Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2021 vs. KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2021

In terms of engine and power, the Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2021 features an inline four-cylinder engine with 142 horsepower and 111 Nm of torque. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2021 has a V-twin engine with a more powerful 175 horsepower and 141 Nm of torque. This gives the KTM a significant advantage in terms of sheer power and acceleration.

Both motorcycles have a chain transmission and a 4-stroke engine. The Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX has a displacement of 1043ccm, while the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT has a larger displacement of 1301ccm. This means that the KTM has a larger engine, which contributes to its higher power output.

In terms of suspension, both motorcycles feature upside-down telescopic forks at the front. The Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX has a front suspension travel of 120mm, while the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT has a slightly larger travel of 125mm. Both motorcycles offer adjustment options for compression, preload, and rebound.

For the rear suspension, the Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX has a swing arm suspension with a monoshock and a travel of 144mm. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT has a single swing arm suspension with a monoshock and a larger travel of 156mm. This gives the KTM better suspension travel and potentially better performance on rough roads.

Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2021

In terms of brakes, both motorcycles feature double disk brakes at the front. The Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX has 300mm diameter disks with radial, monoblock, and petal technology from Tokico. The KTM 1290 Super Duke GT, on the other hand, has larger 320mm diameter disks with radial monoblock technology from Brembo. This gives the KTM better braking performance and potentially shorter stopping distances.

Both motorcycles come equipped with advanced rider assistance systems. The Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX features ABS, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, a quickshifter, and traction control. The KTM 1290 Super Duke GT also features ABS, hill start assist, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, and traction control. Both motorcycles offer a similar level of electronic aids, providing enhanced safety and performance.

In terms of dimensions and weights, both motorcycles have a front tire width of 120mm and a rear tire width of 190mm. They also have the same 17-inch tire diameter. The Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX has a wheelbase of 1440mm, while the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT has a slightly longer wheelbase of 1482mm. Both motorcycles have a seat height of around 835mm, providing a comfortable riding position for most riders. The KTM has a larger fuel tank capacity of 23 liters compared to the Kawasaki's 19 liters, giving it a longer range.

KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2021

In terms of equipment, both motorcycles come with adjustable windshields. The Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX also features LED daytime running lights, LED headlights, and a TFT display. The KTM 1290 Super Duke GT offers ample equipment as standard, although specific details are not provided.

In terms of strengths, the Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX is praised for its silky four-cylinder engine, comfortable yet sporty ergonomics, wind protection, standard electronics package, stability thanks to the full fairing, and accessibility. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT is praised for its very potent engine with massive power, extremely precise chassis, agile handling, well-controlled brakes, good wind protection, adjustable windshield, top ergonomics even for tall riders, long range, and ample equipment as standard.

In terms of weaknesses, the Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX is criticized for its engine needing revs, electronics that could be more user-friendly, and a windshield that can only be adjusted with two hands. The KTM 1290 Super Duke GT is criticized for its hard chassis and saddle, engine that only accelerates smoothly from around 3500 revs, and being very loud with the Track Pack.

Overall, the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2021 offers more power, better suspension travel, larger brakes, and a longer range compared to the Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2021. However, the Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX offers a more accessible and user-friendly riding experience, with a comfortable and sporty ergonomics, and a full fairing for added stability. Ultimately, the choice between these two motorcycles will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.