2024 BMW R 1300 GS vs Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE
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Scores, summary & seat (optional) Estimates and auto text from specs — open if you want them.
Technical score (estimate)
Weighted mix of power, torque, power-to-weight, top speed and lighter weight within this comparison only. Not a real-world verdict — riding style and roads matter.
Usage fit (estimate)
Rough scores for city riding, touring, sporty riding and new riders — mix of specs and bike category. Same caveats as the technical score: traffic, skill and tyres matter.
City / commute
Touring / long rides
Sporty riding
New rider friendly
Seat height (cm)
Figures are as in the database; boots, suspension sag and road surface change how tall the bike feels.
- 2024 BMW R 1300 GS 85 cm Tallest seat here
- Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE 84 cm Lowest seat here
Spread in this comparison: about 1 cm.
Rough guide: comfortable flat-foot reach often needs inseam roughly in the same ballpark as seat height (varies a lot by ergonomics).
Auto summary from specs
Generated from the numbers in the comparison — not a review.
- Power spans 120 hp (Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE) up to 145 hp (2024 BMW R 1300 GS).
- Torque spans 102 Nm (Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE) up to 149 Nm (2024 BMW R 1300 GS).
- Weight spans 237 kg (2024 BMW R 1300 GS) to 257 kg (Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE).
- Displacement spans 1000 cc (Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE) to 1100 cc (2024 BMW R 1300 GS).
All values look the same; turn off the filter.
| Specification | BMW R 1300 GS | Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | BMW | KAWASAKI |
| Model | BMW R 1300 GS | Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE |
| Engine size | Above 1000cc | 1000cc |
| Power | 145hp | 120hp |
| Torque | 149nm. | 102nm. |
| Cylinders / valves | Twin cylinder, 8 valves | 4 cylinders, 16 valves |
| Weight | 237kg | 257kg |
| Front brake | Dual disc brakes, semi-floating type brake discs, 310 mm diameter, 4-piston radial brake calipers. | 310 mm dual discs, radially mounted monoblock 4-piston caliper |
| Rear brake | Single disc brake, 285 mm diameter, 2-piston floating caliper | 250 mm single disc, single-piston caliper |
| Seat height (cm) | 85cm | 84cm |
| Front tyre | 120/70 x R19 | 120/70 ZR 17 |
| Rear tyre | 170/60 x R17 | 180/55 ZR 17 |
| Cooling | Liquid cooling | Liquid cooling |
| Front suspension | BMW Motorrad EVO Telelever, handlebar tilt decoupling via flexible element, central suspension spring. | Showa KECS-controlled rebound and compression damping. 43 mm inverted fork, manually adjustable spring preload |
| Rear suspension | BMW Motorrad EVO Paralever, cast aluminum single-sided swingarm, swingarm pivot axle, central WAD spring connection, continuously adjustable spring preload. | Horizontal Back-link, BFRC lite shock, KECS-controlled compression damping, rebound damping, and spring preload |
| Motorcycle type | Adventure | Adventure |
| Top speed | 240km/h | 240km/h |
| Fuel capacity / consumption | 19 L – 5 L/100km | 21 L – 6 L/100km |
| Service network | ||
| Service quality | ||
| Parts availability | ||
| Price | $18895 | $17849 |
| Brand price lists | View BMW price list | View KAWASAKI price list |
| Extra features | -BMW Motorrad Connectivity with TFT display Matrix LED headlights Daytime running lights Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) -BMW Motorrad Fully Integrated ABS Pro 4 riding modes (Eco, Rain, Road, Enduro) Hill Start Control (HSC) Dynamic Brake Control (DBC) -Dynamic Cruise Control (DCC) Motor drag torque control (MSR) Tire Pressure Control (RDC) Keyless Ride Heated grips Smartphone charging compartment with USB charging socket Handguard protection with integrated turn signal indicators |
-KTRC (Kawasaki Traction Control), Two Available Seats, Adjustable Windscreen, Grip Heaters, Handy Power Source (DC Socket), LED Cornering Lights, Electronic Cruise Control, Integrated Riding Modes, (KQS) Kawasaki Quick Shifter, TFT Full Colour Instrumentation -KCMF (Kawasaki Cornering Management Function), Slipper Clutch, - Electronic Throttle Valves, Electronic Cruise Control |
Opinions
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2024 BMW R 1300 GS vs 2023 Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE: Which One is Better for You?
2024 BMW R 1300 GS and 2023 Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE are very similar in terms of engine capacity and power. In this case, design, driving comfort, and personal preferences may take precedence. Additionally, 2024 BMW R 1300 GS, with its 145hp, stands out for users seeking speed and performance.
1. Cylinder Capacity and Performance
2024 BMW R 1300 GS and 2023 Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE have almost identical engine capacities, offering similar performance. In this case, design, driving comfort, and other features will play a more significant role in your choice.2024 BMW R 1300 GS, with its 1100cc engine capacity, is ideal for users seeking high performance and acceleration. Designed for performance-focused users and professionals.
2. Torque Power
2024 BMW R 1300 GS, with its 149Nm torque, delivers powerful performance. A high torque value ensures superior acceleration and advantage on steep inclines. 2023 Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE, with its 102Nm torque, offers a more balanced ride for city use. 2024 BMW R 1300 GS is ideal for users requiring rapid acceleration. High torque power offers significant advantages in heavy load carrying, off-road driving, or situations requiring high speed.
3. Top Speed
2024 BMW R 1300 GS (Adventure) and 2023 Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE (Adventure) deliver the same performance with a maximum speed of 240 km/h. In this case, it would be more logical to base your decision on the type of motorcycle and other features rather than speed.
4. Cooling System
2024 BMW R 1300 GS features a Liquid-Cooled system, while 2023 Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE offers a Liquid-Cooled system. Both models deliver equal performance in their cooling systems.
5. Design and Comfort
2024 BMW R 1300 GS and 2023 Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE are close in weight, offering similar experiences for different usage scenarios. Additionally, 2024 BMW R 1300 GS, with a seat height of 85cm, is more suitable for taller riders, offering greater comfort.2023 Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE, with a seat height of 84cm, provides a more ergonomic ride for average-height riders.
Conclusion
2023 Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE emerges as the winner of this comparison based on total points. 2024 BMW R 1300 GS and 2023 Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE have nearly identical engine capacities. 2024 BMW R 1300 GS, with higher torque, excels in rapid acceleration and steep climbs. 2024 BMW R 1300 GS and 2023 Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE deliver identical top speed performance. Both models have similar cooling systems, offering comparable performance for long journeys. In conclusion, 2023 Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE stands out in terms of technical specifications and overall performance. However, depending on your riding preferences and usage needs, both models offer unique advantages.
Frequently asked questions
What is the top speed of BMW R 1300 GS vs Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE?
Both are listed at 240 km/h top speed in our specification data.
Which has more horsepower, BMW R 1300 GS or Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE?
BMW R 1300 GS has 145 hp compared with 120 hp on the Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE.
Which is better, BMW R 1300 GS or Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE?
It depends on your riding style. Compare top speed, weight, fuel use and price in the table on this page, then vote for the bike you prefer.
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