BMW R 1250 RT 2021 vs. BMW K 1600 GT 2022

BMW R 1250 RT 2021

BMW R 1250 RT 2021

BMW K 1600 GT 2022

BMW K 1600 GT 2022

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Overview - BMW R 1250 RT 2021 vs BMW K 1600 GT 2022

The BMW R 1250 RT 2021 and the BMW K 1600 GT 2022 are both touring motorcycles with their own unique features and specifications.

Starting with the engine and drive train, the R 1250 RT 2021 is equipped with a Boxer engine that delivers 136 HP of power and 143 Nm of torque. On the other hand, the K 1600 GT 2022 features an In-line engine with a higher power output of 160.5 HP and torque of 180 Nm. Both motorcycles have a transmission system using a prop shaft, ensuring smooth power delivery to the wheels. However, the K 1600 GT 2022 has an advantage in terms of engine displacement, with a larger 1649ccm compared to the R 1250 RT's 1254ccm.

In terms of suspension, the R 1250 RT 2021 comes with a Telelever front suspension and a single swing arm rear suspension with a monoshock. On the other hand, the K 1600 GT 2022 features a Duolever front suspension and a Paralever rear suspension, also equipped with a monoshock. Both motorcycles offer a stable and comfortable ride, with the K 1600 GT 2022 having an advantage in terms of suspension adjustability.

BMW R 1250 RT 2021

BMW R 1250 RT 2021

When it comes to braking, both motorcycles are equipped with double disk brakes at the front with a diameter of 320mm, ensuring excellent stopping power.

In terms of advanced rider assistance systems, both motorcycles offer ABS, riding modes, combined brake systems, and traction control. The K 1600 GT 2022 has additional features such as electronically adjustable suspension, cruise control, and ride by wire technology.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the R 1250 RT 2021 has a front tire width of 120mm and a rear tire width of 180mm, while the K 1600 GT 2022 has a slightly wider rear tire width of 190mm. Both motorcycles have a wheelbase that provides stability during high-speed riding. The seat height of the R 1250 RT 2021 ranges from 805mm to 825mm, while the K 1600 GT 2022 has a seat height ranging from 810mm to 830mm. The kerb weight of the R 1250 RT 2021 is 279kg, while the K 1600 GT 2022 is heavier at 343kg. Both motorcycles have a fuel tank capacity that provides a good range for long-distance touring.

In terms of equipment, both motorcycles come with LED daytime running lights, LED headlights, sound systems, TFT displays, and adjustable windscreens. The K 1600 GT 2022 offers additional features such as connectivity, a case system, cornering lights, and an electronically adjustable windscreen. The K 1600 GT 2022 also integrates smartphone connectivity and map navigation via the BMW Connected App.

BMW K 1600 GT 2022

BMW K 1600 GT 2022

Now, let's discuss the strengths and weaknesses of each motorcycle. The R 1250 RT 2021 excels in wind and weather protection, thanks to its superb design. It also has a powerful boxer engine and well-designed controls. The integrated panniers provide ample storage space, and the motorcycle remains stable even at high speeds. However, it can be slightly cumbersome to maneuver, and some users have reported stiffness in the topcase lock and gearshifts at low revs.

On the other hand, the K 1600 GT 2022 stands out for its surprising performance as a sports tourer. It has a smooth engine with great response, and despite its imposing appearance, it is accessible and easy to use. The headlight technology and display are top-notch, providing excellent visibility. The smartphone integration and map navigation add convenience to the riding experience. The motorcycle strikes a good balance between stability and handling, with good brakes and a stable chassis. However, there are some weaknesses to consider, such as occasional issues with the mobile phone connection, lack of backlit buttons and switches in the cockpit, and wind protection that may not be perfectly solved, resulting in a draughty feeling while riding. Additionally, the lack of adaptive cruise control may be disappointing for some riders, and the mobile phone compartment can snag larger phones.

In conclusion, both the BMW R 1250 RT 2021 and the BMW K 1600 GT 2022 are capable touring motorcycles with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. The R 1250 RT 2021 offers a great wind and weather protection, powerful engine, and well-designed controls, while the K 1600 GT 2022 provides surprising performance, smooth engine response, and excellent technology integration. Riders should consider their specific preferences and priorities when choosing between these two models.

Technical Specifications BMW R 1250 RT 2021 compared to BMW K 1600 GT 2022

BMW R 1250 RT 2021
BMW K 1600 GT 2022

Engine and Drive Train

Engine typeEngine typeBoxerEngine typeIn line
BoreBore102.5 mmBore72 mm
StrokeStroke76 mmStroke67.5 mm
Engine powerEngine power136 HPEngine power160.5 HP
Rpm at Max. PowerRpm at Max. Power7,750 rpmRpm at Max. Power6,750 rpm
TorqueTorque143 NmTorque180 Nm
Rpm at TorqueRpm at Torque6,250 rpmRpm at Torque5,250 rpm
Compression RatioCompression Ratio12.5 Compression Ratio12.2
Fuel systemFuel systemInjectionFuel systemInjection
StarterStarterElectricStarterElectric
Clutch TypeClutch TypeAntihoppingClutch TypeMultiplate in oil-bath
TransmissionTransmissionProp shaftTransmissionProp shaft
Transmission TypeTransmission TypeGearshiftTransmission TypeGearshift
Number of gearsNumber of gears6Number of gears6
CylindersCylinders2Cylinders6
StrokesStrokes4-StrokeStrokes4-Stroke
Valves per cylinderValves per cylinder4Valves per cylinder4
ValvesValvesDOHCValvesDOHC
CoolingCoolingliquid-airCoolingliquid
DisplacementDisplacement1,254 ccmDisplacement1,649 ccm

Suspension Front

Front suspensionFront suspensionTeleleverFront suspensionDuolever
TravelTravel120 mmTravel115 mm

Suspension Rear

SuspensionSuspensionSingle swing armSuspensionParalever
Shock absorberShock absorberMonoshockShock absorberMonoshock
TravelTravel136 mmTravel135 mm
MaterialMaterialAluminiumMaterialAluminium

Chassis

FrameFrameSteelFrameAluminium
RakeRake64.1 degreeRake62.2 degree
TrailTrail116 mmTrail106.4 mm

Brakes Front

TypeTypeDouble diskTypeDouble disk
DiameterDiameter320 mmDiameter320 mm
PistonPistonFour pistonsPistonFour pistons
ActuationActuationHydraulicActuationHydraulic

Brakes Rear

TypeTypeDiscTypeDisc
DiameterDiameter276 mmDiameter320 mm
PistonPistonDouble pistonPistonDouble piston
Shock mountShock mountFloating caliperShock mountFixed caliper

Assistance Systems

Advanced Rider Assistance SystemsAdvanced Rider Assistance SystemsABS, Anti-slipping control, Riding modes, Combined Brake System, Cornering ABS, Ride by Wire, Traction controlAdvanced Rider Assistance SystemsABS, Suspension electronically adjustable, Riding modes, Combined Brake System, Ride by Wire, Cruise control, Traction control

Dimensions and Weights

Front tyre widthFront tyre width120 mmFront tyre width120 mm
Front tyre heightFront tyre height70 %Front tyre height70 %
Front tyre diameterFront tyre diameter17 inchFront tyre diameter17 inch
Rear tyre widthRear tyre width180 mmRear tyre width190 mm
Rear tyre heightRear tyre height55 %Rear tyre height55 %
Rear tyre diameterRear tyre diameter17 inchRear tyre diameter17 inch
LengthLength2,222 mmLength2,324 mm
WidthWidth985 mmWidth1,000 mm
WheelbaseWheelbase1,485 mmWheelbase1,618 mm
Seat HeightSeat Height805 mmSeat Height810 mm
Seat Height up toSeat Height up to825 mmSeat Height up to830 mm
Kerb Weight (with ABS)Kerb Weight (with ABS)279 kgKerb Weight (with ABS)343 kg
Fuel Tank CapacityFuel Tank Capacity25 lFuel Tank Capacity26.5 l
License compliancyLicense compliancyALicense compliancyA

Equipment

EquipmentEquipmentLED daytime running lights, LED-Headlights, Sound System, TFT display, Windscreen adjustableEquipmentConnectivity, Case system, Cornering lights, LED daytime running lights, LED-Headlights, Sound System, TFT display, Windscreen electronically adjustable

Pros and Cons in comparison

Pros and Cons in comparison

BMW R 1250 RT 2021

BMW R 1250 RT 2021

The BMW R 1250 RT simply feels sovereign on the grand tour. We rode the 2020 model and are already thrilled with this version. The heavy motorbike is compact in the hand and wobbles through the bends with lightning speed. A great touring motorbike.

Superb wind and weather protection

Great boxer engine

Powerful power

Easy engine control

Well-designed controls

Great integrated panniers

High stability even at high speeds

Slightly cumbersome to manoeuvre

topcase lock presented itself as somewhat stiff

gearshifts somewhat stiff at low revs

BMW K 1600 GT 2022

BMW K 1600 GT 2022

The BMW 6-cylinder glides over the road in 2022 with a lot of elegance and a lot of equipment. This time, the new headlight technology was outstanding. The engine tuning and the new ESA chassis are also well done this time. Surprisingly, the wind protection is not perfect and perfectionists will miss an adaptive cruise control. The sovereign 6-cylinder is in the form of its life in the current model year. One enjoys the engine in every situation. The K 1600 GT is a magnificently dimensioned sports tourer that offers a practical balance between comfort and agility.

GT still passes for a sports tourer - surprisingly good performance

Smooth engine

Great engine response

Motorcycle generally accessible and easy to use despite its imposing appearance

Good headlight technology

Great display - always easy to read

Comprehensive integration of smartphone into vehicle

Map navigation via BMW Connected App

Good balance between stability and handling

Neutral ride

Good brakes and stable chassis.

Connection from mobile phone to vehicle works well in most cases - but when it hangs up it gets annoying

buttons and switches in the cockpit not backlit

wind protection not perfectly solved - always a draughty feeling in the saddle

no adaptive cruise control - you would expect this from a touring motorbike in this league

mobile phone compartment snagged from time to time during the test - be careful when stuffing in mobile phones that are too large.

Price Comparison Avarage Market Price BMW R 1250 RT vs BMW K 1600 GT

There are a few key differences between a BMW R 1250 RT 2021 and a BMW K 1600 GT 2022. In terms of price, the actual average price of a BMW K 1600 GT 2022 is about 36% higher. Compared to BMW K 1600 GT 2022 there are more BMW R 1250 RT 2021 bikes available on the 1000PS.de Marketplace, specifically 9 compared to 7. It takes less time to sell a BMW R 1250 RT with 71 days compared to 89 days for a BMW K 1600 GT. Since model year 2019 1000PS.de editors have written 18 reviews for the BMW R 1250 RT and 20 reviews for the BMW K 1600 GT since model year 2011. The first review for the BMW R 1250 RT was published on 9/17/2018 and now has more than 52,500 views. This compares to more than 9,900 views for the first review on BMW K 1600 GT published on 7/5/2010.

Price BMW R 1250 RT

Model year
Current average market prices

Price BMW K 1600 GT

Model year
Current average market prices

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