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BMW K 1600 B - who would have expected it?

A 6-cylinder bagger from the Munich Manufacturer... a 160 HP "low rider"

Moto - News: BMW K 1600 B - who would have expected it?

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Intermot 2016 has just come to an end, and there is news galore! One of the most... extravagant new products is definitely the new BMW K 1600 B, a six-cylinder bagger. It is the fullest expression of the "American Grand Touring" concept, in other words, a bike designed and built for American motorcycle touring on endless roads, motorways, freedom. A powerful bike, thanks to its declared 160 HP that follows the "Concept 101" seen in 2015 at the Villa d'Este Concours d’Elegance. Powerful, luxurious, all with a disarming aggressiveness and a "total black" look.

"LOW RIDE" DESIGN - The bagger is low, almost clumsy, squashed, and BMW Motorrad took the inspiration from a drop of water for this bike’s shape. The highest point is the front panel with an elongated and rear-sloped shape, all brought together with the built-in side panniers that house the LED taillights. The silencers are new, completely chromed and running parallel to the bike. In short, a flat and elongated bike that no one would ever have expected just now! To "connect" the bags, there is a  fold-up mudguard on the rear for easy wheel removal. The panniers also have a flat top. The front is like the K 1600 GT with slightly revamped lines, but still ultra-protective and of course with the deflectors to protect the rider’s hands. The mirrors have been repositioned and are now next to the Plexiglas. The footpegs have been repositioned for a more "custom" ride.

ESA - The adjustable ESA dynamic system as standard equipment is a given. The electronic ESA suspension and its "Road" and "Cruise" settings allow the rider to enjoy the German bagger on various types of roads. As with the new K 1600 GT, here we also have a reverse gear that can be activated from the handlebar and the Assistant Pro system for clutchless up and downshifting is included as well.

So, are 160 HP of "relaxation" enough? Maximum torque? 175 Nm at 5250 rpm, a tractor-trailer. All low (the passenger’s seat is at -7 cm) and within... leg’s reach. BMW Motorrad has not had a custom bike in the showroom for years. The last one, for those who remember it, was the R 1200 C. This is a great comeback, in every sense of the word, that we will see at EICMA 2016. Prices to be determined.

Translated by Jonathan Blosser
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