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

When comparing the Kawasaki Versys 1000 S 2021 and the BMW R 1250 GS 2021, it is important to consider their technical specifications, strengths, and weaknesses.

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

In terms of suspension, the Kawasaki Versys 1000 S 2021 features an upside-down telescopic fork front suspension with a travel of 150 mm and adjustable compression, preload, and rebound. The rear suspension is a swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 152 mm, also with adjustable compression, preload, and rebound. On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 GS 2021 has a telelever front suspension with a travel of 190 mm and adjustable preload. The rear suspension is a single swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 200 mm, also with adjustable preload and rebound.

Kawasaki Versys 1000 S 2021

In terms of chassis, the Kawasaki Versys 1000 S 2021 has an aluminum frame with a rake of 63 degrees and a trail of 106 mm. The BMW R 1250 GS 2021 has a steel frame with a rake of 62.9 degrees and a trail of 109 mm.

In terms of brakes, both motorcycles have double disk front brakes. The Kawasaki Versys 1000 S 2021 features advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, ride by wire, and a quickshifter. The BMW R 1250 GS 2021, on the other hand, features ABS, anti-slipping control, hill start assist, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, and traction control.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the Kawasaki Versys 1000 S 2021 has a front tire diameter of 17 inches, a rear tire width of 180 mm, a rear tire diameter of 17 inches, a wheelbase of 1520 mm, a seat height of 840 mm, a kerb weight (with ABS) of 257 kg, and a fuel tank capacity of 21 liters. The BMW R 1250 GS 2021 has a front tire diameter of 19 inches, a rear tire width of 170 mm, a rear tire diameter of 17 inches, a wheelbase of 1525 mm, a seat height of 850 mm, a kerb weight (with ABS) of 249 kg, and a fuel tank capacity of 20 liters.

BMW R 1250 GS 2021

In terms of equipment, both motorcycles feature cornering lights and LED headlights. The Kawasaki Versys 1000 S 2021 also has heated grips, while the BMW R 1250 GS 2021 has an adjustable windscreen and a great connectivity app.

The strengths of the Kawasaki Versys 1000 S 2021 include a very comfortable seating position, a cultivated in-line four-cylinder engine, a full electronics package, an adjustable windshield, a well controllable braking system, and a distinctive look. On the other hand, the strengths of the BMW R 1250 GS 2021 include great ride comfort and great ergonomics, a powerful engine, a great connectivity app, an easy-to-read display, a confident feel in the saddle, practical riding aids, and a versatile chassis that accommodates every route.

The weaknesses of the Kawasaki Versys 1000 S 2021 are that the windshield is not adjustable with one hand. The weaknesses of the BMW R 1250 GS 2021 are that it has a rough overall appearance and gearshifts at low revs can be somewhat clumsy.