Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2020 vs. Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE 2020

The Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2020 and the Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE 2020 are both sport touring motorcycles from Kawasaki, but they have some key differences in terms of their specifications and features.

The Ninja 1000SX is equipped with a powerful in-line four-cylinder engine that produces 142 horsepower and 111 Nm of torque. It has a displacement of 1043cc and features a 4-stroke engine. The Versys 1000 SE, on the other hand, has a slightly less powerful engine with 120 horsepower and 102 Nm of torque. It also has a 1043cc in-line four-cylinder engine with a 4-stroke configuration.

In terms of suspension, both motorcycles feature upside-down telescopic forks in the front and a swing arm suspension with a monoshock in the rear. However, the Ninja 1000SX has a front suspension travel of 120mm and a rear suspension travel of 144mm, while the Versys 1000 SE has a front suspension travel of 150mm and a rear suspension travel of 152mm. This indicates that the Versys 1000 SE is better suited for off-road or rough terrain riding.

Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2020

Both motorcycles have a lightweight aluminum frame, but they differ in terms of their rake and trail measurements. The Ninja 1000SX has a rake of 65.5 degrees and a trail of 102mm, while the Versys 1000 SE has a rake of 63 degrees and a trail of 106mm. These differences in geometry can affect the handling and stability of the motorcycles.

In terms of braking, both motorcycles are equipped with double disk brakes in the front. However, the Ninja 1000SX has slightly smaller front brake disks with a diameter of 300mm, compared to the 310mm front brake disks on the Versys 1000 SE. Both motorcycles feature advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, ride by wire, and quickshifter.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the Ninja 1000SX has a wheelbase of 1440mm, a seat height of 834.98mm, and a kerb weight of 235kg (with ABS). It has a fuel tank capacity of 19 liters. On the other hand, the Versys 1000 SE has a longer wheelbase of 1520mm, a slightly higher seat height of 840mm, and a higher kerb weight of 257kg (with ABS). It has a larger fuel tank capacity of 21 liters.

Both motorcycles come with a range of equipment and features. The Ninja 1000SX is equipped with LED daytime running lights, LED headlights, a TFT display, and an adjustable windscreen. It also comes with cruise control as a standard feature. The Versys 1000 SE, on the other hand, comes with heated grips, cornering lights, and LED headlights.

Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE 2020

In terms of strengths, the Ninja 1000SX offers a refined and powerful engine, balanced handling, a comfortable chassis, and a modern look. It also has good brakes, LED lights all around, a color TFT display, and cruise control as a standard feature. On the other hand, the Versys 1000 SE offers high riding comfort for both the rider and passenger, great wind and weather protection, and a high-quality chassis that can be adjusted precisely. It also has a well-controllable and rev-happy engine with strong pull.

However, both motorcycles have their weaknesses. The Ninja 1000SX's windshield can only be adjusted with both hands, which can be inconvenient. The Versys 1000 SE's standard windshield is too generously dimensioned, resulting in limited wind at the lowest setting. Additionally, its display and mobile phone app cannot keep up with the competition.

In conclusion, the Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX 2020 and the Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE 2020 are both impressive sport touring motorcycles with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. The Ninja 1000SX offers a more refined and powerful engine, while the Versys 1000 SE provides high riding comfort and great wind protection. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on the rider's preferences and intended use.