Menus
- BMW Tourer in comparison test
- The RT is carved from a rougher wood
- K 1600 GT: More torque for less torque
- Shift travel of the K transmission is long
- Both BMWs allow considerable lean angles
- Equipment packages and extras for around 4500 euros each
- Maneuvering with the BMW R 1200 RT is much easier
- Headlights of the BMW K 1600 GT Sport a fulfillment at night
- Technical data and measured values
- Performance measurement
- Equipment in detail
- Recall RT strut
- MOTORCYCLE scoring
- MOTORCYCLE test result
- Info & Travel tips
Bilski
37 photos
Bilski
1/37
The renewed strut of the RT could respond better, spring and dampen finer. And there are top tourers with more reserves.
Bilski
2/37
A matter of honor Adjustable levers. They are thin and offer a little less grip.
Bilski
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Auto-like transponder for alarm system and “central locking” of the suitcase.
Bilski
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Surcharge policy The chrome on the RT silencer costs extra – like so much.
Bilski
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Practically easily accessible tire valves plus optional pressure sensors.
Bilski
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Made problems: The Marzocchi shock absorber caused a huge recall for BMW.
Bilski
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Worth one or more trips: the water art spectacle in Kassel, …
Bilski
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… hunting curves on the Kyffhauser …
Bilski
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… and the most delicious Soljanka in the “Ilmtalstubchen” in Buchfart.
Map: MAIRDUMONT / Claudia Werel
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Tricity corner.
Bilski
11/37
No matter what, we like to go back anytime. To the Volklinger Hutte,
to Cologne Cathedral and the Zeche Zollverein in Essen, to the Middle Rhine, to Speyer Cathedral or to Berlin’s Museum Island – to cure wanderlust.
Bilski
12/37
Boxer advantage: low consumption meets cheaper maintenance. BMW specifies very low service costs.
Bilski
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Both BMWs are real wanderlust armchairs. But on the K the driver sits even more relaxed; The RT can be too compact for large …
Bilski
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Of course, the RT, which is more than a hundredweight lighter and significantly shorter in its wheelbase, is more manageable. But the big sister rolls more precisely, more stable and more comfortable.
Bilski
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Brute brakes both dissimilar Bavarian sisters. But the K remains more stable on track and stands up less.
Bilski
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The equipment and range are top-notch for both, the payload only on the RT.
Bilski
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The RT protects better against the wind – with less consideration in the deeply placed mirrors.
Bilski
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RT feature Only it shows the current consumption.
Bilski
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BMW standard Good operation, handwheel, cheap counter.
Bilski
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Sibling blows: four cylinders and 479 cm³ displacement separate the RT and GT. But when it comes to power and torque, the dissimilar Bavarian-Berlin sisters are worlds apart.
Bilski
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Goethe and Schiller certainly don’t see something like this every day. One dignified, the other boldly drawn, they look at two top BMW tourers: the 2013 K 1600 GT Sport presented in a duet with the R 1200 RT.
Bilski
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Eating miles on the track? With this duo with pleasure!
Bilski
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Icons of travel giants in front of Ionic columns: at Wilhelmshohe Palace in Kassel, which is otherwise closed to traffic.
Bilski
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The tourer drives cheekily. Good to see: high degree of lean angle and cylinders with flow from top to bottom.
Bilski
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Perfectly integrated: colored computer display for maximum information, optional navigation system, loudspeakers, additional wind deflectors.
Bilski
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Bright and modern: high-performance light-emitting diodes for taillights / brake lights and indicators as standard. Clean: smooth rear.
Bilski
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Signs of the water boxer: two lateral water coolers, central Marzocchi strut and triangular link on the Telelever.
Bilski
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The footpegs of the K 1600 GT used to grind. It bounces and cushions more comfortably despite “Sport” in the name; six exhaust ports.
Bilski
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The colorful TFT display was a pioneer at BMW: highly informative, rich in contrast, easy to read. Round clocks far apart.
Artist
30/37
A fulfillment: The adaptive headlights of the 1600 series keep the light cone on the road in front of the front wheel when tilted.
Bilski
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The Duolever guides the front wheel. Here, too, a central spring strut (from ZF-Sachs) takes over the suspension and damping.
Bilski
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Great experience to scare away the Brummer …
Bilski
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… The RT windshield completely shields the helmet, and you can look over the louder GT windshield.
Bilski
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Water march: confluence of the Werra and Fulda to the Weser in Hannoversch Munden.
Bilski
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Wanderlust at Edersee, Germany’s second largest reservoir. Its barrier wall is exactly 100 years old.
Bilski
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Dignified: Top tourers from BMW in front of the baroque residence in Wurzburg.
Bilski
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The RT offers a lot of ground clearance.
BMW K 1600 GT Sport and BMW R 1200 RT
BMW Tourer in comparison test
Out and about in the triangle between Weimar, Kassel and Wurzburg. As unmistakable as the three World Heritage sites are, so are the two engines built into BMW’s top tourers, the two-cylinder boxer and the in-line six-cylinder. BMW K 1600 GT Sport and BMW R 1200 RT: who leaves the more lasting impression?
Goethe and Schiller certainly don’t see something like this every day. The bronze double statue of the world-famous couple of poets stands in front of the German National Theater in Weimar, where the German parliament withdrew from Berlin in 1919. One with dignity, the other boldly drawn, they look at two top tourers from BMW: the BMW presented in 2013 K 1600 GT Sport in a duet with the BMW R 1200 RT. Her “hero’s breast”, as BMW internally calls the front of the (water) boxer, almost seems to swell proudly.
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BMW K 1600 GT Sport and BMW R 1200 RT
BMW Tourer in comparison test
R 1200 RT for the driver height-adjustable seat with piping and seams in a contrasting color. There are also black rims, red-gray two-tone paint and decorative stripes on the trim and suitcases. The color designations “Blackstorm Metallic”, “Sakhirorange” and “Asphaltgrau” customers at Sport vom Lyrischen Talent at BMW.
Tires for the BMW R 1200 RT
The RT is carved from a rougher wood
Weimar’s unique classical ensemble is a worthy setting for the two travel giants. As a traditional tourer, the BMW R 1200 RT can look back on a continuous history since 1978. At that time, the R 100 RT established full fairing and case ex works. The boxer as a design principle looks back on 91 years of BMW heritage, now just water-cooled. The Bavarian six-cylinder engines are also legendary. With cars. Because the K 1600 as the first six-pack on two wheels did not follow until 2011. Come on, let action follow! The six-cylinder wakes up with a wonderful “Wrouumm”. Acoustically a hint of the M3 sports coupe.
The engine of the BMW K 1600 GT Sport is a poem with goosebumps guarantee. This idling alone, inimitably stable. One of the six cylinders ignites every 120 degrees of rotation of the crankshaft – completely evenly. And then this velvety-silky engine run. If the individual, central throttle valve is only opened a crack, this appears to be complete weightlessness in terms of vibration. As if the 55.5 centimeter slim, compact powerhouse would run completely smoothly. Microvibrations only show that the engine is running when the engine is released and under load. The six-cylinder boxer in the much less modern Honda Gold Wing is even smoother.
Bilski
Dignified: Top tourers from BMW in front of the baroque residence in Wurzburg.
And the BMW R 1200 RT? Is carved from a rougher wood. The boxer twin sounds quite robust, audibly slurps from the airbox. Above all, it vibrates stronger, pulsates more noticeably. But nice and low-frequency, with a peak at 5000 tours. Even with the Autobahn at full throttle – the journey via Wurzburg and Kassel was long – the hands never go deaf: The crankshaft, which is 950 grams heavier than the previous water boxer GS, and the heavier alternator rotor have a calming effect. The RT starts moving smoothly with its smooth, easy-to-dose clutch. More centrifugal mass finally makes the Flat-Twin “unstoppable”. Like all air / oil-cooled boxers before, it bubbles good-naturedly through the low revs.
At traffic lights, every throttle pushes the boxer noticeably to the right, then around the middle position to the left. Like a Guzzi. A weight of 282 kilograms, a top figure for a maxi tourer, makes handling the BMW R 1200 RT easier. She turns on the palm of the hand, forgives a lot. Its predecessors were so far the most popular police motorcycles in Europe for a reason: representative as an escort, stately at cordoning off intersections, easy to handle in the thick of traffic.
K 1600 GT: More torque for less torque
The BMW K 1600 GT Sport responds to gas commands with a delay when pulling away. Here you can feel the long suction paths in contrast to the RT. This even applies to the “Dynamic” driving mode, which is supposed to make the response more direct and allow traction control to intervene later. The central throttle valve and the long intake paths of the in-line engine are automotive technology. Promote torque yield, make the throttle response soft, but also a little decoupled. When starting off, the interaction between the electric throttle and the clutch of the colossus is not that easy. It only engages over the last millimeter, which is not particularly easy to dose. That takes getting used to.
The 343 kilograms are instantly remembered. In addition, there is the larger turning circle, six instead of just 5.3 meters for the RT. In the slow driving range, the BMW K 1600 GT Sport always needs more power and concentration than the BMW R 1200 RT, and does not tolerate any negligence. But then! How the engine hisses and rattles – it really starts. Ultimately, the K engine is even tamer and more civilized. Instead, there are smaller, combustion-technically advantageous individual cubic capacities of only 275 cm³ instead of a large 585 cm³. In addition, the six cylinders compress a little less, 12.2 instead of 12.5 to one. And they are designed to be less short-stroke, which brings a lot of power from below. The 1650 cubic engine shifts perception: almost 140 Newton meters already at 2000 tours, that’s simply a stunner.
Shift travel of the K transmission is long
More torque for less torque. A car doesn’t need a V8 either, but it’s still cooler. With a switching speed of 3000 you are damn fast on the way. For 100 km / h in the power-capped sixth gear, 3000 revs are enough, the BMW R 1200 RT then revs 3500. Which roughly corresponds to the open fifth of the BMW K 1600 GT Sport. If you get lost in the second half of the speed, the six-pack turns completely free, goes off like a rocket, dives unleashed forward. What a potent bolide.
At full thrust, the BMW K 1600 GT Sport changes acoustically seductively into a hoarse tone. All of this leads to a wonderfully confident driving experience on board the K-Class luxury liner. That is no longer marred by too much play in the slightly whistling drivetrain: Open the gas, close the gas, open the gas again – the six-cylinder now does this without excessive load change reactions. However, the shift travel of the bony K-gear is quite long; the rare gear changes often cause a noticeable jolt. So it is little consolation that the gear shift of the BMW R 1200 RT turns out to be even greater when the gear is engaged: kalonk.
Tourer
BMW R 1200 RT, Triumph Trophy 1200 SE and Yamaha FJR 1300 AE in the test
Perfect equipment on two wheels
read more
Both BMWs allow considerable lean angles
The aisles on the BMW R 1200 RT are incredibly easy to step through. Under load and from a certain minimum speed, namely without a clutch. This is ensured by the optional “Pro” gearshift assistant for upshifting and downshifting, a world first in series motorcycle construction. Just like the “Hill Start Control”, which is also subject to a surcharge, as a hill start aid. After pulling the brake lever once, it holds the rear stopper closed while idling. To start you have to pull again or give a little more gas. Like last on the driveway to Wilhelmshohe Palace in Kassel. Hill Start Control will also offer the slightly revised 2015 model of the BMW K 1600 GT at an additional cost.
But the 2014 version is still rolling in the test. It has to do without the keyless “comfort access”, as will be the case with the 2015 R 1200 GS. We can do without. Instead, enjoy driving pleasure. Noticeable: the steering damper on the Telelever front wheel suspension of the BMW R 1200 RT causes minimal wobbling movements at creep speed. In addition, the boxer with loaded suitcases on the autobahn sometimes showed a slight tendency to stir around the steering head at top speed. The BMW K 1600 GT Sport carried us more quietly towards the curve area at Kyffhauser. The RT runs at a speed of 225, while the GT locks electronically at 250 items – more academic values on tour.
Bilski
Great experience to scare away the Brummer.
What is important, however, is that the BMW K 1600 GT Sport is more stable and more precise in its arrows through fast corners. And thus gives an even better, safer feeling than the not exactly bad BMW R 1200 RT. In the exits – off the track, into the fun – both BMWs lay and lie as if dowelled. They allow considerable inclines. When driving behind, it looks like the suitcases need to be rolled. On the 1600s, the silencers, which are laid on both sides, are cut to be lean-friendly. But it scratches its footpegs earlier than the RT with just one exhaust.
Well balanced, the BMW K 1600 GT Sport draws its circles with perfect balance. How easily the colossus falls on the wide 190 mm rear tire, how neutral and homogeneous it circles the curves. Wonderfully cheeky and predictable. The extremely flat cylinder bank, inclined by 55 °, lowers the center of gravity. But spreads the wheelbase: to an impressive 1.62 meters, a full 13.3 centimeters more than on the BMW R 1200 RT. In addition, there is a flatter steering head angle and 61 kilos more of the K. Extremely round and nimble, the RT scurries and scurries through the Winkelwerk of the Thuringian Forest. Almost bold and light with its lengthwise crankshaft and the narrower 180.
Equipment packages and extras for around 4500 euros each
On the BMW K 1600 GT Sport, the spring elements could also be called filter elements, that’s how sensitive the Duolever and single-sided swing arm are. The rear of the GT in particular works more sensitively than the counterpart of the BMW R 1200 RT, it simply fishes out more. On the boxer, even the revised shock absorber remains the Achilles’ heel, it doesn’t respond excessively. In every setting of the Dynamic-ESA, it processes small, rapidly successive bumps in the asphalt, sluggishly to trampling. In itself, the semi-active damping of the RT interference pulses should be superior – including braking compensation and position compensation when accelerating. But on bumps at an incline you have the feeling that the rear wheel of the RT moves easily, that it is hobbling. Such a setup moment does not come from the Michelin Pilot Road 4 GT. The author wants to rehabilitate it at this point: a good tire.
The carcass of the Michelin is a mixture of radial and diagonal construction – for handling and resilience. Instead, the question may be asked whether Marzocchi, as a supplier to the BMW R 1200 RT, was ever famous for its super-fine response behavior? “With knowledge, doubts grow”, Goethe already knew. Another noticeable feature of the Boxer is the prancing rear wheel when braking hard. The BMW K 1600 GT Sport remains calmer, more stable on the track.
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Travel enduro or sports tourer?
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Maneuvering with the BMW R 1200 RT is much easier
Both BMWs always activate all three discs when they reach for the hand lever, shortening the braking distance. The brake pedals, on the other hand, only grip from the rear, good in turns and when turning. When decelerating in bends, the BMW R 1200 RT positions itself more strongly. This, and only this, could be due to the Michelin Pilot Road 4 GT. The boxer collects plus points in terms of wind and weather protection: when put upright (electric, a matter of honor), there is heavenly peace behind the RT window. An insect never hits the helmet visor with only slight suction. But looking through acrylic glass can be irritating when cornering. That cannot happen on the BMW K 1600 GT Sport with its capped windshield. But it is much louder and more drafty behind it.
Maneuvering the much more compact BMW R 1200 RT is much easier. You sit closer to the handlebars, but also a little more slumped on the boxer, more actively on the larger BMW K 1600 GT Sport. It fits stately drivers better, although BMW offers benches with different heights. You could almost miss the faded, four-cylinder K 1300 GT: It didn’t just fit exactly into the gap in terms of the number of cylinders: much lighter than the six-cylinder, but at least as dynamic. Both BMWs have equipment packages and extras on board for around 4500 euros each. There’s a complete, good used motorcycle à la Ducati 916! But the full dressers for 22,000 or 26,000 euros are even competing with mid-range cars. Motorcycles with “bodies” and equipment that makes you dizzy: for example cruise control, audio systems with iPod / MP3 connection and central locking for painted cases, as well as an optional top case and two lockable storage compartments in each of the expansive panels (see page 23). Plus heated seats, heated grips and daytime running lights. Plus multifunctional on-board computers with colored, high-contrast TFT monitors and operation from the handlebars.
Headlights of the BMW K 1600 GT Sport a fulfillment at night
The headlights of the BMW K 1600 GT Sport are a real fulfillment at night. Two H7 high beams on the left and right. In between is the slightly bluish, bright xenon low-beam headlight (for an extra charge). The first and so far only adaptive headlights in the motorcycle world keep the light on the road thanks to ingenious kinematics, even in the most inclined positions. The oscillating mirror also compensates for changes in inclination when braking or accelerating. But in the end it is the splendid six-cylinder that is so inspiring. Just like BMW’s boxer tradition.
Perhaps Unesco will recognize both drive concepts as technical world cultural heritage. Just like the single-cylinder from KTM, the V-Twins from Harley, Ducati and Guzzi or the triples from Triumph. Not to forget the four-cylinder of the Japanese. No matter what, we like to go back anytime. To the Volklinger Hutte, to the Cologne Cathedral and the Zeche Zollverein in Essen, to the Middle Rhine, to the Speyer Cathedral or to the Berlin Museum Island – to cure wanderlust.
Technical data and measured values
Bilski
Water march: confluence of the Werra and Fulda to the Weser in Hannoversch Munden.
engine
| BMW R 1200 RT | BMW K 1600 GT Sport | |
| design type | Two-cylinder four-stroke- Boxer engine |
Six-cylinder four-stroke- In-line engine |
| injection | 2 x Ø 52 mm | 6 x Ø 52 mm |
| coupling | Multi-disc oil bath- clutch (anti-hopping |
Multi-disc oil bath- coupling |
| Bore x stroke | 101.0 x 73.0 mm | 72.0 x 67.5 mm |
| Displacement | 1170 cc | 1649 cc |
| compression | 12.5: 1 | 12.2: 1 |
| power | 92.0 kW (125 PS) at 7750 rpm |
118.0 kW (161 hp) at 7750 rpm |
| Torque | 125 Nm at 6500 rpm | 175 Nm at 5250 rpm |
landing gear
| BMW R 1200 RT | BMW K 1600 GT Sport | |
| frame | Load-bearing engine- Transmission network |
Bridge frame aluminum |
| fork | trailing arm Telescopic fork, Ø 37 mm |
Double trailing arm off aluminum |
| Steering damper | hydraulically | – |
| Brakes front / rear | Ø 320/276 mm | Ø 320/320 mm |
| Assistance systems | ABS, traction control | ABS, traction control |
| bikes | 3.50 x 17; 5.50 x 17 | 3.50 x 17; 6.00 x 17 |
| tires | 120/70 ZR 17; 180/55 ZR 17 | 120/70 ZR 17; 190/55 ZR 17 |
| Tires | Michelin Pilot Road 4 GT | Metzeler Z 8 Interact, back “C” |
Dimensions + weight
| BMW R 1200 RT | BMW K 1600 Sport | |
| wheelbase | 1485 mm | 1618 mm |
| Steering head angle | 63.6 degrees | 62.2 degrees |
| trailing | 116 mm | 106 mm |
| Front / rear suspension travel | 120/136 mm | 125/135 mm |
| Seat height¹ | 800-820 mm | 800-830 mm |
| Weight with a full tank¹ | 282 kg | 348 kg |
| Payload¹ | 213 kg | 197 kg |
| Tank capacity / reserve | 25.0 / 4.0 liters | 24.0 / 4.0 liters |
| Service intervals | 10,000 km | 10,000 km |
| price | 17,140 euros | 21,120 euros |
| Price test motorcycle | 21,605 euros² | 25,766 euros³ |
| Additional costs | 390 euros | 390 euros |
MOTORCYCLE readings
| BMW R 1200 RT | BMW K 1600 GT Sport | |
| Top speed * | 225 km / h | 250 km / h |
| acceleration | ||
| 0-100 km / h | 3.4 sec | 2.9 sec |
| 0-140 km / h | 5.8 sec | 5.0 sec |
| 0-200 km / h | 13.4 sec | 10.0 sec |
| Draft | ||
| 60-100 km / h | 3.9 sec | 3.7 sec |
| 100-140 km / h | 4.2 sec | 3.9 sec |
| 140-180 km / h | 5.4 sec | 4.1 sec |
| Consumption country road / 100 km | 4.9 liters | 5.3 liters |
| Reach country road | 510 km | 453 km |
*Manufacturer information; 1 MOTORCYCLE measurements; ²Comfort package (800 euros), Touring package (1270 euros), Dynamics package (320 euros), audio system (1010 euros), navigation system (675 euros), Pro shift assistant (390 euros); ³Safety package (900 euros), comfort package (1690 euros), crash bars (251 euros), navigation system (675 euros), audio system with preparation for navigation system (1130 euros).
Performance measurement
Bilski
Power on the crankshaft. Measurements on the Dynojet roller test stand 250, corrected according to 95/1 / EG, maximum possible deviation ± 5%.
Sibling blows: four cylinders and 479 cm3 displacement separate the BMW R 1200 RT and BMW K 1600 GT Sport. But when it comes to power and torque, there are worlds between the dissimilar Bavarian-Berlin sisters: with always over 100 Newton meters from 2000 tours, a maximum torque of 124 Nm and a real 128, the boxer is damn strong. But he finds his master in the beefy six-cylinder. The piles up over the entire speed range in the upwardly shifted curve up to 50 Newton meters more. That doesn’t tear out the shorter translation of the RT either, it turns higher in sixth gear at the same speed.
Equipment in detail
Bilski
Eating miles on the track? With this duo with pleasure!
Board computer
| BMW R 1200 RT | BMW K 1600 GT Sport | |
| Operation on-board computer | Handlebars | Handlebars |
| Average / instantaneous consumption | Series / series | Series/- |
| Speed Ø / travel time | Series / series | Series / series |
| second trip odometer | series | series |
| Ambient temperature display | series | series |
| Engine temperature | bar | bar |
| Gear indicator | series | series |
| Fuel gauge / timer | Series (bars) / Series | Series (bars) / Series |
| Remaining range | series | series |
| On-board voltage in volts | series | – |
Engine / chassis
| BMW R 1200 RT | BMW K 1600 GT Sport | |
| Oil level check | electronic / sight glass | electronic / sight glass |
| electronically adjustable chassis | (760 euros) ² | (760 euros) ⁵ |
| different engine mappings | Series (two / three) | Series (three) |
ergonomics
| BMW R 1200 RT | BMW K 1600 GT Sport | |
| adjustable windshield | continuously electric | continuously electric |
| adjustable seat height | two-stage | two-stage |
| adjustable handlebar position | – | – |
| adjustable brake / clutch lever | Series / series | Series / series |
| Touring screen | (272 euros) | – |
Luggage
| BMW R 1200 RT | BMW K 1600 GT Sport | |
| Luggage hook | – | – |
| Case system including case holder | series | series |
| Vehicle width with suitcases | 950 mm | 960 mm |
| Weight per case (l./r.) | 5.8 / 5.8 kg | 5.8 / 5.8 kg |
| Capacity per case (l./r.) | 37/37 liters | 37/37 liters |
| Inner pockets (set) | 180 euros | 180 euros |
| Topcase including holder | 328/895 euros | 860 euros |
| Inside pocket | 65/90 euros | 90 euros |
| Topcase capacity | 28/49 liters | 49 liters |
| Tank bag | 219 euros (11 liters) | 179 euros (12 liters) ⁵ |
| One key system | Series (central locking) ¹ | Standard (central locking) ⁵ |
| Luggage rack | series | series |
| Storage compartment in the panel | Series (2) | Series (2) |
Furnishing
| BMW R 1200 RT | BMW K 1600 GT Sport | |
| Heated grips | Series (5-stage) | Series (5-stage) |
| Seat heating driver / front passenger | 210/223 Euro² | Series / series |
| Cruise control | 320 euros² | series |
| Automatic switch | 390 euros | |
| navigation system | 675 euros | |
| Main stand | series | series |
| Immobilizer | series | series |
| Headlight range adjustment | with swivel lever | automatically electronic⁴ |
| Board socket | Series (second 20 euros) | Series (2 x) |
| Stainless steel exhaust system | Chromed series 125 Euro¹ | series |
| Single-sided swing arm | series | series |
| Tank volume / reserve | 25/4 liters | 24/4 liters |
| Audio system, USB / iPod connection | 1010 euros | 1130 euros |
security
| BMW R 1200 RT | BMW K 1600 GT Sport | |
| Hazard warning lights | series | series |
| Daytime running lights | (285 euros) ³ | (285 euros) ⁴ |
| SECTION | 1-stage | 1-stage |
| Integral / partially integral braking system | series | series |
| Traction control | 2 (3) stage (can be switched off) | 3-stage (can be switched off) |
| Electronic tire pressure control | 210 euros¹ | 210 euros⁴ |
| cranked tire valves | series | series |
| Steering damper | series | – |
– = not available
¹In the comfort package R 1200 RT (800 euros): RDC (tire pressure control), chrome-plated silencer, central locking, anti-theft alarm system with remote control, second socket.
²In the Touring package R 1200 RT (1270 euros): Dynamic ESA (electronically adjustable, semi-active chassis), cruise control, preparation for navigation system, seat heating. ³In the Dynamic package R 1200 RT (320 euros): daytime running lights, hill start assist, Headlight Pro, driving mode Pro (two as standard / driving mode Pro three mappings).
⁴In the K 1600 GT Sport safety package (900 euros): RDC (tire pressure control), hill start assist, adaptive headlights (xenon), daytime running lights.
⁵In the K 1600 GT Sport comfort package (1690 euros): ESA II (electronically adjustable chassis), keyless comfort access (2015 model), central locking, audio system with preparation for navigation system, anti-theft alarm system.
Recall RT strut
Bilski
Made problems: The Marzocchi shock absorber caused a huge recall for BMW.
R for recall, T for trauma? BMW had to recall its second most important novelty of the year 2014, around 8000 copies worldwide. At the beginning of June, around 5000 freshly baked private owners were asked to leave the new BMW R 1200 RT standing still, even when traveling. What happened? The piston rod of the rear shock absorber was broken on two new RTs with Dynamic ESA. After months of waiting, the conversion campaign started at the end of August with a spring and piston rod reworked.
The supplier is Marzocchi, whose products sit in this form alone in the new RT with Dynamic ESA, the GS has ESA suspension from ZF-Sachs. There were problems with the BMW R 1200 RT before, at least with one of the test machines. In a comparative test (MOTORRAD 7/2014), the RT stood out due to its poor comfort and poor response of the shock absorber. It shook the driver and passenger, so the test machine was swapped. BMW later stated that the calibration of the semi-active damping was “slightly outside the permissible tolerance”.
Tourer
BMW R 1200 RT in the driving report
New water boxer in the touring galaxy
read more
MOTORCYCLE scoring
Bilski
The tourer drives cheekily. Good to see: high degree of lean angle and cylinders with flow from top to bottom.
engine
| maximum number of points | BMW R 1200 RT | BMW K 1600 GT Sport | |
| Draft | 40 | 29 | 33 |
| acceleration | 40 | 27 | 34 |
| Top speed | 30th | 17th | 23 |
| Engine characteristics | 30th | 25th | 29 |
| Responsiveness | 20th | 14th | 12th |
| Load change | 20th | 13 | 11 |
| Smoothness | 20th | 12th | 17th |
| coupling | 10 | 8th | 8th |
| circuit | 20th | 16 | 10 |
| Gear ratio | 10 | 8th | 9 |
| Start | 10 | 9 | 8th |
| total | 250 | 179 | 194 |
Tourer-like? The BMW K 1600 GT Sport accelerates wildly from zero to 100 in 2.9 seconds and to 200 km / h in ten seconds. But in the much more important pull-through in sixth gear, it only leaves the noticeably vibrating boxer above 140 km / h. Annoying about the smooth-running six-cylinder: long shift travel, harder shift shocks and delayed throttle response in the partial load range.
Winner engine: BMW K 1600 GT Sport
landing gear
| maximum number of points |
BMW R 1200 RT |
BMW K 1600 GT Sport | |
| Handiness | 40 | 24 | 21st |
| Stability in turns | 40 | 28 | 30th |
| Steering behavior | 40 | 28 | 29 |
| feedback | 10 | 6th | 6th |
| Inclined position | 20th | 16 | 15th |
| Straight-line stability | 20th | 15th | 16 |
| Suspension tuning in front | 20th | 16 | 18th |
| Chassis set-up at the rear | 20th | 13 | 17th |
| Adjustment options undercarriage | 10 | 8th | 8th |
| Suspension comfort | 10 | 7th | 8th |
| Driving behavior with a passenger | 20th | 17th | 17th |
| total | 250 | 178 | 185 |
Good and better. Of course, the BMW R 1200 RT, which is over a hundred pounds lighter and significantly shorter in its wheelbase, is more manageable. The BMW K 1600 GT Sport rolls more precisely, more stable and more comfortably. Important at high speed as well as on rough roads. The renewed strut of the RT could respond better, spring and dampen finer. And there are top tourers with more reserves.
Chassis winner: BMW K 1600 GT Sport
everyday life
| maximum number of points |
BMW R 1200 RT |
BMW K 1600 GT Sport | |
| Ergonomics driver | 40 | 35 | 37 |
| Ergonomics pillion | 20th | 18th | 17th |
| Windbreak | 20th | 18th | 16 |
| view | 20th | 11 | 13 |
| light | 20th | 16 | 19th |
| Furnishing | 30th | 30th | 30th |
| Handling / maintenance | 30th | 21st | 18th |
| Luggage storage | 10 | 9 | 10 |
| Payload | 10 | 9 | 6th |
| Range | 30th | 30th | 30th |
| processing | 20th | 16 | 16 |
| total | 250 | 213 | 212 |
Both BMWs are real wanderlust armchairs. But on the K the driver sits even more relaxed; The BMW R 1200 RT can be too compact for the big ones. In return, it protects better against the wind – with less consideration in the deeply placed mirrors. The equipment and range are top-notch for both, the payload only on the RT. The adaptive headlights of the BMW K 1600 GT Sport set standards.
Winner everyday life: BMW R 1200 RT
security
| maximum number of points |
BMW R 1200 RT |
BMW K 1600 GT Sport | |
| Braking effect | 40 | 30th | 34 |
| Brake metering | 30th | 18th | 18th |
| Braking with a passenger / fading | 20th | 15th | 16 |
| Righting moment when braking | 10 | 7th | 8th |
| ABS function | 20th | 16 | 15th |
| Handlebar slapping | 20th | 18th | 18th |
| Ground clearance | 10 | 9 | 8th |
| total | 150 | 113 | 117 |
Both dissimilar Bavarian sisters brake brutally. But the BMW K 1600 GT Sport remains more stable on its lane and stands up less. The dosability is only mediocre in both. The BMW R 1200 RT offers plenty of ground clearance.
Safety winner: BMW K 1600 GT Sport
costs
| maximum number of points |
BMW R 1200 RT |
BMW K 1600 GT Sport | |
| guarantee | 30th | 17th | 17th |
| Consumption (country road) | 30th | 20th | 18th |
| Inspection costs | 20th | 18th | 18th |
| Maintenance costs | 20th | 8th | 5 |
| total | 100 | 63 | 58 |
Boxer advantage: low consumption meets cheaper maintenance. BMW specifies very low service costs.
Winner costs: BMW R 1200 RT
Overall rating
| maximum number of points |
BMW R 1200 RT |
BMW K 1600 GT Sport | |
| Overall rating | 1000 | 746 | 766 |
| placement | 2. | 1. | |
| Price-performance note | 1.0 | 2.7 | 3.3 |
MOTORCYCLE test result
Bilski
The BMW K 1600 GT Sport wins the BMW Tourer duel
1. BMW K 1600 GT Sport
The more stable and comfortable chassis is convincing, the sensual six-cylinder turns on. Only under touring aspects does the “Sport” give up a little because of its capped windshield.
2. BMW R 1200 RT
More agile, easier to drive and much lighter: the very active, slightly cheaper water boxer is the most dynamic RT since 1978. Only its rear shock should work better.
Info & Travel tips
Map: MAIRDUMONT / Claudia Werel
Tricity corner.
Tricity corner
Worthwhile: a visit to the Wurzburg Residence World Heritage Site, including the baroque gardens, and a detour to top motorcycle routes in Franconian Switzerland. Cheers: Franconia has the highest density of breweries in the world! Further north are the bend areas of the Rhon and Wasserkuppe. Many motorcyclists come together around the Edersee, for example at the US-style “Zundstoff” motorcycle meeting place. The upside down “great house” in Edertal-Affoldern and Waldeck Castle with a restaurant and a wonderful view of the reservoir are well worth seeing. Furthermore, the half-timbered towns Fritzlar and Naumburg. In Kassel-Bad Wilhelmshohe, the 300 meter high mountain park is Germany’s youngest world heritage. From May 1 to October 3, on Wednesdays, Sundays and public holidays, spectacular water features with 300-year-old technology stretch over around 1.5 kilometers: artificial waterfalls, aqueducts and 50-meter-high end fountains. Accommodation tips: the rustic hotel “Papen Änne” in a historic building and with its own beer garden, as well as the “Pentahotel Kassel-Wilhelmshohe” with underground parking, a chic bar and friendly staff.
Hannoversch Munden is located at the confluence of the Werra and Fulda to the Weser and has 700 half-timbered houses plus a magnificent Renaissance town hall. Gastro tip: “The old inn”. Further to the east is the popular mountain (racing) route on the B 85 to Kyffhauser. At the parking lot in front of Germany’s third largest monument, you can get one-a-Thuringian bratwurst for one euro each. Weimar with the Goethe and Schillerhaus is a Mecca for culture lovers. To the south, it is worth taking a detour to the 666-year-old village of Buchfart: the covered, 43-meter-long wooden bridge over the Ilm was built in 1816. The mill shop next to it sells bread with flour from the local water mill and 21 types of mustard, the “Ilmtalstubchen” spoils you with the most delicious Soljanka. The Thuringian Forest offers a great landscape, wonderful curves and the vehicle museum in Suhl including the former factory site of the Simson works. Accommodation tip: the romantic hotel “Goldener Hirsch” in Suhl.
Europe, Alps and long-distance travel with the MOTORRAD action team – book now!
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