BMW K 1600 GTL - 2012 Specifications and Reviews

The 2012 BMW K 1600 GTL is a premium sport tourer designed for riders seeking comfort and capability on long-distance journeys. Known for its powerful inline-six engine, spacious ergonomics, and extensive touring amenities, it excels at covering substantial mileage while maintaining refinement and handling. Its generous fuel capacity and maintenance-free systems make it ideal for adventure-minded riders prioritizing reliability and ease of use.

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About the BMW K 1600 GTL

Powered by a Euro 3 compliant liquid cooled 1649.00cc in-line 6 cylinder engine, producing 160.5bhp

The 103kg engine is angled forwards for optimum weight distribution and a low centre of gravity.

Essentially the same bike as the 2011- 2016 K1600GT but with a some changes to make it more suitable for relaxed longer distance touring, especially when carrying a pillion. It includes a 49 litre top box, making the bike 16.5cm longer, this includes a more luxurious padding for the pillion. It also has a larger 26.5 litre tank, lower single piece seat, larger screen and more relaxed position with pegs further forwards and bars further back.

You also get Chrome silencers, sat nav prep as standard with auxiliary audio connector and wider footrests this makes it weigh in 29kg heavier.

For your storage needs there are colour coded panniers and a waterproof lockable glove box in the right fairing. When the satnav is fitted a cover pops down when parked to keep it secure.

There is also a 5.7" colour TFT screen in the centre of the clocks, connected to the multi controller on the left bar, which provides access to the range of options on the bike including the extensive multimedia capabilities. 

Optional extras include: banking-aware traction control, Electronic Suspension Adjustment II, adaptive headlight, heated grips, heated seat, side-mounted additional LED headlights, see me home lights with the optional central locking, computer, tyre pressure monitor, engine bars, cruise control and Akrapovic silencers.

in 2014 the K1600GTL Exclusive was introduced, which includes four coats of paint, the adaptive Xenon light, engine bars and ESA.

General information

CategoryTouring
Year2012
ModelBMW K 1600 GTL

Engine and Transmission Specifications

Emission detailsClosed loop 3-way catalytic converter, emission standard EU-3
Greenhouse gases106.7 CO
Fuel consumption4.60 litres/100 km (21.7 km/l or 51.13 mpg)
DrivelineCardan Shaft
ClutchMultiple disc clutch in oil bath
Transmission type,final driveShaft drive (cardan)
Gearbox6-speed
Cooling systemLiquid
Fuel controlDOHC
Fuel systemInjection. Electronic intake pipe injection, digital engine management (BMS-X)
Valves per cylinder4
Bore x stroke72.0 x 67.5 mm (2.8 x 2.7 inches)
Compression12.2:1
Torque175.00 Nm (17.8 kgf-m or 129.1 ft.lbs) @ 5250
Power160.00
Engine typeIn-line six, four-stroke
Capacity:1649.00 ccm (100.62 cubic inches)

Brakes, suspension, Frame and wheels

WheelsAluminium
Rear brakes diameter320 mm (12.6 inches)
Rear brakesSingle disc. ABS
Front brakes diameter320 mm (12.6 inches)
Front brakesDouble disc. ABS
Rear tyre dimensions190/55-ZR17
Front tyre dimensions120/70-ZR17
Rear suspension travel135 mm (5.3 inches)
Rear suspensionBMW Motorrad Paralever
Front suspension travel125 mm (4.9 inches)
Front suspensionBMW Motorrad Duolever
Trail108 mm (4.3 inches)
Rake (fork angle)27.8°
Frame typeBridge-type frame, cast aluminium, load-bearing engine
 
 

Physical measures and capacities

Reserve fuel capacity4.00 litres (1.06 gallons)
Fuel capacity26.50 litres (7.00 gallons)
Wheelbase1,680 mm (66.1 inches)
Overall width1,000 mm (39.4 inches)
Overall length2,489 mm (98.0 inches)
Overall height1,465 mm (57.7 inches)
Alternate seat height780 mm (30.7 inches) If adjustable, highest setting.
Seat height750 mm (29.5 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Power/weight ratio0.4984 HP/kg
Weight incl. oil, gas, etc348.0 kg (767.2 pounds)
Dry weight321.0 kg (707.7 pounds)
 
 

Other specs

MaintenanceFind parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay
Color optionsSilver, blue
Electrical12 V/19 Ah, maintenance free battery.
StarterElectric

Performance Profile & Rider Fit

160 hp
Peak Power
3.6s
0-60 mph

Best For

Track20%
City45%
Cornering60%
Daily Riding70%
Touring98%
Passenger97%

Rider Profile

Best ForBest suited to experienced riders who are comfortable managing a very large, heavy machine at low speeds and in traffic.
PurposeBuilt for effortless long-distance touring, devouring highway miles with a smooth six-cylinder engine, full weather protection, and premium comfort features.
Rider FitIts substantial weight and tall dimensions demand reasonable strength and confidence when maneuvering at parking speeds or on uneven ground.
CharacterA refined, luxurious grand tourer that prioritizes silky power delivery, stability, and rider/passenger comfort over sharp sporting dynamics.
Not Ideal ForNot a good fit for new riders, off-road enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a light, flickable bike for tight urban commuting.

Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.

Rider Fit Visualizer

2012 BMW K 1600 GTL Rider Ergonomics Assessment

Calculated in your browser only - your height/inseam are never sent to our servers.

Feet:

At 750mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2012 BMW K 1600 GTL, with a cramped knee angle of around 80 degrees and an upright riding position.

Data quality: measured. Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated (a typical street-bike rule of thumb - stiffer or softer suspension will vary). This is an approximation from category-typical geometry and generic body proportions, not a measurement of this specific bike or you - sit on it before you buy.

Find bikes that fit your height →

⚠ Safety Recalls (4)

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP Feb 2021 · 21V060000

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2011-2014 S 1000 RR/R/ HP4, R 1200 GS/GS Adventure/R/RT, K 1300 S, K 1600 GT/GTL/GTL Exclusive and 2014 R nine T motorcycles. The fuel pump, and auxiliary fuel pump in certain models, may crack and leak fuel during vehicle operation.

Risk: A fuel leak, in the presence of an ignition source, may result in a fire.

Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel pump, free of charge. The recall began March 17, 2021. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP Aug 2020 · 20V471000

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2009-2011 K1300 (S, GT), 2010-2011 S1000 RR, 2005-2011 R1200 (GS, GS Adventure, R, RT, S, ST), 2006-2010 HP2 (Enduro, Megamoto, Sport), 2005-2008 K1200 (R, R Sport, S, GT), and 2012 K1600 (GT, GTL) motorcycles that were repaired under recall 13V-617 with the support ring remedy and where the fuel pump was not replaced at a later date. This recall involves the fuel pump, and also the auxiliary fuel pump as applicable. The affected motorcycles have a fuel pump flange that may crack, possibly resulting in a fuel leak while the engine is running.

Risk: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source can increase the risk of a fire.

Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel pump(s) with an improved version, free of charge. The recall began January 18, 2021. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP Dec 2013 · 13V617000

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2005-2011 model year R-model motorcycles, model year 2005-2012 K-model motorcycles, model year 2010-2011 S 1000 model motorcycles, and model year 2006-2010 HP2 motorcycles. In the affected motorcycles, the fuel pump flange (and the auxiliary fuel pump flange if equipped) could develop cracks and leak fuel.

Risk: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source may result in a fire.

Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will either reinforce the fuel pump flange or replace the pump, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on April 16, 2014. Owners may contact BMW customer relations at 1-800-525-7417 or email BMW at CustomerRelations@bmwusa.com.

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL Oct 2013 · 13V526000

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2012 K1600 GT and K1600 GTL motorcycles. In certain riding conditions, an incorrect throttle valve control signal may be received by the engine control unit, limiting the engine speed.

Risk: As a result of the reduced engine speed, the engine could stall, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will update the throttle control software, free of charge. The safety recall is expected to begin in December 2013. Owners may contact BMW customer relations at 1-800-525-7417 or email BMW at CustomerRelations@bmwusa.com.

Source: NHTSA. View all BMW recalls →

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