Kawasaki Versys SE vs BMW S1000XR comparison review

[@veljkovic92]

Beautiful video bro. I have XR and choose it over Versys because of less weight, more power (I'm riding two up often and with luggage I wanted the bike to perform always well, XR is even more agile I believe, has more electronics (the feature of electronic suspension that adapts itself without rider touching anything, XR also is a brand new model while Versys in this shape exists for some time now, also that windscreen fixing on Versys is not very nice... I would have liked Versys more if it had more HP, honestly. I didn't really get why Kawasaki decreased the power from the engine that usually has around 140hp (I had z1000sx and loved it) to less power on a bike that's meant to carry passenger and 3 cases with luggage. But I didn't take a test ride so I can't complain too much in power department. 😀 Overalls I'm very happy with my XR, the only thing I wish they improved more is seat softness/thickness (my butt is skinny) and I can say there are some mild vibrations in mirrors at some specific speed (my 2021 model has it at 100km/h, 6th gear). Thanks for a beautiful video, enjoy your day. 🙏

[@6tdegrees]

Yeah I felt the same way. The S1000XR is a more thrilling bike to ride. No problem at all, I’m glad you enjoy the video.

[@MaverickAus]

The 2021 Versys SE gets the skyhook semi active suspension

[@boo-boo511]

Versys tuned for smooth torque from 2K. It isn't all about power. No problems two up with luggage. Have ridden both the BMW has more power and a hoot for a couple of hours then gets tiresome. More room and comfort on Versys for long distance travel.

[@veljkovic92]

@@boo-boo511 I understand... But I felt like waiting for a new version of it for some reason. Maybe because of my previous bike H2sx on which I felt uncomfortable and needed switching (wanted brake from Kawasaki after that experience). 😀

[@kugangles9860]

Kawi tuned the engine for more lower end grunt as opposed to the top end rush of the 1000sx. The Versys looks anemic on paper, I thought the same thing until I test drove it. The bike is surprisingly fast.

[@gee--bee6989]

Only 5 sleeps until I collect my Versys 1000 SE GT. I like both bikes but have gone for the more pillion friendly bike, as my lovely lady joins me on 75% of my rides. Can’t wait to collect it. Good days ahead!

[@Tom-zy6ke]

Team Green for me. It's more relaxed, but has plenty enough power for my needs, costs less both in purchase price, servicing and parts, and is significantly more reliable than the Bavarian Motor Works machine.

[@kevinroberts2395]

I'll take the Kawasaki thanks. I don't need mega performance on my touring machine. I want comfort, reliability, reasonable servicing costs and good weather protection. Appreciate the comparison.

[@simonrobert9858]

Versys SE, H2 SX, Z900RS/RS Cafe or W800, complete line up in dreame garage

[@o.gdrive8457]

You want Just boring haha BMW is comfort. Reliability and weather protection? Come on bru ride a car then is bike life

[@lonebiker931]

Nice review, I would pick the kawasaki any given day.

[@Richaag]

I went with the Versys. Given my age, I no longer have any desire for a 160 HP motorcycle. For every mile I spend having fun in the twisties, I spend 1,000 miles on boring straight highways. I’ll take comfort over thrill any day.

[@dryogi4055]

Nothing compares to the reliability and drama-free ownership of a Japanese bike. No American or European bike can beat that. BMW is overpriced btw. In terms of performance, both bikes perform really well. The vast majority of the riders in North America won't pass the 130 km/h or 80 mph on the hwy. Therefore, comfort and reliability are critical. BWM is not a bad bike but Versys is the winner. Thanks for the video.

[@billiondollardan]

I'm surprised that so many people in the comments love the Versys. It really must be a decent ride

[@Mike-hu8yz]

It is.

[@metalgear32]

I ride the Versys 1000 SE since 1 year ago, and I have no complaint and I have no intention to change to other bike. The bike is poor in power, yes, only 120HP, but the engine is sooooooooooooooooo smoooooooooooooooooooooooth!!! I like my Versys very much, Few years back I ride the Kawasaki ZX-10R, I barely cover 200km, neck pain, back pain, etc. But Versys, I can do triple before. Yes my buttock still pain but that's after those long miles! Once I feel sad about the 120HP output from 1043cc engine (but why the Ninja 1000 has so much more power in the same engine?) but end up I now realise the 120hp is its advantage for smooth engine! Recently I found out the Versys 1000 SE used double throttle body, one control by rider one control by computer, just to smoothen the engine output! A friend of mine carrying a pillion swap the bike, the pillion said she doesn't feel the speed anymore, is too relax!

[@gregshepherd489]

Bought the versys just before the covid restrictions, love it heaps, just a warning folks, double check that your panniers are correctly fitted, they can come off, i will use a cable tie as backup in future

[@pascallenoir5917]

There is no best bike, there are just wishes and needs from the users, and each machine answers them differently. We can add-up critical factors to these as well. For me comfort, including for the passenger are important, possibility to fit a top case is critical, storage space very important, as well as riding range with a full tank. So I went for the Versys 1000 SE Grand tourer. Awaiting its delivery.

[@George196207]

At least this reviewer never tried to take them off road and complain that they where no good on the trials or sand dunes.

[@joebloggs6997]

how did it do ?

[@bradjarrett4756]

I enjoyed watching that. I recently bought a 2023 Versys 1000, and while I have had many bikes over the years.......its simply the best for me!

[@gavsmotoventures]

I went with the Versys 1000 SE myself :) - Great video, thank you!

[@gustavopinhidalgo6212]

Hi ! I’ve a versys 1000, here in Argentina, and she gives me only pleasure ! I tell you ! Is the motorcycle tourer for so long, even in our really different changing roads like broken asphalt and mud. So anything else... Kawasaki mechanic reliability.

[@ianjenkinssa]

Just bought new Versys for $21kAus on road. Big diff in price to the Beemer. Loving the Kwaka heaps so far.

[@donnyazoff980]

You can’t beat Japanese reliability!

[@namriderone3538]

I ride for one reason - to have fun. I purchased the 2020 BMW XR and it is the most FUN bike I have ever owned over the course of 50+ years of riding. Better bike than all of the GSA's I've ever owned. Reviews don't do it justice... split personality bike that is smooth and silky below 6k RPM, but turns into an unbelievable rip roaring machine above 6K. Fun, fun, and fun. And well built. Recently went on 4,000 mile ride through western states to Colorado and back, is comfortable when wanted and FUN when wanted. Did I mention fun?

[@Joekhalildds]

Do you still have the stock seat? I have a 2020 as well, I find the seat not that comfortable, wondering that your experience has been… Thanks

[@namriderone3538]

@@Joekhalildds Hi Joe, no I had a custom heated Russell DayLong seat made. As comfortable as can be but raises the sitting height significantly. That seat was built on my stock seat pan. For a stock seat, I thought it was more comfortable than most and I really liked how low and in the bike it felt. Overall, love the Daylong seats, but to work on this bike had to get the tall windscreen and add a large extension on top...

[@9gagerofl]

Well designed maybe, but not well built. BMW is know for reliability issues. If you can look past the potential for warranty work, then go for it. Just be warned. To those out there looking still

[@loydabmx]

Both beautiful looking machines I imagine the kawasaki makes more sense being the most comfortable in the test as it is built for touring which means long journeys.

[@joedudz]

I wonder how many BMW owners bother to test ride other bikes before they follow the herd. I test rode a GS and went straight for the Versys. It has been an absolute pleasure ever since.

[@thewoodster8607]

Having owned two BMW GSs, I'd be reluctant to go for another BMW machine. I've had problems with both, particularly the second one (which I still have) and although the dealer warranty is superb, I simply would not consider not getting the extended warranty (£400). I love your style of review and the production is great but no-one mentions reliability across the genres. I rode an 1000SX recently and loved it. I'm sure the Versys would tick all the boxes for me, albeit slightly less 'exciting'.

[@andrejzupancic2286]

I like to do 2 - 3 week two up holiday trips with all the camping gear and my Versys SE is perfect for that.

[@tefikpolat2991]

I prefer the kawasaki, much better looking specially the color is nice. Japan 🇯🇵 ❤️

[@mrgclips]

I'm a Kawa fan, have always been BUT; DAMN, that BMW is an absolute amazing beast! WOW!!!

[@johannesmaas4080]

got the verys 1000 se last week, great bike and really fun to ride - saying this coming from a MT 09. I am riding a bit more relaxed at the same time enjoying this big chunker.

[@pauljamesriley]

Excellent review, well done. Entertaining and accurate. Bought the Versys and love it.

[@George196207]

Insurance like the Verseys better as well lower rates .

[@motoant]

Great comparison video mate! Really enjoyed it!👍🏼

[@abezeke9100]

Definitely the Kawasaki Versys

[@thiagomassa7619]

I would buy the kawa just because of my daily routine. I live 50km from my work.

[@gerjansenjansen3635]

I don't own either, but judging by the video, I prefer the Kawasaki..

[@Alpine_Joe]

Cut me in two and you’ll find Kawasaki written right through me but when I had to chop in my Z1000SX (cos ‘er indoors found it sooooo painful on the back) my first port of call should have been the Versys. Sadly though the lack of HP meant I had to go to the XR. It’s a great bike but when Kawa bump the Versys power up to comparable levels, I’ll come back to the green bike.

[@electric7487]

Is the handlebar buzz on the S1000XR at the same frequency as the engine RPM or at twice that? If it's at twice the engine RPM it might be secondary vibrations caused by the secondary imbalance inherent to the four-stroke inline 4. I'd pick the Versys 1000, though the handlebar vibration isn't one of the reasons. I don't need or want 160+ HP on something I'm going to commute on and I want something more manageable. Basically the BMW is trying too hard to be a sport bike; its engine is still focused on power (Kawasaki has a smaller bore and longer stroke allowing them to get slightly better low-end torque) which might be one of the reasons it's hard to tame.

[@nickstoic2944]

They are both great motorcycles. One needs to ride both of them to find out in which direction the heart goes.

[@1998lemuel]

Kawy's new looks always look like the zinogre to me. That plus the price is a good combo for me.

[@eduardoponce5328]

Happy wife, happy life. The versys is my choice.

[@BibtheBoulder]

Tried them both...bought a ZZR1400 instead....

[@torrid94]

Kawa any day...Bulletproof reliability.

[@nomadpi1]

Iwould buy the Kaw because of the lower cost, and it comes heavily loaded with extras.

[@dougiequick1]

How about the stress factor comparison relative to maintence and potential for expensive repairs? Japanese vs Europe romantic....have to say my mind would rest easier with the Kawi...especially with the power difference because more power all things equal equates to more mechanical stress (and therefore more mental stress if you ask me)

[@dustinwoodgate865]

Love the video, I own the 2019 Versys 1000 and I had the headlights lowered to not get flashed by every second car. still get flashed by every fourth car. Annoying. But Love the bike. as i bought it in 2020 i received the top box 3 months after the bike and had to fit it myself so at least i know it wont fall off. i am surprised at how lite it feels. i usually get 390km's per tank but only have to put around 16lt of fuel in so i would get more but don't like going to low. love the windscreen too.

[@pascallenoir5917]

Thanks for this feed- back. Full tank range is important for me, and you confirm data I got from other users. I enjoy driving sleekly, and definitely on that criteria, KWSK should be better than the BMW. Waiting for the delivery of my toy now ;-).

[@geneclarke2205]

Maybe the middle of the line up 2021 Versys 1000 S is the better price/performance buy over these top of the line machines.

[@flawaaperez9179]

Very nice Presentation As for me i'll go to versys 1000 se i love it that was great motorbike for adventure & off roading here in our Province boracay Philippines... thanks tc!pls.

[@ronpeck1488]

I have the Versys and if price isn't a factor, I would buy the Versys if you do mountain riding with its low end power and BMW if you're in the low lands.

[@4tech69]

They are both great but to kit the BMW even close to the Kawi you're gonna drop another $3,500. Also it's almost without question the BMW will be less reliable. Also if you are considering the Versys, I would say hold off for the 2021 to drop before you make your choice. The 2021 is Fantastic!

[@brandondaily1558]

Good thing the bmw has a 45000 mile 3 year warrenty. The kawasaki only has a 2 year warrenty

[@Mike-hu8yz]

@@brandondaily1558 Don't trust the BMW warrantee. They don't want to honour it and argue to save a buck.

[@kevinroberts2395]

Good review. I rode a mates 2017 Versys today and loved it except for the screen but it appears the later model SE comes with a more suitable touring screen. I currently have an aging Honda ST1300 so looking for a younger replacement. Looks like the SE might be the go. Also from Qld.

[@Chrisco_Hamper]

very entertaining, the Aussie humor is a great added feature

[@smtsslt7468]

Thanks for another succinct review that again covered aspects that others haven’t. Drive Mag Riders mentioned instability at 160 kph. Did you notice any? Looking forward to seeing what the 2021 Versys offers.

[@6tdegrees]

I didn’t notice any head shakes at that speed. And high speed Corning I didn’t have any stability issues apart from the fact the suspension tends to squat.

[@smtsslt7468]

6Tdegrees Ok- thanks for that. I hadn’t seen that criticism from any others either

[@apancher]

Great review! If I didn't have BMW dealer friends, I would probably go Kawi. Luckily, I used to see BMWs for a living, and have lots of connections in that world. Cheers from Indianapolis, US.

[@Benjay1975]

awesome review gents!!! the 2021 versys just got announced btw

[@6tdegrees]

Yeah I saw that, pretty exciting

[@afc-td8zo]

Versey is my next bike.

[@andrewh1696]

Great review - subscribed!

[@robb8773]

As the bikes are very similar, the deciding factor would probably be price for most people. That would give the knod to the green monster, lol

[@MaverickAus]

Excellent review, team green for me

[@marwanabouljoud2411]

Great review! Love the style. I ride Kawa Versys 650LT and love it. Throttle a bit jumpy. Looking to upgrade and this video helped me and confused me :( How was the throttle response on these bikes? Rider confidence comparable in the twisties?

[@jaydee5926]

I rode a 2018 Versys 650 for a few years and now have a Versys 1000 SE with about 25,000 km on the clock. The 650 does have throttle issues that I kinda got used to. I'm happy to say that the 1000 does not have any of those issues. Throttle response is quite good. I've never ridden the BMW so I can not compare

[@juve750]

Go for the standard V1k with an update to the suspensions still you save about 6000 for gas.....

[@borkarms]

Wow.Lovely comparo.Very balanced, its amazing how you didnt allow the Spec sheet to decide the winner.

[@bklynzman]

I've been in love with my XR for 40k miles over the past 2.5 years. Been everywhere with her and STILL growing into the bike! XR > anything else.

[@G0pZ]

Similar features, K is more comfortable and cheaper to boot. Versys for me.

[@hangpilot1200]

Just bought a 23 XR. It truely is the hooligan of the bunch that you occassionally take a rider with. If anyone is looking for a longer-distance tourer, I would imagine the GS vs Versys would be a closer comparison....

[@motordemic]

What the hell!?! This video quality and scripting is amazing! I'm so glad I came across it 👀 this is like Zach and Ari/Fortnine quality. It made what should've been a boring, usual review to hilarious and informative entertainment🌝

[@vidright]

For me, this comparison is al little bit apples and oranges. The Kawa is a sporty touring bike. The BMW is a real sportsbike on stilts.

[@carlofanelli9756]

Had both bikes. The XR has far more power, better e-suspension, better quick shifter and, in general, better components. The Versys is far more comfy and more long range touring, especially if riding with passenger. It all comes down to what type of bike you're after and what's the scope.

[@prashanthmathew5335]

Awesome review! Thank you

[@danield112]

Love your video cob keep up the good work.

[@froglaps40]

Picking up a brand new 2020 versys 1000 SE LT+ in a week.. I'd never consider a bmw where I live, due to maintenance availability and costs. And I'm not into very high speed thrills... high is ok. I want a bike I can sit upright and hammer down the miles. And if I feel like running half way across the country to visit friends and family I wouldn't need to drop an extra $6000 for the bags/ top case.

[@MarcoFrantz]

XR gives you higher adrenaline; designed for turns on asphalt. But it does not suit those who prefer comfort. Yet be prepared for the high maintenance costs.

[@ariariyan2937]

Kawasaki ❤️❤️❤️

[@susu198215]

And is the 22K$ plus price for. Kawasaki Versys basic S justified?

[@xcg1234]

I'll buy XR next year, BMW has great APR promotion going on.

[@Bruttus4377]

I have the bmw and totaly love it it is a very good touring bike , a little dr jekill and mr hide below 6000 rpm smooth above a monster, did long days in the saddle and to me it is the perfect bike

[@heikosommer715]

Great video and thank for your work and thoughts. There is nothing like German engineering! The XR is THE bike for me

[@o.gdrive8457]

You now what is good bro. BMW s1000 xr is the bike

[@worldsnomad]

If is anything like their cars I'd rather look elsewhere! Same goes for Schubert helmet, very comfortable piece of over priced rubbish, totally disappointed!

[@Joepaq]

If you don’t mind spending tons of money on service, then buy the BMW….If you want a bike that you can actually ride and very has issues, then buy the kawi.

[@abritablondeabike]

I spent 2 years on a Versys and 4 on an XR. The Versys doesn't even come close to the XR. The Versys is top heavy and unstable and has crap suspension.

[@kugangles9860]

I do agree with the bike being a little top heavy but the other comments about being unstable and crap suspension is just not correct. I got a 19 SE LT+ and the electronic suspension was just as good as the KTM 1290 super adventure I've owned. I've taken this bike up to 120mph and it felt pretty stable but nothing like my zx14r. That thing gets more stable the faster you go it's crazy. All of these type of bikes are a little unstable at triple digit speeds due to them having a high COG and being tall in nature. If your routinely pulling triple digits then this is the wrong class of bike for you.

[@abritablondeabike]

Maybe that's the issue. I had a 2014. No electric sus. It was bad.

[@kugangles9860]

​@@abritablondeabike Yeah I heard it was a budget suspension on the older models. I've looked on forums and guys always seem to revalve/respring them. The newer electronic Showa suspension is better (not perfect) but much higher quality. I've never ridden a XR although I want to. Are the vibrations as bad as people say?

[@dcxplant]

Test rode both. Hated the XR.. that engine vibeb bad enough to numb both hands and vibed the tank enough to nearly get me off. Horrible build quality too.The engine is noisy in a marbles in a paint can kind of way and peaky. The engine won't pull from down low without shuddering. The most un-BMW, BMW, I've ever ridden. Yes yes, powerful... blah blah. Terrible daily driver. POS completely. Also, the riding position of the XR was not "one with the bike" it is cramped. The Versys was comfortable, windshield did not buffet, quick enough and can be easily made quicker. Slip on pipe and a map flash Bob's your uncle. For me the big V did not make my hands numb. For the fidley windshield knobs, I kept one finger tight and the other tight enough to hold it in place for one-handed operation.

[@ZIVGAL01]

Great comparison. Can you maybe compare the Versys 1000 SE to Yamaha Tracer 900 GT? I am considering one of the two as my next bike coming up from a V-Strom 650.

[@6tdegrees]

I’ll see what I can do 👍

[@boo-boo511]

Depends what you are looking for. The Tracer is physically smaller, particularly for passenger and luggage. Its carrying capacity is much lower something like 165kg against 220kg for Versys. Tracer engine is smooth and sweet with nice gearbox. Versys has more grunt lower down and gives a more upright riding position. More room if you want to carry a passenger.

[@ZIVGAL01]

@@boo-boo511 thanks for your feedback. So if I am 1.88m tall and around 100kg and with the misses as an occasional Pelion we will be around 190kg before adding luggage then the Versys is the better bike for me?

[@boo-boo511]

@@ZIVGAL01 We went for the Versys. I am 1.86/100 and wife is 60Kg. The seat is much more comfortable for the passenger, it is larger with better placed hand holds. Factory top case has backrest option too. IMO the Versys is the better option as a two up machine. It also it also more spacious for the taller rider. Not all about physical size it also has a great flexible power plant and gearbox.

[@ZIVGAL01]

@@boo-boo511 thanks, appreciate your informative feedback. Lots to consider 😁.

[@thedesignjobs]

It should be Ninja 1000 Sx vs 1000XR

[@superstretch215]

The XR is for those that prefer more "sport" in their sport touring. This bike is made to go fast,, BMW has the gs for those looking for more comfort and not as much top end power.

[@NoirRobert]

The XR comes with a choice of seats. I chose the comfy seat and have traveled many 400 mile days on my XR (and several 500 mile days). I now have over 24k miles on the beemer. I can’t imagine trading it for the Versys. And when you want to ride sport, the beemer is far better than I would have thought.

[@intergalacticbasketballdro7186]

$6,000 extra for a BMW, and that's just the beginning ! (Just wait,⏳...⌛ until those BMW Shop Maintenance bills arrive). ☝️🤑 👍 💰💰💰💰💰💰💰💰💰💰💰

[@poerava]

Brilliant video. Funny and informative. So cool. Just too fast on the editing. Way too rushed.

[@satzawesome]

Leg room is something no one talks about. As a tall block sitting on the XR was the end for me . i really wanted one till my knees said nope you do not.

[@mikescott9213]

I demo rode the kawi with a passenger it was very comfortable for both rider and passenger. If it was 160 hp I would definitely buy one. Guess I'll wait for the versys h2.

[@czierwo]

Team Green!

[@susu198215]

Is it Australian Model ? The Versys 1000? Is it a SE or S ?

[@Kwackajack]

Hey 6T! I see you're a local Gold Coaster aswell! I'm just starting out my KZbin journey and do reviews of any bikes I can get my hand on and make motorcycle content here on the Coast too. Would love to connect with you sometime and go for a ride or pick your brains on content creation. I've joined your channel and would love if you took the time to have a quick look at mine and let me know what you think. Cheers!

[@6tdegrees]

Hey mate I’ll get you to shoot me an email 📧 and we will get into contact from there. Cheers [e-mail]

[@holmes1956O]

I would take the Kawasaki. With the money I saved over the bmw I could very easily make the kawi a better machine

[@mandiwacker]

touring with two - Kawa! Race alone - BMW!

[@BibTheBoulderTheOriginalOne]

Neither. I went and tested them both, and bought a Kawasaki ZZR1400 instead.

[@gsstel]

kawasaki for sure

[@jompesundman6565]

Team Green🏍

[@thecompanioncube4211]

I don't know if this is the fair comparison or not, given s1000xr takes engine from s1000rr and Versys takes it from Ninja1000 and not ZX10R

[@DrDonatoDONI]

I own a staffordshire terrier, but i like the kawasaki more.... Im confused now

[@oferizraely2513]

how about KTM SAS1290 vs S1000XR ?

[@Zoldengunner]

the price makes the choice

[@JeremyUSA]

the XR is an unbelievable motorcycle. I can't believe how far we've come in 20 years. I don't know how you can improve on the XR.

[@6tdegrees]

I thought the same with the s1000rr 2018 model. Then we rode the 2020, WOW what a shock that was.

[@JeremyUSA]

@@6tdegrees No kidding?! The new 2020 is that much better? That's amazing. I just completed California Superbike School on that bike.

[@JeremyUSA]

not sure what year they have but most likely the older model. In any case, it's an incredible bike, just small. I'm 6'5 so it gets a little crowded.

[@celsocarvalho1113]

I own two BMWs, a S1000XR (2017) and a K1200R (2007) - two different kinds of bikes, naturally, however the older R shows much higher finishing quality than the younger XR. For instance, the famous hand vibration is unthinkable in the older bike, while even with third party solutions installed the younger still vibrates. People say that it has improved a lot in the newer models although it is still there, but I have never been offered any ‘official’ solution in my visits to the dealers - and here we come to what it seems to me the new way of dealing with customers (in whatever line of business): no more services, just selling things - a result from the move from engineers’ management to marketeers’ management.

[@aqim8265]

Review trk502 binelli please

[@robertpowers1045]

I almost bought the new ninja 1000SX a few months ago...almost because Kawasaki didn’t have and couldn’t tell me when the hard saddlebags would be in. Why buy a sport tourer or Versys without hard bags, bike is made in Japan and bags, well China. Oh ended instead buying a new left over 2019 Aprilia Tuono for a really great discount

[@brunolopes8668]

I had two bm´s a 1100 gs and a 1150 rt...speaking of expensive when it became really specific but bro.......the versys really calls to me.....just love the garf .....but the bmw.....just puts a smile on the mouth kkkkk great review. Ride well cheers from Portugal

[@ryancraig2795]

The extra power of the BMW would be largely useless to me on the street, especially in this type of bike. I think I'd save the money and get the Kawi. But for sport touring I'd rather have a real sport touring bike, the the R1200RT in my garage.

[@poerava]

A few more seconds in the editing of the text you show would be nice

[@specialandroid1603]

The XR is not an adventure bike. Taking the XR off road would be insane and not in a good way. Sports/Touring is making a comeback and the superb XR is leading the way.

[@Fokswild]

Hope to buy a bmw xr in the future. What a bike😍