2017-2025 BMW K 1600 Models Recalled for Overheating Reverse Gear
A similar recall previously affected R 18 models with reverse
BMW is issuing a recall on all K 1600 models from 2017 to 2025 that are equipped with a reverse gear. The reverse system was an optional accessory through 2020, before becoming standard equipment from 2021 onwards. The recall affects 9,160 K 1600 models, including the GT, GTL, B, and Grand America variants.
According to recall documents released by the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the sealing of the reverse gear control unit may deteriorate over time, allowing humidity to enter the unit. Over time (particularly in humid climates), this may cause the internal electrical contacts to erode, causing the reverse function to fail. In some cases, this can cause the reverse gear control unit to overheat, enough to pose a potential fire risk.
This is actually BMW’s second recall for a motorcycle reverse gear control unit. BMW previously conducted a similar recall in September 2024 for R 18 models equipped with reverse. In both cases, the reverse gear control unit was manufactured by BECOM Electronics GmbH of Austria, though the individual parts themselves are different.
BMW received a report about a “thermal event” involving a 2019 K 1600 B from a non-U.S. market in December 2025. An investigation quickly focused on the reverse gear control unit, and BMW alerted BECOM. By February 2026, BMW had received one more field report, again from outside the U.S., with a reverse gear control unit overheated, creating a “thermal incident.”
The investigation found that warranty rates for the reverse system were significantly higher in countries with a year-round tropical climate, or hot and humid conditions, compared to the average warranty rate in other markets. On March 26, BMW initiated recall procedures.
BMW dealers will inspect recalled motorcycles and replace the reverse gear control units with a redesigned unit.
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Dennis has been a part of the Motorcycle.com team since 2008, and through his tenure, has developed a firm grasp of industry trends, and a solid sense of what's to come. A bloodhound when it comes to tracking information on new motorcycles, if there's a new model on the horizon, you'll probably hear about it from him first.
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Beware May Wreck.
The reverse gear on my K1600 was useless. It wasn’t powerful enough to back up even the slightest incline. Who needs reverse to back downhill or in flat ground?
This recall is pointless unless it replaces the old unit with a more powerful one that can handle a slight hill.