BMW R 1200 RS 2018 vs. Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2021

BMW R 1200 RS 2018

BMW R 1200 RS 2018

Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2021

Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2021

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Overview - BMW R 1200 RS 2018 vs Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2021

When comparing the BMW R 1200 RS 2018 and the Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2021, it is evident that both sport touring motorcycles have their own unique strengths and weaknesses.

Starting with the BMW R 1200 RS 2018, this model boasts precise and stable handling, making it a joy to ride on winding roads. The comfortable seating position allows for long hours of riding without discomfort, while the great wind protection adds to the overall comfort. Additionally, with the Wunderlich conversion, the BMW R 1200 RS 2018 can achieve a very sporty and sleek look, appealing to riders who value aesthetics.

BMW R 1200 RS 2018

BMW R 1200 RS 2018

On the other hand, the Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2021 offers a silky four-cylinder engine that delivers a smooth and powerful performance. The comfortable yet sporty ergonomics of the bike make it suitable for both long rides and spirited cornering. The full fairing provides excellent wind protection, enhancing the overall riding experience. Furthermore, the Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2021 comes with a standard electronics package, offering riders advanced features and technology. The bike also offers lots of stability, thanks to its full fairing design.

However, there are some weaknesses to consider for each model. The BMW R 1200 RS 2018 has a knee angle that may feel somewhat compact for riders with long legs, potentially causing discomfort on longer rides. On the other hand, the Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2021's engine requires higher revs to deliver its full power, which may not be ideal for riders who prefer low-end torque. Additionally, some riders may find the electronics on the Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2021 to be less user-friendly compared to other models. Lastly, adjusting the windshield on the Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2021 requires the use of both hands, which can be inconvenient for riders looking for quick adjustments on the go.

In terms of technical specifications, the BMW R 1200 RS 2018 features a Boxer engine with 125 HP of power and 125 Nm of torque. It utilizes a prop shaft transmission and has a displacement of 1170 ccm. The suspension consists of a telescopic fork at the front and a Paralever system at the rear. The frame is made of steel, and the bike has double disk brakes at the front. The front and rear tire widths are 120 mm and 180 mm, respectively, with both having a diameter of 17 inches. The wheelbase measures 1530 mm, and the seat height is 820 mm. The kerb weight, including ABS, is 236 kg, and the fuel tank capacity is 18 liters.

Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2021

Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2021

On the other hand, the Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2021 features an inline four-cylinder engine with 142 HP of power and 111 Nm of torque. It utilizes a chain transmission and has a displacement of 1043 ccm. The suspension consists of an upside-down telescopic fork at the front and a swing arm system at the rear. The frame is made of aluminum, and the bike has double disk brakes at the front with radial, monoblock, and petal technology. The front and rear tire widths are 120 mm and 190 mm, respectively, with both having a diameter of 17 inches. The wheelbase measures 1440 mm, and the seat height is 834.98 mm. The kerb weight, including ABS, is 235 kg, and the fuel tank capacity is 19 liters.

In conclusion, both the BMW R 1200 RS 2018 and the Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2021 offer unique features and strengths that cater to different rider preferences. While the BMW R 1200 RS 2018 excels in handling and wind protection, the Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2021 impresses with its powerful engine and advanced electronics package. Ultimately, riders should consider their own priorities and preferences when choosing between these two sport touring motorcycles.

Technical Specifications BMW R 1200 RS 2018 compared to Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2021

BMW R 1200 RS 2018
Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2021

Engine and Drive Train

Engine typeEngine typeBoxerEngine typeIn line
BoreBore101 mmBore77 mm
StrokeStroke73 mmStroke56 mm
Engine powerEngine power125 HPEngine power142 HP
Rpm at Max. PowerRpm at Max. Power7,750 rpmRpm at Max. Power10,000 rpm
TorqueTorque125 NmTorque111 Nm
Rpm at TorqueRpm at Torque6,500 rpmRpm at Torque8,000 rpm
Compression RatioCompression Ratio12.5 Compression Ratio11.8
Clutch TypeClutch TypeAntihoppingClutch TypeMultiplate in oil-bath
TransmissionTransmissionProp shaftTransmissionChain
Number of gearsNumber of gears6Number of gears6
CylindersCylinders2Cylinders4
StrokesStrokes4-StrokeStrokes4-Stroke
CoolingCoolingAirCoolingliquid
DisplacementDisplacement1,170 ccmDisplacement1,043 ccm

Suspension Front

Front suspensionFront suspensionTelescopic forkFront suspensionUpside-Down telescopic fork

Suspension Rear

SuspensionSuspensionParaleverSuspensionSwing arm

Chassis

FrameFrameSteelFrameAluminium

Brakes Front

TypeTypeDouble diskTypeDouble disk
PistonPistonFour pistonsPistonFour pistons
TechnologyTechnologyradialTechnologyradial, Monoblock, Petal

Brakes Rear

TypeTypeDiscTypeDisc
PistonPistonDouble pistonPistonSingle piston
Shock mountShock mountFloating caliperShock mountFloating caliper

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
LengthLength2,203 mmLength2,100 mm
WidthWidth998 mmWidth825 mm
WheelbaseWheelbase1,530 mmWheelbase1,440 mm
Seat HeightSeat Height820 mmSeat Height834.98 mm
Kerb Weight (with ABS)Kerb Weight (with ABS)236 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 1200 RS 2018

BMW R 1200 RS 2018

Wunderlich has optimised the already great R 1200 RS with pinpoint accuracy and turned it into a real dream machine. The straight handlebars fit the sports tourer really well. The bike's sporty look is justified. Anyone who tries this Wunderlich machine sets the bar incredibly high for their next motorbike. A real dream bike.

Precise and stable handling

comfortable seating position

great wind protection

with the Wunderlich conversion, a very sporty and sleek look overall.

Knee angle somewhat compact with long legs

Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2021

Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2021

A sports tourer of the old school. The Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX fulfils all the points you would expect from this bike category. Added to this is a comprehensive electronics package that offers everything you could wish for when travelling - and at no extra charge! The fact that the operation is perhaps not quite as intuitive as the competition already manages, is forgiven at the latest when you take a look at the price tag.

silky four-cylinder

comfortable yet sporty ergonomics

wind protection

standard electronics package

lots of stability thanks to full fairing

very accessible.

Engine needs revs

electronics could be more user-friendly

windshield only adjustable with two hands

Price Comparison Avarage Market Price BMW R 1200 RS vs Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX

There are a few key differences between a BMW R 1200 RS 2018 and a Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2021. In terms of price, the actual average price of a BMW R 1200 RS 2018 is about 4% higher. Compared to Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2021 there are less BMW R 1200 RS 2018 bikes available on the 1000PS.de Marketplace, specifically 12 compared to 14. It takes less time to sell a BMW R 1200 RS with 89 days compared to 118 days for a Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX. Since model year 2015 1000PS.de editors have written 13 reviews for the BMW R 1200 RS and 13 reviews for the Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX since model year 2020. The first review for the BMW R 1200 RS was published on 30/09/2014 and now has more than 28,300 views. This compares to more than 40,500 views for the first review on Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX published on 05/11/2019.

Price BMW R 1200 RS

Model year
Current average market prices

Price Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX

Model year
Current average market prices

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