2022 BMW K1600 updated
When BMW failed to upgrade the K1600's unique six-cylinder engine to meet Euro 5 emissions rules (in time for 1st January 2021 implementation) there were fears that the bikes could be phased out - but BMW has launched an emissions-friendly K1600 range for 2022.
While the line-up is unaltered, with the K1600 GT, K1600 GTL, K1600 B and K1600 Grand America in the range, all the models have been improved for next year.
It turns out that getting the 1,649 cc inline six to pass Euro 5 limits wasn't too hard. An additional set of lambda sensors in the exhausts, allied to a pair of knock sensors and some reprogrammed electronic controls were all it took, resulting in no loss of peak power. In fact, the 160 hp maximum - modest for the engine's size and six-cylinder layout - now arrives 1,000 rpm lower than before at a mere 6,750 rpm, with peak torque rising from 129 lb-ft to nearly 133 lb-ft and arriving at 5,250 rpm.
The engine updates also include the addition of adjustable engine brake control, helping to prevent rear wheel lock-up on downshifts, and the ability to run on lower-octane fuel than the recommended 95 RON when necessary.
Chassis-wise, the electronic suspension is improved for 2022 with a six-axis sensor that helps automatically adjust the front and rear damping, but from a rider's perspective the biggest updates are the on-board technology - comprehensively updated, including the addition of a new TFT screen - measuring 10.25" corner-to-corner - with a split-screen function to allow instruments and navigation to share the same space. Programmable buttons in the fairing side can be assigned to a variety of functions, and since the display has phone connectivity, BMW has even incorporated a phone cubby above the dash.
