2016 Honda VFR1200X vs 2014 Kawasaki Z 1000SX

Full specifications comparison • 2 motorcycles

Comparing 2 motorcycles
2016 Honda VFR1200X 2016 Honda VFR1200X

Sport touring

Engine
V4, four-stroke
Power
N/A
Top Speed
N/A
Weight
606.3 pounds
2014 Kawasaki Z 1000SX 2014 Kawasaki Z 1000SX

Sport touring

Engine
V2, four-stroke
Power
N/A
Top Speed
N/A
Weight
507.1 pounds
Full Specifications
General
CommentsTraction Control System. Windscreen. Sometimes called VFR1200X Crosstourer.-
ColoursPearl BlackBlack, green/black
Dimensions
Ground Clearance (in.)7.1 inches5.3 inches
Ground Clearance (mm)180 mm135 mm
Seat Height850 mm / 33.5 in.820 mm / 32.3 in.
Wheelbase1,595 mm / 62.8 in.1,445 mm / 56.9 in.
Height1,335 mm / 52.6 in.1,170 mm / 46.1 in.
Length2,285 mm / 90.0 in.2,105 mm / 82.9 in.
Width915 mm / 36.0 in.790 mm / 31.1 in.
Weights & Capacities
Fuel Capacity21.50 litres / 5.68 gallons19.00 litres / 5.02 gallons
Wet Weight275.0 kg / 606.3 lbs230.0 kg / 507.1 lbs
Performance
Max Torque126.00 Nm (12.8 kgf-m or 92.9 ft.lbs) @ 6500 Revolutions111.00 Nm (11.3 kgf-m or 81.9 ft.lbs) @ 11300
Engine
Bore x Stroke (in,)3.2 x 2.4 inches3.0 x 2.2 inches
Bore x Stroke (mm)81.0 x 60.0 mm77.0 x 56.0 mm
CO2119.9 CO2 g/km. (CO2 - Carbon dioxide emission)-
Displacement (cc)1237.00 cc1043.00 cc
Displacement (ci)75.48 cubic inches63.64 cubic inches
Engine TypeV4, four-strokeV2, four-stroke
Fuel ControlSingle Overhead Cams (SOHC)DOHC
Engine Detail76 degree cyclinder angleReed valve.
Fuel SystemInjection. PGM-FIInjection
Compression Ratio12.0:111.8:1
Engine Lubrication-Forced lubrication, wet sump
Fuel Consumption5.17 litres/100 km (19.3 km/l or 45.50 mpg)-
Ignition-Digital
StarterElectricElectric
Valve System44
Drivetrain
ClutchWet multiplateWet multi-disc, manual
Final DriveShaft drive (cardan)Chain
Gearbox6-speed-
Primary DriveSix-speed manual transmission or automatic.Sealed chain
Chassis
Frame TypeDiamond aluminium twin-sparAluminium twin-tube
Suspension - Front43mm inverted telescopic forks with hydraulic damping, preload and rebound damping adjustment41 mm inverted fork with stepless compression and rebound damping and spring preload adjustability
Suspension - RearPro-Link with gas-charged damper, preload and stepless rebound damping adjustmentHorizontal Back-link, gas-charged, with stepless rebound damping and remote spring preload adjustability
Rake28.0°24.5°
Trail107 mm / 4.2 in.102 mm / 4.0 in.
Wheels & Brakes
Brakes - Rear Diameter (mm)276 mm250 mm
Brakes - Front Diameter (mm)310 mm300 mm
Brakes - Rear Diameter (in.)10.9 inches9.8 inches
Brakes - Front Diameter (in.)12.2 inches11.8 inches
Brakes - FrontDouble disc. Combined ABSDouble disc. Floating discs.
Brakes - RearSingle disc. Combined ABSSingle disc
RimsWire spoked-
Tyres - Front110/80-R19120/70-ZR17
Tyres - Rear150/70-R17190/50-ZR17

Verdict

Too close to call

The 2016 Honda VFR1200X and the 2014 Kawasaki Z 1000SX 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

2016 Honda VFR1200X - Advantages

  • More ground clearance: 180 mm vs 135 mm - better clearance over rocks and obstacles.

2014 Kawasaki Z 1000SX - Advantages

  • Lower seat height: 820 mm vs 850 mm - accessible to a wider range of rider heights.

2016 Honda VFR1200X vs 2014 Kawasaki Z 1000SX - FAQs

What are the engine differences between the 2016 Honda VFR1200X and 2014 Kawasaki Z 1000SX?
The 2016 Honda VFR1200X uses V4, four-stroke, while the 2014 Kawasaki Z 1000SX is powered by V2, four-stroke.
Which bike is better for shorter riders, the 2016 Honda VFR1200X or the 2014 Kawasaki Z 1000SX?
The 2014 Kawasaki Z 1000SX has the lower seat at 820 mm, making it more accessible. The 2016 Honda VFR1200X sits higher at 850 mm. A seat height below 800 mm suits most riders; above 820 mm shorter riders may need to tiptoe.
Which should I buy, the 2016 Honda VFR1200X or the 2014 Kawasaki Z 1000SX?
Both are strong choices. The 2016 Honda VFR1200X has the edge in greater ground clearance, while the 2014 Kawasaki Z 1000SX stands out for lower seat height. Visit dealers, arrange test rides, and factor in local parts and service costs - these often matter as much as the spec sheet.