Kawasaki Z1000SX 2017 vs. KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2021

In terms of engine and drive train, the Kawasaki Z1000SX 2017 features an in-line engine with a power output of 142 HP and torque of 111 Nm. It utilizes a chain transmission and has four cylinders. The engine is a 4-stroke with a displacement of 1043 ccm. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2021 has a V-type engine with a more powerful output of 175 HP and torque of 141 Nm. It also uses a chain transmission and has two cylinders. The engine is a 4-stroke with a displacement of 1301 ccm.

In terms of suspension, both motorcycles feature upside-down telescopic forks in the front. However, the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2021 has a slightly longer travel of 125 mm compared to the 120 mm of the Kawasaki Z1000SX 2017. Both motorcycles have adjustable compression, preload, and rebound settings for the front suspension. In the rear, they both have swing arm suspensions with monoshocks. The KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2021 has a longer travel of 156 mm compared to the 144 mm of the Kawasaki Z1000SX 2017. Both motorcycles have adjustable compression, preload, and rebound settings for the rear suspension.

Kawasaki Z1000SX 2017

In terms of brakes, both motorcycles have double disk brakes in the front. However, the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2021 has larger diameter disks of 320 mm compared to the 300 mm disks of the Kawasaki Z1000SX 2017. Both motorcycles have radial, monoblock, and petal technology for the front brakes. The KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2021 uses Brembo brakes while the Kawasaki Z1000SX 2017 uses Tokico brakes.

In terms of assistance systems, both motorcycles have advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS and traction control. However, the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2021 has additional features like hill start assist, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, and traction control.

In terms of dimensions and weights, both motorcycles have the same front and rear tire widths and diameters. The KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2021 has a slightly longer wheelbase of 1482 mm compared to the 1440 mm of the Kawasaki Z1000SX 2017. The seat height of the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2021 is also slightly higher at 835 mm compared to the 815 mm of the Kawasaki Z1000SX 2017. Additionally, the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2021 has a larger fuel tank capacity of 23 liters compared to the 19 liters of the Kawasaki Z1000SX 2017.

KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2021

In terms of strengths, the Kawasaki Z1000SX 2017 is praised for its great tuned engine, strong brakes, and easy driveability combined with high performance. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2021 is praised for its very potent engine with massive power, extremely precise chassis, agile handling, well-controlled brakes, good wind protection with an easily adjustable windshield, top ergonomics even for tall riders, long range, and ample equipment as standard.

In terms of weaknesses, the Kawasaki Z1000SX 2017 is sensitive to tire choice. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT 2021 is criticized for its hard chassis and saddle, engine only accelerating smoothly from around 3500 revs, and being very loud with the Track Pack.