MOTORING NEWS - BMW Motorrad expands its range in the full dresser touring segment with the addition of a model designed specifically for comfortable travel.
The BMW K 1600 Grand America had its premiere at the world's biggest motorcycle trade show, the EICMA, in Milan from 7 to 12 November.
Derived from the BMW K 1600 B, the new model combines the performance of its 6-cylinder engine with exclusive equipment features that make long-distance rides comfortable.
The design of the BMW K 1600 Grand America embraces the passion for relaxed, luxurious travel on two wheels.
For this purpose, the styling developed for the bagger concept of the BMW K 1600 B has been modified and a number of distinctive features have been added.
In addition to the elongated side line that slopes evenly down to the rear, another clearly recognisable feature is the drop-shaped silhouette created from the visual link between the high-rising windshield and the low positioned side cases.
Chrome-plated rear silencers are arranged parallel to the road and harmoniously integrated in the elegant, flowing design.
The authentic look of the BMW K 1600 Grand America is rounded off with a top case complete with integrated passenger backrest.
In addition to expanded transport capacity, the BMW Grand America offers significantly enhanced travel suitability due to additional seating comfort for rider and passenger.
The design of the BMW K 1600 Grand America is inspired by US custom bikes, and this is also reflected in details at the rear.
An additional brake light integrated in the top case 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.
As standard, the new BMW K 1600 Grand America is finished in the elegant colour Blackstorm metallic.
In addition to the BMW logo, the vehicle trim also bears a model designation with reference to the engine type.
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. 6-cylinder engine with distinctive performance characteristics too.
The latest version of the BMW Motorrad 6-cylinder engine delivers an output of 118kW at 7 750rpm, generating a maximum torque of 175Nm at 5 250rpm.
In the new BMW Grand America it offers not just the familiar, apparently inexhaustible power reserves but other performance characteristics.
The top speed is limited to 162km.
This takes into account the fact that customisation with additional fittings in the rear section can impact significantly on wheel load distribution, so in terms of riding dynamics, stability and safety are guaranteed in all situations.
Electronic suspension Dynamic ESA and reverse assist are added as standard.
The model is fitted as standard with footboards, allowing the rider to adopt a convenient "feet forward" posture.
The passenger can also enjoy a comfortable seating position thanks to the low rear frame and a seat height that is reduced by 70mm.
The new K 1600 Grand America will be available in South Africa in the first quarter of 2018 with the price to be announced.
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