BMW S 1000 XR 2021 vs. Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2021

The BMW S 1000 XR 2021 and the Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2021 are both sport touring motorcycles that offer a combination of sporty performance and touring comfort.

In terms of engine specifications, the BMW S 1000 XR has a more powerful engine with 165 HP compared to the Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX's 142 HP. The BMW also has higher torque at 114 Nm compared to the Kawasaki's 111 Nm. Both motorcycles have inline four-cylinder engines with a displacement of around 1000cc.

In terms of suspension, both motorcycles feature upside-down telescopic forks at the front and swing arm suspension at the rear. The BMW has a slightly longer travel distance at 150 mm compared to the Kawasaki's 120 mm at the front and 150 mm compared to the Kawasaki's 144 mm at the rear. Both motorcycles offer adjustable compression, preload, and rebound settings for the suspension.

In terms of brakes, both motorcycles feature double disk brakes at the front. However, the BMW has larger diameter disks at 320 mm compared to the Kawasaki's 300 mm. The BMW also features radial technology for its front brakes, while the Kawasaki has radial, monoblock, and petal technology.

BMW S 1000 XR 2021

Both motorcycles come equipped with advanced rider assistance systems. The BMW offers electronically adjustable suspension, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, and traction control. The Kawasaki offers ABS, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, quickshifter, and traction control.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the BMW has a slightly longer wheelbase at 1552 mm compared to the Kawasaki's 1440 mm. The seat height of the BMW is also slightly higher at 840 mm compared to the Kawasaki's 834.98 mm. The BMW is slightly lighter with a kerb weight of 226 kg compared to the Kawasaki's 235 kg. Both motorcycles have a similar fuel tank capacity, with the BMW at 20 liters and the Kawasaki at 19 liters.

Both motorcycles come equipped with LED daytime running lights, LED headlights, a TFT display, and an adjustable windscreen.

In terms of strengths, the BMW S 1000 XR offers riding modes that allow for a change in response behavior suitable for practical use. It also has a great rev-happy four-cylinder engine with a broad usable rev band. The electronic chassis with automatic recognition of load condition provides a well-balanced vehicle, even with a pillion passenger. The BMW also has good brakes.

Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2021

The Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX offers a silky four-cylinder engine and comfortable yet sporty ergonomics. It provides good wind protection and comes with a standard electronics package. The full fairing adds stability to the motorcycle, and it is very accessible.

In terms of weaknesses, the BMW S 1000 XR has a slightly narrow knee angle on long tours, which may be uncomfortable for tall riders. The suspension damping is not sensitive enough, making it difficult to find a truly comfortable setup. Additionally, the BMW has a higher fuel consumption.

The Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX's engine requires higher revs to deliver its power, which may not be ideal for all riders. The electronics could also be more user-friendly, and the windshield can only be adjusted with two hands.

Overall, both the BMW S 1000 XR 2021 and the Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2021 offer a combination of sporty performance and touring comfort. The BMW has a more powerful engine and better suspension travel, while the Kawasaki offers a comfortable riding position and good wind protection. The choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.