Honda Goldwing vs BMW K1600 GTL Competition Check

Honda launched its flagship touring motorcycle in India just months after its global unveil. It directly competes with the BMW K1600 GTL which is available here. Let us check out how the Honda Goldwing fares against its biggest rival-

Design and features

Both the bikes feature a similar design language with a bulky full-fairing, panniers and top box, electronically-adjustable tall windscreen, and the pillion chair-like seat. However, the 2018 Goldwing sports a comparitively more sharp and aerodynamic design language. The bike also sports full-LED headlamps unlike the BMW which uses halogen and xenon lamps with LED DRL lighting. Honda has also reduced the weight of the bike by decreasing the size of the fuel tank to 21 litres from the previous 25 litres capacity. Even still, the Goldwing is heavier than the K 1600 GTL with a kerb weight of 365kg. The BMW K 1600 B has a kerb weight of 350kg and a larger fuel tank capacity of 26.5 litres. 

The elctronics package in the Honda Goldwing includes a ride-by-wire throttle, four riding modes- tour,sport, economy and rain. The selected mode will adjust the traction control settings, braking system and also the suspension damping. It also boasts of a 7-inch TFT screen that displays all basic functions, riding modes and even tyre pressure. The Goldwing also gets Bluetooth and USB support along with Apple CarPlay for iPhone users.

BMW is known to over equip their motorcycle with electronics. The K 1600 GTL gets tyre pressure control, hill start control, keyless start, central locking system, anti-theft alarm system. Adaptive headlight, hill hold control and forged wheels are offered as options.

Cycle parts

The Honda Goldwing and BMW K1600 GTL sport a similar suspension setup. The Honda rides on a double wishbone front suspension setup in place of telescopic forks, and a Showa rear monoshock. The BMW K 1600 B rides on the manufacturer's patent Duolever suspension upfront and the Paralever shaft drive rear suspension.

Stopping power on Goldwing is taken care of by twin 320mm dics upfront and a 316mm rear disc. The BMW K 1600 B also uses twin 320mm discs for the front however a comparitively larger 320mm disc at the rear.

Engine

The Honda Goldwing is powered by a 1833cc in-line six cylinder engine that produces 124bhp and 169Nm of power. This unit is mated to a six-speed gearbox and Honda's proprietary DCT gearbox with reverse gear. The DCT gearbox offers a ‘walking mode’ that allows the bike to crawl forward at 1.6kmph and 1kmph in reverse.

The BMW K 1600 B uses a 1650cc in-line six motor produces 160bhp and maximum torque of 175Nm. The mill is mated to a six-speed gearbox which transfers power to the rear wheel via a shaft drive.

Pricing

The BMW K 1600 B is priced at Rs 26.30 lakh. However the Honda Goldwing is slightly more expensive with a price tag of Rs 26.85 lakh.