A Review of the 2012 BMW K 1600 GTL Touring Motorcycle

Like Harley-Davidson, BMW has always built aspirational motorcycles. Sure, they're expensive when compared with rides from manufacturers like Yamaha, Honda and Suzuki, but at the same time, they aren't really out of reach of most consumers. By saving up and setting your sights on a goal like the 2012 BMW K 1600 GTL, you might just find the impetus to put in an extra hour of work two days a week to make that payment.

Touring motorcycles like the BMW K 1600 GTL have a passionate following that can't be staunched by riding another motorcycle. The Electra Glide Classic, the Goldwing, all are significantly powerful motorcycles, exist on a relatively level playing field when it comes to comfort and storage capacity, but inspire their own legions of fans who wouldn't be caught riding anything else in front of their peers. The reason for this is the differences that exist between the motorcycles. The Harley Davidson Electra Glide appeals to riders of cruiser-based motorcycles with an upright seating position. The Goldwing features more amenities and rider protection than many other touring motorcycles. The BMW K 1600 GTL follows the European styling philosophy, though, focusing on sport touring as opposed to cruiser touring.

2012 BMW K 1600 GTL Drivetrain

All touring motorcycles use larger engines than their stripped-down contemporaries, and the 2012 BMW K 1600 GTL is no exception. Powered by a 160-horsepower inline-six cylinder engine, the bike produces prodigious power while managing to return to the rider the kind of smooth, effortless ride quality that you would expect from a BMW motorcycle. In addition, BMW bills the K 1600 GTL mated to the six-speed transmission as the most efficient and powerful inline-six installed into a production motorcycle, backing the claim with an estimated 51 miles per gallon fuel economy.

BMW K 1600 GTL Ergonomics

While the K 1600 GTL is considered a sport-touring motorcycle, its ergonomics are much more in step with the Honda Goldwing. The handlebars are set back so that the rider isn't crouched over the fuel tank, and the importance of the wide, comfortable seating for both the rider and passenger can't be overstated.

One of the keys to the BMW K 1600 GTL is its lightweight cast aluminum frame. This combined with the use of the engine as an additional load bearing member, provides excellent stiffness, easy ride control, and a low center of gravity. The frame and suspension members of the BMW K 1600 GTL are what make this ride a true sport tourer.

2012 BMW K 1600 GTL Pricing

With a starting price of about $23,200 with the optional ABS brake system, the BMW K 1600 GTL is a bit more expensive than some other motorcycles in the category, but the phenomenal handling, power and luxury of this ride make it an extremely worthwhile investment in your motorcycle touring season.

Sources:
BMW: 2012 BMW K 1600 GTL: www.bmwmotorcycles.com