BMW R 1250 RS 2019 vs. Kawasaki Z1000SX 2017

BMW R 1250 RS 2019

BMW R 1250 RS 2019

Kawasaki Z1000SX 2017

Kawasaki Z1000SX 2017

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Overview - BMW R 1250 RS 2019 vs Kawasaki Z1000SX 2017

The BMW R 1250 RS 2019 and the Kawasaki Z1000SX 2017 are both sport touring motorcycles that offer a combination of sporty performance and comfortable long-distance riding capabilities.

In terms of engine and drive train, the BMW R 1250 RS is equipped with a Boxer engine that delivers 136 HP of power and 143 Nm of torque. On the other hand, the Kawasaki Z1000SX features an inline 4-cylinder engine that produces slightly more power at 142 HP, but less torque at 111 Nm. The BMW R 1250 RS has a transmission system that uses a prop shaft, while the Kawasaki Z1000SX utilizes a chain drive.

Both motorcycles have similar suspension setups, with upside-down telescopic forks at the front and a monoshock at the rear. However, the BMW R 1250 RS offers slightly more travel in both the front and rear suspension, providing a more comfortable ride over uneven surfaces. The BMW R 1250 RS also offers adjustable preload and rebound settings for the rear suspension, allowing riders to fine-tune their riding experience.

BMW R 1250 RS 2019

BMW R 1250 RS 2019

In terms of chassis, the BMW R 1250 RS features a steel frame, while the Kawasaki Z1000SX has an aluminum frame. The choice of materials affects the overall weight and handling characteristics of the motorcycles, with the BMW R 1250 RS being slightly heavier at 243 kg compared to the Kawasaki Z1000SX at 235 kg.

Both motorcycles are equipped with double disk brakes at the front, but the BMW R 1250 RS has larger 320 mm diameter disks compared to the 300 mm disks on the Kawasaki Z1000SX. The BMW R 1250 RS also features radial brake technology, which provides better braking performance and control. Additionally, the BMW R 1250 RS comes with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, anti-slipping control, riding modes, and ride by wire, while the Kawasaki Z1000SX offers ABS and traction control.

Kawasaki Z1000SX 2017

Kawasaki Z1000SX 2017

In terms of dimensions, both motorcycles have similar front tire widths of 120 mm and front tire diameters of 17 inches. However, the Kawasaki Z1000SX has a wider rear tire at 190 mm compared to the 180 mm rear tire on the BMW R 1250 RS. The Kawasaki Z1000SX also has a slightly shorter wheelbase at 1440 mm compared to the 1530 mm wheelbase of the BMW R 1250 RS. The seat height of the Kawasaki Z1000SX is also lower at 815 mm compared to the 820 mm seat height of the BMW R 1250 RS.

In terms of weaknesses, the BMW R 1250 RS could benefit from a higher windshield, as some riders may find wind protection to be insufficient. Additionally, many of the features on the BMW R 1250 RS come at an extra cost, which can increase the overall price of the motorcycle. On the other hand, the Kawasaki Z1000SX is sensitive to tire choice, meaning that selecting the right tires for optimal performance can be crucial.

In conclusion, both the BMW R 1250 RS 2019 and the Kawasaki Z1000SX 2017 offer a combination of sporty performance and touring capabilities. The BMW R 1250 RS excels in terms of handling, engine performance, and advanced rider assistance systems, while the Kawasaki Z1000SX offers a great tuned engine and strong brakes. Ultimately, the choice between the two motorcycles will depend on individual preferences and priorities.

Technical Specifications BMW R 1250 RS 2019 compared to Kawasaki Z1000SX 2017

BMW R 1250 RS 2019
Kawasaki Z1000SX 2017

Engine and Drive Train

Engine typeEngine typeBoxerEngine typeIn line
BoreBore102.5 mmBore77 mm
StrokeStroke76 mmStroke56 mm
Engine powerEngine power136 HPEngine power142 HP
Rpm at Max. PowerRpm at Max. Power7,750 rpmRpm at Max. Power10,000 rpm
TorqueTorque143 NmTorque111 Nm
Rpm at TorqueRpm at Torque6,250 rpmRpm at Torque7,300 rpm
Compression RatioCompression Ratio12.5 Compression Ratio11.8
Fuel systemFuel systemInjectionFuel systemInjection
Throttle BoreThrottle Bore52 mmThrottle Bore38 mm
StarterStarterElectricStarterElectric
Clutch TypeClutch TypeAntihoppingClutch TypeMultiplate in oil-bath
TransmissionTransmissionProp shaftTransmissionChain
Transmission TypeTransmission TypeGearshiftTransmission TypeGearshift
Number of gearsNumber of gears6Number of gears6
CylindersCylinders2Cylinders4
StrokesStrokes4-StrokeStrokes4-Stroke
Valves per cylinderValves per cylinder4Valves per cylinder4
ValvesValvesDOHCValvesDOHC
CoolingCoolingliquid-airCoolingliquid
DisplacementDisplacement1,254 ccmDisplacement1,043 ccm

Assistance Systems

Advanced Rider Assistance SystemsAdvanced Rider Assistance SystemsABS, Anti-slipping control, Riding modes, Ride by WireAdvanced Rider Assistance SystemsABS, Traction control

Dimensions and Weights

Front tyre widthFront tyre width120 mmFront tyre width120 mm
Front tyre heightFront tyre height70 %Front tyre height70 %
Front tyre diameterFront tyre diameter17 inchFront tyre diameter17 inch
Rear tyre widthRear tyre width180 mmRear tyre width190 mm
Rear tyre heightRear tyre height55 %Rear tyre height50 %
Rear tyre diameterRear tyre diameter17 inchRear tyre diameter17 inch
LengthLength2,202 mmLength2,100 mm
WidthWidth925 mmWidth790 mm
WheelbaseWheelbase1,530 mmWheelbase1,440 mm
Seat HeightSeat Height820 mmSeat Height815 mm
Kerb Weight (with ABS)Kerb Weight (with ABS)243 kgKerb Weight (with ABS)235 kg
Fuel Tank CapacityFuel Tank Capacity18 lFuel Tank Capacity19 l
License compliancyLicense compliancyALicense compliancyA

Pros and Cons in comparison

Pros and Cons in comparison

BMW R 1250 RS 2019

BMW R 1250 RS 2019

A great engine in a pretty dress is not everything. The standard equipment of the BMW R 1250 RS is disappointing; neither quickshifter nor cruise control are included, which is no longer in keeping with the times in 2021. Ergonomically, the Bavarian can be adapted to almost any rider. The ESA suspension is great and a must-have extra, especially when there are two of you. In tight bends, the RS's weight is indisputable; here it seems almost sluggish. The wider the radii, the more confident you are on the BMW. Wind and weather protection are good, although a slightly higher windshield would be desirable.

High stability in long radii

agile, high-revving boxer engine

good looks

comfortable seating position

extensive list of accessories

great ESA chassis.

High weight noticeable in tight bends

windshield could be higher

many compulsory features at extra cost

somewhat sluggish

Kawasaki Z1000SX 2017

Kawasaki Z1000SX 2017

The nakedbike genes of the original Z1000 have fortunately been retained in the right areas, but the bike has been consistently tuned for touring suitability. An adapted seating position with a clearly comfortable seat (also and especially for the pillion rider), a finely controllable engine and sufficient wind protection provide the optimal basis for long, extensive and not least sporty rides. The rather compact knee angle might cause some of you to take an early break on long rides. In return, however, you get an upright riding position in which you can freely develop your upper body. The Z1000SX is a reduced to the essential touring bike with a top price-performance ratio! One thing in particular stood out: you don't always have to have all the electronic "helpers" on board to create a sporty bike that rides very well - a TOP sports tourer at a favourable price compared to the other two bikes!

Noticeable increase in power compared to the Versys 1000

Sensitive in-line four-cylinder that can be dosed in a controlled manner

The price-performance winner among the tested sports touring bikes

Ideal compromise between sportiness and touring capabilities

Electronically rather rudimentary

instruments not optimally readable in direct sunlight

Price Comparison Average Market Price BMW R 1250 RS vs Kawasaki Z1000SX

There are a few key differences between a BMW R 1250 RS 2019 and a Kawasaki Z1000SX 2017. There are the same number of bikes of both models available on the 1000PS.de marketplace, specifically 6. It takes less time to sell a BMW R 1250 RS with 76 days compared to 103 days for a Kawasaki Z1000SX. Since model year 2019 1000PS.de editors have written 11 reviews for the BMW R 1250 RS and 14 reviews for the Kawasaki Z1000SX since model year 2011. The first review for the BMW R 1250 RS was published on 06/11/2018 and now has more than 77,400 views. This compares to more than 9,900 views for the first review on Kawasaki Z1000SX published on 05/10/2010.

Price BMW R 1250 RS

Model year
Current average market prices

Price Kawasaki Z1000SX

Model year
Current average market prices

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