2016 KTM 1290 Super Adventure vs 2015 Kawasaki Versys 1000

Full specifications comparison • 2 motorcycles

Comparing 2 motorcycles
2016 KTM 1290 Super Adventure 2016 KTM 1290 Super Adventure

All-Round

Engine
V2, four-stroke
Power
N/A
Top Speed
N/A
Weight
504.9 pounds
2015 Kawasaki Versys 1000 2015 Kawasaki Versys 1000

All-Round

Engine
In-line four, four-stroke
Power
N/A
Top Speed
N/A
Weight
526.9 pounds
Full Specifications
General
CommentsSmall windscreen. Ride-by-wire system. Switchable Bosch ABS.Small windscreen.
ColoursGrey/silverOrange/black, black, grey/black
Dimensions
Seat Heigth -Alternate (mm)875 mm-
Seat Heigth -Alternate (in.)34.4 inches-
Ground Clearance (mm)220 mm155 mm
Ground Clearance (in.)8.7 inches6.1 inches
Seat Height860 mm / 33.9 in.845 mm / 33.3 in.
Wheelbase1,560 mm / 61.4 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 Weight229 kg / 504.9 lbs-
Fuel Capacity30.00 litres / 7.93 gallons21.00 litres / 5.55 gallons
Wet Weight-239.0 kg / 526.9 lbs
Performance
Max Torque-102.00 Nm (10.4 kgf-m or 75.2 ft.lbs) @ 7700 Revolutions
Power-to-Weight Ratio0.6987 HP/kg-
Engine
Fuel Control-Double Overhead Cams/Twin Cam (DOHC)
Bore x Stroke (mm)108.0 x 75.0 mm77.0 x 56.0 mm
Bore x Stroke (in,)4.3 x 3.0 inches3.0 x 2.2 inches
Displacement (cc)1301.00 cc1043.00 cc
Displacement (ci)79.39 cubic inches63.64 cubic inches
Engine TypeV2, four-strokeIn-line four, four-stroke
Engine Detail75° V arrangement-
Fuel SystemInjectionInjection
Compression Ratio-10.3:1
Engine LubricationForced oil lubrication with 3 pumpsForced lubrication, wet sump
IgnitionKeihin EMS with RBW and cruise control, double ignitionDigital
StarterElectricElectric
Valve System-4
Drivetrain
ClutchPASC slipper clutch, hydraulically actuatedWet multi-disc, manual
Final DriveChainChain
Gearbox6-speed6-speed
Primary Drive5/8 x 5/16 X Ring. Primary drive: 40:76.Sealed chain
Chassis
Frame TypeChromium-Molybdenum steel trellis frame, powder coatedAluminium twin-tube
Suspension - FrontWP Semi-active suspension USD ? 48 mm43 mm inverted fork with stepless
Suspension - RearWP Semi-active suspension monoshockHorizontal Back-link, gas-charged,
Rake26.0°27.0°
Trail-106 mm / 4.2 in.
Wheel Travel - Front200 mm / 7.9 in.150 mm / 5.9 in.
Wheel Travel - Rear200 mm / 7.9 in.150 mm / 5.9 in.
Wheels & Brakes
Brakes - Front Diameter (mm)320 mm310 mm
Brakes - Rear Diameter (in.)10.5 inches9.8 inches
Brakes - Rear Diameter (mm)267 mm250 mm
Brakes - Front Diameter (in.)12.6 inches12.2 inches
Brakes - FrontDouble disc. ABS. Four-piston calipers. Radially mounted.Double disc. Petal discs. Dual opposed 4-piston caliper
Brakes - RearSingle disc. ABS. Two-piston calipers.Single disc. Petal disc. Single-piston caliper.
Tyres - Front-120/70-ZR17
Tyres - Rear-180/55-ZR17

Verdict

Winner on specs

2016 KTM 1290 Super Adventure

The 2016 KTM 1290 Super Adventure edges out the 2015 Kawasaki Versys 1000 thanks to its greater ground clearance, higher rear wheel travel and higher front wheel travel. Specifications are one part of the picture - dealer support, parts availability, and intended use all matter too.

Key Differences

2016 KTM 1290 Super Adventure - Advantages

  • More ground clearance: 220 mm vs 155 mm - better clearance over rocks and obstacles.
  • More rear wheel travel: 200 mm vs 150 mm - absorbs bigger hits and rough terrain better.
  • More front wheel travel: 200 mm vs 150 mm - greater compliance over rough surfaces.

2015 Kawasaki Versys 1000 - Advantages

  • Competitive all-round: The 2015 Kawasaki Versys 1000 matches or exceeds its rival across all measured criteria.

2016 KTM 1290 Super Adventure vs 2015 Kawasaki Versys 1000 - FAQs

What are the engine differences between the 2016 KTM 1290 Super Adventure and 2015 Kawasaki Versys 1000?
The 2016 KTM 1290 Super Adventure uses V2, four-stroke, while the 2015 Kawasaki Versys 1000 is powered by In-line four, four-stroke.
Which bike is better for shorter riders, the 2016 KTM 1290 Super Adventure or the 2015 Kawasaki Versys 1000?
The 2015 Kawasaki Versys 1000 has the lower seat at 845 mm, making it more accessible. The 2016 KTM 1290 Super Adventure sits higher at 860 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 KTM 1290 Super Adventure or the 2015 Kawasaki Versys 1000?
Both are strong choices. The 2016 KTM 1290 Super Adventure has the edge in greater ground clearance and higher rear wheel travel, while the 2015 Kawasaki Versys 1000 offers a compelling alternative. Visit dealers, arrange test rides, and factor in local parts and service costs - these often matter as much as the spec sheet.