BMW Motorrad recently launched the updated S 1000 R in India at an aggressive price point, putting it squarely in the sights of some of the most desirable litre-class supernakeds from Europe and Japan. To see how it measures up, we’ve pitched it against its key competitors: the Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS, Ducati Streetfighter V4, Kawasaki Z H2, and Honda CB1000 Hornet SP.
Engine and Performance: Where the Power Lies
The five bikes here all boast big-capacity engines with sky-high outputs, but the hierarchy is clear.
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BMW S 1000 R – Its 999cc inline-four makes 170hp and 114Nm, perfectly respectable, though modest compared to some of its rivals.
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Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS – The 1,160cc triple churns out 183hp and 128Nm, combining strong top-end with meaty mid-range.
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Ducati Streetfighter V4 – The wild card of the group, its 1,103cc V4 produces a staggering 208hp, making it the outright leader here. Torque is rated at 123Nm.
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Kawasaki Z H2 – A different beast altogether, thanks to its supercharged 998cc motor. It delivers 200hp and an incredible 137Nm at just 8,500rpm, giving it unrivalled real-world shove.
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Honda CB1000 Hornet SP – The most affordable option, with 157hp and 107Nm from its 1000cc inline-four. It may lack outright numbers but still holds its own as a lively road bike.
On paper, the Ducati and Kawasaki stand tall with their massive peak figures, but the Triumph impresses with its balance of lightness and performance. The BMW, while not class-leading in numbers, promises a refined, usable delivery.
Weight and Dimensions: Light vs Heavy Hitters
Kerb weight plays a big role in how these bikes feel, and here the differences are stark.
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BMW S 1000 R – At 196-199kg, it’s one of the lightest in the segment.
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Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS – Nearly identical at 199kg.
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Ducati Streetfighter V4 – Claimed at 193-195kg dry, which translates to closer to 210kg fully fuelled.
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Kawasaki Z H2 – The heavyweight at 239-240kg, largely thanks to the supercharger hardware.
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Honda CB1000 Hornet SP – Middle ground at 212kg.
Seat heights range from 809mm on the Honda (more approachable for shorter riders) to 845mm on the Ducati, the most track-focused of the lot. The Z H2 offsets its bulk with a big 19-litre tank, while the BMW and Ducati offer 16.5 litres each.
Chassis and Components: Premium Across the Board
All bikes feature USD forks with rear monoshocks, as well as high-spec tyres and brakes.
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BMW, Triumph, Kawasaki – Run 190-section rear tyres, balancing grip and agility.
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Ducati – Goes even fatter with a 200/60 rear, hinting at its superbike DNA.
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Honda – Slightly narrower 180-section rear, in line with its less aggressive positioning.
Brake setups are top-tier too, though the Ducati (330mm/245mm) and Kawasaki (320mm/260mm) stand out for their larger discs. Most bikes offer electronic suspension (either standard or optional), except the Honda, which keeps things simpler.
Features and Rider Aids: Tech-Heavy Europeans Lead
Expect big TFT screens, ride modes, traction control, cornering ABS, cruise control, and even heated grips across this class. The Streetfighter V4 sets the benchmark here, with cutting-edge electronics derived from Ducati’s racing programmes.
The Triumph and BMW follow closely with polished rider-assist systems, while the Honda and Kawasaki offer slightly less finesse in terms of electronic sophistication, but still cover all the basics.
Price in India: Wide Spread
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Honda CB1000 Hornet SP – Rs 12.36 lakh (easily the most affordable).
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BMW S 1000 R – Rs 19.90 lakh, undercutting most European rivals.
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Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS – Rs 20.39 lakh, marginally more than the BMW.
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Kawasaki Z H2 – Rs 24.18 – 28.59 lakh, the priciest of the lot.
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Ducati Streetfighter V4 – Rs 24.62 – 28 lakh, sitting in the same bracket as the Kawasaki.
The Honda wins on value, while the BMW balances price and performance neatly. The Triumph sits close by, while the Ducati and Kawasaki demand a serious premium, justified by their extreme performance.
Verdict: Which One Makes Sense?
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For sheer power and electronics, the Ducati Streetfighter V4 is unbeatable.
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For torque-rich thrills, the supercharged Kawasaki Z H2 is unmatched.
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For value with everyday usability, Honda’s CB1000 Hornet SP makes a strong case.
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For a balanced mix of agility, price, and premium features, the Triumph Speed Triple 1200 RS shines.
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And the BMW S 1000 R? It may not top the charts in raw output, but with its lightweight design, everyday usability, and relatively accessible pricing, it remains a compelling and very well-rounded supernaked option.
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