I quick note while downing a cup of lunchtime tea. This evening I'm supposed to be heading out on a BMW K1600 GT. The transition from the Vespa to a motorcycle is always sort of strange. This one will prove to be a bigger leap than usual. To help relax into it I looked to YouTube for some vicarious experience. About half way through you can see the motorcycle on the road. Looks like it handles as well as my Vespa.
I'll let you know what I think.
19 comments:
Wow. Awesome bike. I'm extremely envious of you at the moment. This bike has received glowing reviews.
I think this is the one Mr Riepe lusts after....
dom
After watching the video a couple of times, I spotted the similarity to the Vespa. It was both are able to pass cyclists going uphill.
Have fun...
Steve:
I can't imagine owning such a huge beast. The engine is twice the size it needs to be.
Just make sure the kickstand is down before you park it
I would rather have your GTS
bob
Riding the Wet Coast
ps: Richard, Jack wants the 2003 K1200GT (I think)
I am with bobskoot.
It makes me sad that there's no room at BMW for the category that bikes like the R27, R60, and R65 used to occupy. I'm sure this is a well-engineered, durable, worthwhile machine, but a range of bikes should have a high end and a low end, and the F-series low end isn't all that low anymore.
If it wasn't for the Suzuki TU250, I don't think I'd have any motorcycle aspirations at all these days.
I'm also hugely envious. I've heard nothing but wonderful things about that machine. The Germans are out stomping balls this year between that machine and the 1000RR they've produced. I'm waiting for my boys over at Honda to respond, but a 10-year-old platform on the Goldwing just won't hold up to this.
Brady
Behind Bars - Motorcycles and Life
http://www.behindbarsmotorcycle.com/
A friend of mine rode one and says he is now planning to buy one so I may get to rest ride this machine myself. Naturally being a Triumph man I am waiting to see what the proposed new Trophy Triple Tourer will be like...
At least testing a k1600 we know there is no chance of actually wanting one!
Keith: First, I need to correct an error. I've been riding the K1600 GTL instead of the GT. The GTL is the luxury touring model with a big topcase on the back.
I have to say it is a unique machine. Will start working on a review when I finish up with the bike.
Charlie6: I can see Mr. Riepe with it. Power, power and more power. Cruising all day at 90mph? No problem.
RichardM: Hah! I passed two or three bikes just this morning on the K1600.
bobskoot: It is a big bike. Or at least seems that way. That bigness dissolved after a short time on the road. I'll have a lot to say about that when I finally write the review.
Joe Wall: Having ridden the F650 GS a number of times I think I understand what you are saying about it not being that low. It is one powerful motorcycle.
A BMW F450A (airhead) would be nice!
Schnarpsel: I'll try and address the size issues when I write my review. It is definitely a big switch between it and my Vespa!
Dear Mr. Williams:
I'm sure you will make the transition from the Vespa to the K1600GTL without a problem. It is the return transition I worry about. While the K1600 GLT will never have the ease and convenience of the Vespa, it is likely to tach you that ease and convenience do not produce life's thrills.
Enough of this playing hard to get. Just throw in the towel and buy one of these things.
No dealer in their right mind would let me ride one of these things.
Fondes regards,
Jack • reep • Toad
Twisted Roads
Brady: I'm still surprised at my good fortune that Craig Kissell has allowed me to test ride some many motorcycles. Thousands of miles of fun.
The mechanical operation of the K1600 feels flawless. I'll post my non-technical person reflections on this in the review.
Honda is probably at the drawing board figuring out if they need to respond.
conchscooter: The K1600 would be a nice way for you to commute. More power than you would need but as close to riding in a car as you can get and still be on a motorcycle.
Maybe that's not so great...
Mr. Riepe: I think you will succumb to purchasing a new BMW before I do and this is the one for you. Imagine rides that used to take three hours on the K75 would be reduced to 90 minutes on the GTL. And the turbine like sound of the engine would have everyone clearing a path for your approach.
No need to test ride. Just buy one.
My buddy Giovanni took a hundred mile test ride and is ready to give up his 1200 GT twin for a water cooled BMW. If he gets it before I see him this summer I look forward to a test ride myself...But I'm sticking with my Bonneville.
The K is getting to be like a Gold Wing... except in this case it's half of a BMW 1-series instead of half of an Accord...
__Orin
Scootin' Old Skool
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