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BIKES: BMW K 1600 GT And BMW K 1600 GTL
Fascination with six cylinders.
BMW Communications  |  Posted October 21, 2010   Charlotte, NC
With the new K 1600 GT and K 1600 GTL, BMW motorcycles are now available for the first time with a 6-cylinder in-line power unit developed in-house. (Photo: BMW)
Ever since BMW Motorrad presented the concept study Concept 6 in autumn 2009, the new 6-cylinder in-line engine installed in it has caught the imagination of many motorcycle fans. For over seven decades now, 6-cylinder in-line engines have stood for fascinating engine technology in automobiles at BMW more than with any other brand. With the new K 1600 GT and K 1600 GTL, BMW motorcycles are now available for the first time with a 6-cylinder in-line power unit developed in-house. The two touring motorcycles have a supreme, impressive and equally distinctive appearance, creating a desire to travel at first sight.

Riding dynamics, long-distance suitability and comfort.
For decades, 6-cylinder in-line engines have exercised a special fascination. In addition to their perfect running smoothness they also offer supreme output and torque, giving the rider powerful emotional impressions.
In addition to safety, equipment and comfort, prestige and dynamic performance are the key criteria for a supreme touring bike. With the most compact in-line 6-cylinder engine in serial motorcycle production to date, the K 1600 GT and the K 1600 GTL penetrate a whole new dimension in terms of riding properties, long-distance suitability and comfort. They combine maximum agility and riding dynamics with a luxurious overall package. With an engine output of 118 kW (160 bhp) and a maximum torque of 175 Newton metres (129 Lb. ft.), their 6-cylinder engine provides superb propulsion in all conditions.

Weighing 226 pounds, the engine is by far the lightest serially produced 6-cylinder in-line engine for motorcycles in the 1000 cc class. (Photo: BMW)
Lightest and most compact serial production 6-cylinder in-line engine in a motorcycle > 1000 cc.
Previously, the in-line arrangement of six cylinders resulted in either very long or very wide constructions, depending on the installation position, which led to drawbacks in terms of chassis geometry, weight distribution and centre of gravity. This where the K 1600 GT and K 1600 GTL break new ground.

Weighing 226 pounds, the engine is by far the lightest serially produced 6-cylinder in-line engine for motorcycles in the class > 1000 cc. What is more, the engine is significantly narrower in construction width than all other 6-cylinder in-line motorcycles in serial production to date. This extremely compact construction and reduced width was achieved in particular by means of a cylinder bore of 72 millimetres in conjunction with a spacing of just 5 millimetres between the cylinder the cylinder sleeves.
Both the low engine weight and the consistent lightweight construction of the vehicle as a whole contribute to the low weight of the vehicle. At 703 lbs. (K 1600 GT without panniers) and 767 lbs. (K 1600 GTL with panniers and topcase) the new touring bikes are in the lower range of the segment.

Three modes to choose from and DTC (Dynamic Traction Control) for maximum safety when accelerating.
The rider of the K 1600 models has three different engine characteristics directly available at the press of a button at the right-hand end of the handlebars so as to be able to adapt to different uses such as touring on the road, riding on wet surfaces and sporty, dynamic motorcycling - the modes "Rain", "Road" and "Dynamic". Available as a factory option, the traction control function DTC is combined individually with the different modes, fully harmonised with them so as to provide maximum riding safety.
E-gas.

The control of the central throttle valve with a diameter of 52 millimetres is effected via an e-gas, also known as a ride-by-wire system. The rider's wishes are registered by means of a sensor in the accelerator twist grip. The engine control then adjusts the position of the throttle valve accordingly.
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