Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2021 vs. Kawasaki Z1000SX 2017

The Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2021 and the Kawasaki Z1000SX 2017 are both sport touring motorcycles with similar technical specifications. They both have an inline four-cylinder engine with a displacement of 1043cc, producing 142 horsepower and 111 Nm of torque. The engine power and torque are identical in both models. They also share the same transmission type, chain drive, and four-stroke engine configuration.

In terms of suspension, both motorcycles feature an upside-down telescopic fork at the front with 120mm of travel. The rear suspension consists of a swing arm with a monoshock and 144mm of travel. The suspension settings can be adjusted for compression, preload, and rebound in both models. This allows riders to fine-tune the suspension to their preferences and riding conditions.

Both the Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2021 and the Kawasaki Z1000SX 2017 have an aluminum frame, providing a lightweight yet sturdy chassis. The front brakes on both motorcycles are double discs with a diameter of 300mm. They utilize radial, monoblock, and petal technology, providing excellent stopping power. The front brakes are branded by Tokico, ensuring high-quality braking performance.

Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2021

In terms of advanced rider assistance systems, the Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2021 offers a more comprehensive package. It includes ABS, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, quickshifter, and traction control. These features enhance the safety and performance of the motorcycle, allowing riders to have more control in different riding scenarios. On the other hand, the Kawasaki Z1000SX 2017 only offers ABS and traction control.

When it comes to dimensions and weights, both motorcycles have the same front and rear tire widths and diameters. They also have the same wheelbase of 1440mm. However, there are some differences in seat height and kerb weight. The Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2021 has a seat height of 834.98mm, while the Kawasaki Z1000SX 2017 has a slightly lower seat height of 815mm. In terms of kerb weight, both models weigh 235kg with ABS.

Kawasaki Z1000SX 2017

In terms of strengths, the Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2021 offers a silky four-cylinder engine, comfortable yet sporty ergonomics, wind protection, a standard electronics package, lots of stability thanks to the full fairing, and accessibility. On the other hand, the Kawasaki Z1000SX 2017 is praised for its great tuned engine, strong brakes, and easy driveability combined with high performance.

However, the Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2021 has some weaknesses. The engine needs to be revved to extract its full potential, and the electronics could be more user-friendly. Additionally, the windshield can only be adjusted with two hands, which may be inconvenient for some riders. The Kawasaki Z1000SX 2017 is sensitive to tire choice, which means that selecting the right tires is crucial for optimal performance.

Overall, both the Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2021 and the Kawasaki Z1000SX 2017 are capable sport touring motorcycles with similar technical specifications. The 2021 model offers more advanced rider assistance systems and a slightly higher seat height, while the 2017 model is praised for its engine performance and brakes. Riders should consider their specific preferences and priorities when choosing between these two models.