2000 BMW K 1200RS vs 2004 Kawasaki ZZR 1200

Full specifications comparison • 2 motorcycles

Comparing 2 motorcycles
2000 BMW K 1200RS 2000 BMW K 1200RS

Sport touring

Engine
In-line four
Power
N/A
Top Speed
225.0 km/h / 139.8 mph
Weight
582.0 pounds
2004 Kawasaki ZZR 1200 2004 Kawasaki ZZR 1200

Sport touring

Engine
In-line four
Power
N/A
Top Speed
270.0 km/h / 167.8 mph
Weight
520.3 pounds
Full Specifications
General
ColoursRed, gray, silver/blue for extra chargeSilver, Blue
Dimensions
Seat Heigth -Alternate (in.)31.5 inches-
Seat Heigth -Alternate (mm)800 mm-
Seat Height770 mm / 30.3 in.780 mm / 30.7 in.
Wheelbase1,555 mm / 61.2 in.1,500 mm / 59.1 in.
Weights & Capacities
Dry Weight264 kg / 582.0 lbs236 kg / 520.3 lbs
Fuel Capacity20.50 litres / 5.42 gallons23.00 litres / 6.08 gallons
Performance
Top Speed225.0 km/h / 139.8 mph270.0 km/h / 167.8 mph
Max Torque117.00164.00
Power-to-Weight Ratio0.4924 HP/kg0.6780 HP/kg
Engine
Fuel Control-DOHC
Stroke44
Displacement (ci)71.45 cubic inches71.03 cubic inches
Displacement (cc)1171.00 cc1164.00 cc
Engine TypeIn-line fourIn-line four
Fuel System-Carburettor
Valve System-4
Drivetrain
Final Drive-Chain
Gearbox6-speed6-speed
Wheels & Brakes
Brakes - FrontDual discDouble disc
Brakes - RearSingle discSingle disc
Tyres - Front-120/70-ZR17
Tyres - Rear-180/55-ZR17

Verdict

Winner on specs

2004 Kawasaki ZZR 1200

The 2004 Kawasaki ZZR 1200 edges out the 2000 BMW K 1200RS thanks to its lighter kerb weight and dual front discs. Specifications are one part of the picture - dealer support, parts availability, and intended use all matter too.

Key Differences

2000 BMW K 1200RS - Advantages

  • Competitive all-round: The 2000 BMW K 1200RS matches or exceeds its rival across all measured criteria.

2004 Kawasaki ZZR 1200 - Advantages

  • Lighter: 236 kg vs 264 kg - easier to handle and less fatiguing on long trips.
  • Dual front discs: Greater stopping power and better heat management under hard braking.

2000 BMW K 1200RS vs 2004 Kawasaki ZZR 1200 - FAQs

Which is lighter, the 2000 BMW K 1200RS or the 2004 Kawasaki ZZR 1200?
The 2004 Kawasaki ZZR 1200 is lighter at 236 kg compared to 264 kg for the 2000 BMW K 1200RS - a difference of 28 kg. This is a meaningful difference that affects handling and rider fatigue.
Which should I buy, the 2000 BMW K 1200RS or the 2004 Kawasaki ZZR 1200?
Both are strong choices. The 2000 BMW K 1200RS has its own strengths, while the 2004 Kawasaki ZZR 1200 stands out for lighter kerb weight and dual front discs. Visit dealers, arrange test rides, and factor in local parts and service costs - these often matter as much as the spec sheet.