BMW R 1200 GS 2012 vs. Kawasaki Versys 1000 2012

The BMW R 1200 GS 2012 and the Kawasaki Versys 1000 2012 are both enduro motorcycles that offer a range of features and capabilities.

Starting with the engine and drive train, the BMW R 1200 GS 2012 is equipped with a Boxer engine that has a bore of 101 mm and a stroke of 73 mm. It delivers a power of 110 HP and a torque of 120 Nm. 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 a higher power of 118 HP but a slightly lower torque of 102 Nm. The transmission is a chain and it has 4 cylinders with a displacement of 1043 ccm.

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

BMW R 1200 GS 2012

Both motorcycles have double disk brakes at the front.

Moving on to dimensions and weights, the BMW R 1200 GS 2012 has a rear tire width of 110 mm, a wheelbase of 1507 mm, a seat height of 850 mm, and a fuel tank capacity of 20 l. The Kawasaki Versys 1000 2012, on the other hand, has a wider rear tire width of 180 mm, a slightly longer wheelbase of 1520 mm, a slightly lower seat height of 845 mm, and a slightly larger fuel tank capacity of 21 l.

Kawasaki Versys 1000 2012

In terms of strengths, the BMW R 1200 GS 2012 offers optimal wind protection, a comfortable seat, a good posture, positive ergonomics, weather robustness, and a quiet chassis. The Kawasaki Versys 1000 2012, on the other hand, has a silky running powerplant, a sporty and comfortable chassis, efficient wind protection, and a cushioned seat.

However, the BMW R 1200 GS 2012 has a weakness in its seat being a little too low. On the other hand, the Kawasaki Versys 1000 2012 has a slight tipping in curves that takes some getting used to and an arguable design.

In conclusion, the BMW R 1200 GS 2012 and the Kawasaki Versys 1000 2012 are both capable enduro motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The BMW offers optimal wind protection and a comfortable seat, while the Kawasaki provides a silky running powerplant and a sporty, comfortable chassis. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.