BMW vs HONDA - Which Is Better? The Goldwing or the K1600 GTL | Cruiseman's Reviews

Name: BMW vs HONDA - Which Is Better? The Goldwing or the K1600 GTL | Cruiseman's Reviews
Uploaded: 2022-07-02T21:57:41.000Z
Duration: 56 min 15 s

Introduction and Comparison

The speaker introduces the topic of comparing the 2022 BMW K1600 GTL to the 2018 Honda Gold Wing. They mention that they have ridden the BMW for a month and put over 1,600 miles on it.

Comparing the Motorcycles

The speaker acknowledges that it may seem unfair to compare a newer BMW to an older Gold Wing but will consider any changes made to newer Gold Wings.

The speaker clarifies that BMW loaned them the K1600 for review but is not sponsoring the video. They thank Lidlocks, who sponsored the video.

The speaker explains their approach of breaking down both motorcycles into different categories and giving a point to either BMW or Honda based on which motorcycle they think is best in each category.

They emphasize that these ratings are subjective and based on their own riding experiences and observations.

At the end of the video, they will reveal which motorcycle they think is best and for whom.

Styling and Seat Comfort

The speaker starts by discussing styling preferences and then moves on to seat comfort.

Styling

Both motorcycles receive a point as styling is subjective, and the speaker personally finds both bikes good-looking with modern styling.

Seat Comfort

BMW wins in terms of seat comfort, especially with their option 719 seat. They note that this might be due to differences in seat cover rather than padding.

Another point goes to BMW for offering options of lower or taller seats at no additional charge. It's mentioned that Honda used to offer an optional seat but it was similar to the standard one.

Leg Room, Windshield, Lights, Mirrors

This section covers leg room, windshield, lights, and mirrors.

Leg Room

The speaker, being 6'2", mentions that the Gold Wing provides slightly more legroom compared to the K1600. They experienced discomfort on the BMW with their jeans riding up over their boots.

Windshield

BMW's factory windshield is better than the OEM Honda windshield in terms of wind protection. However, it's noted that the speaker's F4 Customs windshield on their Gold Wing is even better.

Lights

Both motorcycles have all LED lighting. The BMW has a sophisticated adaptive headlight that tilts as the rider leans into turns and adjusts based on bike acceleration or deceleration.

The speaker feels that the Gold Wing lights up the road better, while the BMW throws more light upwards. They also mention a preference for front turn signal placements on the Gold Wing.

Mirrors

Both bikes have good rearview mirrors without vibrations. The BMW mirrors have a blind spot magnification feature on their edges.

Dash and Navigation

This section focuses on dash features and navigation systems of both motorcycles.

Dash

The speaker appreciates the big bright TFT screen on the new BMW but finds it easier to access information on their Gold Wing's dash.

While not as futuristic-looking, they find it better to glance at their Gold Wing's dash to see engine temperature, fuel gauge, tire pressure, etc.

On the K1600, they often need to use hand controls to scroll through screens and menus for basic information like changing radio stations while riding.

Navigation

The BMW relies on its connected app and a smartphone for navigation. In contrast, the Gold Wing has built-in satellite navigation.

The speaker admits not being a fan of either system but gives a point to Gold Wing for having built-in satellite navigation.

Bluetooth Connectivity and Hand Controls

This section covers Bluetooth connectivity and hand controls of both motorcycles.

Bluetooth Connectivity

BMW's Bluetooth connectivity is superior to the Gold Wing, with straightforward pairing of smartphones or headsets and reliable connections.

The speaker mentions that their Sena headset connects every time to the BMW but requires multiple attempts to connect to the Gold Wing.

BMW also has a better system for storing and connecting smartphones, with a smartphone cubby above the dash that includes a fan to keep the phone cool in hot weather.

Hand Controls

The BMW has fewer physical switches and heavily relies on the TFT screen and menu system for different options.

In contrast, the Gold Wing has more traditional physical switches and buttons, all of which are backlit.

The transcript does not provide timestamps beyond this point.

New Section

This section compares the audio systems and engines of the BMW K1600 and Honda Goldwing motorcycles.

Audio Systems

The Goldwing comes with four speakers, while the BMW only has two front speakers.

The Goldwing's audio system is considered better than the BMW's.

The Honda offers an optional HomeLink feature, which is not available on the BMW.

Engine Comparison

The BMW K1600 has a high-revving inline six-cylinder engine that sounds like a Formula One race car.

The Honda Goldwing engine offers more low-end torque and a sedate power delivery.

Both engines are excellent in their own regard.

Final Drive and Handling

Both bikes have shaft drives that provide smooth performance.

In terms of handling at speed, both bikes are surprisingly agile in twisty roads.

The Goldwing offers better straight-line highway stability, while the BMW can be affected by wind turbulence.

Low-speed handling is easier on the Goldwing due to its lower center of gravity.

Transmission Comparison

Subjectively, the Honda's Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) is preferred over the BMW's 6-speed transmission with Shift Assist Pro.

The DCT is considered a marvel of engineering and provides smoother shifting compared to the clunky shifts of the BMW transmission.

Brakes and Ride Modes

The BMW has better brakes compared to the Goldwing.

BMW also offers sophisticated features like drag torque control (traction control) with clear explanations of how it works.

Both bikes have multiple ride modes for different riding conditions, but Honda includes an additional mode for fuel savings (Econ mode).

Suspension and Ride Quality

The BMW's suspension is considered superior, with better components and advanced features like Dynamic ESA with automatic load compensation.

The Goldwing offers a more plush and relaxed ride, while the BMW provides a sportier experience.

For passengers, the Goldwing offers more comfort and wind protection compared to the higher seating position on the BMW.

Storage and Features

The BMW has an impressive onboard computer system with various information displayed, including voltage, tire pressure, fuel range, and engine temperature.

The storage capacity of the K1600 is superior to the Goldwing, especially in terms of saddlebag size.

The Goldwing has a larger trunk capacity in newer models (61 liters) compared to the BMW (51 liters).

Both bikes have their advantages in terms of storage options and helmet storage.

New Section

This section discusses additional features and concludes the comparison between the BMW K1600 and Honda Goldwing motorcycles.

Onboard Computer System

The BMW has a superior onboard computer system compared to the Goldwing.

It displays various information such as voltage, tire pressure, fuel range, engine temperature, etc.

The Goldwing lacks some of these features but does offer a cubby storage option.

Overall Storage Capacity

The overall storage capacity of the K1600 is considered superior due to its larger saddlebags.

Each saddlebag can accommodate a full-face helmet.

However, the Goldwing wins in terms of trunk space with newer models offering 10 liters more than the BMW.

Locking Storage

All storage compartments on the BMW can be locked securely.

In contrast, only some compartments on the Goldwing are lockable.

Conclusion

The comparison between the BMW K1600 and Honda Goldwing motorcycles reveals that both bikes have their strengths and weaknesses. The Goldwing excels in audio system quality, low-speed handling, and passenger comfort. On the other hand, the BMW offers a more powerful engine, better brakes, superior suspension, and larger overall storage capacity. Ultimately, the choice between these two bikes depends on individual preferences and riding style.

New Section

This section discusses additional features and concludes the comparison between the BMW K1600 and Honda Goldwing motorcycles.

Onboard Computer System

The BMW has a superior onboard computer system compared to the Goldwing.

It displays various information such as voltage, tire pressure, fuel range, engine temperature, etc.

The Goldwing lacks some of these features but does offer a cubby storage option.

Overall Storage Capacity

The overall storage capacity of the K1600 is considered superior due to its larger saddlebags.

Each saddlebag can accommodate a full-face helmet.

However, the Goldwing wins in terms of trunk space with newer models offering 10 liters more than the BMW.

Locking Storage

All storage compartments on the BMW can be locked securely.

In contrast, only some compartments on the Goldwing are lockable.

Conclusion

LidLock's Helmet Locks - A Safe and Secure Solution

In this section, the speaker introduces LidLock's helmet locks as a solution for securely storing helmets when riding a bike without a truck or saddlebag. The installation process is mentioned, taking less than 10 minutes.

Installing LidLock's Helmet Locks

The speaker demonstrates how to install LidLock's helmet locks on a motorcycle, specifically on a K-1600.

The helmet hanger is slipped through the D-ring of the helmet and inserted into LidLock's body.

Pressing the lock button ensures that the helmet is securely locked until unlocked with the provided key.

Comparing Fit and Finish: BMW K-1600 vs Honda Gold Wing

This section focuses on comparing the fit and finish of two motorcycles, specifically the BMW K-1600 and Honda Gold Wing. The speaker highlights their paint jobs and overall aesthetics.

Paint Job Comparison

The BMW K-1600 has an optional 719 mineral white metallic paint job that costs an additional $1900.

While impressive, the speaker believes that the fit and finish of their own Gold Wing is equally good without any extra cost.

The Gold Wing's metallic paint stands out in sunlight, giving it an advantage in terms of visual appeal.

Engine Sound Comparison: BMW K-1600 vs Honda Gold Wing

This section discusses the engine sound differences between the BMW K-1600 and Honda Gold Wing motorcycles. The speaker shares their observations regarding startup sounds and noise levels at high speeds.

Engine Sound Characteristics

Starting up the BMW K-1600 provides a Formula One race car-like sound.

At high speeds on the highway, the engine becomes silent.

On the other hand, the Gold Wing has a noticeable drone that kicks in around 70 to 72 miles per hour.

Central Locking System Comparison: BMW K-1600 vs Honda Gold Wing

This section compares the central locking systems of the BMW K-1600 and Honda Gold Wing motorcycles. The speaker discusses their functionality, convenience, and indications of locked/unlocked status.

Central Locking System Features

The Gold Wing comes with a standard central locking system that automatically detects when the rider approaches or walks away from the bike.

In contrast, the BMW requires manual activation through a button on the hand controls or key fob for locking/unlocking.

The BMW provides audible indications (clunk sound) when locks engage/disengage and flashes turn signals accordingly.

The Gold Wing lacks such audible indications and does not lock all cubbies, leaving the center pocket without a lock.

Keyless Ignition and Start Comparison: BMW K-1600 vs Honda Gold Wing

This section compares keyless ignition and start features of the BMW K-1600 and Honda Gold Wing motorcycles. The speaker highlights differences in emergency start procedures.

Keyless Ignition and Start Features

Both bikes have keyless ignition systems.

The BMW's emergency start procedure is considered more elegant than that of the Gold Wing, which is described as complicated and clunky.

Cruise Control Comparison: BMW K-1600 vs Honda Gold Wing

This section focuses on comparing cruise control features of the BMW K-1600 and Honda Gold Wing motorcycles. The speaker shares their preferences regarding interface usability and accuracy.

Cruise Control Features

Both bikes have reliable cruise control systems.

The speaker personally prefers the interface of the Gold Wing, finding it more user-friendly.

The BMW's resume function required four days and reading the manual to understand fully.

The Gold Wing's speed adjustments are consistently in one-mile-per-hour increments, while the BMW sometimes increases or decreases by two-mile-per-hour increments.

Heated Seats and Grips Comparison: BMW K-1600 vs Honda Gold Wing

This section compares heated seats and grips features of the BMW K-1600 and Honda Gold Wing motorcycles. The speaker discusses activation methods and personal preferences.

Heated Seats and Grips

Both bikes provide good heat for seats and grips.

Activating heated grips on the BMW requires navigating through menus, while the Gold Wing has a simple button on the center console.

The speaker prefers the interface of the Gold Wing for heated seats and grips.

Tip Over Protection Comparison: BMW K-1600 vs Honda Gold Wing

This section compares tip-over protection features of the BMW K-1600 and Honda Gold Wing motorcycles. The speaker highlights differences in available protection bars.

Tip Over Protection

The 2018+ models of both bikes offer some level of tip-over protection.

The Gold Wing has engine and saddlebag tip-over bars that are nicely hidden.

In contrast, the BMW only offers engine protection bars as an optional feature, lacking specific protection for oversized, expensively painted saddlebags.

Cleaning Ease Comparison: BMW K-1600 vs Honda Gold Wing

This section compares cleaning ease between the BMW K-1600 and Honda Gold Wing motorcycles. The speaker discusses hidden surfaces and difficulties in accessing certain areas for cleaning.

Cleaning Ease

The Gold Wing is easier to keep clean compared to the K-1600.

The BMW has numerous almost hidden painted surfaces that are challenging to access for cleaning.

Even the back of the windshield accumulates dirt and water due to a structure that restricts cloth access.

Regular Maintenance Comparison: BMW K-1600 vs Honda Gold Wing

This section compares regular maintenance requirements of the BMW K-1600 and Honda Gold Wing motorcycles. The speaker mentions plastic removal for air filter access and availability of maintenance video series.

Regular Maintenance

Both bikes require removing plastic parts to access the air filter.

However, only the Gold Wing has a maintenance video series available as a guide for regular maintenance tasks.

Hill Start Assist and Reverse Feature Comparison: BMW K-1600 vs Honda Gold Wing

This section compares hill start assist and reverse features of the BMW K-1600 and Honda Gold Wing motorcycles. The speaker highlights their functionality.

Hill Start Assist and Reverse Features

Both bikes have hill start assist features that work similarly and reliably.

Additionally, both bikes have a reverse feature, with the Gold Wing also having a forward walking gear, giving it an advantage over the BMW.

Convenience Lighting Features Comparison: BMW K-1600 vs Honda Gold Wing

This section compares convenience lighting features of the BMW K-1600 and Honda Gold Wing motorcycles. The speaker mentions automatic light behavior upon ignition or turning off.

Convenience Lighting Features

The BMW K-1600 has various lighting features, such as lights remaining on after turning off the bike to illuminate the way.

The Gold Wing's lighting features are not specifically mentioned in this section.

Gear Shift Assist Pro and Center Stand Comparison: BMW K-1600 vs Honda Gold Wing

This section compares gear shift assist pro and center stand features of the BMW K-1600 and Honda Gold Wing motorcycles. The speaker shares their experience with using the center stand.

Gear Shift Assist Pro and Center Stand

The BMW K-1600 is equipped with gear shift assist pro, allowing clutch

New Section

In this section, the speaker discusses the reliability of different motorcycle brands and the benefits of a larger dealer network.

Reliability and Dealer Network

The speaker mentions that while some people argue that Honda is the most reliable bike, there are BMW owners with high mileage on their K bikes who would argue for the reliability of the K 1600.

Honda gets a point for having a vast dealer network in the US and Canada, which can be beneficial for Goldwing owners. However, it is noted that Europe might have a different situation.

New Section

This section focuses on the status and image associated with owning different motorcycle brands.

Status and Image

BMW carries a reputation as a premium automotive brand, which extends to their motorcycle brand as well. Owning a BMW motorcycle may come with a certain level of pride and status.

On the other hand, it is mentioned that Honda may not hold the same level of status as BMW.

For status and image, BMW gets a point.

New Section

The speaker emphasizes that choosing between these bikes depends on personal preferences and priorities.

Personal Preferences

The speaker states that both bikes are almost dead even in terms of performance and features. It's not about which bike is better overall but rather which bike suits individual preferences better.

If someone prefers a laid-back casual riding style with emphasis on luxury and comfort, they may find the Goldwing more suitable. Upgrades like an upgraded seat and bigger windshield have made their Goldwing more comfortable.

On the other hand, if someone prioritizes performance, the BMW may be a better fit.

New Section

The speaker invites viewers to share their thoughts and comments on the evaluation of these bikes.

Viewer Feedback

Viewers are encouraged to share their opinions and experiences in the comments section. Whether they own a Honda Goldwing, a BMW, or both, their input is welcomed.

New Section

The speaker expresses gratitude to BMW for allowing them to extensively test and review the K 1600 GTL.

Gratitude and Future Reviews

The speaker thanks BMW for the opportunity to test and review the K 1600 GTL. They express hope of testing an R1250RT in the future as well.

Viewers are asked to suggest other bikes they would like to see reviewed in future videos.

New Section

The video concludes with a reminder about safety and appreciation for watching.

Conclusion and Safety Reminder

The video ends with a reminder to ride safe and thanks viewers for watching.