BMW K 1600 Grand America 2022 vs. Honda GL 1800 Goldwing 2018

The BMW K 1600 Grand America 2022 and the Honda GL 1800 Goldwing 2018 are both touring motorcycles designed for long-distance rides. While they share some similarities in terms of engine power, transmission, and cylinder count, there are notable differences in their technical specifications and features.

In terms of engine performance, the BMW K 1600 Grand America 2022 boasts a more powerful engine with 160.5 HP compared to the Honda GL 1800 Goldwing 2018's 126.5 HP. The BMW also has a higher torque of 180 Nm compared to the Honda's 170 Nm. Both motorcycles feature a prop shaft transmission and six cylinders, providing smooth and efficient power delivery.

In terms of suspension, the BMW K 1600 Grand America 2022 features a Duolever front suspension and a Paralever rear suspension with a monoshock absorber. On the other hand, the Honda GL 1800 Goldwing 2018 has an A-Arm front suspension and a swing arm rear suspension with a monoshock absorber. These suspension setups contribute to the overall comfort and stability of the motorcycles.

BMW K 1600 Grand America 2022

Both motorcycles are equipped with double disk front brakes with a diameter of 320 mm, ensuring reliable stopping power. The BMW K 1600 Grand America 2022 also features advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, electronically adjustable suspension, riding modes, combined brake system, ride by wire, cruise control, and traction control. The Honda GL 1800 Goldwing 2018, on the other hand, offers ABS, riding modes, ride by wire, and traction control.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the BMW K 1600 Grand America 2022 has a front tire width of 120 mm and a rear tire width of 190 mm, both with a diameter of 17 inches. It has a wheelbase of 1618 mm, a seat height of 750 mm, and a kerb weight of 370 kg. The fuel tank capacity is 26.5 liters. The Honda GL 1800 Goldwing 2018, on the other hand, has a front tire width of 130 mm and a rear tire width of 200 mm, with diameters of 18 inches and 16 inches, respectively. It has a slightly longer wheelbase of 1695 mm, a seat height of 745 mm, and a kerb weight of 365 kg. The fuel tank capacity is 21.1 liters.

In terms of equipment, both motorcycles offer a range of features aimed at enhancing the touring experience. The BMW K 1600 Grand America 2022 includes connectivity, a case system, cornering lights, LED daytime running lights, LED headlights, a sound system, a TFT display, a top case, and an electronically adjustable windscreen. The Honda GL 1800 Goldwing 2018 offers heated grips, a case system, LED headlights, a heated seat, and an electronically adjustable windscreen.

Honda GL 1800 Goldwing 2018

In terms of strengths, the BMW K 1600 Grand America 2022 is praised for its smooth engine, great engine response, and comprehensive integration of mobile phone into the vehicle. It also offers outstanding headlight technology, a great display, and a good balance between stability and handling. The Honda GL 1800 Goldwing 2018 is praised for its smooth six-cylinder boxer engine, good sound from both the engine and speakers, and its range of features including electrically adjustable windshield, driving modes, sat nav, reverse gear, heated grips, cruise control, and Apple CarPlay.

However, both motorcycles have their weaknesses. The BMW K 1600 Grand America 2022 is criticized for wind turbulence caused by the top case at motorway speeds and occasional issues with the connection between the mobile phone and the vehicle. It also lacks backlit buttons and switches in the cockpit and has some wind protection issues. The absence of adaptive cruise control is also noted. The Honda GL 1800 Goldwing 2018 is criticized for its loud engine in the upper rev range, limited storage space compared to its predecessor, and average wind protection on the excavator version.

In conclusion, the BMW K 1600 Grand America 2022 and the Honda GL 1800 Goldwing 2018 are both capable touring motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The BMW offers a more powerful engine and a range of advanced rider assistance systems, while the Honda provides a smooth six-cylinder boxer engine and a comprehensive set of features. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.