BMW has a long and rich history in the automotive world and has achieved on two wheels what it has done for decades on four. Since presenting its Concept 6 in 2009, BMW has come a long way to deliver its first ever inline six engine. Yep, you heard correctly, 6-cylinders, inline. Mostly known for luxurious and safe rides, BMW has upped the ante with its new touring flagship bike, the K 1600 GTL. You’re going to want to take it for a spin. Oh, did we mention…we’re giving one away!
The K 1600 GTL packs a 1.6-liter inline-6 powerplant that produces a healthy 160bhp and 129 lb.-ft. of torque. That’s a hundred horsepower per liter, folks. While previous six cylinder engines have been bulky and obtuse, the GTL’s engine weighs only 226 pounds, making it one of, if not the lightest and most compact of its family. With the design and performance you’ve come to expect from BMW, it’s a dream to take on long rides. Revving to 8500 rpm, the GTL will achieve over 70 percent of its peak torque at 1,500 rpm; a perfect combo of style and acceleration for opening it up on your favorite patch of asphalt.
It wouldn’t be a BMW if it didn’t have some of the coolest features a bike can offer. Despite weighing 776 pounds, the GTL has electronically adjustable suspension that lets you choose between various modes (rain, road, and dynamic) to suit your riding style or inspiration. The adjustable windscreen, adaptive headlights, and DTC (dynamic traction control) are but a few of the extras that made this ride more than luxurious, but more importantly, just plain fun. Wanting to control your electronics? It’s easier than ever with BMW’s new handgrip controls. Not unlike iDrive, the new Multi-Controller is intuitive and easy to use. If you decide to go all out for the premium package ($25,845; base MSRP is $23,200) you’ll get the adjustable suspension, traction control, adaptive headlights and integrated Bluetooth for satellite/MP3/FM radio.
The GTL comes with a generous 7-gallon fuel tank so you have a sizable range between stops at the gas station, which translates to more time out on the road. While it might seem a bit heavy at 753 lbs. (dry weight), the handling is increasingly smoother as the speed increases.
The K 1600 is a great combination of performance, style and comfort and a true breakthrough for BMW. Don’t miss your chance to get your hands on this beauty by entering eBay’s Choose Your Wheels sweepstakes over in the eBay Garage! The contest ends September 30th.
See BMW Motorcycle Parts for BMW K1600GTL for sale on eBay.
