2009 Honda ST 1300 Pan European vs 2012 Kawasaki Versys 1000

Full specifications comparison • 2 motorcycles

Comparing 2 motorcycles
2009 Honda ST 1300 Pan European 2009 Honda ST 1300 Pan European

Sport touring

Engine
V4
Power
N/A
Top Speed
N/A
Weight
719.0 pounds
2012 Kawasaki Versys 1000 2012 Kawasaki Versys 1000

Sport touring

Engine
In-line four, four-stroke
Power
N/A
Top Speed
N/A
Weight
643.9 pounds
Full Specifications
General
ColoursCandy Dark Red/Metallic SilverRealtree APG HD camouflage
Warranty-12 Months
Dimensions
Ground Clearance (mm)-155 mm
Ground Clearance (in.)-6.1 inches
Seat Height790 mm / 31.1 in.845 mm / 33.3 in.
Wheelbase1,491 mm / 58.7 in.1,520 mm / 59.8 in.
Height-1,405 mm / 55.3 in.
Length-2,235 mm / 88.0 in.
Width-900 mm / 35.4 in.
Weights & Capacities
Dry Weight-239 kg / 526.9 lbs
Fuel Capacity29.14 litres / 7.70 gallons21.00 litres / 5.55 gallons
Wet Weight326.1 kg / 719.0 lbs292.1 kg / 643.9 lbs
Performance
Max Torque-102.00 Nm (10.4 kgf-m or 75.2 ft.lbs) @ 10400
Power-to-Weight Ratio-0.4870 HP/kg
Engine
Stroke4-
Displacement (cc)1261.00 cc1043.00 cc
Fuel ControlDOHCDOHC
Engine TypeV4In-line four, four-stroke
Bore x Stroke (in,)3.1 x 2.6 inches3.0 x 2.2 inches
Bore x Stroke (mm)78.0 x 66.0 mm77.0 x 56.0 mm
Displacement (ci)76.95 cubic inches63.64 cubic inches
Fuel System-Injection
Compression Ratio10.8:110.3:1
Engine Lubrication-Forced lubrication, wet sump
IgnitionComputer-controlled digital with three-dimensional mapping and electronic advanceDigital
StarterElectricElectric
Valve System44
Drivetrain
Clutch-Wet mDouble disk, manual
Final DriveShaft drive (cardan)Chain
Gearbox5-speed-
Primary Drive-Sealed chain
Chassis
Frame Type-Aluminium twin-tube
Suspension - Front45mm HMAS cartridge fork43 mm inverted fork with stepless
Suspension - RearHMAS gas-charged single shock with five-position spring-preload adjustabilityHorizontal Back-link, gas-charged,
Rake26.0°27.0°
Trail98 mm / 3.9 in.-
Wheel Travel - Front117 mm / 4.6 in.-
Wheel Travel - Rear122 mm / 4.8 in.-
Electrical Systems
Lighting system-30W x 2 halogen
Wheels & Brakes
Brakes - Rear Diameter (mm)316 mm-
Brakes - Rear Diameter (in.)12.4 inches-
Brakes - Front Diameter (mm)310 mm-
Brakes - Front Diameter (in.)12.2 inches-
Brakes - FrontDouble discDouble disc
Brakes - RearSingle discSingle disc
Tyres - Front120/70-ZR18120/70-ZR17
Tyres - Rear170/60-ZR17180/55-ZR17

Verdict

Too close to call

The 2009 Honda ST 1300 Pan European and the 2012 Kawasaki Versys 1000 are evenly matched across the key measurable criteria. Your decision comes down to personal preference, riding style, and which brand's dealer network best suits your location.

Key Differences

2009 Honda ST 1300 Pan European - Advantages

  • Lower seat height: 790 mm vs 845 mm - accessible to a wider range of rider heights.

2012 Kawasaki Versys 1000 - Advantages

  • Fuel injection: Precise fuelling, better cold-start reliability, and lower maintenance requirements.

2009 Honda ST 1300 Pan European vs 2012 Kawasaki Versys 1000 - FAQs

What are the engine differences between the 2009 Honda ST 1300 Pan European and 2012 Kawasaki Versys 1000?
The 2009 Honda ST 1300 Pan European uses V4, while the 2012 Kawasaki Versys 1000 is powered by In-line four, four-stroke.
Which bike is better for shorter riders, the 2009 Honda ST 1300 Pan European or the 2012 Kawasaki Versys 1000?
The 2009 Honda ST 1300 Pan European has the lower seat at 790 mm, making it more accessible. The 2012 Kawasaki Versys 1000 sits higher at 845 mm. A seat height below 800 mm suits most riders; above 820 mm shorter riders may need to tiptoe.
Which should I buy, the 2009 Honda ST 1300 Pan European or the 2012 Kawasaki Versys 1000?
Both are strong choices. The 2009 Honda ST 1300 Pan European has the edge in lower seat height, while the 2012 Kawasaki Versys 1000 stands out for fuel injection. Visit dealers, arrange test rides, and factor in local parts and service costs - these often matter as much as the spec sheet.