BMW Steals the Show: K 1600 GT Voted “International Bike of the Year”

The BMW K 1600 GT has recently been voted “International Bike of the Year (IBOTY)” for 2011 by a jury of over 25 industry publications. The award, which was announced this week at the Brussels Motor Show, comes as no surprise to Inside Motorcycles following an exclusive meeting we had with Hendrik von Kuenheim in November, where stated that the K 1600 GT was one of BMW’s best selling motorcycles, and the German manufacturer having trouble keeping them in stock.

The K 1600 GT’s unique combination of comfort, performance and use of innovative technologies was what convinced journalists to cast their vote for this premier touring motorcycle. The powerful in-line 6-cylinder engine was said to offer “power. Refinement and lots of fun”, according to a press release from BMW. Equipped with ABS, traction control and navigation system, an adaptive headlight and electronically controlled suspension, the BMW K 1600 GT is one of the most technologically advanced touring motorcycles. The agile chassis and light-handling offer a unique riding experience that impressed the most discerning of motorcycle journalists.

With recent reports of strong sales in 2011, BMW shows no signs of slowing, winning three of the top five IBOTY 2011 Awards with the BMW K 1600 GT (1^st), the BMW G 1600 GTL (4^th) and the BMW S 1000 RR (tied for 5^th with the Kawasaki ZX 10R). The Ducati Diavel finished in second place behind the K 1600 GT.