The K 1600 range is truly BMW’s flagship model. For the upcoming season, the famous Bavarian brand has introduced some updates of the already impressive K 1600 range. The different models, that being the GT, GTL, the B and the Grand America are being updated for the new riding season. Starting from 2022, these impressive travel machines will be available in showrooms of all BMW Motorrad dealers.

Before exploring the new features of the 2022 K 1600, we would like to go back in time a little to the roots of the K 1600 range.

In 2005, BMW Motorrad was the first brand to introduce a transversely placed multicylinder engine on the K1200 series. This liquid cooled four-cylinder engine was designed to cruise at higher rpms, meaning that there was ample power available throughout the powerband. In 2009, the K1200 was replaced by the K1300 GT. This allowed BMW to compete with direct competitors such as Yamaha’s FJR 1300 and Kawasaki’s ZZ-R 1400.

The demand for big touring bikes grew over time and BMW responded by introducing the K 1600. With advanced production techniques and the latest materials, BMW not only increased the bore of the engine to 1600cc, but also added two more cylinders. This newly updated six in line engine came with DOHC and four valves per cylinder, weighing 102.6 kilograms and measuring 555 mm in width. Performance wise, BMW claimed that more than 70% of the maximum torque was already available at 1500 rpm!

Not just the engine was upgraded, but also the number of accessories included on the K 1600 GT. Most striking were the adaptive Xenon headlights and the full color tft-dashboard. Furthermore, a touring screen, that allowed the rider to save preferred settings, was included and there was also the option to add cornering lights. With this impressive list of accessories, one would almost forget the ‘standard’ accessories found on most BMW motorcycles, such as heated grip, heated seat, and five-stage ABS.

The K 1600 GTL was introduced as the luxurious alternative of the K 1600 GT. The range was later extended with the K 1600 B with a characteristic bagger design. This classic silhouette with its long low-slung layout is based on the motorcycle style that is particularly popular in the United States. Lastly, the K 1600 Grand America was introduced as the ultimate touring bike. This edition was provided with an impressive stereo system to listen to your favorite music while floating down the road.

The new K 1600 series are announced for 2022. The exact release date is still unknown for now, but it is highly likely that the motorcycle will be available for purchase before the start of the new riding season. It is already certain that the four current K 1600 editions will be maintained for the next iteration. This means that the K 1600 GT will still be the ‘entry-level’ model of the K 1600 range, the K 1600 B is meant for those into the famous bagger-style, the Grand America is the choice for cross-country touring, and the GTL is likely going to be the edition that is aimed at those with a sportier riding style.

New engine

For 2022 the famous six-cylinder engine is updated to comply with the Euro-5 emission standards. Some notable revisions are the three-way catalytic converter, an updated fuel injection system, a renewed engine regulation system and variable valve timing. The engine still packs a massive powerband, with power peaking at 160 Hp while maximum torque easily hits 180 Nm. This allows you to explore the most beautiful mountain roads without ever having to worry about not having enough power at (your right) hand.

New accessories

The K 1600 range is updated with an extra wide dashboard with even better included satnav. The formerly optional adaptive cornering lights are now included as standard with all K 1600 models. These lights even adapt when accelerating and slowing down to allow excellent vision ahead at all times. Aside from adaptable lights, the suspension also adapts itself while riding using an advanced system that continuously measures the forces on the suspension. The pleasant surprise is that this is also comes as part of the standard equipment! Furthermore, the GTL and the Grand America editions are both equipped with new and further improved stereo systems. Lastly, it was also announced that the K 1600 GT series will become available in a limited ‘Midnight’ colour scheme.

We can’t wait to test the new K 1600 series based on the first images we saw. Are you also as hyped as we are? Unfortunately, we will have to wait for a little while, but the prices will be presented in the near future!

It is very likely that the new K 1600 series will be made publicly available for rental through MotoShare or through one of MotoShare’s participating BMW Motorrad dealers. Tempt yourself into an extended test ride with one of the K 1600 models and get acquainted with the great characteristics of BMW’s ultimate travel machine!

By the time the new K 1600 series are released, a member of the MotoShare test team will try to get his or her hands on one of the models to share our findings with the community.

In the meantime, we’ll have to make do with the 2021 edition. Our Spanish colleague Thierry already tested this motorcycle extensively and his experiences will be shared on the MotoShare blog environment as soon as possible!