BMW R 1200 GS 2010 vs. Kawasaki Versys 1000 2015

BMW R 1200 GS 2010

BMW R 1200 GS 2010

Kawasaki Versys 1000 2015

Kawasaki Versys 1000 2015

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Overview - BMW R 1200 GS 2010 vs Kawasaki Versys 1000 2015

The BMW R 1200 GS 2010 and the Kawasaki Versys 1000 2015 are both enduro motorcycles with sporty looks and powerful engines. However, there are several key differences between the two models.

In terms of engine specifications, the BMW R 1200 GS 2010 features a Boxer engine with a bore of 101 mm and a stroke of 73 mm. It has a power output of 110 HP and a torque of 120 Nm. On the other hand, the Kawasaki Versys 1000 2015 has an in-line four-cylinder engine with a bore of 77 mm and a stroke of 56 mm. It offers a higher power output of 120 HP but a slightly lower torque of 102 Nm. The BMW has a transmission system with a prop shaft, while the Kawasaki uses a chain.

BMW R 1200 GS 2010

BMW R 1200 GS 2010

In terms of suspension, the BMW R 1200 GS 2010 has a front suspension with a strut design and adjustable preload. The rear suspension also has adjustable preload. On the other hand, the Kawasaki Versys 1000 2015 features an upside-down telescopic fork for the front suspension, which is adjustable for compression, preload, and rebound. The rear suspension also has adjustable settings for compression, preload, and rebound.

Both motorcycles have double disk brakes at the front. The BMW R 1200 GS 2010 has a rear tire width of 110 mm, while the Kawasaki Versys 1000 2015 has a wider rear tire width of 180 mm. The wheelbase of the BMW is 1507 mm, while the Kawasaki has a slightly longer wheelbase of 1520 mm. The seat height of the BMW is 850 mm, while the Kawasaki has a slightly lower seat height of 840 mm. Both motorcycles have a fuel tank capacity of around 20-21 liters.

In terms of strengths, the BMW R 1200 GS 2010 is known for its sporty look, well-equipped features, and ample storage space. On the other hand, the Kawasaki Versys 1000 2015 offers a comfortable seating position, a powerful and refined in-line four-cylinder engine, an adjustable windshield, a stable chassis, a well-controlled braking system, and a clever range of accessories. Additionally, the Kawasaki is comparatively priced lower than the BMW.

Kawasaki Versys 1000 2015

Kawasaki Versys 1000 2015

However, there are also some weaknesses to consider. The BMW R 1200 GS 2010 may take some time to get used to due to its conversion technology. On the other hand, the Kawasaki Versys 1000 2015 has a windshield that can only be adjusted when stationary and requires an additional cost for a gear indicator.

Overall, both the BMW R 1200 GS 2010 and the Kawasaki Versys 1000 2015 have their own strengths and weaknesses. It ultimately depends on the rider's preferences and priorities in terms of design, performance, and features.

Technical Specifications BMW R 1200 GS 2010 compared to Kawasaki Versys 1000 2015

BMW R 1200 GS 2010
Kawasaki Versys 1000 2015

Engine and Drive Train

Engine typeEngine typeBoxerEngine typeIn line
BoreBore101 mmBore77 mm
StrokeStroke73 mmStroke56 mm
Engine powerEngine power110 HPEngine power120 HP
Rpm at Max. PowerRpm at Max. Power7,750 rpmRpm at Max. Power9,000 rpm
TorqueTorque120 NmTorque102 Nm
Rpm at TorqueRpm at Torque6,000 rpmRpm at Torque7,500 rpm
Compression RatioCompression Ratio12 Compression Ratio10.3
Clutch TypeClutch TypeToughened, DryClutch TypeMultiplate in oil-bath
TransmissionTransmissionProp shaftTransmissionChain
Number of gearsNumber of gears6Number of gears6
CylindersCylinders2Cylinders4
StrokesStrokes4-StrokeStrokes4-Stroke
CoolingCoolingOil-airCoolingliquid
DisplacementDisplacement1,170 ccmDisplacement1,043 ccm

Suspension Front

Front suspensionFront suspensionStrutFront suspensionUpside-Down telescopic fork
AdjustmentAdjustmentPreloadAdjustmentCompression, Preload, Rebound

Suspension Rear

AdjustmentAdjustmentPreloadAdjustmentCompression, Preload, Rebound

Brakes Front

TypeTypeDouble diskTypeDouble disk
PistonPistonFour pistonsPistonFour pistons
Shock mountShock mountFixed caliperShock mountSemi-Schwimmsattel

Brakes Rear

TypeTypeDiscTypeDisc
PistonPistonDouble pistonPistonSingle piston
Shock mountShock mountFloating caliperShock mountFixed caliper

Dimensions and Weights

Front tyre widthFront tyre width110 mmFront tyre width120 mm
Front tyre heightFront tyre height80 %Front tyre height70 %
Rear tyre widthRear tyre width110 mmRear tyre width180 mm
Rear tyre heightRear tyre height80 %Rear tyre height55 %
LengthLength2,210 mmLength2,240 mm
WidthWidth915 mmWidth895 mm
HeightHeight1,450 mmHeight1,400 mm
WheelbaseWheelbase1,507 mmWheelbase1,520 mm
Seat HeightSeat Height850 mmSeat Height840 mm
Fuel Tank CapacityFuel Tank Capacity20 lFuel Tank Capacity21 l
License compliancyLicense compliancyALicense compliancyA

Pros and Cons in comparison

Pros and Cons in comparison

BMW R 1200 GS 2010

BMW R 1200 GS 2010

A GS Adventure has practically everything you need for the big trip. But firstly, Touratech manufactures some parts for BMW anyway and secondly, it doesn't stop with the optional extras offered by the Bavarians.

Sporty look

well equipped

enough storage space

The technology of the conversion takes some getting used to

Kawasaki Versys 1000 2015

Kawasaki Versys 1000 2015

The new Kawasaki Versys 1000 is not a completely new model - even if it looks like one from the design point of view. The look has been cleverly adapted to the current aggressive Kawasaki line with two pointed headlights and many edges at the front. Technically, on the other hand, it has been cautiously upgraded - but quite sensibly. Two additional horsepower boost the output to 120 hp, which is excellent to ride thanks to the wonderful in-line four-cylinder characteristics. The chassis corresponds to the sporty demands of a Kawasaki, but the ergonomics and comfortable seating position allow for long journeys - just like a big enduro. With useful accessories such as a pannier set, top case, heated grips and additional headlights, the Versys 1000 becomes a serious long-distance tourer - the comparatively low base price makes these gimmicks quite affordable.

Sporty look

comfortable seating position

powerful and cultivated in-line four-cylinder engine

adjustable windshield

stable chassis

well-controlled braking system

clever range of accessories

comparatively low price.

Windshield only adjustable when stationary

gear indicator costs extra

Price Comparison Avarage Market Price BMW R 1200 GS vs Kawasaki Versys 1000

There are a few key differences between a BMW R 1200 GS 2010 and a Kawasaki Versys 1000 2015. In terms of price, the actual average price of a BMW R 1200 GS 2010 is about 6% higher. Compared to Kawasaki Versys 1000 2015 there are more BMW R 1200 GS 2010 bikes available on the 1000PS.de Marketplace, specifically 16 compared to 6. It takes less time to sell a BMW R 1200 GS with 64 days compared to 86 days for a Kawasaki Versys 1000. Since model year 2005 1000PS.de editors have written 98 reviews for the BMW R 1200 GS and 19 reviews for the Kawasaki Versys 1000 since model year 2012. The first review for the BMW R 1200 GS was published on 1/20/2004 and now has more than 19,100 views. This compares to more than 8,400 views for the first review on Kawasaki Versys 1000 published on 11/7/2011.

Price BMW R 1200 GS

Model year
Current average market prices

Price Kawasaki Versys 1000

Model year
Current average market prices

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