- hello. Even the most cursory glance at the k1600 forums will net you a laundry list of the issues that they are experiencing with the k16 and also bmw's handling of these issues.
- at least they have a warranty to "rely" on now. imagine when the warranty runs out.
- never ever be a beta tester for any manufacturer , worse of all , bmw.
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There seem to be two problems that can be considered somewhat common. One is leaky water pumps - they don't fail but they leak. Second is the handlebar controls (electrical). They can strand the bike, but most folks say that if you let them sit an hour or so they start working again. In both cases, it has been reported that they have upgraded the units and hopefully have cured the problems.
I would say that these problems are no worse than many of the Japanese bikes. Early GL1800 Goldwings had frames that broke (not good at all) and cooling issues along with some minor other issues. The FJR's had problems with the ignition switch, the infamous "ticking" problems in the valve train, and some other minor problems. The Concours had the infamous KIPASS problems that could strand you, along with the other more minor issues like cooking your lower legs.
I'm the first to say that I consider Japanese vehicles to have the best reliability - and I've owned more than most. But I'm not convinced the BMW's are significantly worse.