Kawasaki Versys 1000 S 2022 vs. BMW R 1250 GS 2021

In terms of the engine and drive train, the Kawasaki Versys 1000 S 2022 features an in-line engine with a bore of 77 mm and a stroke of 56 mm. It has a power output of 120 HP and a torque of 102 Nm. The starter is electric, and the transmission is a chain. The bike has four cylinders and a displacement of 1043 ccm. On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 GS 2021 has a boxer engine with a bore of 102.5 mm and a stroke of 76 mm. It has a higher power output of 136 HP and a torque of 143 Nm. The starter is also electric, but the transmission is a prop shaft. The BMW has two cylinders and a displacement of 1254 ccm.

In terms of suspension, the Kawasaki Versys 1000 S 2022 has an upside-down telescopic fork for the front suspension with a travel of 150 mm. It offers adjustment options for compression, preload, and rebound. The rear suspension consists of a swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 152 mm. It also has adjustment options for compression, preload, and rebound. The chassis is made of aluminum and has a rake of 63 degrees and a trail of 106 mm. The front brakes are double disk. The bike is equipped with ABS, ride by wire, and a quickshifter. The front tire diameter is 17 inches, and the rear tire width is 180 mm with a diameter of 17 inches. The wheelbase is 1520 mm, and the seat height is 840 mm. The kerb weight with ABS is 257 kg, and the fuel tank capacity is 21 liters. Additional equipment includes heated grips, cornering lights, and LED headlights.

Kawasaki Versys 1000 S 2022

On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 GS 2021 has a telelever front suspension with a travel of 190 mm. It offers adjustment options for preload. The rear suspension consists of a single swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 200 mm. It has adjustment options for preload and rebound. The chassis is made of steel and has a rake of 62.9 degrees and a trail of 109 mm. The front brakes are double disk. The bike is equipped with ABS, anti-slipping control, hill start assist, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, and traction control. The front tire diameter is 19 inches, and the rear tire width is 170 mm with a diameter of 17 inches. The wheelbase is 1525 mm, and the seat height is 850 mm. The kerb weight with ABS is slightly lighter at 249 kg, and the fuel tank capacity is 20 liters. Additional equipment includes cornering lights, LED headlights, and an adjustable windscreen.

BMW R 1250 GS 2021

In terms of strengths, the Kawasaki Versys 1000 S 2022 is praised for its smooth yet emotional engine, high-quality chassis, terrific wind protection, great seat comfort, and effortless handling. It is also noted for its completely neutral behavior when leaned over. On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 GS 2021 is praised for its great ride comfort and ergonomics, powerful engine, great connectivity app, easy-to-read display, confident feel in the saddle, practical riding aids, and versatile chassis that accommodates every route. It is also considered easy to ride.

However, the Kawasaki Versys 1000 S 2022 has some weaknesses, including a quickshifter that works poorly at low revs, a windshield adjustment that cannot be operated while driving, and a cruise control system that takes some getting used to. On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 GS 2021 is criticized for its rough overall appearance and somewhat clumsy gearshifts at low revs.