BMW’s bagger on the way
GRAND AMERICA: TAKE LONG-DISTANCE RIDES IN AMERICAN HIGHWAY CRUISING STYLE
Embraces the passion for relaxed, luxurious travel on two wheels.
BMW Motorrad will expand its range in SA early next year with the addition of a model designed specifically for comfortable travel. Derived from the BMW K 1600 B, the BMW K 1600 Grand America combines the performance of its 6-cylinder engine with exclusive equipment features that make long-distance rides both comfortable and fascinating in American highway cruising style, whether solo or with a passenger.
The design of the BMW K 1600 Grand America embraces the passion for relaxed, luxurious travel on two wheels that is especially widespread in the USA.
For this purpose, the styling developed for the bigger concept of the BMW K 1600 B has been modified and a number of distinctive features have been added. In addition to the dynamically elongated side line that slopes evenly down to the rear, another clearly recognisable feature is the dropshaped silhouette created from the visual link between the high-rising windshield and the low positioned side cases.
Chrome-plated rear silencers arranged parallel to the road are harmoniously integrated in the elegant, flowing design. The authentic look of the BMW K 1600 Grand America is rounded off with a topcase complete with integrated passenger backrest. In addition to expanded transport capacity, the BMW Grand America offers significantly enhanced travel suitability due to the additional seating comfort for rider and passenger. The topcase is also an instantly recognisable indication of a vehicle concept developed specifically for extended touring.
The design of the BMW K 1600 Grand America is inspired by US custom bikes, and this is also reflected in other details at the rear. An additional brake light integrated in the topcase gives the rear view a distinctive presence. It is also visually harmonised with the lights integrated in the side cases, which act as brake lights and turn indicators. All lighting is produced by means of LED units.
As standard, the new BMW K 1600 Grand America is finished in the powerful, elegant colour Blackstorm metallic. In addition to the BMW logo, the vehicle trim also bears a model designation with reference to the engine type. In addition, a high-quality badge is positioned centrally on the fuel tank with the inscription “K 1600 Grand America”.
The Style Package specially created for the BMW Grand America ensures even further enhanced exclusivity. It consists of a two-colour paint finish combining Blackstorm metallic with the highly expressive Austin Yellow metallic, as well as chrome applications on the front wheel trim.
The latest version of the 6-cylinder engine delivers 118 kW at 7 750 rpm, generating a maximum torque of 175 Nm at 5 250 rpm. In the new BMW Grand America the top speed is limited to 162 km/h.
This takes into account the fact that customisation with additional fittings in the rear section – as is popular in this vehicle segment – can impact significantly on wheel load distribution, so in terms of riding dynamics, stability is guaranteed in all situations.
In addition to the engine, the standard electronically controlled suspension Dynamic ESA also contributes to the superb riding qualities of the new BMW Grand America characterised by dynamic performance, comfort and stability. In the standard setting, “road”, it provides fully automated damper adaptation, ensuring the very highest level of comfort and excellent traction on virtually all surfaces. What is more, “cruise” mode can be activated for a very soft damper set-up and pronounced comfort.
Reverse assist, also a standard feature, facilitates manoeuvring of the new BMW Grand America. It is activated by pressing a button on the left-hand handlebar panel. The rider then uses the start button to set the bike in motion.
The relaxed seating position available to rider and passenger is a feature that contributes to the incomparably comfortable ride feel offered by the BMW K 1600 Grand America – even over extremely long distances. The model is fitted as standard with footboards, allowing the rider to adopt a convenient “feet forward” posture.