- Overall concept.
- Drive.
- Chassis.
- Electrical system and electronics.
- Body and design.
- Equipment program.
1. Overall concept.
BMW K 1600 GT and BMW K 1600 GTL – fascination
with six cylinders.
Since BMW Motorrad presented the concept study Concept 6 in autumn
2009, the six-cylinder in-line engine featured in it has captured
the imagination of many motorcycle fans. With BMW, six-cylinder
in-line engines have stood for fascinating engine technology in
automobiles for over seven decades, in a way which is unique among
brands. In the near future, BMW motorcycles will also be available
with an internally developed six-cylinder inline engine.
With the BMW K 1600 GT and the BMW K 1600 GTL, BMW Motorrad is
penetrating a whole new dimension in the Touring world of
experience . Both motorcycles stand for a supreme, impressive and
equally distinctive appearance, arousing a desire to travel at
first sight.
This press release contains a range of information on all
aspects of BMW Motorrad's new touring bikes. Additional data and
background information will be added for the world premiere.
Riding dynamics, long-distance suitability and
comfort.
For decades, six-cylinder in-line engines have offered a special
fascination. In addition to their perfect running smoothness they
also offer supreme output and torque, giving the rider powerful
emotional impressions, too. And of course the sound of a
six-cylinder engine is beyond compare.
In addition to safety, equipment and prestige, the key criteria
for a supreme touring bike are comfort and dynamics. With the most
compact in-line sixcylinder engine in serial motorcycle production
to date, the K 1600 GT and the K 1600 GTL penetrate a whole new
dimension in terms of riding properties, long-distance suitability
and comfort. They combine maximum agility and riding dynamics with
a luxurious overall package. With an engine output of 118 kW (160
bhp) and a maximum torque of approx. 175 newton metres, their
six-cylinder engine provides superb propulsion in all
conditions.
BMW K 1600 GT with active riding ergonomics for
proactive touring.
The dynamic touring bike BMW K 1600 GT is characterised by an
active seating position which nonetheless offers a high level of
long-distance comfort. The reason for this is the favourable set-up
of the ergonomics triangle made up of footrests, seat and
handlebars. The K 1600 GT has a very extensive range of standard
features ex works consisting of xenon (HID) headlight, heated grips
and seat, cruise control and on-board computer. These features in
conjunction with the supreme riding qualities of the new BMW
Motorrad six-cylinder engine leave nothing to be desired for the
proactive tour rider.
BMW K 1600 GTL with very comfortable, relaxed ergonomics
set-up for long trips with pillion passenger.
The luxurious touring bike BMW K 1600 GTL meets the highest
demands. Rider and pillion passenger benefit from the relaxed,
upright seating position as is especially appreciated over long
distances. The ergonomics design is geared towards even further
enhanced comfort and derives from a two-level seat in conjunction
with rider footrests which are positioned further forward and lower
down, as well as handlebars which reach further back. The standard
topcase rounds off the range of comfort features for the pillion
passenger. Like the K 1600 GT, the K 1600 GTL has a very extensive
range of standard features consisting of xenon headlight, heated
grips and seat, cruise control and on-board computer. The overall
impression of this fascinating six-cylinder motorcycle with a
carefully conceived storage concept, audio system as standard and
numerous design elements make the BMW K 1600 GTL the flagship among
BMW touring bikes.
An overview of highlights of the BMW K 1600
GT/GTL.
- Supreme in-line six-cylinder engine with a high level of
pulling power, especially in the lower and medium engine speed
range.
- Engine output 118 kW (160 bhp) at approx 7 500 rpm and maximum
torque approx. 175 Nm at approx. 5 000 rpm.
- Over 70% of maximum torque available from 1 500 rpm.
- Lightest and most compact six-cylinder in-line engine in serial
motorcycle production, weighing just 102.6 kg and measuring 560 mm
in width.
- Consistent lightweight construction throughout the entire
vehicle (magnesium front panel carrier, aluminium rear frame,
crankshaft etc.).
- E-Gas (ride-by-wire).
- Three modes to choose from ("Rain", "Road", "Dynamic")
- High active safety due to standard BMW Motorrad Integral ABS
(part integral).
- Traction control DTC (Dynamic Traction Control) for maximum
safety when accelerating (optional extra).
- Chassis with Duolever and Paralever and ideal concentration of
masses for dynamic riding properties combined with optimum
comfort.
- Electronic Suspension Adjustment ESA II for optimum adaptation
to all uses and load states (optional extra).
- World premiere in motorcycles: Adaptive Headlight (optional
extra) in conjunction with standard xenon headlight and lighting
rings for increased safety at night.
- Integrated operating concept for the first time with
Multi-Controller, TFT colour screen and menu guidance.
- Audio system with preparation for navigation device and
controllable interface for iPod, MP3, USB, Bluetooth and satellite
radio (only USA and Canada) (standard in the K 1600 GTL).
- Innovative design with outstanding wind and weather
protection.
- K 1600 GT with active riding ergonomics for proactive
touring.
- K 1600 GTL with very comfortable, relaxed ergonomics set-up for
long trips with pillion passenger, as well as luxury touring
features.
- Extensive fittings and individually tailored accessories at the
familiar high level of BMW Motorrad.
2. Drive.
Lightest and most compact serial production six-cylinder
in-line engine in a motorcycle.
Previously the in-line arrangement of six cylinders resulted in
either very long or very wide constructions, depending on
installation position, which in turn led to drawbacks in terms of
chassis geometry, weight distribution and centre of gravity. This
where the K 1600 models break new ground.
The engine is approximately 100 mm narrower than all previous
serial production six-cylinder in-line engines used in motorcycle
construction. This extremely compact construction and reduced width
was achieved in particular by means of a just slightly undersquare
stroke-bore ratio of 67.5 to 72 millimetres (0.938) with a
relatively long stroke and very small cylinder centre distance
spacings of 77 millimetres. The effective distance between the
cylinder sleeves is thus only 5 millimetres.
Weighing 102.6 kilograms (basic engine including throttle valve,
intake system, clutch, gearbox and alternator), the engine is by
far the lightest serially produced six-cylinder in-line engine for
motorcycles.
Supremacy and drive comfort.
The transversely mounted six-cylinder in-line engine of the BMW K
1600 models has a capacity of 1649 cc. Its rated output is 118 kW
(160 bhp) at approx. 7 500 rpm. The maximum torque of approx. 175
Nm is reached at approx. 5 000 rpm. 70 per cent of maximum torque
is available from just 1 500 rpm. The development goals here were
highly superior touring characteristics and ridability combined
with maximum running smoothness.
Compact overall design and space-saving
construction.
In order to achieve the narrow construction, the electrical
ancillary units and their drive units were shifted behind the
crankshaft into the free space above the gearbox. This also made it
possible create a drivetrain with ideal concentration of masses at
the centre of the vehicle. The total width of the engine is 560
millimetres. This means that the engine is only slightly wider than
a current large-volume four-cylinder in-line power unit.
Due to the perfect mass balance created by the construction, the
six-cylinder engine does not require a compensation shaft and the
required drive elements, which results both in weight benefits and
increased running smoothness.
In its layout, the six-cylinder in-line engine is based on the
familiar fourcylinder in-line engine of the K 1300 series and, like
the latter, has a cylinder axis which is tilted forwards by 55
degrees. This not only results in a low centre of gravity but also
a balanced weight distribution of 52 to 48 per cent (K 1600 GT
unladen) - imperative for a precise ride feel and transparent
feedback of the front section when driving dynamically. The tilt of
the engine also creates space for an aerodynamically optimised
intake system directly above the engine, as well as providing the
ideal frame profile design in accordance with the distribution of
forces.
Crankshaft drive and basic engine - narrow and light
construction with six cylinders and 1649 cc capacity.
The crankshaft of the K 1600 engine is a single-piece construction
forged in heat-treated steel. It has counterweights and
inertia-optimised discs as well as the usual six-cylinder offset of
120 degrees for even firing intervals. Particular attention was
also paid here to the issue of lightweight construction, so the
weight of the crankshaft is only vey slightly in excess of a
comparable four-cylinder engine at just 12.9 kilograms. The
crankshaft is friction-bearing. All main bearings are supplied
directly with pressure oil. The lubrication supply to the
connecting-rod bearing comes from the main bearings.
One of the crankshaft web counterweights acts as a cogwheel for
the primary drive to the clutch. Another cogwheel on the outer
crankshaft web is used for engine speed sensing. The drive of the
camshafts in the cylinder is effected by means of a tooth-type
chain which runs over a compressionmoulded toothed chain wheel on
the right-hand end of the crankshaft. The friction-bearing
connecting rods are light forged parts made of heat-treated steel.
Measuring 124.45 millimetres in length, they benefit smooth engine
running and ensure low lateral forces in the pistons, thereby
ensuring a low level of inner friction in this area. The
well-established crack technology is used for horizontal
partitioning.
Lightweight slipper pistons with a short piston skirt, two
narrow piston rings optimised for frictional loss and a narrow oil
scraper ring are used. The flat design of the combustion chamber
means that in spite of the high compression ratio of 12.2:1, it was
possible to keep the piston head and piston relief flat. This
supports thermodynamically favourable combustion and enables a
weight-optimised piston head shape.
Horizontally separated case in open-deck
design.
The dual-section cylinder crankcase is made of highly rigid
aluminium alloys. The partition level is at the centre of the
crankshaft. The compact sand-cast upper section forms a highly
rigid composite unit made up of the six cylinders and the upper
bearing pedestal for the crankshaft.
The cylinder block with water jacket is designed in open-deck
construction, the running surfaces having a wear-resistant,
low-friction nickel-silicon dispersion coating. The die-cast lower
section forms the counterpiece to the main bearing of the
crankshaft and carries the six-speed gearbox.
Cylinder head with barrel camshafts and bucket-type
tappets.
The output, characteristics, efficiency and therefore fuel
consumption of engines are largely determined by the cylinder head
and valve gear. The design of the chill-cast four-valve cylinder
head in the K 1600 models GT and GTL is designed for optimum
channel geometry, compactness, excellent thermodynamics and a
reliable heat balance.
With a view to maximising inspection intervals in particular,
the BMW Motorrad engine experts opted for a valve operating system
using bucket tappets. This also combines the qualities of rigidity,
compact construction and reliability.
The two overhead shafts are powered by a tooth-type chain. The
tooth-type chain drive is hydraulically tensed and damped, and is
characterised by a high level of running smoothness.
The design and manufacture of the camshafts represents an
innovation in motorcycle engine construction. They are composite
camshafts in which the individual cams are compression-moulded for
positive coupling with the shaft, which has a tubular design. The
advantages as compared to conventional clear-chill cast or steel
camshafts derive mainly from the reduced weight. Around 1 kilogram
is saved here. The rotational speed limit defined for serial
production is 8 500 rpm, though the purely mechanical rotational
speed tolerance is much higher.
In the attempt to reduce the weight of the drive unit as far as
possible the valve cover and the clutch cover are made of light
magnesium.
High compression for maximum efficiency.
A tight valve angle enables a very compact combustion chamber with
a flat calotte, thereby providing the basis for a high geometrical
compression ratio of 12.2:1 with a thermodynamically favourable,
largely evenly designed piston head. This high level reflects the
effectiveness of the combustion chamber design in terms of
achieving an ideal combustion process and optimum efficiency.
Integrated dry sump lubrication for optimum oil
supply.
The six-cylinder in-line engine of the K 1600 GT and GTL uses an
integrated dry sump lubrication system. In addition to providing a
high level of operating reliability, it enables flat construction
of the crankcase and therefore a lower installation position of the
engine and a concentration of masses close to the centre of
gravity. This makes it possible to do without a conventional oil
sump with oil reservoir, so the engine can be placed much lower in
the vehicle than would be the case with a conventional design. The
oil reservoir forms an integrated oil tank in the rear section of
the engine casing. A separate tank is therefore not required, which
again has a positive effect in terms of the compact construction of
the motorcycle and overall weight.
Carefully conceived cooling concept for maximum thermal
stability.
A sophisticated cooling concept ensures perfect thermal balance in
the sixcylinder engine. Coolant flows transversely through the
cylinder head. The intake of the cooling agent is effected via the
cylinder bank on the "hot" outlet side, which is also cooled in
this way. Precisely at the point where the greatest thermal stress
occurs, the intensive cooling at the cylinder head ensures rapid
heat dissipation and therefore an excellent temperature balance.
The reduced water flow at the cylinders reduces the warm-up phase
and reduces coldrunning wear-and-tear and friction, which also
benefits fuel consumption.
The water pump is powered together with the oil pump by the
primary drive via cogwheels. The radiator is trapezoid and curved
in shape and housed in the trim at the bottom front to optimise the
centre of gravity.
Power transmission: narrow three-shaft transmission and
selfenergising clutch with anti-hopping function.
Torque is transmitted from the crankshaft to a self-energising
10-disc wet clutch with anti-hopping function via a
straight-toothed primary drive. Here, the developers paid
particular attention to a low level of control force at the hand
lever.
The gearbox complete with bevel gear is integrated in the engine
casing. In order to reduce construction width in the area of the
rider footrests in particular, the gearbox is designed as a
three-shaft transmission with three gearbox shafts arranged one on
top of the other. The cogwheels are helicalcut, enabling a
particularly low level of running noise to be achieved.
Shifting between transmission stages is effected by means of a
shift drum, shift forks and shift sleeves to achieve a force-fit
connection. In order to save weight, the hollow shift drum is made
of a highly rigid aluminium alloy and supported by antifriction
bearings.
E-Gas (ride-by-wire) for excellent response and precise
fuel dosage.
The control of the central throttle valve with a diameter of 52
millimetres is effected via an E-Gas, also known as a ride-by-wire
system. This means that the rider's wishes are transferred directly
from the sensor in the accelerator twist grip. The fully electronic
engine management system converts this command into a torque
requirement and electronically regulates the throttle valve
accordingly.
The sensing of all factors in terms of torque makes it possible
to achieve optimum ridability in the most diverse situations, as
well as enabling electronic cruise control and traction control.
The use of the electromotive throttle actuator via various
selectable modes also opens up new potential in terms of fuel
consumption and riding dynamics.
Intake system with long tract lengths for excellent
torque.
The central throttle valve enables the achievement of long
induction tract lengths, which benefits an especially full torque
development in the lower and medium engine speed ranges - a
desirable characteristic in a touring bike. For example, some 125
Nm of torque is already available at 1 500 rpm.
The heavily tilted engine position means that an air box in
perfect shape and position can be installed directly above the
engine. With a volume of 8.5 litres, the air box with upright panel
air filter contributes to superior power delivery and high torque
development.
Low fuel consumption due to efficiency
optimisation.
Low engine speed level, high gas velocities, efficient combustion
and minimised frictional loss in the engine of the K 1600 GT and
GTL result in a high degree of efficiency and therefore a low level
of fuel consumption. The exact fuel consumption figures will be
announced at a later date. In view of its power potential, the
engine achieves top figures in this area, which are at the level of
a comparable four-cylinder motorcycle when a touring-oriented
riding style is maintained. This is largely due to the high
geometrical compactness and the orientation of the in-line
six-cylinder engine towards maximum efficiency.
A choice of three modes - "Rain", "Road" and "Dynamic" -
for optimum adaptation to surface conditions and riding
style.
The rider has three different riding modes available at the press
of a button at the right-hand end of the handlebars ("Rain",
"Road", "Dynamic") so as to be able to adapt to different uses such
as touring on the road, riding on wet surfaces and dynamic
motorcycling.
3. Chassis.
Low overall centre of gravity, very favourable
concentration of masses and ideal static wheel load
distribution.
The chassis of the BMW six-cylinder motorcycles is based on the
innovative BMW Motorrad concept as already used in the current
four-cylinder models of the K series. The essential elements are
the light alloy bridge frame, Duolever and lightweight construction
Paralever for wheel control at front and rear.
However, the masses have been newly balanced for the special
demands posed by a touring bike with a six-cylinder engine. All in
all, the interplay of chassis and engine position, together with
the seating position of the rider, not only makes for a low overall
centre of gravity with a very favourable concentration of masses,
it also provides an ideally balanced static wheel load distribution
of 52 per cent at the front to 48 percent (K 1600 GT unladen) at
the rear. Even with a pillion passenger and a heavy load, this
guarantees outstanding riding properties.
Bridge-type main frame made of light alloy.
The central bearing component is the main frame in bridge-type
construction. Due to the fact that the engine is tilted heavily
forward, the profiles of the main frame can run above the cylinder
head, so their configuration is largely independent on the latter's
width. This means that the frame can be very narrow, especially in
the ergonomically important knee area. The main frame weighs just
16 kilograms. The six-cylinder in-line engine is firmly bolted to
the frame at eight points and thus acts as a rigidifying and
supporting element.
Adapted Paralever swing arm and cardan shaft
drive.
In large-volume BMW touring bikes in particular, the cardan shaft
drive is an indispensable part of the overall concept due to its
numerous advantages. Starting from the familiar Paralever swing
arm, the rear wheel control and cardan shaft drive have been
adapted to the new six-cylinder engine in terms of their design. In
keeping with the high performance figures, the propeller shaft,
cardan joints and rear axle final drive were newly designed.
Electronic Suspension Adjustment ESA II for optimum
adaptation to all uses and load states.
The new BMW K 1600 GT and K 1600 GTL also benefit from the
innovative Electronic Suspension Adjustment ESA II, which is
offered as a special equipment feature ex works.
With this system, globally unique on the motorcycle market, the
rider can conveniently press a button to electronically adapt not
only the rebound damping properties of the front and rear spring
strut but also the spring rest ("spring preload") of the rear
spring strut as well as the latter's spring rate and therefore the
"hardness" of the suspension. The additional adaptation of the
spring rate allows the settings "Sport, Normal, Comfort" to be
spread widely in ESA II, giving them clearly perceptible
characteristics on the road. In the "Sport" mode, the two
motorcycles are more dynamic and precise, in "Comfort" mode they
offer even greater comfort while retaining excellent stability.
EVO brake system with BMW Motorrad Integral ABS (part
integral) for optimum deceleration.
The very highest safety standards are provided by the
well-established EVO brake system with the BMW Motorrad Integral
ABS in the part integral version, which is fitted as standard. It
has been revised for enhanced controllability and even more
sensitive control response. This has been achieved in particular by
the use of an additional pressure sensor, which also enables
shorter braking distances. In this way, maximum yet controllable
deceleration at low levels of control force give the rider
additional safety.
Traction control DTC (Dynamic Traction Control) for
maximum safety when accelerating.
For both K 1600 models, traction control DTC (Dynamic Traction
Control) is available as a special equipment feature ex works. This
contributes significantly to a high level of riding dynamics and
exemplary riding safety. Traction control DTC was used for the
first time in the supersports bike BMW S 1000 RR. It provides the
rider with valuable support especially in changing conditions, on
surfaces with limited grip and where there are big changes in
friction levels.
By comparing the rotational speeds of the front and rear wheel
via the ABS sensors and using the data collected by the sensor box,
the electronics system detects spin in the rear wheel and cuts back
drive torque accordingly by reducing the ignition angle as well as
adapting injection via the engine management.
Unlike previous BMW Motorrad ASC systems, the traction control
system DTC also calculates the banking position of the vehicle by
means of sophisticated sensor clusters, taking this into account in
its control response.
Traction control DTC is combined individually with the different
modes and is fully harmonised with these so as to provide maximum
riding safety.
4. Electrical system and electronics.
The first motorcycles in the world with adaptive xenon
headlight for even greater safety at night.
With the new BMW Motorrad touring bikes, the first ever "Adaptive
Headlight" for motorcycles is available as option ex works, in
addition to the standard xenon (HID) headlight.
The main headlight fitted as standard consists of a centrally
positioned, movable xenon projection module with reflector mirror.
Level sensors at the front and rear axle provide data for permanent
headlight levelling. Due to the pitch compensation, the headlight
sheds light in the optimum pre-set area when the motorcycle is
travelling straight ahead, regardless of riding and load
conditions.
The optional extra "Adaptive Headlight" also features a stepper
motor which turns the standard static reflector mirror into a
movable mirror. In relation to the banking angle the mirror is then
turned on an axis and compensates for the roll angle. In addition
to pitch compensation, the light of the main headlight is also
balanced in relation to the banking angle. This results in
significantly improved illumination of the road when cornering and
therefore an enormous increase in active riding safety.
Calculation of the vehicle's banking angle is carried out by
means of a centrally positioned sensor box as already used in BMW
Motorrad's supersports bike, the S 1000 RR. The information is
distributed by the CAN bus and used by the traction control system
DTC as well as by the ABS. The complex algorithms used here were
developed entirely by BMW Motorrad.
The two halogen high beam lights with lighting rings, positioned
to the right and left of the xenon module, give the K 1600 GT/GTL a
striking face. And for the first time, BMW Motorrad uses the side
lights which are so characteristic of BMW automobiles.
Integrated operating concept, for the first time with
Multi- Controller, TFT colour monitor and menu
guidance.
The instrument panel of the K 1600 models based on digital
technology comprises a speedometer and tachometer - each powered by
a stepper motor - as well as an information display which takes the
form of a 5.7-inch colour monitor. The design of the display is
also completely new to the motorcycle field and provides a very
high level of brightness. Among other things, the display enables
the attractive presentation of text and graphics over several
lines. The entire instrument unit is controlled by a photovoltaic
cell and is automatically illuminated in the dark.
Another new feature to motorcycles in this form is the
Multi-Controller, presented in the R 1200 RT at the end of 2009 as
part of an integrated operating concept. Positioned on the inner
side of the left-hand handlebar grip and therefore always within
optimum reach, it replaces the functional unit previously installed
on the handlebars. The significant advantage of the Multi-
Controller as compared to a cluster of operating buttons is that
the rider's hand can remain on the handlebars during operation.
Operation is carried out by rotating the control up and down as
well as toggling to the left or right. Unlike a key pad, this means
that operation is possible without taking your eyes off the
road.
The functional range of the Multi-Controller has been
significantly expanded for use in the new touring bikes. In
addition to operating the audio system, it is also possible to
select other functions with the Multi-Controller with reference to
the menus shown on the TFT colour monitor. The on-board computer,
ESA II, the navigation system as well as grip and seat heating can
all be operated in this way. What is more, the set-up menu can be
used to configure settings specific to both rider and vehicle. For
example, different languages are available as is the adjustment of
the “Adaptive Headlight” to riding on the right-hand or
left-hand side of the road. The menu structure was specially
developed for the specific demands of motorcycling and optimised by
means of user tests. Flat hierarchies completely do away with the
need for complex clicking through sub-menus during travel. The
rider also has the option to program his or her most important
function on a bookmark button, thus providing constant direct
access to this menu (e.g. navigation system).
Audio system with extended range of
functions.
The audio system itself has likewise been newly designed. It has
interfaces for MP3 players, iPod and USB stick as well as for
conventional devices such as a CD player. These are housed to the
right in the interior trim and available for the K 1600 GT as a
special equipment feature ex works, while the K 1600 GTL has them
as standard. With USB/MP3 and iPod it is possible manage a number
of playlists. Alternatively, all titles can be played randomly. The
selected volume level and current title are shown on the TFT colour
monitor. External devices can be housed in a lockable, waterproof
and ventilated storage compartment in the interior trim on the
right where they are excellently protected from the weather. They
are operated using the Multi- Controller and the audio control
panel.
The radio function also includes the satellite radio Sirius XM,
available in the USA and Canada, and offers a 24-channel memory.
Channels can be chosen either manually in conjunction with the
memory function or using the scan function which selects the
station with the best reception (Autostore). The current channel is
shown on the colour monitor. The speed-related volume control
function can be set at three different levels. In addition to the
functions provided by the Multi-Controller, the audio system can
also be operated by four buttons in the interior trim on the left
(audio control unit).
Navigation system integrated in the vehicle electrical
system.
The BMW Motorrad Navigator IV available as a special accessory is
integrated in the vehicle electrical system if the customer chooses
the special equipment features audio system or preparation for
audio system, which are available ex works. This means that the
most important functions such as zoom or voice output can be
operated using the Multi-Controller. In this way, the rider's hands
can stay on the handlebars - there is no need to use the
touchscreen.
Data is also exchanged between the navigation system and the
vehicle electrical system. For example, the navigation system
automatically relays the date and time to the instrument panel or
suggests the nearest filling station after a certain residual range
has been covered. The TMC data of the audio platform also enables
dynamic routing so as to avoid congested traffic.
5. Body and design.
Innovative design which sets the benchmark for touring
bikes.
As new high-end products among the BMW Motorrad touring bikes, the
new K 1600 GT and K 1600 GTL stand for a supreme, impressive and
equally distinctive appearance, arousing a desire to travel at
first sight. What is more, their striking lines and surfaces and
the visibility of the six-cylinder engine radiate a powerful sense
of dynamic performance, with a perfect finish standing premium
value and quality.
The front view includes elements of the overriding design line
of BMW Motorrad. Although the two new models K 1600 GT and K 1600
GTL offer a powerful visual presence from the front, they
nonetheless come over as slim-lined with the extremely narrow
six-cylinder engine, thus conveying agility and dynamism very much
in keeping with their proactive riding character.
Lightweight construction: magnesium front panel carrier
with vibration isolation and aluminium rear frame.
The upper trim section, headlight, cockpit and rear mirror are all
supported by a highly rigid front panel carrier. With the aim of
achieving optimum concentration of masses near to the machine's
centre of gravity, this dual section front panel carrier is made of
a very light but highly rigid magnesium alloy.
In spite of the demands made by a motorcycle such as the K 1600
GT/GTL in terms of pillion passenger riding and load, the BMW
Motorrad developers have nonetheless succeeded in creating a rear
frame as a light aluminium construction. It consists of welded
aluminium extruded sections and is bolted to the main frame at four
points.
Optimum storage concept.
In keeping with the dynamic touring aspiration of both K 1600
models, the standard panniers are designed to be removable but fit
into the vehicle line seamlessly as design elements. The K 1600 GTL
is fitted as standard with a topcase featuring two gas-filled
dampers which support opening and interior lighting.
Seats and seating positions for supreme, dynamic
long-distance comfort.
The new K 1600 GT and GTL benefit from a very slim design in the
area of the rider's seat. This has been made possible by the use of
a three-shaft gearbox and a very slim-line frame configuration. Due
to the special design of the gearbox, the clutch has been placed
much further inwards, thereby creating space for the rider's
foot.
The design of the ergonomics triangle made up of footrests, seat
top and handlebars makes for a proactive seating position on the K
1600 GT while retaining a high level of long-distance comfort. The
rider and pillion passenger enjoy a comfortable knee angle but the
seating position is geared towards the front wheel for a proactive
riding style. The two-section seat of the K 16000 GT is
height-adjustable in the rider area so that it can be adapted to
individual needs.
The K 1600 GTL offers outstanding pillion passenger suitability
and ergonomics geared towards an even higher level of comfort. It
has a singlesection, two-level seat and in conjunction with rider
footrests which are placed further forward and lower down, as well
as handlebars which reach further backwards, the seating position
is very relaxed - something which is especially appreciated over
long distances. The K 1600 GTL also does justice to individual
adjustment requirements with an adjustable foot shift lever. The
pillion passenger likewise benefits from a slightly longer and
wider seat top on the K 1600 GTL, as well as the comfortable
backrest in the standard topcase. The K 1600 GTL can also be
equipped with pillion passenger armrests as a special accessory in
order to further enhance safety.
For both the K 1600 GT and the K 1600 GTL the BMW Motorrad
equipment range offers special comfort seats so as to enhance
individual touring enjoyment further still.
6. Equipment program.
Special equipment features and special accessories -
perfect individualisation from BMW Motorrad.
Both the K 1600 GT and the K 1600 GTL fulfil their Gran Turismo
promise with a fascinating blend of supremacy, dynamic performance
and comfort to a virtually perfect degree even in standard trim. In
addition, BMW Motorrad offers its usual extensive range of special
equipment features and special accessories for further
optimisation.
Special equipment features are supplied directly ex works and
are integrated in the production process.
This includes such features as the Electronic Suspension
Adjustment ESA II, traction control DTC, the tyre pressure control
system RDC, the Adaptive Headlight and (for the K 1600 GT) the
audio system.
Special accessories are installed by the BMW Motorrad dealer.
These are features which can be retrofitted, too. Special
accessories which will be available include the topcase for the K
1600 GT, a wide range of chrome parts for the K 1600 GTL and a
sports silencer.
Further details of technology and fittings for the new BMW
touring bikes K 1600 GT and K 1600 GTL will be published at a later
date.
For further press/media information
contact:
Piers Scott
PR & Corporate Communications Manager
Ph: 03 9264 4238
Mob: 0438 041 134
piers.scott@bmw.com.au