BEST TOURING BIKE: BMW K 1600 GTL

A tough category, but the cream that is the BMW K 1600 GTL has remained at the top of this CW class for an impressive four years. The secret to the GTL’s success? The sophisticated sportiness that emanates from an outstanding chassis and a silky smooth inline-six engine that wails like a banshee above 6,000 rpm. With its superb luggage, large fairing, electronically adjustable suspension, and excellent overall dynamics, the $23,950 BMW K 1600 GTL has no rivals. Or take it to the top with the $29,950 Exclusive shown. No other machine has such a broad capability, transitioning from luxury superslab cushiness to taut, wicked-fast composure on a back road with the flick of a few modes. For the touring rider who wants everything and then some, there is no better choice.

» FIRST RIDE: 2014 BMW K1600GTL Exclusive

» 2013 Best Touring Bike: BMW K1600GTL

» LONG-TERM TEST WRAP-UP: BMW K1600GTL