Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE 2020 vs. BMW R 1200 GS 2016
Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE 2020
BMW R 1200 GS 2016
Overview - Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE 2020 vs BMW R 1200 GS 2016
The Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE 2020 and the BMW R 1200 GS 2016 are both popular enduro motorcycles with their own unique features and strengths.
Starting with the Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE 2020, it boasts a powerful in-line engine with a displacement of 1043cc. With 120 horsepower and 102 Nm of torque, this motorcycle offers a strong pull and is well-controllable. The engine is also rev-happy, providing an exhilarating riding experience. The Versys 1000 SE has a chain transmission and features a four-cylinder configuration.
In terms of suspension, the Versys 1000 SE is equipped with an upside-down telescopic fork at the front and a swing arm suspension at the rear. Both the front and rear suspensions offer adjustment options for compression, preload, and rebound, allowing riders to fine-tune the bike's performance to their preferences. The frame of the Versys 1000 SE is made of aluminum, which contributes to its lightweight and agile handling.
When it comes to braking, the Versys 1000 SE is equipped with double disk brakes at the front, providing reliable stopping power. The front tire has a diameter of 17 inches, while the rear tire has a width of 180mm and a diameter of 17 inches. The wheelbase measures 1520mm, and the seat height is set at 840mm. The bike has a kerb weight of 257kg (with ABS) and a fuel tank capacity of 21 liters.
Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE 2020
Moving on to the BMW R 1200 GS 2016, it features a boxer engine with a displacement of 1170cc. With 125 horsepower and 125 Nm of torque, this motorcycle offers a powerful performance. The engine is known for its low consumption, making it an efficient choice for long rides. The R 1200 GS has a prop shaft transmission and features a two-cylinder configuration.
In terms of suspension, the R 1200 GS is equipped with a strut front suspension and a single swing arm suspension at the rear. The front suspension offers preload adjustment, allowing riders to customize the bike's handling. The frame of the R 1200 GS is made of steel, which provides durability and stability.
Similar to the Versys 1000 SE, the R 1200 GS is equipped with double disk brakes at the front, ensuring reliable braking performance. The front tire has a diameter of 19 inches, while the rear tire has a width of 170mm and a diameter of 17 inches. The wheelbase measures 1507mm, and the seat height is set at 850mm. The bike has a kerb weight of 238kg (with ABS) and a fuel tank capacity of 20 liters.
In terms of strengths, the Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE 2020 offers high riding comfort for both the rider and passenger. It also provides great wind and weather protection, making it suitable for long rides in various conditions. The high-quality chassis of the Versys 1000 SE can be adjusted precisely to meet the rider's requirements, enhancing its versatility. Additionally, the engine delivers strong pull and is well-controllable, providing an enjoyable riding experience.
BMW R 1200 GS 2016
On the other hand, the BMW R 1200 GS 2016 is known for its powerful engine and low consumption, making it an efficient choice for riders. The comfortable seating position allows for long hours of riding without discomfort. The R 1200 GS also has the capability to be used off-road, adding to its versatility. Furthermore, the bike has a high reputation in the motorcycle community, reflecting its reliability and performance.
However, both motorcycles have their weaknesses. The Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE 2020's standard windshield is too generously dimensioned, resulting in limited wind flow even at the lowest setting. Additionally, the display and mobile phone app of the Versys 1000 SE may not match up to the competition.
The BMW R 1200 GS 2016 has a long and expensive surcharge side, which may deter some potential buyers. The Telelever front suspension of the R 1200 GS takes some getting used to, and the brake can be very sharp, requiring riders to be cautious during braking maneuvers.
In conclusion, the Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE 2020 and the BMW R 1200 GS 2016 are both capable enduro motorcycles with their own unique features and strengths. Riders should consider their specific preferences and requirements to choose the one that best suits their needs.
Technical Specifications Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE 2020 compared to BMW R 1200 GS 2016
Pros and Cons in comparison
Pros and Cons in comparison
Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE 2020
The Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE is a particularly well-designed representative of a type that is so difficult to categorise. In the end, it is simply a very good and universal motorbike. At the regulars' table, it will hardly score points with 120 hp. But in practice, all elements of the motorbike are designed and dimensioned in such a way that you enjoy riding it for a long time. On long tours, it has sufficient power, offers dynamic handling and high riding comfort. Compared to the competition, you hardly miss the power. Kawasaki should improve on the integration of a Navigatinos app in the display.
BMW R 1200 GS 2016
A GS is at home almost anywhere - but only to a limited extent on the racetrack. It's a pleasure to feel the power of the partially water-cooled boxer twin cylinder on the exit of the bend - 125 hp only seems much weaker on paper than 150 or even 160 hp on the competition. With 125 Newton metres of torque, the acceleration from the bottom is superb anyway and the GS, at 238 kilos ready to ride, does not carry too much flab despite its bulky appearance. In very tight corners, the low centre of gravity also has a positive effect - the BMW R 1200 GS is very hard to crack! Even the front telelever suspension, which suppresses the front wheel's tendency to sink in under braking, fits perfectly into the GS's overall package and only slightly detracts from its sporty character.
Price Comparison Avarage Market Price Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE vs BMW R 1200 GS
There are a few key differences between a Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE 2020 and a BMW R 1200 GS 2016. In terms of price, the actual average prices of both motorbikes are almost the same. Compared to BMW R 1200 GS 2016 there are less Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE 2020 bikes available on the 1000PS.de Marketplace, specifically 8 compared to 47. It takes less time to sell a BMW R 1200 GS with 70 days compared to 156 days for the Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE. Since model year 2019 1000PS.de editors have written 12 reviews for the Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE and 98 reviews for the BMW R 1200 GS since model year 2005. The first review for the Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE was published on 11/6/2018 and now has more than 25,500 views. This compares to more than 19,100 views for the first review on BMW R 1200 GS published on 1/20/2004.
