I Don't Understand The 2023 BMW K1600 Bagger...

[@thatwhatisaid]

I spotted this bike online about 5 years ago spot lighting Roland Sands version....I knew I had to have one..I've been Riding Harleys forever.. Covid hit and the supply chain plus recall problems delayed my purchase...this past March I finally pulled the trigger with the encouragement of my wife...couldn't be happier..an unbelievable piece of machinery

[@SamVBikes]

Nice! So glad you're happy with it! It's fantastic. Really took me by surprise

[@eyadalakhras]

So you've stopped, turned off your machine not to jolt the horse, waited the gentleman to pass, then went on... Hats Off Sam Vincent. Hats off.

[@SamVBikes]

Thank you! Always good to give them space and silence!

[@kj385]

Always did the same thing when riding dirt bikes.

[@jbrucksnc]

To respect horses, you are an awesome person

[@kennyoungss]

That move was awesome....enjoyed your video all the way from Phoenix, AZ. , USA

[@SamVBikes]

Thank you!

[@SocalMotoRx]

What a fantastic review. Finally someone gets those RPMs above 2k. Most reviewers short shift it and then say they don’t understand the hype. You actually opened it up and got some lean on it and showed what it can really do.

[@SamVBikes]

Haha thank you! I spent my first hour riding it doing that, then thought I wonder what happens when you open it up! What a machine!

[@glencross4461]

Great review I know exactly how you feel when you ride it I’m on my second one I had a 19 and now I bought the 23 model what a motorcycle you rode the way it should be ridden! I was laughing as much as you were when you twisted the throttle!👍💯🇺🇸😎

[@SamVBikes]

Haha it's addictive isn't it! The dealer had one with a Remus exhaust system on too as a trade-in... THE NOISE WAS SUBLIME!!!

[@thollingsworth4910]

It is sweet music to the ears when you wind it out to 9k. I don't beat on mine but I have given it the beans a handful of times 😁

[@nim205]

BMW dutuned the k1600 to meet emission standards. You need to Brentune it to reverse the castration and understand what a great engine it can be from 1000 rpm and up.

[@bugdr262]

If you don't ride a motorcycle you will never understand the laughs and giggles Sam provides. Great review. Got a new subscriber.

[@SamVBikes]

Haha thank you!

[@pneumaticman5927]

Those giggles are the test - honestly.

[@kevinvandenberg]

I've got a 2018 and have loved every minute of it. I can lean back and ride it almost like a cruiser. I can lean forward and she handles just like a sport bike. The hum of the engine signals its elegant design..secure and confident in its readiness to sprint ahead in a whim. All the while with comfort and style to suit my increasing years. Your giggles said it all. Pure joy and excitement :)

[@SamVBikes]

Haha yes! It's really a wolf in sheep's clothing but also completely usable everywhere! Glad you're enjoying yours and thanks for watching

[@redtela]

I own a 1300 Pan that has developed a few problems, and is getting expensive to keep on the road. So I called my local BMW for a test ride on the RT1250. Just like Sycamore, they couldn't have been more helpful, but I didn't get on with the RT. I actually took a sales bike out rather than the demo. They called me back after about a fortnight with a "so you know, we have the K16 new demo bike in, if you want to take that out?" So I did... I had the same reaction to the K16 as you did. So I now own a K1600 GTL E and rocked up more than 600 miles giggling my butt off within a fortnight of picking the thing up. BMW don't need to try to sell the K16, they just let people take it for a demo ride... I reckon most would buy one after 30 miles in the seat. Best sales tactic ever. And yes, it's the engine that completely sells the bike. On my test ride, I had to park up to verify that the motor was still on, and whatever you ask of it, it just goes "yes sir, certainly sir, would sir like some more speed with that?"

[@SamVBikes]

That sums it up perfectly! I had the RT in Yosemite and although it was a great bike and did everything I asked of it, I didn't really care about handing the keys back. I had the K16 for a few hours and I genuinely didn't want to hand the key back at the end. Absolutely corking bit of kit and really blew my expectations out of the water! Glad you're loving your GTL! Brilliant bike! The engine is something else!

[@franzlyonheart4362]

Did you get the infamous GTL (and B) "speed wobble" one the GTL above 200 km/h? Did you run into the electronic speed reduction at about 225 km/h (ish)? I've been told that only the GT itself has an unlimited engine (meaning, speed limited not electronically but only by the engine power). B, GTL, GA all electronically limited at different speeds.

[@redtela]

@@franzlyonheart4362 nope, I opted for a very top spec GTL E, though I told them I had no interest in the feet boards. It is ECU limited, but I've had it up above the B & GA speed limit with absolutely no issues. My - completely unverified - hypothesis is that the boards act sort of like a wing at high speed, and that turbulent air around the CoG induces the wobble. I also think BMW know that, which is why the B & GA have a lower speed limit. EU regs require a limit up around 189mph, whether or not the bike can get that high.

[@milerale5286]

Would this bike be suitable for going up Stelvio or other steep alpine passes as it looks very low

[@redtela]

@@milerale5286 last time I was there, Stevlio was a paved road - you'd have no trouble on a K16. I have 600m of farm track between my garage and the public roads, relatively flat but bumpy. I've never been worried about it. The K16 is no lower than my ST1300. EDIT to add: I went for an overtake yesterday in light rain and wound the throttle on a little too aggressively... 4th gear around 50mph, and the rear tyre spun up and stepped sideways a little. Completely manageable by simply closing the throttle and reopening. So if you fancy a touring bike that has some teeth, the K16 gets my vote.

[@garymasterson1174]

Had my eye on this as my next bike but the BMW badge, the price and the size are all niggles in the back of my head. However, your electric enthusiasm has helped me make the decision. Thank you, man.

[@SamVBikes]

Definitely worth considering those because it's not a cheap purchase, but oh wow... what a bike! Haha! Glad you enjoyed!

[@wobs5]

Just seen this although it's a year old. I'm a massive fan of BMW straight 6's and straight 6's in general for that matter. I've had M cars, MP cars and even straight 6 diesels. I now have a cooking B58 but just love it for it's smoothness, unobtrusiveness and torque. I looked at the K1600B a while ago and thought I've gotta add that to my bucket list but then thought it's never gonna handle, be crap in traffic and be just too big. You have now awoken that yearning for a straight 6 bike. She who must be obeyed doesn't understand these things so there might be a disturbance coming in the Wob's household. Thanks Sam😁😁😁😁

[@SamVBikes]

😂😂😂 you are most welcome! It's definitely worth a little trip to a dealer if you ask me 😉 Also mildly sad that this was a year ago.. felt like 3 months ago

[@lS-xv6qn]

k 1600 is a bike that makes no sense! it is this huge touring machine that from the looks of it would be a hand full and a truck to ride, hop on and ride it all it wants is more rpm and more lean, its a true marvel of engineering you cant explain one until you have ridden it.

[@SamVBikes]

This is absolutely spot on!

[@jonwise8004]

I had the first and only K1600B in Alaska for 2 years when I bought it new in 2017. I rode this bike until July 2024, and giggled just like you do in this video every time i rode it. LOL! I just traded it for a new 2024 K1600B. Can't wait for the new one to get here. The Bagger is the most amazing bike on the planet, it gets more attention than any bike I have ever riden. Everywhere I go people look at it and ask questions about it. Love my K1600B!!

[@SamVBikes]

Congrats on the new bike!! What a beast they are!!

[@MrGbustamante]

I have a 2012 with 82k miles. It rides like the day it was built. Fantastic bike. Probably the best Ive ridden. I havent ridden a GW yet but thats because I dont want to drop 30k nor do I have room for a 5th bike. I have a GS1200 Adv which is the Jack of all trades and will never sell. Also had a few Harleys. Currently have a custom M8 Road Glide Stage 3 with all the farkles and love that, but its not in the same class as a K1600.

[@SamVBikes]

I give you credit for riding a bike to that mileage! This generation is such a throwaway culture so that's really refreshing to hear! Sounds like you've got some cracking bikes in the garage!

[@btpiercy845]

I’ve had a GT 16 for years and honestly I react the same way as you did anytime I sport ride it…you nailed it with your honest reactions. I’ve been trying to find a replacement for it but nothing exists that is even close…great fun watching you enjoy the beast and ride it well

[@SamVBikes]

Haha it shocked me. Honestly now when people ask me what bike surprised me the most, it's still this. It should not do what it does but I felt so planted on the road! Thanks for watching

[@joseluisruiz8526]

No need to ask about the "feel good factor", right? Sort of evident. 100% with you.

[@SamVBikes]

Haha definitely! It seemed quite boring on the motorway until I got it on those back roads! Sublime thing

[@ScotchKebabson]

I live pretty close to Sycamore and the K1600b is on my shortlist. great to see what its like in my local area, looks like a blast!

[@SamVBikes]

It's a great dealer. The team in there just seem like normal people who want to help, which is really refreshing!

[@Myrune1]

I have my K1600GTL for when I'm feeling like raising some real cane and my Goldwing DCT Tour for when I have some serious miles to lay down. Also, I pull my camper with the Goldwing and my wife prefers the ride on it. I prefer the K1600 for my daily commute and most stuff where I don't have my wife or the camper along.

[@SamVBikes]

Quite the touring duo you have there!!

[@alp3781]

I have owned 2 K. GTLE and Grand America, new. Great machine and fun to ride, AS LONG AS you don’t start with issues. They will be a headache and I mean, a pain in the ass. I had so many issues once they reached around 15-20k, I just could not take it anymore. I sold them and I will Never touch one again. The RT, however is known to be a good choice. I went with a new Goldwing DCT Tour. Will not change it for nothing!!!!! The best machine in my 32 years of riding !!!!!!

[@SamVBikes]

Oh wow! Didn't realise they were prone to issues but I guess it's like any new technical bike! Heard a lot of good reviews of the Goldwing. Need to get my leg over one!

[@alp3781]

@@SamVBikes Some swear by the K. I just think it's a chance you are taking. The repair cost on them can really climb up vs other bikes. You just need to be prepared. Safe ride !!!!!

[@bugsbacon3025]

How do you compare the bagger with the gt version? Which would you choose

[@alp3781]

@@bugsbacon3025 The GT or the GTL are a Sport Touring. The Bagger is a touring bike.

[@thollingsworth4910]

The mighty K1600 Behemoth, i own one and trust me when i say these are one fine machine.

[@SamVBikes]

Haha! I was very pleasantly surprised! Was expecting a heavy, lethargic bike but how I was wrong!

[@TheKnightstar13]

Had two k1600 GTLe's there is nothing close to it's capabilities. It's just mental, still have one, and an R18, just for a little contrast. Glad you love it!

[@SamVBikes]

Complete new appreciation for them! Thanks for watching

[@Eds_PanAm]

of course i have a adv bike, but if i would ever get another "touring" bike, it would be that one, i look at them all the time...i think that is such a cool bike and for what you get for your money!

[@SamVBikes]

Haha yes I agree! If you were doing a lot of long journeys regularly, it would be perfect too!

[@Kornholeeoo]

I understand it. If I ever get another bike, it will be this one. But my HD FatBoy S and my R1250GSA are still fun to ride!

[@TheNecroFrog]

I’m not in the market for a new bike (well, not if the missus asks anyway) but seeing a dealer work with people like yourself makes me way more likely to want to buy from them in the future!

[@SamVBikes]

Agreed! It's so nice to have a group of people who actually care about working with smaller creators and also just a lovely bunch!

[@amcavallaro]

I have the 2019 K1600B GA and it has been by far the greatest bike I’ve owned or riden, More comfortable than my previous ride, 2018 GTL and great style. I can’t tell you how many folks have complimented that they love the style. The B is even nicer style but gives up to case. Get the Remus as it sounds great w or w/o the inserts!

[@SamVBikes]

I genuinely couldn't understand why people bought that style of bike unless they were doing big miles... until I got it on that back road! Unbelievable bit of kit!

[@robertw.1499]

The only thing this bike doesn't have which it should have, is the cruise control with automatic distance keeping. My R18B has it and it's brilliant on long tours. You can fit the GT screen to this K1600.

[@SamVBikes]

I bet that is added next year! That would be ideal

[@gbmaxse]

@samvbikes bmw has been very outspoken about NOT bringing adaptive cruise to the K1600 platform at all. Wild decision

[@gbmaxse]

@@SamVBikes bmw has been very outspoken about NOT bringing adaptive cruise to the K1600 platform at all. Wild decision

[@adamsytsma1681]

Your review makes me want to try riding one again. I went with the Rochet 3 GT & it's hard to find another bike that has the same kind of power delivery, that grunt you love. But the BMW was so smooth & like you said, flick able. Just wish they had better color choices. I would have bought it.

[@SamVBikes]

The rocket is a different beast! I was on this for a good hour before I decided to try riding it a bit more aggressively but it definitely paid off! Agree on the colours, they are seem very 'safe'

[@cribs4551]

Had one and loved it. Was annoyed at myself that I didn’t realise it was advised not to exceed 80mph due to the turbulence from the panniers. Mine would slightly shake its head at 80mph and get worse the faster you went. Still a riot though, it could hustle.

[@SamVBikes]

There's quite a few of those subtle warnings with panniers on bikes that no one talks about! Think there's a similar one on my KTM too

[@Gaz1za21]

You weren't expecting that much power Sam????, 1,600 cc and 6 cylinder was never going to deliver on BHP or Torque was it!!!! LOL

[@SamVBikes]

😂😂 yeah true! Although it felt quicker than an XR at points, but weighs knocking on 150kg more!

[@goodfellas5702]

I needed to see this. I have a K1600B LE and I was thinking of changing it for a 1250RT. I was suffering from 'shiney new object' syndrome. Listening to your reaction was a giant 'cop yerself on man'.........Dear K1600B can you ever forgive me for having impure thoughts...I love you

[@SamVBikes]

😂😂😂 The RT is a brilliant bike but it doesn't have that screaming engine which just makes the K16! Treat her to a set of exhausts to say sorry 😂

[@goodfellas5702]

@@SamVBikes 🤣

[@ashtonmarrero7932]

excellent review mate! you really know how to enjoy the BMW power!

[@SamVBikes]

Thank you bud!

[@onemantwohands5224]

Mate this was so fun to watch !! That new found power laugh though is completely contagious 😂 I had tears of laughter ❤ cheer nd gidday from oz

[@SamVBikes]

Haha thank you mate! Glad you enjoyed it!

[@kohinoore]

Previous gen had a tendency to wobble at triple digit speeds, with panniers being the prime suspects, wonder if this was addressed

[@SamVBikes]

Good question! Not able to legally test that on UK roads. Wonder if they will let me borrow it for a Germany trip haha

[@kohinoore]

@@SamVBikes that would be nice, 6 cyl need that too :)

[@redtela]

I can confirm the 2023 GTL E does not wobble at speeds that would be illegal in the UK. Though it doesn't have the floorboards, so perhaps the GA or B might wobble.

[@darcher5888]

I have the bagger in the US. Yes, it wobbles at 125mph and wobbles in the wind and behind semi-trucks.

[@SocalMotoRx]

It’s common on the Grand America version and a little less so on the Bagger. The GTL and GT don’t have that issue

[@markfromleeds]

Spot on review mate

[@SamVBikes]

Thank you mate!

[@theonlyredspecial]

Nice road manners mate and and equally good bike too. I love the engine. Prefer the gt model personally but all great.

[@SamVBikes]

Thank you! Yeah great bikes aren't they? Need to get my leg over a GT model!

[@jorgemtds]

If you think that's a lot of power you should have tried the Yamaha FJR1300 which is even better. However, the K1600B is better to avoid speed tickets 😉.

[@elvisthewart670]

Top review sam,i was at motorrad preston on Saturday had a demo on 1250 gs trophy and next to it was the k1600 and i thought meh but after seeing this wow what a mwchine.

[@SamVBikes]

Thank you! Yeah it really shocked me... did not see that coming! Have a go on it next time you're in there, but aim straight for those windy B-roads!

[@milerale5286]

I have been riding GS adventures for last 10 years and now fancy a change and quite like the look of that bike. I’m sure it’s very comfy for long journeys but would it be ok going up Stelvio or other alpine passes considering it’s a lot lower that mine GSA

[@jbrucksnc]

I think you got a massive blunder!

[@AGRIV8TD1963]

What's a Bloody Nora!?!? Please explain. I've always wanted to know.😅

[@NooBiker]

That's a great dealership, they've always been very nice and helpful even though I've not bought anything from them... yet! Were you there on the Demo Day? That six cylinder engine is something else, isn't it?

[@SamVBikes]

Agreed! Lovely bunch of people! Yes I was there almost all day! Genuinely such a great engine, thought it would be bland but how wrong I was haha

[@NooBiker]

@@SamVBikes I was there too. Had a ride on the R18. But they wouldn't let anyone film on the demo rides, so the dealership let me take an R1250 RS of theirs on my own 👍

[@SamVBikes]

Ahh nice! Yes I took out the dealership bikes instead of the demo ride ones. They let me take them out for a good few hours which was great!

[@NooBiker]

@@SamVBikes good deal! Maybe catch you at a future event

[@tommys9069]

I'd expect a bloody amazing bike for the price of £24k 😮

[@SamVBikes]

Haha! Mind you... the price of any big bore adventure bike is creeping up to that now. Goldwing over 25k starting. Soon it won't be uncommon to pay over 30k for a bike

[@tommys9069]

@@SamVBikes I know, its crazy, and this is why I only buy second hand bikes now. But on the plus any bike that has gremlins has usually been sorted when bought second hand.

[@SamVBikes]

I dont blame you! It's madness!

[@jonathanwright9269]

You've let the cat out the bag...love mine...😂

[@SamVBikes]

😂😂 was completely shocked by it! A well kept secret haha

[@volodymyrholubets1872]

How does the acceleration / cornering ability feel compared to your KTM 1290 SAS?

[@SamVBikes]

KTM is obviously a lot more aggressive with its power delivery - Front wheel normally doesn't hit the ground until 4th gear etc. The K16 is way more planted so you can actually accelerate harder on it without it getting out of shape. It's not as exciting as the KTM but that's mainly because the KTM brings out your inner child. Cornering is very similar. The KTM feels more sports bike in it's cornering, very much hard on the front brake, over the front wheel, and power out. The K16 corners like something half it's weight, but is very smooth throughout. It definitely shouldn't be able to corner as hard as it does!

[@michaelmclarney1994]

Nice review Sam, that bike looks like a lot of fun to ride, not what I was expecting it to be.

[@SamVBikes]

Totally agree! It really is a wolf in sheep's clothing! New level of respect for that thing!

[@michaelmclarney1994]

@@SamVBikes it would certainly make me think again about the bike and I think I would prefer it to the full tourer version.

[@SamVBikes]

Agreed! For those trips down to the South West, or even up into the highlands, it would be ideal!

[@michaelmclarney1994]

@@SamVBikes it would be great for that, and everyone would see you coming on a bike that big too. I had a rush of blood to the head and agreed a price on a 2019 interceptor on Saturday😀 I just have to figure out how to fit it in the garage and how to juggle the funds to pay for it 😂

[@SamVBikes]

AHHH AMAZING!!! Congratulations mate! Corking bikes they are. Sound lovely too! That has made my morning. So happy for you bud

[@Hamidshili-b8j]

i love this bike ❤ BMW1600 K

[@elithegreat6463]

Proper Review...you rode the Balls off that thing, However, these Bikes can become Money pit's when they're out of warranty.

[@SamVBikes]

Haha thanks! You're right! Although I think that probably stands for any of these big, expensive tourers/adventure bikes

[@TerrorDBN]

Try the H2SX power. Not as comfortable, but it puts the K1600 power to shame....

[@jays9211]

They need to mark a naked version of this

[@SamVBikes]

Haha! Would be nice to see this engine in more bikes!

[@inked-96]

For thr price youd expect it to have the latest tech. It's funny how a 15k Tracer does.

[@theflyingyetti_666]

Nice ent they 😊

[@SamVBikes]

Absolutely unreal!

[@Unclefacts]

Welp, I did something I never thought I'd do, I traded my '19 KTM Superduke GT for this. And it's every bit as bonkers as you show here. This thing can do everything. BMW hit it out of the park with this ride.

[@SamVBikes]

That's a swap I didn't see coming but hopefully it's the right choice for you. It's an incredible bike which is way more capable that people think it is. A lot of fun! Congratulations

[@Unclefacts]

@@SamVBikes I think it was your maniacal laughter that did it for me. Anything that fun has to be good.

[@jorgemtds]

That's the stock handlebar.

[@aridlington2782]

Owned one in 2018 its quick up to the speed restrictor 118mph actual It will barely rev out in 4th gear what a joke. I needed to sue the dealer to get my money back. I bought a 1600gt now that goes how a 1650cc six should. The grand america even worse i believe its restricted to 100mph😢

[@SamVBikes]

I'm really shocked they still limit that low! I can understand the 155mph that most powerful cars are limited to, but 100!! That's silly low

[@chrisi970]

🚀 ❤

[@Cartsp70]

Happy new year 🎉Great review on a fantastic bike, I had one for 6 months! The reverse gear is nice 👌🏽 on the motorway it’s an absolute beast , the only worry for me was the chance of it falling if you don’t get your foot down properly , luckily was ok 👍🏾

[@SamVBikes]

Happy new year to you too! It's a brilliant bike and I really enjoyed it!

[@MrApplebumPS]

Lose the big heavy bikes. Waste of time. You want the 2024 S1000 XR M

[@SamVBikes]

Massively depends on the rider and what they are doing with the bike. Weekend riders and track riders, sure, but crossing a continent on an M1000XR is going to be pretty painful after a while. Thin seat, barely any wind protection, higher fuel consumption, higher revving engine and more aggressive riding position. So they both have their places in the market

[@MrApplebumPS]

I somewhat agree. Test rode the XR yesterday and loved the bike. I agree that long distance riding will be a bit painful on her but the high position windscreen shielded me nicely at high speeds. Got her up to 110 in a flash and felt no buffeting at all. She was smooth as silk. The bike stock lacks the sporty character that I like though. There are ways to make her more comfortable for long distance though. Taller seat and an air pad will do the trick.

[@JaySalvoUK]

hmm, you're turning into a bit of a BMW fanboy🤣

[@SamVBikes]

😂😂

[@peterchivers6312]

Hilarious. So you liked it? 😂

[@SamVBikes]

It was alright 😂😂

[@bronzestarvue]

I just don't get bikes like that. Those handlebars are ridiculous, that info screen is huge, I'd just drive a car instead. That defines a barcalounger on wheels...

[@SamVBikes]

Haha! You can't enjoy a car this much in the mountains for the same money though!

[@AGRIV8TD1963]

I know you're speaking English, but if I didn't have closed captioning on, I wouldn't understand you.😢

[@wilsonmercado2287]

Gold wing is 1,000 times much better

[@SamVBikes]

I'll have to try it

[@m.f.m.67]

He would have left any Goldwing in the dust!

[@wilsonmercado2287]

But he has two be all the time, in the mecanic, the goldwing is more reliable by billiones of time,, BMW are like herleys, a pain in the ass

[@joebang1153]

Ain’t no harley

[@SamVBikes]

That's the point

[@joebang1153]

@@SamVBikes you have no point, soulless piece of euro plastic

[@CorwinYoutube]

Thank goodness more manufacturers are challenging Harley with "bagger" style bikes.

[@davidmann2988]

Thank God

[@darkMoon202]

This was like a fun, funny and exciting masterpiece movie, we had fun watching it, thank you. Love gratings from Alanya Turkey. The harsh reality of the incident is that we will never, ever be able to buy this engine in Turkey. Because the Turkish government imposes more taxes on everything it does not produce than the producers, and middle-class and lower-class people can never, ever buy such motorcycles. Anyway, this was the most entertaining and realistic motorcycle review video I've watched recently 😂🙏❤️

[@SamVBikes]

Haha thank you! Glad you enjoyed the video! Yeah agreed. I think there a lot of countries where a bike like this just doesn't make sense. Import costs and general cost of buying would put it out of the reach for a lot of countries!

[@stewartjking4351]

Loved my K1600 will defo have another 👍

[@Cartsp70]

The faster you go the more the bike will send the wind to your back and push you forward 😂it’s a bit weird at high speeds but it’s ok 👍🏾

[@philibert6754]

No back push , by returwind with top case on k1600gt and gtl and why black windscreens , I prefer gt model