Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE 2020 vs. BMW R 1250 GS 2019

The Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE 2020 and the BMW R 1250 GS 2019 are both popular enduro motorcycles that offer a range of features and capabilities.

Starting with the engine and drive train, the Versys 1000 SE is equipped with an in-line, 4-cylinder engine with a displacement of 1043cc. It delivers 120 horsepower and 102 Nm of torque, providing strong pull and a rev-happy performance. The BMW R 1250 GS, on the other hand, features a boxer engine with a displacement of 1254cc. It produces 136 horsepower and 143 Nm of torque, offering an extremely high-torque performance and a good sound. Both motorcycles have electric starters and the Versys 1000 SE has a chain transmission while the R 1250 GS has a prop shaft transmission.

In terms of suspension, the Versys 1000 SE is equipped with an upside-down telescopic fork at the front and a swing arm with a monoshock at the rear. It offers a travel of 150mm at the front and 152mm at the rear, with adjustable compression, preload, and rebound settings. The R 1250 GS features a telelever front suspension with a travel of 190mm and a single swing arm with a monoshock at the rear. It offers adjustable preload and rebound settings and a travel of 200mm at the rear. Both motorcycles have high-quality suspension systems that can be adjusted precisely to meet the rider's requirements.

Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE 2020

In terms of chassis, the Versys 1000 SE has an aluminum frame with a rake of 63 degrees and a trail of 106mm. The R 1250 GS features a steel frame with a slightly smaller rake of 62.9 degrees and a trail of 109mm. Both motorcycles have double disk brakes at the front and ABS as part of their advanced rider assistance systems.

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

In terms of equipment, both motorcycles offer LED headlights. The Versys 1000 SE also features heated grips, cornering lights, and a comprehensive set of advanced rider assistance systems including ABS, ride by wire, and a quickshifter. The R 1250 GS offers additional advanced rider assistance systems such as anti-slipping control, riding modes, and ride by wire. It also has a windscreen that is adjustable.

BMW R 1250 GS 2019

In terms of strengths, the Versys 1000 SE offers high riding comfort for both the rider and passenger, great wind and weather protection, and a high-quality chassis that can be adjusted precisely to meet the rider's requirements. It also has a well-controllable and rev-happy engine that delivers strong pull. The R 1250 GS is known for its extremely high-torque boxer engine, good sound, comfortable seating position suitable for long distances, stable braking performance, good weather protection, and standard features such as a color TFT display and LED headlights.

In terms of weaknesses, the Versys 1000 SE has a windshield that is too generously dimensioned, resulting in limited wind at the lowest setting, particularly at high temperatures. Its display and mobile phone app also lag behind the competition. The R 1250 GS has a manageable standard equipment and a long surcharge list. It also has a jagged appearance with little elegance.

In conclusion, both the Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE 2020 and the BMW R 1250 GS 2019 offer a range of strengths and weaknesses. The Versys 1000 SE excels in riding comfort, wind protection, and adjustability, while the R 1250 GS stands out with its high-torque engine, comfortable seating position, and stable braking performance. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.