BMW R 1200 GS 2010 vs. Kawasaki Versys 1000 2012

The BMW R 1200 GS 2010 and the Kawasaki Versys 1000 2012 are both enduro motorcycles that offer a combination of off-road capability and on-road comfort. While they have some similarities in terms of engine power and suspension, they also have distinct differences that set them apart.

In terms of engine and drive train, the BMW R 1200 GS 2010 features a Boxer engine with a bore of 101 mm and a stroke of 73 mm. It delivers 110 HP of power and 120 Nm of torque. The transmission is a prop shaft, and it has 2 cylinders with a displacement of 1170 ccm. On the other hand, the Kawasaki Versys 1000 2012 has an in-line engine with a bore of 77 mm and a stroke of 56 mm. It offers slightly more power with 118 HP and 102 Nm of torque. The transmission is a chain, and it has 4 cylinders with a displacement of 1043 ccm.

BMW R 1200 GS 2010

In terms of suspension, the BMW R 1200 GS 2010 has a front suspension with a strut design and preload adjustment. The rear suspension also has preload adjustment. On the other hand, the Kawasaki Versys 1000 2012 features an upside-down telescopic fork for the front suspension, with compression, preload, and rebound adjustment. The rear suspension also has compression, preload, and rebound adjustment.

Both motorcycles have double disk brakes at the front, providing reliable stopping power. The rear tire width of the BMW R 1200 GS 2010 is 110 mm, while the Kawasaki Versys 1000 2012 has a wider rear tire width of 180 mm. The wheelbase of the BMW is 1507 mm, slightly shorter than the 1520 mm wheelbase of the Kawasaki. The seat height is also slightly higher on the BMW at 850 mm compared to the 845 mm of the Kawasaki. Both motorcycles have a fuel tank capacity of around 20-21 liters.

In terms of strengths, the BMW R 1200 GS 2010 has a sporty look and is well-equipped, with enough storage space for longer trips. On the other hand, the Kawasaki Versys 1000 2012 offers a silky running powerplant, a sporty yet comfortable chassis, efficient wind protection, and a cushioned seat.

Kawasaki Versys 1000 2012

However, the BMW R 1200 GS 2010 has a weakness in that the technology of the conversion may take some getting used to. On the other hand, the Kawasaki Versys 1000 2012 has a slight tipping in curves that may take some getting used to, and its design may be subject to personal preference.

Overall, both the BMW R 1200 GS 2010 and the Kawasaki Versys 1000 2012 are capable enduro motorcycles with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and intended use when choosing between the two.