Kawasaki Versys 1000 2012 vs. Suzuki V-Strom 1000 2016

Kawasaki Versys 1000 2012

Kawasaki Versys 1000 2012

Suzuki V-Strom 1000 2016

Suzuki V-Strom 1000 2016

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Overview - Kawasaki Versys 1000 2012 vs Suzuki V-Strom 1000 2016

The Kawasaki Versys 1000 model year 2012 and the Suzuki V-Strom 1000 model year 2016 are both enduro motorcycles that offer a combination of sporty performance and comfortable touring capabilities.

In terms of engine specifications, the Kawasaki Versys 1000 2012 has a bore of 77 mm and a stroke of 56 mm, resulting in an engine displacement of 1043 ccm. It produces 118 HP of power and 102 Nm of torque. On the other hand, the Suzuki V-Strom 1000 2016 has a larger bore of 100 mm and stroke of 66 mm, resulting in a slightly higher displacement of 1037 ccm. It produces 100 HP of power and 103 Nm of torque. Both motorcycles feature a chain transmission system.

When it comes to suspension, both motorcycles are equipped with upside-down telescopic forks in the front. The chassis of both motorcycles is made of aluminum, providing a lightweight yet sturdy frame.

Kawasaki Versys 1000 2012

Kawasaki Versys 1000 2012

In terms of dimensions and weights, there are some differences between the two models. The Kawasaki Versys 1000 2012 has a front tire diameter of 17 inches and a rear tire width of 180 mm, while the Suzuki V-Strom 1000 2016 has a larger front tire diameter of 19 inches and a narrower rear tire width of 150 mm. The wheelbase of the Kawasaki Versys 1000 2012 is 1520 mm, while the Suzuki V-Strom 1000 2016 has a slightly longer wheelbase of 1555 mm. The kerb weight of the Kawasaki Versys 1000 2012, including ABS, is 239 kg, while the Suzuki V-Strom 1000 2016 weighs slightly less at 228 kg. Both motorcycles have a fuel tank capacity of around 20-21 liters.

Moving on to the strengths of each motorcycle, the Kawasaki Versys 1000 2012 is praised for its silky running powerplant, offering smooth and responsive acceleration. It also features a sporty yet comfortable chassis, providing a good balance between agility and stability. The wind protection is efficient, reducing fatigue during long rides, and the cushioned seat adds to the overall comfort.

On the other hand, the Suzuki V-Strom 1000 2016 is known for its powerful engine, delivering strong performance in various riding conditions. It also comes with traction control as standard, enhancing safety and stability. The brakes are highly regarded for their effectiveness, providing excellent stopping power. The chassis of the V-Strom 1000 is described as taut yet comfortable, offering a good balance between sporty handling and long-distance touring capabilities. Additionally, the motorcycle is praised for its complete instrumentation, providing riders with all the necessary information at a glance.

Suzuki V-Strom 1000 2016

Suzuki V-Strom 1000 2016

However, both motorcycles have their weaknesses. The Kawasaki Versys 1000 2012 has been criticized for slight tipping in curves, which may take some time for riders to get used to. Additionally, the design of the motorcycle is subjective and may not appeal to everyone.

On the other hand, the Suzuki V-Strom 1000 2016 has been noted for creating turbulence on the rider's head due to the windshield design. Some riders have also mentioned that the engine runs out of breath in the upper rev range, limiting its performance in higher speed ranges. The aesthetics of the V-Strom 1000 have also been described as arbitrary, meaning that the design may not be universally liked.

In conclusion, both the Kawasaki Versys 1000 2012 and the Suzuki V-Strom 1000 2016 offer a combination of sporty performance and comfortable touring capabilities. The choice between the two will ultimately depend on individual preferences and priorities, such as engine power, handling characteristics, and design aesthetics.

Technical Specifications Kawasaki Versys 1000 2012 compared to Suzuki V-Strom 1000 2016

Kawasaki Versys 1000 2012
Suzuki V-Strom 1000 2016

Engine and Drive Train

BoreBore77 mmBore100 mm
StrokeStroke56 mmStroke66 mm
Engine powerEngine power118 HPEngine power100 HP
Rpm at Max. PowerRpm at Max. Power9,000 rpmRpm at Max. Power8,000 rpm
TorqueTorque102 NmTorque103 Nm
Rpm at TorqueRpm at Torque7,700 rpmRpm at Torque4,000 rpm
Compression RatioCompression Ratio10.3 Compression Ratio11.3
Clutch TypeClutch TypeMultiplate in oil-bathClutch TypeAntihopping
TransmissionTransmissionChainTransmissionChain
Number of gearsNumber of gears6Number of gears6
StrokesStrokes4-StrokeStrokes4-Stroke
DisplacementDisplacement1,043 ccmDisplacement1,037 ccm

Suspension Front

Front suspensionFront suspensionUpside-Down telescopic forkFront suspensionUpside-Down telescopic fork

Chassis

FrameFrameAluminiumFrameAluminium

Brakes Front

PistonPistonFour pistonsPistonFour pistons
TechnologyTechnologyradial, PetalTechnologyradial, Monoblock

Brakes Rear

TypeTypeDiscTypeDisc
PistonPistonSingle pistonPistonSingle piston

Dimensions and Weights

Front tyre widthFront tyre width120 mmFront tyre width110 mm
Front tyre heightFront tyre height70 %Front tyre height80 %
Front tyre diameterFront tyre diameter17 inchFront tyre diameter19 inch
Rear tyre widthRear tyre width180 mmRear tyre width150 mm
Rear tyre heightRear tyre height55 %Rear tyre height70 %
Rear tyre diameterRear tyre diameter17 inchRear tyre diameter17 inch
LengthLength2,235 mmLength2,285 mm
WidthWidth900 mmWidth865 mm
HeightHeight1,405 mmHeight1,410 mm
WheelbaseWheelbase1,520 mmWheelbase1,555 mm
Kerb Weight (with ABS)Kerb Weight (with ABS)239 kgKerb Weight (with ABS)228 kg
Fuel Tank CapacityFuel Tank Capacity21 lFuel Tank Capacity20 l
License compliancyLicense compliancyALicense compliancyA

Pros and Cons in comparison

Pros and Cons in comparison

Kawasaki Versys 1000 2012

Kawasaki Versys 1000 2012

With no other Bigenduro can you ride so hard on the knee and therefore end up way ahead on the grid. If you often feel attacked on your holiday trip, you should fight back with the Versys 1000. Which proves that big enduros and four-cylinders do get along.

Silky running powerplant

sporty, comfortable chassis

efficient wind protection

cushioned seat.

Slight tipping in curves takes some getting used to

arguable design

Suzuki V-Strom 1000 2016

Suzuki V-Strom 1000 2016

In the large enduro segment, the Suzuki V-Strom 1000 is the best value for money, yet you don't have to do without anything - traction control and ABS come as standard. Excellent brakes, great comfort and a wonderfully powerful V-twin engine are ingredients that should appeal to almost everyone. The fact that it doesn't play in the top league with 100 hp is made up for by the wonderful power delivery, which ensures a relaxed climate on long journeys. Only the wind protection is not optimal with the original windshield; one should invest in the affordable, somewhat larger windshield.

Powerful engine

traction control as standard

very good brakes

taut yet comfortable chassis

great touring capability

complete instrumentation

Windshield creates turbulence on the head

the engine runs out of breath in the upper rev range, arbitrary optics

Price Comparison Avarage Market Price Kawasaki Versys 1000 vs Suzuki V-Strom 1000

There are a few key differences between a Kawasaki Versys 1000 2012 and a Suzuki V-Strom 1000 2016. In terms of price, the actual average price of a Suzuki V-Strom 1000 2016 is about 25% higher. A Kawasaki Versys 1000 2012 experiences a loss of 270 GBP in one year and 1,320 GBP in two years of ownership. This is offset by a loss of 440 GBP and 1,920 GBP for a Suzuki V-Strom 1000 2016. There are the same number of bikes of both models available on the 1000PS.de marketplace, specifically 10. It takes less time to sell a Kawasaki Versys 1000 with 87 days compared to 106 days for a Suzuki V-Strom 1000. Since model year 2012 1000PS.de editors have written 19 reviews for the Kawasaki Versys 1000 and 40 reviews for the Suzuki V-Strom 1000 since model year 2005. The first review for the Kawasaki Versys 1000 was published on 07/11/2011 and now has more than 8,400 views. This compares to more than 6,300 views for the first review on Suzuki V-Strom 1000 published on 23/07/2002.

Price Kawasaki Versys 1000

Model year
Current average market prices

Price Suzuki V-Strom 1000

Model year
Current average market prices

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