Kawasaki Z1000SX 2019 vs. BMW S 1000 XR 2020

The Kawasaki Z1000SX 2019 and the BMW S 1000 XR 2020 are both sport touring motorcycles that offer a combination of sportiness and touring capabilities.

In terms of engine performance, the BMW S 1000 XR 2020 has a more powerful engine with 165 horsepower compared to the Kawasaki Z1000SX 2019's 142 horsepower. The BMW also has a slightly higher torque of 114 Nm compared to the Kawasaki's 111 Nm. Both motorcycles have a 4-cylinder inline engine with a displacement of 999cc for the BMW and 1043cc for the Kawasaki.

Both motorcycles feature a telescopic fork front suspension with adjustable compression, preload, and rebound settings. The BMW has a slightly longer travel of 150mm compared to the Kawasaki's 120mm. The rear suspension on both motorcycles is a swingarm with a monoshock and adjustable compression, preload, and rebound settings. The travel on the rear suspension is also 150mm for both motorcycles.

Kawasaki Z1000SX 2019

In terms of chassis, both motorcycles have an aluminum frame. The braking system on both motorcycles consists of dual disc brakes at the front, but the BMW has a larger diameter of 320mm compared to the Kawasaki's 300mm. Both motorcycles also feature advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS and traction control. However, the BMW has additional features such as electronically adjustable suspension, riding modes, ABS for curves, cruise control, and traction control.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the BMW has a longer wheelbase of 1552mm compared to the Kawasaki's 1440mm. The seat height on the BMW is also slightly higher at 840mm compared to the Kawasaki's 815mm. The BMW is slightly lighter with a curb weight of 226kg compared to the Kawasaki's 235kg. Both motorcycles have a fuel tank capacity of 19 liters for the Kawasaki and 20 liters for the BMW.

BMW S 1000 XR 2020

In terms of strengths, the Kawasaki Z1000SX 2019 offers a noticeable increase in power compared to the Versys 1000, and its inline four-cylinder engine provides controlled power delivery. It is also considered the winner in terms of price/performance among the tested sport touring motorcycles. The BMW S 1000 XR 2020 offers excellent connectivity and integration between the smartphone and the vehicle, including a good navigation software. Its four-cylinder engine has a wide range of usable revs and the riding modes allow for practical changes in response behavior. The BMW is well-balanced, even with a passenger, thanks to its electronic chassis with automatic load detection. It also has good brakes, wind protection, and a convenient one-handed adjustable windshield.

In terms of weaknesses, the Kawasaki Z1000SX 2019 has rudimentary electronics and instruments that are not very legible under direct sunlight. The BMW S 1000 XR 2020 has a slightly narrow knee angle for tall riders on long trips and the suspension damping is not sensitive enough for a truly comfortable setup.

Overall, both the Kawasaki Z1000SX 2019 and the BMW S 1000 XR 2020 are capable sport touring motorcycles, but the BMW offers more advanced features and a more powerful engine. However, the Kawasaki provides better value for money.