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

When comparing the Kawasaki Versys 1000 S 2022 and the BMW R 1250 GS 2022, it is important to consider their technical specifications and strengths and weaknesses.

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

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

Kawasaki Versys 1000 S 2022

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

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

In terms of dimensions and weights, the Kawasaki Versys 1000 S has a front tire diameter of 17 inches, a rear tire width of 180 mm, and a rear tire diameter of 17 inches. It has 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. On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 GS has a front tire diameter of 19 inches, a rear tire width of 170 mm, and a rear tire diameter of 17 inches. It has a slightly longer 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.

In terms of equipment, both motorcycles have cornering lights and LED headlights. The Kawasaki Versys 1000 S also has heated grips, while the BMW R 1250 GS has an adjustable windscreen. The BMW R 1250 GS also boasts great app integration, a sophisticated operating concept, great ergonomics, and many customization options.

BMW R 1250 GS 2022

In terms of strengths, the Kawasaki Versys 1000 S is praised for its smooth yet emotional engine, high-quality chassis, terrific wind protection, great seat comfort, effortless handling, and completely neutral behavior when leaned over. On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 GS is praised for its extremely torquey boxer engine, comfortable seating position suitable for long distances, great app integration, sophisticated operating concept, great ergonomics, and easy driveability.

In terms of weaknesses, the Kawasaki Versys 1000 S is criticized for its poor performance of the quickshifter at low revs, the inability to adjust the windshield while driving, and the cruise control taking some getting used to. The BMW R 1250 GS is criticized for its awkward shifting at low revs, a seat that is too lax, and brakes and suspension that are no longer on par with the strong competition.

In conclusion, both the Kawasaki Versys 1000 S 2022 and the BMW R 1250 GS 2022 have their own strengths and weaknesses. The Kawasaki Versys 1000 S offers a smooth engine and high-quality chassis, while the BMW R 1250 GS boasts a torquey engine and great app integration. However, the Kawasaki Versys 1000 S has some issues with its quickshifter and windshield adjustment, while the BMW R 1250 GS falls short in terms of seat comfort and brakes and suspension compared to its competitors. Ultimately, the choice between these two motorcycles will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.