Britain's biggest FREE bike newspaper

New BMW 1600cc super tourer gets adaptive headlight

The adaptive headlight (an optional extra) has an electronic system that will adjust the beam to not only compensate for front and rear pitch, but also lean angle around corners, which should be a big improvement for visibility whilst riding at night.

The internally developed motor makes a claimed 160bhp at around 7500rpm and delivers 129lb.ft of torque at 5000rpm, with over 70% of the maximum torque being available from 1500rpm. BMW say it is the lightest and most compact six-cylinder inline engine in serial motorcycle production, weighing just 102.6kg and measuring 560mm in width.

Both new bikes look like they will be gadget-driven, with dynamic traction control (DTC) as an optional extra, ABS, heated grips and seat, cruise control and on-board TFT colour screen console. There’s also three riding modes to choose from (Rain, Road and Dynamic), plus a fully integrated audio system and Electronic Suspension Adjustment (ESA II), again as an optional extra.

The 1600GT will offer a more sporty touring experience (read slightly more aggressive riding position) than the Honda Goldwing-rivalling 1600GTL. The luxury GTL has a dual seat and relaxed ergonomics, with more forward-set footrests, handlebars that reach further back, big fairing and adjustable screen. There’s also a standard top box doubling as a pillion backrest plus full-sized panniers. Both bikes are due on sale next year.