BMW K 1600 GT - 2018 Specifications and Reviews

The 2018 BMW K 1600 GT is a premium sport touring motorcycle designed for long-distance riders seeking comfort and performance. Known for its powerful six-cylinder engine, advanced technology including Dynamic Traction Control, and generous fuel capacity, it excels on extended highway journeys. Its spacious seating, integrated windscreen, and saddlebag compatibility make it ideal for touring enthusiasts prioritizing comfort over lightweight agility.

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About the BMW K 1600 GT

Powered by a Euro 4 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. 

Compared to the 2011-2016 BMW K1600GT model fuel capacity is now up from 24 to 26.5 litres, a revised engine mapping makes the emissions Euro 4 compliant, ESA and DTC are now standard, the new side fairings offer improved wind protection, new silencer ends.

For storage there are large 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 gives access to the range of options on the bike including the extensive multimedia capabilities. 

Optional Extras include reverse assist, hill start control, adaptive headlight, heated grips, heated seat, side-mounted additional LED headlights, see me home lights with the optional central locking, computer, tyre pressure monitoring, higher screen, 49 litre top box, engine bars, cruise control, quickshifter, keyless start, audio system  and Akrapovic silencers.

In some countries you also now get the option of having BMW Intelligent Emergency Call system, operated from the right handlebar. It activates automatically to send your coordinates to the emergency services, via the BMW call centre, but can also be activated manually.

The K1600GT SE model gets you the shiny headlight, tyre pressure monitor, hill start control, reverse assist and daytime running light as standard.

General information

CategoryTouring
Year2018
ModelBMW K 1600 GT

Engine and Transmission Specifications

Emission detailsClosed-loop 3-way catalytic converter, emission standard EU-4
Greenhouse gases132.2 CO2 g/km. (CO2 - Carbon dioxide emission)
Fuel consumption5.70 litres/100 km (17.5 km/l or 41.27 mpg)
ClutchMultiple-disc clutch in oil bath
Transmission type,final driveShaft drive (cardan)
Gearbox6-speed
Cooling systemLiquid
Lubrication systemDry sump
Fuel controlDouble Overhead Cams/Twin Cam (DOHC)
Fuel systemInjection. Electronic intake pipe injection
Valves per cylinder4
Bore x Stroke72.0 x 67.5 mm (2.8 x 2.7 inches)
Compression12.2:1
Top speed200.0 km/h (124.3 mph)
Torque175.00 Nm (17.8 kgf-m or 129.1 ft.lbs) @ 5520 RPM
Power160.00 HP (116.8 kW) @ 7750 RPM
Engine typeIn-line six, four-stroke
Capacity:1649.00 ccm (100.62 cubic inches)
 
 

Brakes, suspension, Frame and wheels

WheelsCast aluminium
Rear brakes diameter320 mm (12.6 inches)
Rear brakesSingle disc. ABS. Two-piston calipers.
Front brakes diameter320 mm (12.6 inches)
Front brakesDouble disc. ABS. Four-piston calipers.
Rear tyre190/55-ZR17
Front tyre120/70-ZR17
Rear wheel travel135 mm (5.3 inches)
Rear SuspensionBMW Motorrad Paralever
Front wheel travel115 mm (4.5 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)
Wheelbase1,618 mm (63.7 inches)
Overall width1,000 mm (39.4 inches)
Overall length2,324 mm (91.5 inches)
Overall height1,440 mm (56.7 inches)
Seat height810 mm (31.9 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Power/weight ratio0.5229 HP/kg
Weight incl. oil, gas, etc334.0 kg (736.3 pounds)
Dry weight306.0 kg (674.6 pounds)

Other specs

MaintenanceFind parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay
CommentsWindscreen. Dynamic Traction Control.
Carrying capacitySaddle bags
ElectricalPower transmission battery.
StarterElectric
Color optionsBlack Storm Metallic, Mars Red Metallic

Performance Profile & Rider Fit

160 hp
Peak Power
3.3s
0-60 mph
124.3 mph
Top Speed

Best For

Track25%
City45%
Cornering65%
Daily Riding70%
Touring98%
Passenger95%

Rider Profile

Best ForThis bike suits experienced riders who are comfortable managing a tall, heavy machine at low speeds and in tight maneuvers.
PurposeBuilt for long-distance, high-comfort touring with a passenger and luggage rather than sport riding or commuting agility.
Rider FitAt 343 kg wet with an 810mm+ seat height, it demands decent physical strength and confidence handling weight at parking-lot speeds.
CharacterA refined, powerful grand tourer that rewards smooth, relaxed riding with effortless highway cruising and a silky inline-six soundtrack.
Not Ideal ForNot a good fit for new riders, off-road use, or anyone wanting a light, flickable bike for tight urban streets.

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

Rider Fit Visualizer

2018 BMW K 1600 GT Rider Ergonomics Assessment

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

Feet:

At 810mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2018 BMW K 1600 GT, with a moderate knee angle of around 90 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 (2)

POWER TRAIN:MANUAL TRANSMISSION:SEALS/GASKETS Apr 2026 · 26V214000

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2017-2025 K 1600 GT, GTL, B and 2018-2025 Grand America vehicles. The seal for the reverse gear control unit may deteriorate and allow moisture inside the control unit, which can result in the unit overheating.

Risk: An overheated reverse gear control unit increases the risk of a fire.

Remedy: Dealers will replace the reverse gear control unit, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed May 25, 2026. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will be searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning May 25, 2026.

POWER TRAIN:MANUAL TRANSMISSION Oct 2019 · 19V692000

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2017-2020 K 1600 GT and 2018-2020 K 1600 GTL and K 1600 B motorcycles. Certain transmission parts may not have been produced to the appropriate hardness level. This could affect the function of the transmission, possibly causing double engagement of two gears and/or the damage of transmission parts.

Risk: Double gear engagement or transmission damage can cause the rear wheel to lock up, affecting the vehicle stability and increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the shift forks, the selector sleeve of 5th/6th gear and the gear wheel of 6th gear, free of charge. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk was mailed November 1, 2019. A second letter will be sent once the remedy is available. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

Source: NHTSA. View all BMW recalls →

Rider Reviews

Total comments: 1
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MotorcycleDB Review

The 2018 BMW K 1600 GT is a powerful and luxurious touring motorcycle that offers a smooth and comfortable ride. With a 1649cc engine, this bike delivers impressive performance and handling, making it an ideal choice for long distance rides. The K 1600 GT also comes equipped with advanced technology features such as adaptive headlights, dynamic traction control, and a multi-controller interface, providing riders with a high level of convenience and safety. Overall, the 2018 BMW K 1600 GT is a top-of-the-line touring motorcycle that combines power, comfort, and technology in one impressive package. Whether you're hitting the open road for a weekend getaway or embarking on a cross-country adventure, this bike is sure to deliver a premium riding experience that is hard to beat. If you're in the market for a high-performance touring motorcycle, the K 1600 GT is definitely worth consideration.
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