Kawasaki Versys 1000

Kawasaki Versys 1000
ManufacturerKawasaki
Production2012-present
ClassSport-touring
Engine
Bore / stroke77.0 mm × 56.0 mm
Compression ratio10.3:1
Power86.8 kW (116 hp) @ 9,000 rpm
Torque102 N⋅m (75 lb⋅ft) @ 7,700 rpm
Transmission6-speed manual; chain final drive
Frame typeTwin-tube aluminium/steel (market/refresh dependent)
Wheelbase1,520 mm (59.8 in)
DimensionsL: 2,240 mm (88 in)
W: 845 mm (33.3 in)
H: 1,400 mm (55 in)
Weight239 kg (527 lb) (claimed) (wet)

The Kawasaki Versys 1000 is a sport-touring motorcycle produced since 2012 by Kawasaki. It uses a 1,043 cm3 inline-four derived from the Z1000 and is positioned as the largest model in the Versys family.[1]

Model history

The first-generation model (2012) combined upright ergonomics and long-travel suspension with a retuned version of Kawasaki’s 1,043 cm3 four-cylinder engine. Factory figures listed 86.8 kW (118 hp) at 9,000 rpm and 102 N⋅m at 7,700 rpm, with a wheelbase of 1,520 mm.[2]

A major refresh for the 2019 model year added electronic throttle valves and cruise control, updated bodywork with LED lighting, and (on higher-trim versions) a full IMU-based electronics suite.[3][4]

Versys 1000 SE (2019- )

From 2019 Kawasaki offered a higher-spec Versys 1000 SE featuring KECS (Kawasaki Electronic Control Suspension) semi-active damping, an IMU-linked rider-aid package (KCMF), quick shifter (KQS), TFT instruments with smartphone connectivity, and cornering lights.[5][6]

References

  1. ^ "Versys 1000 (2012) - Overview & Technical Specifications". Kawasaki UK. Retrieved 8 November 2025.
  2. ^ "Versys 1000 (2012) - Colours & Specifications". Kawasaki UK. Retrieved 8 November 2025.
  3. ^ "Adventure Calling for the new Kawasaki Versys 1000". Kawasaki UK News. 6 November 2018. Retrieved 8 November 2025.
  4. ^ "2019 Kawasaki Versys 1000 and Versys 1000 SE revealed". Bennetts BikeSocial. 6 November 2018. Retrieved 8 November 2025.
  5. ^ "Versys 1000 MY 2019 - Top Features (SE)". Kawasaki UK. Retrieved 8 November 2025.
  6. ^ "2019 Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE LT+ - technology and features". MotorcycleDaily. 6 November 2018. Retrieved 8 November 2025.