Kawasaki Versys 1000 2018 vs. BMW R 1200 RT 2018

Kawasaki Versys 1000 2018

Kawasaki Versys 1000 2018

BMW R 1200 RT 2018

BMW R 1200 RT 2018

Loading...

Overview - Kawasaki Versys 1000 2018 vs BMW R 1200 RT 2018

Kawasaki Versys 1000 2018

Kawasaki Versys 1000 2018

BMW R 1200 RT 2018

BMW R 1200 RT 2018

Technical Specifications Kawasaki Versys 1000 2018 compared to BMW R 1200 RT 2018

Kawasaki Versys 1000 2018
BMW R 1200 RT 2018

Engine and Drive Train

Engine typeEngine typeIn lineEngine typeBoxer
BoreBore77 mmBore101 mm
StrokeStroke56 mmStroke73 mm
Engine powerEngine power120 HPEngine power125 HP
Rpm at Max. PowerRpm at Max. Power9,000 rpmRpm at Max. Power7,750 rpm
TorqueTorque102 NmTorque125 Nm
Rpm at TorqueRpm at Torque7,500 rpmRpm at Torque6,500 rpm
Compression RatioCompression Ratio10.3 Compression Ratio12.5
Clutch TypeClutch TypeMultiplate in oil-bathClutch TypeToughened, Dry
TransmissionTransmissionChainTransmissionProp shaft
Number of gearsNumber of gears6Number of gears6
CylindersCylinders4Cylinders2
StrokesStrokes4-StrokeStrokes4-Stroke
CoolingCoolingliquidCoolingAir
DisplacementDisplacement1,043 ccmDisplacement1,170 ccm

Suspension Front

Front suspensionFront suspensionUpside-Down telescopic forkFront suspensionStrut

Chassis

FrameFrameAluminiumFrameSteel

Brakes Front

TypeTypeDouble diskTypeDouble disk
PistonPistonFour pistonsPistonFour pistons
Shock mountShock mountSemi-SchwimmsattelShock mountFixed caliper

Brakes Rear

TypeTypeDiscTypeDisc
PistonPistonSingle pistonPistonDouble piston

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 width180 mm
Rear tyre heightRear tyre height55 %Rear tyre height55 %
Rear tyre diameterRear tyre diameter17 inchRear tyre diameter17 inch
LengthLength2,240 mmLength2,222 mm
WidthWidth895 mmWidth983 mm
WheelbaseWheelbase1,520 mmWheelbase1,485 mm
Seat HeightSeat Height840 mmSeat Height805 mm
Kerb Weight (with ABS)Kerb Weight (with ABS)250 kgKerb Weight (with ABS)274 kg
Fuel Tank CapacityFuel Tank Capacity21 lFuel Tank Capacity25 l
License compliancyLicense compliancyALicense compliancyA

Pros and Cons in comparison

Pros and Cons in comparison

Kawasaki Versys 1000 2018

Kawasaki Versys 1000 2018

The Kawasaki Versys 1000 is not a completely new model - even if it looks like one from the design point of view. The look has been cleverly adapted to the current aggressive Kawasaki line with two pointed headlights and many edges at the front. Technically, on the other hand, it has been cautiously upgraded - but quite sensibly. Two additional horsepower boost the output to 120 hp, which is excellent to ride thanks to the wonderful in-line four-cylinder characteristics. The chassis corresponds to the sporty demands of a Kawasaki, but the ergonomics and comfortable seating position allow for long journeys - just like a big enduro. With useful accessories such as a pannier set, top case, heated grips and additional headlights, the Versys 1000 becomes a serious long-distance tourer - the comparatively low base price makes these gimmicks quite affordable.

Sporty look

comfortable seating position

powerful and cultivated in-line four-cylinder engine

adjustable windshield

stable chassis

well-controlled braking system

clever range of accessories

comparatively low price.

Windshield only adjustable when stationary

gear indicator costs extra

BMW R 1200 RT 2018

BMW R 1200 RT 2018

It was predictable that the new R 1200 RT would perform even better with the new partially water-cooled boxer engine. Although 125 hp and 125 Newton metres of torque have quite a bit to haul with the 274 kilos ready to ride, the RT retains its unbelievable effervescence from below. This makes it extremely agile, especially on corner exit after a hairpin bend. In combination with the gearshift assistant Pro (which is, of course, available at extra cost), the gears just flow and you involuntarily move more sportily than you might have intended. The big bonus points of the R 1200 RT are its good workmanship, the simple and easy-to-follow operating principle and, last but not least, its small turning circle.

Luxuriously equipped

very well-functioning electronics

efficient windshield

pleasant handling

spacious pannier system.

Very difficult to manoeuvre at 300 kilos

proud price

Price Comparison Avarage Market Price Kawasaki Versys 1000 vs BMW R 1200 RT

Price Kawasaki Versys 1000

Model year
Current average market prices

Price BMW R 1200 RT

Model year
Current average market prices

Alternative Comparisons

1000PS Partner

ChigeeContinental MotorradreifenMotorex AGcalimoto GmbH