BMW K1600B Review at RevZilla.com

2018 BMW K 1600 B Review

Somewhere between a sport-touring bike and a dresser; that’s where you’ll find the BMW K 1600 B. As a motorcycle with few (and by few, we mean just about zero) comparables on the road, the K 1600 B possesses a mixture of features that are rarely packed together in one place. In this review, Lemmy takes the high-priced, high-powered motorcycle for long rides and deep dives into the intricacies that set it apart from the pack.

Gear Used in This Review:

Arai DTX-Helmet
REV’IT! Wind Jacket
Saint Unbreakable Jeans
REV’IT! Canyon Gloves
TCX Airtech EVO Gore-Tex Boots

[davidmcconaghy]

I have owned 5 Harley’s and I currently ride a 2015 Electra Glide. I test rode this K1600B yesterday and I’m buying it. The extra power (160hp) can’t be explained, it’s like wrap drive, no Harley can be modified enough to keep up. The handling is like a sport bike and the comfort is beyond anything I have ever ridden. I think this is the future of baggers and Harley would have to match or exceed the features and power of this bike to get me to buy another one of theirs. I’m keeping my Electra Glide for Sturgis and other events but this thing will be my daily driver.

[mikeruthford]

As a Victory Cross Country owner I am in love with the K1600 B.

[bsmukler]

Great video, as always. I saw this bike at the dealership and could not stop looking at it, both in detail and overall. The finish (including the engine casing) is wonderful, and I think the design as a whole works well. Also, the materials are first rate (great seat, for instance). I think Lemmy is right, that this bike will become a cult classic.

[scottragsdale]

this is by far the best review video i have seen, and your channel is the best one on motorcycles. thanks. I bought a k1600B 3 months ago and love it ... I loved my street glide, but BMW takes it to a different level.

[stygar]

purchased mine last week. Agree on the throttle lag, but have learned to live with it. The bike is SO smooth and powerful. The seat is AWFUL over 50 miles (I have tailbone issues), ordered a sargent with backrest. I traded my GSA and won't look back.

[Tonar]

I have a 15 'R12R and my buddy has a 16' Street Glide. As we were riding and switching bikes I thought if you could put the technology of the BMW with the comfort of the SG you'd have a great bike. The next week the K16B came out. I test rode it and it's amazing. It feels like a 600 lb bike, not like wrestling a bear on back roads on the SG. The gear assist pro is a must have once you've had it. Much smoother in the 1600 than my 1200 boxer engine. If I had a complaint it would be the front end styling. A little too much "sport bike" looking. HD definitely gets the win on the cool factor, but unfortunately that's it. The BMW is such a better bike in every other category it isn't really close. (For the record I love HD's too) BMW offers a modern bike while HD offers "heritage". I just can't see paying a premium for 20 year old technology. I'm going to wait for 19' to see if BMW makes a few tweaks based on initial feedback. Also curious to see how it sells and what accessories become available. My bet is BMW will do well with this "bagger". Good job as alway Lemmy

[FadilKarim]

This is a fantastic bike! As a 23 year old, I won't be buying it... yet. Only because I don't have the money or the time for touring. But when I do, this bike will be the one! I love how BMW kept performance as a big priority when designing this bike.

[patriciabramble]

My husband and I love how it seems quite nimble to maneuver this bike in the corners. Great bike loving it.

[kevinvoeks]

I dumped my old Harley Street Glide. For this one. And I’ll never look back

[mafosa]

It’s a tough call to say it’s a bagger platform.

Really looks like a larger street race bike.

Maintenance expenses would be a concern.

Maybe if someone showed the miles scheduled with expenses. That would help people make a decision to buy or pass.

It is a cool bike for sure.


Larry

[jeffk]

Lemme, I have watched this review a dozen times, you have done an awesome job in your educated and very personal depiction of what this specific machine is and does. Great review, and even greater job describing your individual experience. I prefer your reviews above motorcycle and other web reviews, continue the great reviews...

[gnrands]

Another excellent review.  I don't see this machine as competing against the Guzzi, I think it's a challenge to the Honda F6B.  I would be interested in seeing you compare the K1600B to the 2018 Goldwing standard (the newest version of the discontinued F6B) when Honda makes it available for test ride.

[Enonymouse_]

Lemmy throttle lag is a present in the lower gears, the ride modes affect that too. Dynamic will get rid of a lot of response lag but until you gear up it won't be that noticeable. Dynamic does make that throttle very twitchy (GT rider).

[waltdog]

I love your reviews, I wish you would do more. Keep up the great work. Love you guys.

[nupecarrera]

Finally a bike review equal to the car reviews I watch. Well done!

[alp]

I saw one at the dealer. It is such a beauty. If BMW can just lower the base a bit more, HD will be in a big trouble. Well, more trouble then they are currently. Just got a 16 k1600GTLE from a doctor and he got a new bagger. I never new how amazing the K is till I took the chance. I do not know how I can ride anything else after this. happy riding.

[WesJacobs]

I think BMW has a real winner here. Combination of Full Dresser and Sportiness. I want a full dresser but something sporty too and I think they have accomplished both here don't need two bikes. Gotta get down to the local BMW dealer and get more Info.

[boeddhasfood]

This is the best review on a bike I ever see, thanks a lot.

[borntoride]

I’m currently owned a 2018 BMW K1600gtl and K1600b and a 2017 BMW R1200rt. Yes valve check and other items cost to maintain but as we all know Harley and other brands have problems too which I’ve owned including Indian Cheiftain. Cool thing is there’s brands and bikes for everyone.

[olethanatos]

I appreciate the honest neutral review. You mentioned a lot of pros and cons. I agree it is stylish but not for everyone, I will not be giving up my GSA but I can appreciate a nice piece of metal. Cheers.