2021 BMW K 1600 GTL Specifications

Name: 2021 BMW K 1600 GTL
Brand: BMW

Custom / cruiser • Specs last verified 31 October 2026

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2021 BMW K 1600 GTL Overview

The 2021 BMW K 1600 GTL is a custom / cruiser motorcycle built around 1649 cc of displacement. Under the tank sits an Inline 6 engine running DOHC valve actuation, a compression ratio of 12.2:1. The bore and stroke measures 72 x 67.5 mm. 2021 BMW K 1600 GTL delivers 118 kW @ 7750 rpm of peak power and 175 Nm @ 5250 rpm of torque. The factory-quoted top speed stands at 220 km/h, making it a capable performer in its class. From a practical standpoint, the 2021 K 1600 GTL tips the scales at 348 kg, carries a 26.5 l fuel tank, offers a seat height of 750 mm and spans a 1680 mm wheelbase. That's roughly 67.2 kg heavier than the average custom / cruiser motorcycle in our database. Scroll down for the complete 2021 BMW K 1600 GTL spec sheet covering every technical detail from suspension travel to tyre sizes.

2021 BMW K 1600 GTL compared with other bikes in the Custom / cruiser category

Here is how the 2021 BMW K 1600 GTL stacks up against other bikes in the Custom / cruiser category in our database. Each model counts once, using the model year closest to this one, and the comparison covers up to 1053 models.

Torque of 175 Nm is higher than that of 1017 of the other 1052 bikes in the Custom / cruiser category.
Only 33 of the other 614 bikes in the Custom / cruiser category have a higher power output than the 118 kW of the K 1600 GTL.
With 339 W/kg, the K 1600 GTL has the joint 33rd highest power-to-weight ratio of 333 bikes in the Custom / cruiser category, 58% above the category average of 215 W/kg.
Narrowing the field to the 396 models within five model years of it, the torque of 175 Nm is higher than that of 376 of the other 395.

Versus the 2020 model

The figures we track are unchanged from the 2020 model: peak power, peak torque, wet weight, displacement and seat height all match.

2021 K 1600 GTL - Pros & Cons

Strengths

Strong power output: 2021 BMW K 1600 GTL makes 118 kW @ 7750 rpm with 175 Nm @ 5250 rpm of torque - competitive figures for its class.
Strong front braking: The disc front brake gives excellent stopping power and responds well to aftermarket braided lines.
Accessible seat height: At 750 mm, the seat height is approachable for a wide range of rider heights and builds confidence in low-speed manoeuvring.
Large fuel range: The 26.5 l tank is generously sized, translating to extended range between stops - ideal for touring or longer commutes.
Low-maintenance final drive: Shaft final drive means no chain to clean, lube or adjust - meaningfully less routine maintenance than a chain-driven equivalent.

Considerations

Age-related wear: As with any used K 1600 GTL, a thorough pre-purchase inspection covering consumables, service history and tyres is always recommended.

Wear Points & Servicing Notes

Cooling system servicing

The Liquid cooled system on the K 1600 GTL needs a coolant change roughly every two years (or per the service schedule) - skipping it lets the coolant turn acidic and corrode the aluminium water passages over time.

Valve clearance checks

DOHC valve actuation on the K 1600 GTL means clearances should be checked at the manufacturer's specified interval - they can tighten as mileage accumulates, and a light top-end tick is usually the first sign.

Brake disc and pad wear

The disc front brake gives strong, progressive stopping power. Disc thickness and pad depth are worth checking at every tyre change, since worn pads can score the disc surface.

Suspension condition on used examples

Up front, the K 1600 GTL runs Dual longitudinal control arm, Dynamic ESA semi-active suspension and Paralever at the rear. On a used example, check fork seals for weeping oil and test the rear linkage for play - seals are a relatively cheap fix but useful when negotiating price.

Final drive maintenance

Final drive is by shaft - no chain or belt maintenance at all, though the drive-shaft oil should be changed on the manufacturer's interval.

Frame & chassis check

The frame is Bridge-type frame, cast aluminium, load-bearing engine - worth a visual check for corrosion or impact damage around the head-stock and swingarm pivot on any used example, since frame damage is far costlier to fix than any service item.

Handling the weight at a standstill

At 348 kg, the K 1600 GTL is a substantial machine - low-speed manoeuvring in car parks takes more physical effort than on a lighter bike, though the weight disappears once rolling.

K 1600 GTL - Buying & Maintenance Guide

What to check before buying

When inspecting a used 2021 BMW K 1600 GTL with its 1649 cc custom / cruiser, start with the basics: check the service book for oil change frequency, inspect the drivetrain for wear, and look for oil seepage around the engine casings and rocker covers. This model runs shaft final drive, so ask for proof the shaft-drive gear oil has been changed on schedule - it's easy to overlook since there's no chain to draw attention to it. Now 5 years old, this custom / cruiser is as likely to show age-related wear (perished rubber, seized fasteners, degraded seals) as mileage-related wear. A cold start test is invaluable - a well-maintained K 1600 GTL should fire up cleanly and settle to a smooth idle within a few seconds.

Oil and filter changes

Regular oil changes are the single most important maintenance task for the K 1600 GTL's 1649 cc inline 6. Stick to the manufacturer's interval - typically every 6,000 km or once a year, whichever comes first. With a 12.2:1 compression ratio, running the octane grade specified in the manual matters more than on a lower-compression engine. Always use the correct viscosity grade as specified in the owner's manual.

Carburetor upkeep

Keep the carburetors clean and free of deposits. If the K 1600 GTL has been stored, strip and clean the carb float bowls before attempting to start it. Pilot jets are the first to block and the last to be checked - always include them in any carb rebuild.

Valve clearance service

Check that valve clearances have been adjusted at the correct intervals on any used K 1600 GTL. A bike with clearances out of spec doesn't always feel obviously wrong - but tight clearances accelerate valve seat wear. Ask for service documentation proving it's been done.

2021 BMW K 1600 GTL - Frequently Asked Questions

What engine does the 2021 BMW K 1600 GTL have?

The 2021 BMW K 1600 GTL uses an Inline 6 engine with 1649 cc of displacement. It is liquid cooled.

What is the top speed of the 2021 BMW K 1600 GTL?

The 2021 BMW K 1600 GTL has a factory-quoted top speed of 220 km/h. Real-world speeds vary depending on rider weight, conditions and state of tune.

How much does the 2021 BMW K 1600 GTL weigh?

The 2021 BMW K 1600 GTL weighs 348 kg. This is the manufacturer's wet figure.

How much power does the 2021 BMW K 1600 GTL make?

The 2021 BMW K 1600 GTL produces 118 kW @ 7750 rpm of power and 175 Nm @ 5250 rpm of torque. These are peak figures.

What is the fuel tank capacity of the 2021 BMW K 1600 GTL?

The 2021 BMW K 1600 GTL has a 26.5 l fuel tank. At around 5-6 litres per 100 km, that is roughly 441-530 km between stops.

Is the 2021 BMW K 1600 GTL suitable for shorter riders?

The 2021 BMW K 1600 GTL has a seat height of 750 mm. This is a comfortable, accessible height for most riders.

What brakes does the 2021 BMW K 1600 GTL have?

The 2021 BMW K 1600 GTL uses 2 x 320mm discs, 4 piston calipers at the front and single 320mm disc, 2 piston caliper at the rear.

What tyre sizes does the 2021 BMW K 1600 GTL use?

The 2021 BMW K 1600 GTL runs 120/70 ZR17 front and 190/55 ZR17 rear tyres. A good selection of sport, touring and all-weather rubber is available in these sizes.

What gearbox does the 2021 BMW K 1600 GTL have?

The 2021 BMW K 1600 GTL is fitted with a Constant-mesh 6-speed gearbox, helical cut transmission.

BMW K 1600 GTL Spec Evolution

The BMW K 1600 GTL was produced across 9 model years (2011-2022). The table below highlights the key specifications that changed across the production run - useful whether you are comparing years or tracking down a specific variant.

Specification	2011	2012	2013	2014	2015	2018	2020	2021	2022
Max Power	118 kW / 160.5 hp @ 7750 rpm	118 kW / 160.5 hp @ 7750 rpm	118 kW / 160.5 hp @ 7750 rpm	118 kW / 160.5 hp @ 7750 rpm	118 kW / 160.5 hp @ 7750 rpm	118 kW / 160.5 hp @ 7750 rpm	118 kW / 160.5 hp @ 7750 rpm	118 kW / 160.5 hp @ 7750 rpm	118 kW / 160 hp @ 6750 rpm
Wet Weight	348 kg / 768 lbs	348 kg / 768 lbs	348 kg / 768 lbs	348 kg / 768 lbs	348 kg / 768 lbs	348 kg / 767 lbs	348 kg / 767 lbs	348 kg / 767 lbs	358 kg / 789.2 lbs
Dry Weight	321 kg / 708 lbs	321 kg / 708 lbs	321 kg / 708 lbs	321 kg / 708 lbs	321 kg / 708 lbs	321 kg / 707.7 lbs	321 kg / 707.7 lbs	321 kg / 707.7 lbs	-
Engine Type	-	Inline 6	Inline 6	Inline 6	Inline 6	Inline 6	Inline 6	Inline 6	Transverse Inline 6
Seat Height	810 - 830 mm / 31.9 - 32.7 in (standard) 780 - 800 mm / 30.7 - 31.5 in(optional rider seat) 750 mm / 29.5 in (special accessory seat, single-section)	810 - 830 mm / 31.9 - 32.7 in (standard) 780 - 800 mm / 30.7 - 31.5 in(optional rider seat) 750 mm / 29.5 in (special accessory seat, single-section)	810 - 830 mm / 31.9 - 32.7 in (standard) 780 - 800 mm / 30.7 - 31.5 in(optional rider seat) 750 mm / 29.5 in (special accessory seat, single-section)	810 - 830 mm / 31.9 - 32.7 in (standard) 780 - 800 mm / 30.7 - 31.5 in(optional rider seat) 750 mm / 29.5 in (special accessory seat, single-section)	810 - 830 mm / 31.9 - 32.7 in (standard) 780 - 800 mm / 30.7 - 31.5 in(optional rider seat) 750 mm / 29.5 in (special accessory seat, single-section)	750 mm / 29.5 in If adjustable, lowest setting	750 mm / 29.5 in If adjustable, lowest setting	750 mm / 29.5 in If adjustable, lowest setting	750 - 800 mm / 29.5 - 31.4 in (standard)
Frame Type	Chill-cast rear frame, aluminium, extruded sections	Chill-cast rear frame, aluminium, extruded sections	Chill-cast rear frame, aluminium, extruded sections	Chill-cast rear frame, aluminium, extruded sections	Chill-cast rear frame, aluminium, extruded sections	Bridge-type frame, cast aluminium, load-bearing engine	Bridge-type frame, cast aluminium, load-bearing engine	Bridge-type frame, cast aluminium, load-bearing engine	Bridge-type frame, cast aluminium, load-bearing engine
Displacement	1649 cc / 100.6 cu in.	1649 cc / 100.6 cu in.	1649 cc / 100.6 cu in.	1649 cc / 100.6 cu in.	1649 cc / 100.6 cu in.	1649 cc / 100.6 cu in.	1649 cc / 100.6 cu in.	1649 cc / 100.6 cu-in	1649 cc / 100.6 cu-in
Wheelbase	1680 mm / 66.1 in	1680 mm / 66.1 in	1680 mm / 66.1 in	1680 mm / 66.1 in	1680 mm / 66.1 in	1680 mm / 66.1 in	1680 mm / 66.1 in	1680 mm / 66.1 in	1618 mm / 63.7 in

Key Specifications

Engine

Inline 6

Power

118 kW / 160.5 hp @ 7750 rpm

Torque

175 Nm / 17.8 kgf-m / 129 lb-ft @ 5250 rpm

Top Speed

220 km/h

Weight

348 kg / 767 lbs

Fuel Capacity

26.5 l

Full 2021 BMW K 1600 GTL Specifications

Year 2021

Make BMW

Model K 1600 GTL

Make Model BMW K 1600 GTL

Seat Height 750 mm / 29.5 in If adjustable, lowest setting

Wheelbase 1680 mm / 66.1 in

Height 1465 mm / 57.7 in

Length 2489 mm / 98.0 in

Width 1000 mm / 39.4 in

Fuel Capacity (l) 26.5 l

Fuel Capacity (gal.) 7.0 gal

Dry Weight 321 kg / 707.7 lbs

Fuel Capacity 26.5 Litres / 7.0 US gal

Wet Weight 348 kg / 767 lbs

Maximum RPM 8500 RPM

Top Speed (km/h) 220 km/h

Top Speed (mph.) 137 mph

Max Power 118 kW / 160.5 hp @ 7750 rpm

Max Torque 175 Nm / 17.8 kgf-m / 129 lb-ft @ 5250 rpm

Fuel Reserve (l) 4.0 l

Fuel Reserve (gal.) 1.1 gal

Stroke 67.5 mm

Bore x Stroke (mm) 72.0 x 67.5 mm

Bore x Stroke (in,) 2.83 x 2.66 in

Displacement (cc) 1649 cc

Displacement (ci) 100.6 cu-in

Engine Type Inline 6

Fuel Control DOHC

Displacement 1649 cc / 100.6 cu-in

Engine Detail Four stroke, transverse six cylinder, 4 valves per cylinder

Bore x Stroke 72 x 67.5 mm

Compression Ratio 12.2:1

Cooling System Liquid cooled

Fuel Induction 52mm Throttle valve diameter, BMS-X

Fuel Reserve 4 Litres / 1.1 US gal

Fuel Type Premium unleaded (95 RON)

Ignition Digital CDI

Starter Electric

Battery Capacity 12 V / 19 Ah maintenance free

Clutch Multiplate wet clutch, hydraulically activated

Final Drive Shaft

Gear Ratios 1st 2.23 / 2nd 1.641 / 3rd 1.319 / 4th 1.101 / 5th 0.926 / 6th 0.788

Transmission / Drive Constant-mesh 6-speed gearbox, helical cut

Frame Type Bridge-type frame, cast aluminium, load-bearing engine

Suspension - Front Dual longitudinal control arm, Dynamic ESA semi-active suspension (road and dynamic modes)

Suspension - Rear Paralever (single-sided swing arm), central spring strut, rebound/continuously variable, Dynamic ESA semi-active suspension (road and dynamic modes)

Steering Head Angle 62.2°

Trail 108.4 mm / 4.3 in

Wheel Travel - Front 115 mm / 4.9 in

Wheel Travel - Rear 135 mm / 5.3 in

Tachometer Standard

Alternator W 700

Brakes - Front Diameter (mm) 320 mm

Brakes - Front Diameter (in.) 12.6 in

Brakes - Rear Diameter (mm) 320 mm

Brakes - Rear Diameter (in.) 12.6 in

Brakes - Front 2 x 320mm discs, 4 piston calipers

Brakes - Rear Single 320mm disc, 2 piston caliper

ABS BMW Motorrad ABS (partial integral)

Rims - Front 3.0 x 17

Rims - Rear 6.00 x 17

Tyres - Front 120/70 ZR17

Tyres - Rear 190/55 ZR17

Wheels Cast aluminium wheels

Specifications are compiled from manufacturer documentation and cross-referenced technical sources, and corrected on an ongoing basis. Spot an error? Let us know.