2004 Kawasaki ZZR 1200 vs 2000 BMW K 1200RS

Full specifications comparison • 2 motorcycles

Comparing 2 motorcycles
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
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
Full Specifications
General
ColoursSilver, BlueRed, gray, silver/blue for extra charge
Dimensions
Seat Heigth -Alternate (in.)-31.5 inches
Seat Heigth -Alternate (mm)-800 mm
Seat Height780 mm / 30.7 in.770 mm / 30.3 in.
Wheelbase1,500 mm / 59.1 in.1,555 mm / 61.2 in.
Weights & Capacities
Dry Weight236 kg / 520.3 lbs264 kg / 582.0 lbs
Fuel Capacity23.00 litres / 6.08 gallons20.50 litres / 5.42 gallons
Performance
Top Speed270.0 km/h / 167.8 mph225.0 km/h / 139.8 mph
Max Torque164.00117.00
Power-to-Weight Ratio0.6780 HP/kg0.4924 HP/kg
Engine
Stroke44
Displacement (ci)71.03 cubic inches71.45 cubic inches
Displacement (cc)1164.00 cc1171.00 cc
Engine TypeIn-line fourIn-line four
Fuel ControlDOHC-
Fuel SystemCarburettor-
Valve System4-
Drivetrain
Final DriveChain-
Gearbox6-speed6-speed
Wheels & Brakes
Brakes - FrontDouble discDual disc
Brakes - RearSingle discSingle disc
Tyres - Front120/70-ZR17-
Tyres - Rear180/55-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

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 - Advantages

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

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

Which is lighter, the 2004 Kawasaki ZZR 1200 or the 2000 BMW K 1200RS?
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 2004 Kawasaki ZZR 1200 or the 2000 BMW K 1200RS?
Both are strong choices. The 2004 Kawasaki ZZR 1200 has the edge in lighter kerb weight and dual front discs, while the 2000 BMW K 1200RS 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.