BMW R 1250 GS vs Kawasaki Dominar 400 UG V2 2023 / BS6

A full spec-by-spec comparison of BMW R 1250 GS vs Kawasaki Dominar 400 UG V2 2023 / BS6 — engine, performance, dimensions, features and price, with the differences highlighted to help you decide.

Specification BMW R 1250 GS BMW R 1250 GS BMW ₱1,575,100 Kawasaki Dominar 400 UG V2 2023 / BS6 Kawasaki Dominar 400 UG V2 2023 / BS6 Kawasaki ₱208,900
Full Specification
Type Adventure Touring Sports Touring
Engine Flat Twin Cylinder, 4-Stroke, Air & Liquid Cooled DOHC liquid-cooled single-cylinder
Max Power 134 hp 40 HP @ 8,500 rpm
Max Torque 143 Nm 35 Nm @ 6,500 rpm
Displacement 1254 cc 373.33cc
Frame Two Section Frame
Front Suspension Telelever
Front Brake Dual Disc
Rear Brake Disc
Rear Suspension Swing Arm
Fuel Tank Capacity 20 L 13 LIters
Seat Height 850 mm
Transmission Manual 6-speed with slipper clutch
Dimension 2207 mm x 952.5 mm x 1430 mm
Weight 249 kg
Wheelbase 1514 mm
Battery Capacity 11.8 Ah
Battery Type 12 V
Tires Front 120/70 R19, Rear 170/60 R17
Top Speed 200 kmph
Price PHP 208,900
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BMW R 1250 GS vs Kawasaki Dominar 400 UG V2 2023 / BS6: which should you buy?

For Filipino buyers, the choice between the BMW R 1250 GS and Kawasaki Dominar 400 UG V2 is clear-cut based on budget and intended use. The BMW R 1250 GS is a premium adventure touring motorcycle with a powerful 134 hp flat-twin engine, advanced Telelever front suspension, and a 20L fuel tank, ideal for long-distance touring and off-road capability. However, its price of ₱1,575,100 is prohibitive for most, and its 249 kg weight and 850 mm seat height may be challenging for daily commuting in traffic. In contrast, the Kawasaki Dominar 400 UG V2 is a practical sports tourer at just ₱208,900, with a 40 hp single-cylinder engine, 6-speed slipper clutch, and 13L tank, making it far more affordable and manageable for daily use and weekend rides. While the BMW offers superior power, torque, and touring features, the Dominar provides excellent value for money and is better suited for Filipino roads and traffic. If you have the budget and need a long-haul adventure machine, choose the BMW. For most riders seeking a reliable, affordable, and versatile motorcycle for commuting and occasional touring, the Kawasaki Dominar 400 is the smarter choice.

Frequently asked questions

Which motorcycle is cheaper?

The Kawasaki Dominar 400 UG V2 is significantly cheaper at ₱208,900 compared to the BMW R 1250 GS at ₱1,575,100.

Which motorcycle is more powerful?

The BMW R 1250 GS is far more powerful, producing 134 hp and 143 Nm of torque, while the Kawasaki Dominar 400 produces 40 hp and 35 Nm.

Which is better for daily commuting?

The Kawasaki Dominar 400 is better for daily commuting due to its lower price, lighter weight (not specified but likely less than 249 kg), and more manageable power. The BMW's high seat height and weight make it less practical in traffic.

Which motorcycle has a larger fuel tank?

The BMW R 1250 GS has a larger fuel tank capacity of 20 liters, compared to the Kawasaki Dominar 400's 13 liters, offering longer range between refills.