Kawasaki Z 1000 SX Tourer and Triumph Sprint GT in the test
Are sports tourers the golden mean?
Tourers are too big and sedate for you? Athlete too strenuous and nervous? Then the happy medium might be just right for you. We test the Triumph Sprint GT and the Kawasaki Z 1000 SX Tourer in comparison.
Somehow sports tourers are caught between all chairs. One thinks. But it is precisely in such gaps that successful and attractive little plants thrive. For example the Kawasaki Z 1000 SX. In terms of sales, it is practically on a par with the popular Z 1000. It’s also tempting: a bike with which you can do your sporty after-work tour as well as your holiday trip. To keep it that way, it received its first revision for 2014. In addition to standard suitcases, traction control and two engine mappings, it also brought monoblock brakes, a firmer chassis and more pulling power. In terms of performance, she is most likely to win the Triumph S.print GT hold a candle to it. Its bearish 1050 three-cylinder is a bench, the neat single-sided swing arm is pleasing to the eye.
Kawasaki Z 1000 SX Tourer and Triumph Sprint GT in the test
Are sports tourers the golden mean?
Z 1000 SX with a name steeped in tradition and a self-confident appearance, clearly in the sportier corner.
Kawasaki Z 1000 SX is easier to direct
The seat rehearsal underlines the different approaches of the two. The driver sits on the Triumph Sprint GT, deeply integrated into the motorcycle, elongated and on softer upholstery. At the same time, with legs bent in a sporty way. The Kawasaki Z 1000 SX positions its rider more compactly, closer to the handlebar and more upright. The higher mounted pegs fold the legs a little more, although not uncomfortably.
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At higher speeds, the Kawasaki steers more and more neutrally and is overall more agile than the Triumph.
Both of them do the start-up procedure without complaint. Only after cold, damp nights does the Kawasaki Z 1000 SX choke a little from the fuel it has been given for the first few meters before it willingly accepts gas. It threads its way more smoothly through the hustle and bustle of the city than the Triumph Sprint GT. And thanks to the more relaxed sitting position, it is easier to direct than the sprint, which, at a pounding 270 kilograms, not only carries 27 kilograms more with it, but also requires a more firm clutch hand. In addition, its turning circle of 7.3 meters is almost one and a half meters larger than that of the Kawa, which is annoying when maneuvering.
With the Kawasaki Z 1000 SX, on the other hand, only the wide, newly designed mirrors require a little attention, which compensate for this with good consideration. But we look ahead to the approaching exit and the waiting curves. There the triumph triple throws itself into the stuff. With this inimitable hiss, it pushes forward velvety, powerfully and with wonderful smoothness just above idle speed. He is not only acoustically flattering, but also moves on velvet paws through the speed range.
Lower load changes on the Triumph Sprint GT
The Kawasaki four-cylinder is no less powerful, but more robust. In addition to 3 HP more peak power, gentle engine modifications also brought a little more torque in the middle. This enabled the engineers to take sixth gear a little longer. The bottom line is that the draft values are unchanged. Whereby the four-cylinder is mechanically more present than the Triumph-Dreier. In addition, it reacts with the blink of an eye to the opening of the double throttle valves, especially at low speeds after rolling. Direct and easy to dose, with fewer load changes, on the other hand, the Triumph unit hangs on the gas. The streets are still narrow, the curves tight. The Triumph Sprint GT can be gently rocked from one side to the other in the rhythm of the curves, is not particularly handy, but its balance is right. She turns in well, lies stable, takes turns calmly. The Kawasaki Z 1000 SX, on the other hand, leans much more readily and easily, but tends to fold the front wheel inward in tight bends, which always requires some counter pressure on the handlebars and does not seem particularly neutral.
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In contrast to the radical looking Kawasaki, the Triumph dresses discreetly, avoiding flashy shapes and colors.
But the greater the speed and curve radii, the more the picture changes. At higher speeds, the Kawasaki Z 1000 SX steers more and more neutrally, is full and stable, even on pitted asphalt and on steep slopes. And it’s simply more agile overall. In wide curves, the Triumph Sprint GT pulls its way stably like a freight train – at least on a level surface. The high weight and nine centimeters longer wheelbase dampen the handling, but have a calming effect in terms of stability and straight-line stability. But if you take the “sprint” in its name too literally and give it the spurs, possibly even on an undulating surface, triumph gets moving. The softly cushioned spring elements respond cleanly to small bumps and ensure comfort. But not for rest on deck.
In addition, the sprint only provides average feedback, which dampens the physical activity, particularly with regard to the indifferent feeling for the front wheel. Whereby the engine is also definitely available for dynamic locomotion: it hangs great on the gas, pulls as beefy as it is smooth and smooth up to the limiter. And have we complained about bony Triumph transmissions in the past? This one perfectly lines up one aisle after the next. While downshifting is still a bit noisy, otherwise the gears slip perfectly. This engine is still a piece of cake.
The bottom line is that the Triumph Sprint GT is more of a comfortable travel companion than a sportsman, as the moderate pace is ultimately more suitable for it. Especially since the wide bench invites you to linger and a pillion passenger will find a more comfortable place here. The Triumph rests in itself and exudes serenity as you glide along the country roads. While the Kawasaki Z 1000 SX can hardly deny its sporty genes and blossoms with a brisk pace. The four-cylinder grumbles pithily, now hangs well on the gas at higher speeds. Turns up high, gives another power boost at 7000 rpm and only slacks off a little in the last 1000 revolutions.
The gears lock precisely and without great effort. Despite the slightly longer sixth gear, the four-cylinder engine derives its dynamism from an overall ratio that is still quite short. The Kawasaki Z 1000 SX runs into the limiter at top speed, and you always find yourself looking for a seventh gear. It should be translated even longer – not only from a tourist point of view. The chassis puts away sports insoles without complaint and provides better feedback – especially from the front wheel. The fully adjustable fork (Triumph: only preload) offers proper response and enough reserves for a brisk pace.
The Kawa can brake like the devil!
The spring strut, which is now equipped with a harder spring and, like the Sprint, can be adjusted in rebound and preload by handwheel, is not one of the most sensitive representatives of its kind, but it doesn’t get ugly hardness. The overall tight chassis setup does its part to ensure that the Kawasaki Z 1000 SX does not lose its footing in fast, undulating corners. The only thing to complain about is the noticeable righting moment when braking. But the Kawasaki can brake like the devil. A new radial brake pump and monoblock calipers ensure massive deceleration. The Z 1000 SX can be captured again with two fingers. And a finely regulated Bosch ABS ensures that nothing goes wrong in the heat of the moment. Only the lifting of the rear wheel cannot be completely prevented by the system. If the throttle grip is turned too vigorously, a three-stage traction control reliably monitors the rear wheel, which does not intervene too early and restrictively even at the most sensitive level.
The Triumph Sprint GT does not have that in its repertoire. Their brakes, which are also ABS-reinforced, look comparatively pale. Pack up properly when you first put on. But then you have to pull hard on the lever to slow down more. They do not achieve the bite or the controllability of the Kawa brake. If necessary, the ABS regulates reliably, but not as finely as that of the Kawasaki Z 1000 SX.
The Triumph scores elsewhere. The handling and locking of the large, but also heavy cases (6.9 kg each, Kawasaki: 4.0 each) is incredibly easy. Its vibration-decoupled suspension also ensures that the Sprint runs straight and bolt-stable even at high speeds. The main stand and single-sided swing arm facilitate chain maintenance and delight touring fans. The wind protection of the flat disc is average at best. The screen of the Kawasaki Z 1000 SX protects its pilot a little better, at least in the top tier. It is gratifying for both of them that they spare their drivers from annoying eddies and turbulence.
Triumph only swallows 5.1 liters
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The Triumph Sprint GT pulls in wide curves as stable as a freight train on its way – at least on a level surface.
At the gas pump, both of them make for happy faces. The Kawasaki Z 1000 SX, because with a consumption of 5.6 liters it is a few tenths more economical with fuel than its predecessor. The Triumph Sprint GT, because with a total of 5.1 liters it shows very moderate drinking habits. Which, in conjunction with the 20-liter tank (Kawasaki 19 liters), gives it a range of almost 400 kilometers.
A small compartment in the paneling holds at least a few utensils, the on-board socket and luggage rack facilitate the long tour, as does the generous 213 kilograms of payload. The range of accessories offers a top case with an integrated socket. But the cockpit of the Triumph, which can only be operated via fiddly buttons, does not have a gear and outside temperature display.
The cockpit of the Kawasaki Z 1000 SX, which can be operated from the handlebars, also suppresses this information. At 28 liters, your suitcases are also slightly smaller than those of the Triumph (31 liters), but still hold a full-face helmet. However, a load of 183 kilograms is not exactly large for the tour for two. But those who, like the Kawasaki, place more value on sporting attributes will be able to live with them. For those who are more in the mood for enjoyable tours, the Triumph is ideal.
Kawasaki Z 1000 SX Tourer
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The Kawasaki Z 100 SX Tourer has the radical shape familiar from the manufacturer.
engine
type design
In-line engine
Oil bath clutch
at 10,000 rpm
landing gear
frame | Backbone frame aluminum |
fork | Upside-down fork, Ø 41 mm |
Brakes front / rear |
Ø 300 mm / Ø 250 mm |
Systems assistance |
ABS, traction control |
bikes |
3.50 x 17; 6.00 x 17 |
tires |
120/70 ZR 17; 190/50 ZR 17 |
Tires |
Bridgestone S 20 "N" |
mass and weight
wheelbase | 1445 mm |
Steering head angle | 65.5 degrees |
trailing | 102 mm |
Front / rear suspension travel | 120/138 mm |
Seat height * | 820 mm |
Weight with full tank ** | 243 kg |
Payload * | 183 kg |
Tank capacity / reserve | 19.0 liters |
Service intervals | 6000 km |
price | k. AT.. |
Price test motorcycle | k. AT.. |
Additional costs | 180 euros |
* MOTORCYCLE measurements; ** MOTORCYCLE measurement including case weight (Kawasaki 2 x 4.0 kg; Triumph 2 x 6.9 kg |
MOTORCYCLE readings
Top speed |
244 (249 *) km / h |
acceleration 0-100 km / h 0-140 km / h 0-200 km / h |
3.3 sec 5.3 sec 9.8 sec |
Draft 60-100 km / h 100-140 km / h 140-180 km / h |
3.4 sec 3.2 sec 3.6 sec |
Consumption highway | 5.6 liters / super |
Reach country road | 339 km |
* Manufacturer information |
Triumph Sprint GT
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In total, the Triumph Sprint GT weighs a whopping 270 kg.
engine
type design | Three-cylinder four-stroke- In-line engine |
injection |
Ø 46 mm |
coupling | Multi-panes- Oil bath clutch |
Boron x stroke |
79.0 x 71.4 mm |
Displacement |
1050 cc |
compression |
12.0: 1 |
power | 96.0 kW (131 PS) at 9200 rpm |
Torque |
108 Nm at 6300 rpm |
landing gear
frame | Bridge frame aluminum |
fork | Telescopic fork, Ø 43 mm |
Brakes front / rear |
Ø 320 mm / Ø 255 mm |
Systems assistance |
SECTION |
bikes |
3.50 x 17; 5.50 x 17 |
tires |
120/70 ZR 17; 180/55 ZR 17 |
Tires |
Bridgestone BT 021 |
mass and weight
wheelbase |
1537 mm |
Steering head angle |
66.5 degrees |
trailing |
84 mm |
Front / rear suspension travel |
127/152 mm |
Seat height * |
820 mm |
Weight with full tank ** |
270 kg |
Payload * |
213 kg |
Tank capacity / reserve |
20.0 liters |
Service intervals |
10,000 km |
price |
12,490 euros |
Price test motorcycle |
12,490 euros |
Additional costs |
450 euros |
* MOTORCYCLE measurements; ** MOTORCYCLE measurement including case weight (Kawasaki 2 x 4.0 kg; Triumph 2 x 6.9 kg |
MOTORCYCLE readings
Top speed | 237 (232 *) km / h |
acceleration 0-100 km / h 0-140 km / h 0-200 km / h |
3.4 sec 5.7 sec 11.7 sec |
Draft 60-100 km / h 100-140 km / h 140-180 km / h |
4.9 sec 5.2 sec 6.7 sec |
Consumption highway |
5.1 liters / super |
Reach country road |
392 km |
* Manufacturer information |
Scoring and conclusion
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The Triumph appears flat and elongated compared to the dynamic Kawa. For those who are more in the mood for enjoyable tours, the Triumph is ideal.
engine
Maximum score |
Kawasaki Z 1000 SX Tourer |
triumph Sprint GT |
|
Draft | 40 | 36 | 28 |
acceleration | 40 | 32 | 30th |
Top speed | 30th | 21st | 20th |
Engine characteristics | 30th | 26th | 24 |
Responsiveness | 20th | 14th | 15th |
Load change | 20th | 14th | 14th |
Smoothness | 20th | 11 | 13 |
coupling | 10 | 9 | 7th |
circuit | 20th | 15th | 14th |
Gear ratio | 10 | 8th | 8th |
Start | 10 | 8th | 8th |
total | 250 | 194 | 181 |
The three-cylinder of the Triumph runs noticeably quieter and has the smoother response. But the Kawasaki four-wheeler impresses – not least thanks to its short overall gear ratio – with excellent acceleration and, above all, torque. The Triumph clutch also requires more manual effort.
Winner engine: Kawasaki Z 1000 SX
landing gear
Maximum score |
Kawasaki Z 1000 SX Tourer |
triumph Sprint GT |
|
Handiness | 40 | 27 | 23 |
Stability in turns | 40 | 29 | 26th |
Steering behavior | 40 | 28 | 27 |
feedback | 10 | 8th | 6th |
Inclined position | 20th | 16 | 16 |
Straight-line stability | 20th | 15th | 18th |
Suspension tuning in front | 20th | 14th | 12th |
Chassis set-up at the rear | 20th | 14th | 13 |
Adjustment options undercarriage | 10 | 7th | 4th |
Suspension comfort | 10 | 6th | 7th |
Driving behavior with a passenger | 20th | 14th | 14th |
total | 250 | 178 | 166 |
This chapter goes to the Kawasaki. The Triumph scores at least with an imperturbably stable straight line and comfortable chassis. The Kawa is not so precise with neutrality, especially at low speeds, but is much more manageable and, thanks to the tighter set-up, is noticeably more stable when sharpening corners quickly.
Chassis winner: Kawasaki Z 1000 SX
everyday life
Maximum score |
Kawasaki Z 1000 SX Tourer |
triumph Sprint GT |
|
Ergonomics driver | 40 | 29 | 28 |
Ergonomics pillion | 20th | 9 | 12th |
Windbreak | 20th | 14th | 13 |
view | 20th | 12th | 12th |
light | 20th | 13 | 16 |
Furnishing | 30th | 20th | 13 |
Handling / maintenance | 30th | 16 | 13 |
Luggage storage | 10 | 6th | 9 |
Payload | 10 | 4th | 9 |
Tidy | 30th | 20th | 25th |
processing | 20th | 14th | 15th |
total | 250 | 157 | 165 |
Even if the Triumph clinches a partial victory here, the Kawasaki offers the more upright, more relaxed seating position. And also the more extensive equipment. Tour fans are better served with the Triumph thanks to the luggage rack, storage compartment and socket, as well as range and payload. The information content of the displays could be improved in both cases.
Winner everyday life: Triumph Sprint GT
security
Maximum score |
Kawasaki Z 1000 SX Tourer |
triumph Sprint GT |
|
Braking effect | 40 | 32 | 27 |
Brake metering | 30th | 27 | 22nd |
Braking with a passenger / fading | 20th | 15th | 14th |
Righting moment when braking | 10 | 6th | 7th |
ABS function | 20th | 15th | 11 |
Handlebar slapping | 20th | 13 | 17th |
Ground clearance | 10 | 7th | 8th |
total | 150 | 115 | 106 |
The Kawasaki lands a direct hit with its new brakes. Spontaneous and bulky to grab, and easy to dose. The new Bosch ABS also pleases with its short control intervals.
Safety winner: Kawasaki Z 1000 SX
costs
Maximum score |
Kawasaki Z 1000 SX Tourer |
triumph Sprint GT |
|
guarantee | 30th | 15th | 18th |
Consumption (country road) | 30th | 16 | 19th |
Inspection costs | 20th | 10 | 16 |
Maintenance costs | 20th | 7th | 8th |
total | 100 | 48 | 61 |
Longer inspection intervals and warranty, plus lower fuel consumption: a clear case for the Sprint GT.
Winner costs: Triumph Sprint GT
Performance measurement
TRILLION
The performance measurement of the Kawasaki Z 1000 SX Tourer and Triumph Sprint GT.
If you look at the power and especially the torque curves in connection with the pulling power, you rub your eyes in amazement. But the Kawasaki Z 1000 SX benefits enormously from its significantly lower weight and the overall shorter overall gear ratio, so that the Triumph loses out in the pull-through test.
Easy to see: the power curve that flattens out from 9000 rpm. The Triumph Sprint GT has around 95 Nm of torque just above idle speed, and from 3500 rpm it is permanently over 100 Nm. What gives the three-cylinder its rustic character and sovereign appearance and makes it a pleasant companion in everyday life.
Test result
Maximum score |
Kawasaki Z 1000 SX Tourer |
triumph Sprint GT |
|
Overall rating | 1000 | 692 | 679 |
placement | 1. | 2. | |
Price-performance rating | 1.0 | – | 1.9 |
Winner price-performance:
The Triumph Sprint GT deserves a good grade, Kawasaki could not name a price at the time of the test.
1st place: Kawasaki Z 1000 SX Tourer
Clear thing for the revised Greens. It is more handy, brakes better, meets sporting expectations more without being uncomfortable. In terms of neutrality and equipment suitable for touring, however, it can also improve.
2nd place: Triumph Sprint GT
The elongated seating position is not typical for tourers, but the chassis is comfortable and stable. The GT is economical and can haul properly. But handling and braking are just average. Equipment and wind protection as well.
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