2026 BMW K 1600 GT Specs & Review

BMW’s flagship sport-tourer returns with a silky inline-six, long-haul comfort, and a full suite of rider aids. If you’re cross-shopping premium grand tourers and want effortless torque, shaft-drive convenience, and big-mile capability, the 2026 BMW K 1600 GT should be on your shortlist. Here’s a focused look at the 2026 BMW K 1600 GT specs and what they mean on the road.

Key Specs at a Glance

• Engine: Oil/water-cooled inline-six, DOHC, 24 valves
• Displacement: 1,649 cc
• Power (claimed): 160 hp (118 kW) @ 6,750 rpm
• Torque (claimed): 180 Nm (132.7 lb-ft) @ 5,250 rpm
• Transmission / Final Drive: 6-speed (helical) / Shaft drive (BMW Paralever)
• BMW K 1600 GT weight (DIN, fully fueled): 343 kg (756.2 lb)
• BMW K 1600 GT seat height: 810 mm standard / 830 mm high (31.9 in / 32.7 in)

Engine & Performance

At the heart of the K 1600 GT is BMW’s oil/water-cooled inline-six—an engine configuration renowned for turbine-like smoothness and instant, linear thrust. With 160 hp (118 kW) peaking at just 6,750 rpm and a stout 180 Nm (132.7 lb-ft) at 5,250 rpm, this tourer surges forward without drama whether you’re filtering through city traffic, lofting past highway traffic in top gear, or carving sweeping backroads. The broad torque plateau defines the experience: minimal shifting, maximum momentum.

Fueling is overseen by electronic intake pipe injection (BMS-O) with throttle-by-wire, bringing crisp response and precise control. The 6-speed helical gearbox pairs to a shaft final drive (BMW Paralever) for clean, low-maintenance touring. Euro 5+ compliance is achieved via a closed-loop 3‑way catalytic converter, while a manufacturer-quoted fuel consumption of 5.9 L/100 km and CO2 of 137 g/km underscore its efficiency for the class.

Real-world touring cred is backed by a generous 26.5 L / 7.0 gal fuel tank (with roughly 4.0 L / 1.0 gal reserve). Top speed is listed at 120+ mph / 200+ km/h—more than enough for brisk autobahn runs where legal—and electronic aids like Dynamic Traction Control and Dynamic Engine Brake Control help keep the delivery composed on mixed surfaces.

Handling, Comfort & BMW K 1600 GT Seat Height

BMW’s unique Duolever front end with a central spring strut gives the K 1600 GT precise steering and excellent stability under braking, while the Paralever single-sided swingarm at the rear maintains composure under power. Suspension travel is 115 mm (front) and 135 mm (rear), striking a balance between sporty feedback and long-distance comfort. With a 1,618 mm / 63.7 in wheelbase, a 62.2° steering head angle, and 106.4 mm / 4.19 in of trail, the chassis feels planted at speed, yet remains predictable during low-speed maneuvers.

The BMW K 1600 GT seat height comes in two factory options: 810 mm (31.9 in) standard or 830 mm (32.7 in) high. Riders in the mid-height range will appreciate easy flat-footing with the standard seat, while taller riders can opt for the higher perch for added legroom. The BMW K 1600 GT weight—343 kg (756.2 lb) fully fueled—does make itself known when pushing the bike around the garage, but BMW mitigates this with Hill Start Control Pro for slope starts and a Reversing Aid for effortless parking lot maneuvers. The windscreen height ranges from 1,440 to 1,598 mm, providing adaptable wind protection for varied rider sizes and conditions.

Grip and stability are further supported by sport-touring rubber: 120/70 ZR 17 at the front on a 3.50 x 17 in wheel and 190/55 ZR 17 at the rear on a 6.00 x 17 in wheel.

Equipment & Features

Braking is serious and confidence-inspiring: dual 320 mm front discs with 4‑piston fixed calipers and a single 320 mm rear disc with a 2‑piston caliper, governed by BMW Integral ABS Pro (cornering ABS). Electronics are comprehensive: Dynamic Traction Control, Dynamic Engine Brake Control, Hill Start Control Pro, Cruise Control, and Intelligent Emergency Call all come standard.

Touring comfort and convenience are top-tier. You get a 10.25 in TFT with Connectivity, full LED lighting with an Adaptive Headlight, heated grips and seat heating, integral side cases, and a robust electrical system (700 W alternator, 12 V / 16 Ah battery) to power accessories. Colors (US 2026) include Black Storm Metallic, Style Sport Racing Blue Metallic, and Option 719 Blue Ridge Mountain Metallic. Payload with standard equipment is a useful 197 kg / 434 lb—ideal for two-up touring with luggage.

Who Is the 2026 BMW K 1600 GT For?

This is a premium sport-tourer for experienced riders who want the smooth authority of an inline-six, long-distance comfort, and a full safety net of electronics. It can commute, but it truly shines on multi-day trips and high-speed highway work, especially with a passenger and luggage. Beginners will find the size, BMW K 1600 GT weight, and power a bit much; seasoned riders will appreciate how easy it makes big miles.

Torquepedia Verdict

As a BMW K 1600 GT review in one line: effortless, refined, and built for serious touring. The engine’s 160 hp and 180 Nm define the experience—swift, smooth, and unflappable—while Duolever/Paralever underpinnings and ABS Pro keep it composed in all conditions. Comfort and tech are standout strengths, from the 10.25 in TFT and Adaptive Headlight to heated touch points and thoughtful aids like Reversing Aid and Hill Start Control Pro.

Drawbacks? The sheer mass and physical size won’t suit everyone, and shorter riders may prefer the standard 810 mm seat over the 830 mm high option. For those seeking a fully loaded grand tourer, though, the 2026 BMW K 1600 GT specs are compelling. US pricing is listed at $26,885 plus destination, with production from Feb 1, 2026.

FAQ

• Is the 2026 BMW K 1600 GT good for beginners?

  • It’s a large, powerful sport-tourer with a fully fueled weight of 343 kg (756.2 lb) and 160 hp. It’s better suited to experienced riders.

• What is the seat height of the 2026 BMW K 1600 GT?

  • 810 mm standard or 830 mm high (31.9 in / 32.7 in).

• How heavy is the 2026 BMW K 1600 GT?

  • Unladen weight (DIN, fully fueled) is 343 kg (756.2 lb).

• What are the key 2026 BMW K 1600 GT specs for the engine?

  • 1,649 cc inline-six producing 160 hp (118 kW) @ 6,750 rpm and 180 Nm (132.7 lb-ft) @ 5,250 rpm.

• What is the price of the 2026 BMW K 1600 GT in the US?

  • MSRP is $26,885 plus destination, with production from Feb 1, 2026.