24th March 2017

Want a bike with the excellence of German technology and the ride feel of an American cruiser? Look no further, the BMW K1600 B is here. First impression of the bike: it is not built for easy parking on the side walk but for cruising down from Albuquerque to Boston. Based on the design of the K 1600 GT Sport Tourer, the 1600 B stands intimidating with an all-black metallic paint on the body, chassis and the wheels. BMW 1600 B fits in right with the other concept bikes which were released by the German Automaker in the recent past. The only variation being that, now the rider sits in a position more forward.

Specifications

BMW has Americanized the 1600 B, to make the 1649cc engine more powerful and smooth through altering the design by reshaping the fairing to offer improved protection from the wind. Real changes are noticeable on looking further: the stance is lower and so is the top box. 1600B looks baggier thanks to the change in the rear frame with swooping lines stretching down from the fairing to the rear. Seat height is now 30.7 inches, which is as low as it can comfortably get. The bike weighs at 740 pounds and the gas tank capacity is 7 gallons. BMW 1600B is a stone heavier than the GT but the 5% weight gain is barely noticeable at first. Increased weight may be a good thing considering the bike is built for cruising and riding against the wind.

Keeping with the essence of cruising, the 17 inch stock tires come with exemplary road grip. Braking system is standard ABS and additional trio of 320mm disc on board cement the stopping power.

Electronics in the BMW 1600 B is a blend of high tech and traditional instruments. This includes the round speedometer and 5.7 inch color TFT display tachometer. BMW does not overlook the standard features, ever. K 1600 B impresses with heated seats and grips and comfortable cruise control.

Pricing of the 2017 BMW 1600B is yet to be disclosed.

Performance

There are three modes of riding: Rain, Road and Dynamic. In all three modes, Dynamic Electronic Suspension Adjustment (ESA) and Traction Control are standard. There are two modes of Dynamic ESA: the first in standard Road setting which is completely automated with additional feature of damping adaptation which transforms to comply with every speed and road surface; the second is the Cruise damping control which is tailored to suit low speeds. Additionally, to further boost performance, BMW comes with a high end option to upgrade to clutch less Shift Assistant Pro, Intelligence emergency call and reverse features.

Performance of BMW 1600 B takes a direct dig at the Honda Gold Wing F6B. The engine will surely be a ripper what with 160hp at 7750rpm and 129 ft/lb torque at 5250rpm.

Plan your big road trip for the BMW 1600 B is on its way!