you are? Dragging one's knees is entirely possible on this Ferrari in a Bentley suit. And stop? Oh, hell, has this thing got some stopping power!
Do you get that I was impressed? I hope so. This is from a guy who's been and riding and continues to ride for some 56 years now. I've ridden most everything, so I know from whence I speak. But be forewarned, it's likely you'll fall hopelessly in love, and for a mere 30 grand, well hell, everyone should have one of these in their barn!
One last thing. If you are like myself, one who once stated, "Shoot me if you ever see me on a Goldwing or anything like it." Even if you're a sportbike rider, ride this behemoth. I guarengawddamnedty you'll be impressed!
I agree completely. Thanks for watching. Hope you subscribe!
i had a HD street glide and looking at either the GTLE or a Goldwing. your comment?
Scott Ragsdale
I’d go GW for reliability and cheaper maintenance.Better looking too imho.
How does it handle at super low speeds with a passenger? I.e. doing a U turn or maneuvering in a driveway or parking lot, or even just stopping and starting at stoplights?
It is a big, top-heavy bike and as such will be tougher to handle at slow speeds than a lighter bike with a lower center of gravity. That being said, I'm not a tall guy and handle it fine with the standard height seat or the Corbin touring seat.
Hi, I'm thinking of buying this exact bike, my dealer has one left. Would you please share any concerns or problems you have had if any? I truly love the exclusive I just don't want to make a mistake. Thanks for any help as it is truly appreciated, Chris
This is my second K1600 GTL. The first one was not an exclusive. The downsides would be the weight (it's a heavy bike that is also top-heavy), and the cost. It rides super smooth, has amazing power, comfort, and safety features, and has storage like crazy. The Sirius radio and Bluetooth connection from bike to headset isn't the greatest either I guess. Lots of threads out there on that. Don't get hung up on the Exclusive. The features that differentiate it aren't deal breakers at all. Get the color and options you like best.
Touring America Thanks for the reply, I love the color and options it has. to me the GTL is plain where the exclusive has everything I want. My main concern is safety recalls and trying to balance it was at low speeds with a passenger. I'm 6'2 and she is 5'11. I currently own a 2016 Harley road glide ultra and it is hard to control at low speeds and take off. The Harley has what I consider a high 1st gear and it's not balanced well.
Touring America I don't think they are making the exclusive in 2017/18 and this 16 is 4,000 off the price.
Top heavy will always be there, waiting. Get the R12RT.
I went ahead and purchased a exclusive just like this one and love it! I've had it 2 days now. How do you wash yours? I read the manual and it really doesn't specify if it's ok to bucket wash it or not. I was wondering if you bucket wash yours?
Just like a car. Don't worry. About what you get water on.it all Dries
Touring America Ok thanks, just didn't want to mess up anything. I'll give her a bath
Great colour
Beautiful bike, but BMW could do more for passenger comfort and audio, complete digital dash no need for buttons and analog systems and side covers for the open spaces on the bike. Just purchase a 2017 waiting for delivery light years ahead of Harley and the Goldwing.
The audio system is one of the real criticisms on the bike that I agree with wholeheartedly. Particularly the bluetooth audio connection quality and stock speakers. For 30k you'd think they wouldn't want to skimp anywhere.... Funny thing is BMW has never upgraded any of it through the 5-6 years the bike has been out now.
Touring America
I seriously considering a 2018 GTL, however do you have any opinions on the new 2018 GoldWing? Looks pretty amazing, having been trimmed of 90 lbs, moved engine moved forward allowing for a more aggressive seating position and got rid of the telescoping front forks upgrading to an entirely new suspension design and even offering an automatic version.
Mate that's a fantastic looking GTL and the colour scheme is great. Have Sub'ed to your channel and I know you asked a recent question about my Clearwater Lights LED install. Unfortunately UA-cam cannot locate the comment, so post a reply against this vlog and I'll respond 👍
Thanks for the sub. I was just commenting that I was surprised BMW didn't make the fog lights LED from the get go on the GT/GTL's, particularly for the last couple of years. I've got the ground effect light included on my Exclusive and it's not LED either as far as I can tell...
+Eric Callis yes it's pretty cheap on behalf of BMW Motorrad as I just purchased a 3 series diesel for my sons hire business here in Australia and it's comes with LED lighting standard, that is both high and low LED main lights and everything in between. The Clearwaters are very impressive US made product, I did some research and found the Californian manufacturer was the leader in LED's for bikes and I haven't been disappointed 🤗
How tall are Just wanted to know? Because I am 5'8" 215 wondering ill be able to touch the ground
I'm also 5'8" about 190 with a 29 inch inseam. If you are that or better, you should be able to touch, if not flat-footed.
Ok
Do you have the link to the site where you are going to purchase the shifter cover?
Yes, I get quite a bit of my on-line ordered BMW Accessories from Sierra BMW. You can see the shifter cover at www.sierrabmwonline.com/product_info.php/ilium-works-large-shift-lever-pedal-bmw-r1150gs-300-300bl-p-828
Sweet thanks. My wife and I hope to have our very own 2016 GTL Exclusive soon!
You won't be sorry. Stay tuned and subscribe. More videos coming.
Finally purchased the K1600 GTL Exclusive, amazing bike, loving it so far! Quick question for you. Is it normal to hear a loud clunk noise when shifting? Just wondering not sure if it's normal. I went back to my dealer and he said it is and it will quiet down as the bike breaks in.
The answer is yes, it is normal. It is one of the few complaints people have with the bike.
It's like the color I have on my car called Havana Metallic (brown bronze color in direct sunlight grayish color other way). I personally prefer motorcycle with Matt color I have an F800ST with gray blue matt color.
Great bike tho
The bike was available in the matte blue color, and it looked great in the showroom, but I was worried about how it would hold up over time. I think scratches show up more in a matte finish and the clear bra products that I gravitate towards don't really look right over a matte paint.
Touring America mine is 2008 model and still holds up great. You actually get less scratches on a Matt finish also dirt don't show up as much especially on a dullish color paired with matt finish.. but I do like the changing bronze color tho it's officially registered as brown but it's the most beautiful color ever.
Ps. I died a little when you shove that key blade on that brand new seat😂
ground light is not meant to be cool...it is a useful light so you don't put your kickstand down in a pothole
If that's the intended purpose, it fails terribly. It's not bright enough to be anything other than a cool looking ground wash in my opinion.
Get both feet flat footed on the bmw 1600 gtle trust me keep rubber side up.
Your camera has some autofocus issues
Jealous!