Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE 2022 vs. BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2019

Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE 2022

BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2019
Overview - Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE 2022 vs BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2019
When comparing the Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE 2022 and the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2019, there are several key differences to consider.
In terms of engine and drive train, the Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE 2022 features an in-line four-cylinder engine with a displacement of 1043ccm, producing 120 HP of power and 102 Nm of torque. On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2019 has a boxer twin-cylinder engine with a displacement of 1254ccm, delivering 136 HP of power and 143 Nm of torque. Both motorcycles have electric starters, but the Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE 2022 utilizes a chain transmission, while the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2019 employs a prop shaft transmission.
In terms of suspension, the Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE 2022 features an upside-down telescopic fork front suspension with 150mm of travel and adjustable compression, preload, and rebound settings. The rear suspension consists of a swing arm with a monoshock and offers 152mm of travel with the same adjustable settings. On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2019 utilizes a telelever front suspension with 210mm of travel and adjustable preload. The rear suspension is a single swing arm with a monoshock, providing 220mm of travel with adjustable preload and rebound settings.

Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE 2022
In terms of chassis, the Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE 2022 has an aluminum frame with a rake of 63 degrees and a trail of 106mm. The BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2019, on the other hand, features a steel frame with a slightly steeper rake of 65.1 degrees and a trail of 95.4mm.
Both motorcycles have double disk front brakes, providing excellent stopping power. The Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE 2022 is equipped with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, ride by wire, and a quickshifter. The BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2019 also features ABS, along with anti-slipping control, riding modes, and ride by wire technology.
In terms of dimensions and weights, the Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE 2022 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. On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2019 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 shorter wheelbase of 1504mm, a higher seat height of 890mm, a higher kerb weight of 268kg (with ABS), and a larger fuel tank capacity of 30 liters.
In terms of equipment, both motorcycles feature LED headlights. The Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE 2022 is equipped with heated grips, cornering lights, and an adjustable windshield. The BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2019 has an adjustable windscreen for improved weather protection.

BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2019
In terms of strengths, the Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE 2022 offers a very comfortable seating position, a refined in-line four-cylinder engine, a full electronics package, and superb electronically adjustable Showa suspension. It also has a well-controlled braking system and a distinctive look. On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2019 provides great ride comfort, an extreme range, good ergonomics, excellent weather protection, and a bulbous torque with clean response. It also offers customization options for personalization.
In terms of weaknesses, the Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE 2022 has a non-adjustable windshield with one hand, which may be inconvenient for some riders. The BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2019 has a high weight that can be noticeable in the braking zone and a higher price compared to the Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE 2022.
Overall, both the Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE 2022 and the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2019 are capable and well-equipped enduro motorcycles, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. The choice between the two would ultimately depend on the rider's preferences and priorities, such as seating position, engine characteristics, suspension setup, and budget.
Technical Specifications Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE 2022 compared to BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2019
Pros and Cons in comparison
Pros and Cons in comparison
Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE 2022

The Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE is more than equipped for the big journey: The many features pull together, because everything good about the SE is aimed at comfort and safety. Whether it's the semi-active electronic Skyhook suspension from Showa, the KIBS cornering ABS, the Kawasaki Cornering Management Function (KMCF), the cornering lights or the easy-to-read TFT colour display, the electronics leave nothing to be desired. Coupled with the comfortable seating position and the high, adjustable windshield, long stages are a pleasure. The engine is certainly not the most powerful, the weight certainly not the lowest, but overall the Versys 1000 SE is an optimal touring motorbike.
BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2019

The all-purpose weapon from Bavaria that can also handle ambitious off-road rides with ease. Thanks to an extra 2 centimetres of suspension travel and 10 litres more fuel in the tank, no tour is too far and no challenge too great. The comparatively low centre of gravity helps with handling and the more powerful engine brings it much closer to the normal R 1250 GS in terms of riding dynamics. In the new 1250 model generation, it offers not only the revised engine, which brings even better rideability, but also a plus in standard equipment and safety. The fiercest competitor for the Adventure is nevertheless lurking in its own house, because even the conventional, less expensive GS is already a fine all-rounder.
Price Comparison Avarage Market Price Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE vs BMW R 1250 GS Adventure
There are a few key differences between a Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE 2022 and a BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2019. In terms of price, the actual average price of a BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2019 is about 23% higher. A Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE 2022 experiences a loss of 1,880 GBP in one year of ownership. This is offset by a loss of 780 GBP for a BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2019. Compared to BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2019 there are less Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE 2022 bikes available on the 1000PS.de Marketplace, specifically 12 compared to 24. It takes less time to sell a BMW R 1250 GS Adventure with 51 days compared to 145 days for the Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE. Since model year 2019 1000PS.de editors have written 12 reviews for the Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE and 30 reviews for the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure since model year 2019. The first review for the Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE was published on 06/11/2018 and now has more than 25,500 views. This compares to more than 43,300 views for the first review on BMW R 1250 GS Adventure published on 06/11/2018.