BEYOND THE HORIZON.

2018 BMW K1600 Grand America Review on Total Motorcycle:

Derived from the BMW K 1600 B, the BMW K 1600 Grand America is designed specifically for comfortable long-distance travel. Embracing the USA’s love for relaxed, luxurious two-wheel travel, the K 1600 Grand America sets a new standard for touring comfort. The 160 HP 6-cylinder in-line engine is always ready to go the extra mile and will be the ideal companion for travel-hungry riders.

The open road. Even that’s not enough for you. You always want to take it further, because you’ve never been so close to the road. With the Grand America, you can relax and enjoy the ride for miles on end. As a fully-equipped luxury touring bike, this full dresser offers the utmost riding pleasure and comfort for carefree cruising. The legendary 6-cylinder in-line engine triumphs with an unparalleled running smoothness with impressive power development. Always ready to go the extra mile. Even the silhouette is on another level: from the high windshield to the distinctive rear with the easy-to-use topcase and backrest. This is complemented by the innovative technology and abundance of space – especially for two. It’s within arm’s reach: The Grand America makes the horizon seem boundless – and yet so close.

BMW Motorrad expands its range in the full dresser touring segment with the addition of a model designed specifically for comfortable travel. The BMW K 1600 Grand America sees its premiere at the world’s biggest motorcycle trade show, the EICMA in Milan (7 – 12 November 2017). Derived from the BMW K 1600 B, the new model combines the supreme performance of its 6-cylinder engine with exclusive equipment features that make long-distance rides both comfortable and fascinating in American highway cruising style, whether solo or with a passenger.

Big dreams? No problem.

It’s your tour, your dream. Pave your own way with the 6-cylinder in-line engine and its 1649 ccm capacity. For a dynamic experience and superb running smoothness. The maximum torque of 175 Nm and 118 kW (160 HP) develop an incomparable and effortless thrust. You already have a total of 70% of the torque available at 1,500 rpm. You can feel the power even with the smallest turn of the wrist – followed by powerful, relaxed gliding. The reverse assistant ensure effortless manoeuvring when you take a break from riding. You can even continue relaxing for the rest of the ride. Because thanks to Keyless Ride, you can hit the road again quickly and effortlessly.

On and on.

Comfortable cruising with an abundance of space: with the Grand America, you’ll never want the journey to end. The standard Dynamic ESA embodies the best possible handling and riding dynamics – the “CRUISE” mode allows you to glide even smoother. Rest your legs on the standard footboard – laid-back, typical “American way of ride”. The pillion seat height was reduced by 7 cm for even more accessibility, especially when mounting and dismounting the bike – and the foot pegs were also moved down. Furthermore, the standard engine protection bar and the audio system with navigation preparation are guaranteed to impress. The journey continues. Make yourself even more comfortable with the armrest accessory, available on request.

“Intelligent emergency call”: the quick response in case of an accident and in emergency situations thanks to the ECALL system from BMW Motorrad.

The good feeling is always along for the ride.

BMW Motorrad is the first manufacturer to provide the “intelligent emergency call” ex works: a system fitted firmly on the handlebar, which in case of emergency can independently and automatically trigger the rescue chain and in so doing facilitate faster aid from the emergency services. The “intelligent emergency call” automatically becomes active following a light to heavy accident. But the rider can also manually trigger an emergency call at the push of a button, if for instance he/she has observed an accident. After activating the system, either automatically or manually, the GPS data of the location and the direction of travel of the motorcycle is sent via mobile phone connection to a BMW call centre. From here, the rescue chain is activated. For fast, precise help. And a great feeling on every tour.

Dynamic ESA: unevenness ironed flat.

For the best road contact.

The standard Dynamic ESA once again significantly increases the first-class riding comfort of the K 1600 Grand America. It ensures the best traction, safety and the highest level of comfort: dynamic ESA controls the suspension depending on the driving condition and riding manoeuvres by automatically adjusting to the detected conditions. In doing so, it ensures significantly improved contact between road and tyre, even when in a lean. Enabling riding characteristics which are always stable and an added boost in comfort and safety – especially on those long tours.

More Dynamic ESA

Reverse assistant: effortlessly manoeuvring and getting out of parking spaces.

Simply reverse.

Steep paths and narrow space conditions at popular look-out points or parking spots are no issue with the convenient torque control assist (TCA). Leaving you with only a smile for parking and manoeuvring. Activate the reverse assist by putting the bike into neutral and activating the assist function using the button on the left handlebar. As soon as the R is shown on the display and started by pressing it, you can glide out of your parking space with ease and get going on to your next destination with ample momentum.

The American way of travelling.

The design of the BMW K 1600 Grand America embraces the passion for relaxed, luxurious travel on two wheels that is especially widespread in the USA. For this purpose, the styling developed for the bagger concept of the BMW K 1600 B has been modified and a number of distinctive features have been added. In addition to the dynamically elongated side line that slopes evenly down to the rear, another clearly recognisable feature is the drop-shaped silhouette created from the visual link between the high-rising windshield and the low positioned side cases.

Chrome-plated rear silencers arranged parallel to the road are harmoniously integrated in the elegant, flowing design. The authentic look of the BMW K 1600 Grand America is rounded off with a topcase complete with integrated passenger backrest. In addition to expanded transport capacity, the BMW Grand America offers significantly enhanced travel suitability due to the additional seating comfort for rider and passenger. The topcase is also an instantly recognisable indication of a vehicle concept developed specifically for extended touring.

American style: additional brake light integrated in the topcase.

The design of the BMW K 1600 Grand America is inspired by US custom bikes, and this is also reflected in other details at the rear. An additional brake light integrated in the topcase gives the rear view a distinctive presence. It also visually harmonised with the lights integrated in the side cases, which act as brake lights and turn indicators. All lighting is produced by means of LED units.

Maximum exclusivity: Style Package with paint finish in Austin Yellow metallic and Blackstorm metallic.

As standard, the new BMW K 1600 Grand America is finished in the powerful, elegant colour Blackstorm metallic. In addition to the BMW logo, the vehicle trim also bears a model designation with reference to the engine type. In addition, a high-quality badge is positioned centrally on the fuel tank with the inscription “K 1600 Grand America”.

The Style Package specially created for the BMW Grand America ensures even further enhanced exclusivity. It consists of a two-colour paint finish combining Blackstorm metallic with the highly expressive Austin Yellow metallic, as well as chrome applications on the front wheel trim.

6-cylinder engine with distinctive performance characteristics.

Supreme drive power makes travelling long distances on the new BMW K 1600 Grand America a relaxing pleasure. The latest version of the distinctive BMW Motorrad 6-cylinder engine delivers its performance effortlessly in every situation on the road. The most compact 6-cylinder engine of its kind has an output of 118 kW/160 hp at 7 750 rpm, generating a maximum torque of 175 Nm at 5 250 rpm. In the new BMW Grand America it offers not just the familiar, apparently inexhaustible power reserves but also distinctive performance characteristics. Based on the principle of “The American Way of Riding”, the top speed is limited to 162 km/h or 101 mph. This takes into account the fact that customisation with additional fittings in the rear section – as is popular in this vehicle segment – can impact significantly on wheel load distribution, so in terms of riding dynamics, stability and safety are guaranteed in all situations.

Electronic suspension Dynamic ESA and reverse assist as standard.

In addition to the engine, the standard electronically controlled suspension Dynamic ESA also contributes to the supreme riding qualities of the new BMW Grand America characterised by dynamic performance, comfort and stability. In the standard setting “Road” it provides fully automated damper adaptation, ensuring the very highest level of comfort and excellent traction on virtually all surfaces. What is more, “Cruise” mode can be activated for a very soft damper set-up and pronounced comfort.

Reverse assist, also a standard feature, facilitates manoeuvring of the new BMW Grand America. It is activated by pressing a button on the left-hand handlebar panel. The rider then uses the start button to set the bike in motion.

Relaxed “feet forward” position for long-distance travel.

The relaxed seating position available to rider and passenger is a feature that contributes to the incomparably comfortable ride feel offered by the BMW K 1600 Grand America – even over extremely long distances. The model is fitted as standard with footboards, allowing the rider to adopt a convenient “feet forward” posture. The passenger can also enjoy a comfortable seating position thanks to the low rear frame and a seat height that is reduced by 70 millimetres. Footboards are also available for the passenger as an optional extra.

Perfect weather protection due to high windshield.

The standard equipment of the new BMW Grand America also includes high-quality engine protection bars, heated grips, seat heating, cruise control and a model-specific windshield that is especially high. In conjunction with side trim that reaches a long way to the rear, it ensures perfect protection from wind and other adverse weather conditions. The integrated air ducting elements also supply the rider with fresh air as required. An audio system complete with navigation preparation is another feature on board the new BMW K 1600 Grand America as standard.

Meanwhile the selection of optional equipment items available ex works includes Shift Assistant Pro, the eCall system Intelligent Emergency Call available in European markets with ConnectedDrive capability, the Comfort Package, the Safety Package, various seat heights and forged handlebars. The program of Original BMW Motorrad Accessories enables further customisation.

2018 BMW K1600 Grand America Totalmotorcycle.com Key Features

• Ultimate luxury touring motorcycle in American style.
• Authentic, harmonious design with dynamically elongated side line that slopes to the rear.
• Topcase with integrated passenger backrest and additional transport capacity for particularly long trips.
• Side cases and topcase with integrated lighting units.
• Optional Style Package with two-colour finish in Blackstorm metallic / Austin Yellow metallic.
• 6-cylinder in-line engine that meets EU4 requirements with an output of 118 kW/160 hp at 7 750 rpm and a maximum torque of 175 Nm at 5 250 rpm.
• Top speed limited to 162 km/h or 101 mph.
• Electronic suspension Dynamic ESA with damping modes “ Road ” and “ Cruise ” as standard.
• Reverse assist for effortless manoeuvring as standard.
• Effective weather protection due to particularly high windshield.
• Low rear frame, passenger seat reduced by 70 millimetres and ergonomically adapted footrest position.
• Footboards for relaxed “feet forward” rider seating position as standard.
• Footboards available for passenger as Original BMW Motorrad Accessory.
• Shift Assistant Pro for shifting up and down without clutch activation as an ex works option.
• Intelligent Emergency Call as an ex works option for rapid assistance in an accident or emergency (only available in European markets with ConnectedDrive capability).
• Standard equipment also includes engine protection bars, ABS Pro, Dynamic Traction Control DTC, xenon headlight, heated grips, seat heating, Multi-Controller, three riding modes (Rain, Road, Dynamic), cruise control, audio system with navigation preparation.
• Diverse range of optional equipment items (adaptive turning light, daytime riding light, Keyless Ride, Hill Start Control, central locking etc.).
• Wide range of Original BMW Motorrad Accessories (forged wheels, chrome-plated mirror caps, navigation system etc.)

Shaped by freedom.

There’s no denying it: With the iconic sloping line and the steel silencer parallel to the road, this Bagger luxury touring bike appears to become one with the road. The irresistible front and the striking rear with LED indicators and brakes integrated into the cases makes it stand out from the crowd. In addition to Blackstorm Metallic, the exclusive Austin Yellow Metallic colour represents the vast landscape from sunrise to sunset. The powerful black 6-cylinder design leaves no room for doubt: You’re enjoying your freedom to the max. This is down to the standard black tubular handlebars which are always within reach. The high-quality plates on the machine’s tank proves its purpose – as well as yours: K 1600 Grand America.

6-cylinder in-line engine
Oil-/ watercooled four-stroke in-line six-cylinder engine

1,649cc capacity
175Nm max. torque at 5,250 rpm
750mm seat height (low seat)
125Nm at 1500 rpm, this equals 70% of the max. torque

2018 BMW K1600 Grand America Totalmotorcycle.com Features and Benefits

As an ultimate luxury American-style touring motorcycle, the new BMW K 1600 Grand America combines supreme 6-cylinder performance with outstanding ride comfort as well as exclusive features dedicated to relaxed cruising on long highways that stretch out to the horizon. The new model has the potential to offer both rider and passenger a very high level of comfort even when covering lengthier distances. The fascination of long-distance travel and boundless freedom on two wheels is conveyed by the design of the BMW Grand America.

The American way of travelling.

The new model is based stylistically on the BMW K 1600 B and the special design developed for that model’s bagger concept. The central feature is the drop-shaped silhouette running from the high windshield to the low side cases. This creates a dynamic, elegantly elongated side line that reflects ergonomics geared towards maximum relaxation and ride comfort cultivated to perfection – enabled by the particularly low rear frame, which was already entirely newly developed for the bagger. This also creates the basis for a passenger seat height that is reduced by 70 millimetres.

The chrome-plated rear silencers arranged parallel to the road are harmoniously integrated in the motorcycle’s characteristic lines. The silencers feature additional high-quality trim elements in blasted stainless steel in the area of the catalytic converters.

The topcase: individual look, expanded transport capacity, enhanced comfort.

As a distinctive feature, the BMW K 1600 Grand America is fitted with a topcase complete with integrated passenger backrest. In addition to  expanding transport capacity, this offers enhanced travel comfort and is also an instantly recognisable indication of a vehicle concept developed specifically for extended touring.

Vehicle concept and design.

The side cases are bolted permanently to the rear frame and exhibit an optimised geometry: a particularly deep body and a flat lid make for convenient and effective loading with travel luggage. The topcase is fitted with a singled-handed operation system. After being lowered, the lid remains in position and can then be conveniently closed.

Integrated rear lights in American style.

The design of the BMW K 1600 Grand America is inspired by US custom bikes, and this is also reflected in other design details at the rear. The rear light units consisting of rear light and turn indicators are integrated in the side cases in typical American style. A brake light integrated in the topcase gives the rear view an enhanced presence, as well as harmonising visually with the lights integrated in the side cases. All lighting components feature LED technology. In addition to their high-quality appearance, they also offer a high level of energy efficiency and durability.

High windshield, harmoniously integrated mirrors.

In addition, the hallmark appearance of the new the BMW K 1600 Grand America is especially characterised by its high windshield. In conjunction with side trim that reaches a long way to the rear, the latter provides optimum protection from wind and other adverse weather conditions for both rider and passenger.

The two mirrors also blend in harmoniously with the overall look of the new BMW Grand America. They offer large mirror surfaces with an aspherical section to ensure an optimised view to the rear.

Maximum exclusivity: Style Package with two-colour paint finish.

As standard, the new BMW K 1600 Grand America is finished in the powerful, elegant colour Blackstorm metallic. In addition to the BMW logo, the trim also bears a model designation with reference to the engine type. A high-quality badge is also positioned on the fuel tank with the inscription “K 1600 Grand America”. The Style Package specially created for the new BMW Grand America ensures even further enhanced exclusivity. It consists of a two-colour paint finish combining Blackstorm metallic with the highly expressive Austin Yellow metallic, as well as chrome applications on the front wheel trim.

In addition to the 6-cylinder engine’s spontaneous dynamic performance and unrivalled running smoothness, the exceptionally sophisticated suspension technology of the new BMW K 1600 Grand America also contributes to the model’s outstanding status within the segment of luxury touring bikes. What is more, its technology highlights are combined with a sophisticated underlying concept consisting of a bridge-type frame developed specifically by BMW Motorrad for the 6-cylinder touring bike, modern wheel guidance systems, a low centre of gravity and a balanced wheel load distribution. This combination gives rise to the kind of supremacy that makes every journey an enthusiastically accepted challenge, no matter what the destination and however great the distance.

Supreme power from six cylinders.

As the epitome of supreme power delivery and outstanding running smoothness, the 6-cylinder engine of the new BMW Grand America is the perfect form of propulsion for comfortable cruising over long distances and with large amounts of luggage. From a capacity of 1 649 cc, the 6-cylinder draws a maximum output of 118 kW/160 hp at 7 750 rpm along with a maximum torque of 175 Nm at 5 250 rpm.

What is more, the engine in the new BMW Grand America is by far the lightest and – due to the very reduced cylinder spacing – also the most compact 6- cylinder power unit to be found in a volume production motorcycle in the capacity category over 1000 cc. These excellent figures contribute additionally to the excellent riding dynamics of the new BMW Grand America. Based on the principle of “The American Way of Riding”, the top speed is limited to 162 km/h or 101 mph. This takes into account the fact that customisation with additional fittings in the rear section – as is popular in this vehicle segment – can impact significantly on wheel load distribution, so in terms of riding dynamics, stability and safety are guaranteed in all situations.

Technology and riding experience.

The configuration of drive technology and exhaust gas purification in the new BMW K 1600 Grand America has been geared towards the type test according to the requirements of the EU4 standard. For this reason it has such features as the necessary engine mapping, a fuel system with carbon canister for fuel tank ventilation and an exhaust system with further developed catalytic converters. The dynamically designed end pieces of the exhaust system feature horizontal ribs that visually underscore the model’s distinctive 6-cylinder character.

6-speed gearbox, optionally with Shift Assistant Pro.

Power transmission is via a helically toothed 6-speed gearbox, and the drive torque reaches the rear wheel via a traditional universal shaft. Shift Assistant Pro is optionally available for the new BMW Grand America: this enables most gearshifts to be carried out without using the clutch. This gives the rider additional convenience, while the shorter shift times also boost dynamic performance.

The throttle valve no longer has to be closed using the throttle grip during acceleration, and there is virtually no torque interrupt when changing gear.

When decelerating and shifting down with the throttle valve closed, the engine speed is automatically adapted by means of double-declutching. Gears are engaged as usual by means of the gear pedal. Shift support is only suspended when the clutch is already activated, when shifting up into coasting mode and during deceleration.

Comfortable manoeuvring with reverse assist as standard.

The standard reverse assist facilitates manoeuvring of the BMW Grand America. It is activated by pressing a button on the left-hand handlebar panel. This blocks the forward gear and reverse assist is activated.

The rider then uses the start button to set the bike in motion. Power is provided conveniently by the electric drive of the starter motor, until such time as the starter button is released and reverse assist is deactivated again.

Three riding modes and DTC for top-level comfort and safety.

The three riding modes “Rain”, “Road” and “Dynamic” are available for the rider of the new BMW Grand America to choose from for different purposes. They can be selected by pressing a button at the right-hand end of the handlebars. The traction control function DTC is combined individually with each of the different riding modes and is fully harmonised with them so as to ensure maximum riding safety. The new BMW Grand America is fitted as standard with ABS Pro.

Hill Start Control is available as an option in conjunction with the Safety Package: this system prevents the motorcycle from rolling back when starting on a slope by maintaining the deceleration effect of the brake for about three seconds after release.

High-quality suspension technology, harmonious wheel load distribution.

The well-established underlying concept of the BMW Motorrad 6-cylinder touring motorcycles provides the perfect basis for the dynamic, comfortable and also safe riding response of the new BMW K 1600 Grand America. This particularly includes the high-quality light alloy bridge-type frame and the BMW Motorrad systems Duolever and Paralever for the purpose of wheel guidance at the front and rear. The BMW Grand America also benefits from a low overall centre of gravity with a very favourable concentration of masses and a balanced wheel load distribution for excellent riding properties.

Electronic suspension Dynamic ESA as standard.

In addition to the engine, the standard electronically controlled suspension Dynamic ESA also contributes to the supreme riding qualities of the new BMW Grand America characterised by dynamic performance, comfort and stability. Using various parameters, the different riding states such as acceleration and deceleration are precisely identified so that the damping forces on the front and rear spring strut can be adapted within milliseconds. As a result, excellent damping comfort and a very stable ride response is ensured even in banking position.

In the standard setting “Road”, Dynamic ESA provides fully automated damper adaptation to ensure the very highest level of comfort and excellent traction on virtually all surfaces. The “Road” riding mode provides optimum damping force in all riding states and regardless of load. In addition, the spring preload can be adapted to the load at the press of a button regardless of damping. What is more, “Cruise” mode can be activated for a very soft damper set-up and pronounced comfort.

2018 BMW K1600 Grand America – Totalmotorcycle.com USA Specifications/Technical Details
US MSRP Price: $ USD

2018 BMW K1600 Grand America – Totalmotorcycle.com Canadian Specifications/Technical Details
Canada MSRP Price: $ CDN

2018 BMW K1600 Grand America – Totalmotorcycle.com European Specifications/Technical Details
Europe/UK MSRP Price: £ See Dealer for Pricing in GBP (On The Road inc 20% Vat)

Engine
Capacity cc 1649
Bore/stroke mm 72/67.5
Output kW/hp 118/160 at engine speed rpm 7 750
Torque Nm 175 at engine speed rpm 5 250
Type Series
No. of cylinders 6
Compression/fuel 12.2:1 / Premium unleaded (95 RON)
Valve control Bucket tappets
Valves per cylinder 4
Ø intake/outlet mm 29/24.8
Throttle valve diameter mm 52
Engine control BMS-X
Homologation standard EU4
Electrical system
Alternator W 700
Battery V/Ah 12/19
Headlight Xenon low-beam headlamp
Halogen high-beam headlamp
Starter kW 0.7
Power transmission – gearbox
Clutch Multi-plate wet clutch, hydraulically activated
Gearbox Constant-mesh 6-speed gearbox, helical cut
Primary ratio 1.617
Transmission ratios I 2.230
II 1.641
III 1.319
IV 1.101
V 0.926
VI 0.788
Rear wheel drive Universal shaft, bevel gear
Transmission ratio 2.75
Suspension
Frame construction type Aluminium bridge-type frame, load-bearing engine
Front wheel control BMW Motorrad Duolever
Rear wheel control BMW Motorrad Paralever, central spring strut
Spring travel, front/rear mm 115/125
Wheel castor mm 106.4
Wheelbase mm 1618
Steering head angle ° 62.2

Brakes front Twin disc brake,
Ø 320 mm, radial 4-piston fixed calipers rear Single disc brake, Ø 320 mm, 2-piston floating caliper
ABS BMW Motorrad ABS (partial integral)
Traction control Optional BMW Motorrad DTC

Manufacturer Specifications and appearance are subject to change without prior notice on Total Motorcycle (TMW).