Kawasaki Versys 1000 motorcycle - the ideal touring enduro

For whom

Here are the main advantages of this beautiful bike:

• engine borrowed from Kawasaki Z1000, slightly modified;
• electronic injection with dual throttle valves;
• 250 kilograms of weight including fuel.

The model is perfect for people of average build and height who adore beautiful motorcycles, suitable for both fast riding and tourism. The Kawasaki Versys 1000 will be an excellent choice for those who are delighted with the class of touring enduros and want to purchase the best option.

Introduction of Skyhook technology

The Skyhook concept can be depicted as a hook that supports the sprung mass of the motorcycle and adjusts the damping force of the suspension, allowing the wheels to absorb road imperfections while maintaining an upright position and minimal impact on the motorcycle.

*Showa's Skyhook software, which has been carefully tuned by Kawasaki engineers, maintains the sporty character of the Versys 1000 while still providing a smooth ride by constantly adapting to the road surface. The introduction of advanced technology has achieved excellent trajectory retention, reduced roll (especially when riding with a passenger), ease of steering on the highway and stability of the motorcycle when driving in the rain.

* While the standard KECS used information from multiple sources (real-time suspension speed and position (from built-in sensors), motorcycle acceleration/deceleration (from IMU), front/rear wheel speed (from FI ECU) and pressure brake fluid in the front brake system (from the ABS control unit)) in KECS with Skyhook technology, vertical acceleration and roll level are additionally taken into account when determining the damping force.

*As before, base damping characteristics are determined by the selected integrated control mode, and spring preload adjustment is also available.

Specifications

In terms of its parameters, this machine is definitely one of the most powerful in its category. The excellent traction and speed that the engine provides will delight the true connoisseur of powerful motorcycles. All elements of the Versys 1000 are balanced and allow it to be not only fast, but also quite safe.

Engine

The motorcycle is equipped with an in-line, four-stroke and four-cylinder engine. The compression ratio is 10.3:1. The working volume reaches 1043 cm³. The unit has liquid cooling. There are four valves per cylinder. The ignition is transistor, and the fuel supply system is injection.

The maximum engine characteristics are as follows: at 7500 rpm, torque reaches 102 Nm; at 9000 rpm the power is 118 hp. Not surprisingly, the motorcycle accelerates to 100 km/h in just 3.5 seconds. The Versys 1000 has a top speed of 226 km/h.

All this makes the model a very agile touring motorcycle, which is suitable not only for long journeys, but also for high-speed races on the race track. However, we should not forget that this is not a sports motorcycle, and its shape is far from being so aerodynamic, which at peak speeds can manifest itself in greater air resistance.

Transmission

The Versys 1000 comes with a six-speed gearbox, which is standard for a bike like this. The drive here is of a chain type. The transmission copes well with the tasks assigned to it and realizes the frantic potential of the engine safely for the chassis of the car.

Dimensions and weight

The curb weight of this motorcycle is 250 kg. This is not so much, taking into account the powerful filling and tourist purpose. The gas tank capacity is decent - 21 liters, and fuel consumption per 100 km of road averages 5.2 liters, which is relatively low.

The Versys 1000's seat height is 840mm, which is average for both the touring enduro class and bikes in general. Wheelbase dimensions reach 1520 mm. The motorcycle reaches a height of 1400 mm, a width of 895 mm, and a length of 2270 mm.

Chassis and brakes

The bike is equipped with a tubular aluminum frame. It has a stylish design and its appearance speaks of the great abilities of this iron monster. The wheels are alloy, their elements look not exactly sporty, but in a high-tech style. The comfortable steering wheel has standard dimensions. In general, the entire look of the Versys 1000 can be described as futuristic.

The rear suspension is pendulum. It has a monoshock absorber, all adjustments are possible. Its stroke is 150 mm. The front suspension is an inverted fork with dimensions of 43 mm. There is adjustment for both rebound and preload. The suspension travel is the same as the rear one – 150 mm.

For rear brakes, the Versys 1000 has a single 250mm disc. It is assisted by a single-piston caliper. The front brakes are two discs, each 310 mm. They have four-piston radial calipers. Depending on the version, ABS may be present.

Production

During its release, the motorcycle gained popularity among connoisseurs of the class. This is not surprising, because the model has absorbed all the best that can be found in touring enduros. This motorcycle can hardly be called an ordinary representative of its class, but it is not. Kawasaki is correctly positioning it as a flagship.

Classmates

There are very few motorcycles in the world that can compete with the Versys 1000. Only three models can be considered serious rivals: Honda's VFR1200X Crosstourer, Yamaha's XTZ1200 Super Tenere and Suzuki's DL1000 V-Storm.

REVIEW – 2022 KAWASAKI Versys 1000 and Versys 1000 Special Edition

Released in 2012, the KAWASAKI Versys 1000 station wagon was initially considered as an older brother to the already produced KAWASAKI Versys 650, for which reason both models even received the same design.

A dual-purpose motorcycle with long-travel suspension, a powerful engine inherited from the KAWASAKI Z1000, improved electronics and advanced wind protection. Even the standard Versis 1000 touring tires directly indicated the general orientation of the model - this was an adventure, a bike for adventures, allowing you to handle the dirt road as well as the highway.

Adventure, all-terrain vehicle, sports tourer - call Versis what you want!

But times are changing, and already in 2015 the company modernized the KAWASAKI Versys 1000 taking into account the wishes of its customers. Minor design and layout flaws were corrected, the engine was improved and, most importantly, the overall orientation of the model changed. The new KAWASAKI Versis 1000 is a long-range sport-tourer, which suits it perfectly, especially in comparison with the former “dual-purpose” version. After all, frankly speaking, a liter bike was too heavy for dirt roads, and only very experienced pilots could take advantage of its off-road capabilities.

This season's classic KAWASAKI black and green color goes to the Versys 1000 Special Edition.

An interesting point is that the KAWASAKI Versys 1000 Special Edition model differs from the regular Versys 1000 in the classic green color and some additional equipment.

Engine KAWASAKI Versys 1000

The power unit for the Versis was a four-cylinder and sixteen-valve overhead-shaft in-line water-cooled engine with a volume of 1,043 cubic centimeters, similar to that installed on the KAWASAKI Z1000 SX. The power unit is really good, which is why it is installed with the necessary modifications in several different models of KAWASAKI Z series motorcycles.

Modern, powerful, reliable and economical engine is well suited for sports tourism

In our case, the engine is tuned for maximum elasticity throughout the entire speed range, improving response and smooth operation in the low and medium speed range, which is most necessary for driving in the city and on difficult winding roads. This performance of the KAWASAKI Versys 1000 power unit is also facilitated by an updated slipper clutch with an easy-squeeze system, straight from the world of big-time sports.

The second generation saw an improved fuel system with the addition of two additional intake ports, new long 12-hole Denso injectors (up from eight in the previous generation) that produce a more uniform fuel mixture with smaller droplets, and new Denso ignition coils to reduce mutual interference. .

Easy-to-grip slipper clutch makes handling the powerful engine easy

In addition, the cooling system was redesigned, which made it possible to remove the additional oil cooler without compromising the operation of the power unit, thereby reducing the overall weight. The KAWASAKI Versys 1000 has a beefed-up 15.3-amp alternator that can power any number of touring motorcycle accessories even when the engine is idling. The updated engine as a whole became a couple of horsepower more powerful and began to consume a little less (by about 5%) fuel.

Chassis KAWASAKI Versys 1000

The aluminum frame with two supporting pipes, light and rigid, uses the engine as a structural element. The steering column angle of the KAWASAKI Versis 1000 motorcycle is designed for an optimal balance between stability at high speeds and neutral steering character, which contributes to a sporty riding style.

The creators of the first generation KAWASAKI Versys 1000 tried to emphasize the dual nature of the model and partly its all-terrain orientation with the shape of the fairing. And the fairing looked like a redesigned version of the appearance of the second generation KAWASAKI Versys 650, which, according to many potential buyers, did not add beauty to it.

The design of the first generation of Versis was quite brutal, but not everyone liked it

In the new incarnation, the appearance was brought into line with the design of the modern KAWASAKI Z1000 SX and KAWASAKI ZX-10R models, but the concept has also changed! As a sports tourer, the KAWASAKI Versis 1000 now meets customer expectations both technically and externally. The list of external advantages includes: double horizontal optics, sophisticated aerodynamics, proper placement of ventilation and intake channels and a high, height-adjustable windshield.

The modern Versis has received a new and more attractive design

Among the special achievements, it can be noted that wind protection for both the rider and the passenger is provided even with a relaxed seating position and a wide handlebar. The windshield of the KAWASAKI Versys 1000 is adjustable within 75 millimeters, as opposed to 30 millimeters in the previous generation, which tall people will especially appreciate.

Wind protection and ergonomics of the pilot's seat can be improved with additional accessories (to protect hands, for example)

The motorcycle has excellent ergonomics and a surprising amount of space for the rider. And the taller he is, the more he will like this feature. A wide, comfortable steering wheel, plenty of legroom, excellent comfortable seats, well-placed footrests - all this is designed to eliminate discomfort from driving both in the city and on long trips.

Suspension KAWASAKI Versis 1000

High-quality and relatively long-travel suspensions are a special feature of the Versis 1000. The inverted fork with legs of 43 millimeters and a stroke of 150 mm has all the necessary settings - rebound, compression and preload. The gas-filled shock absorber of the rear suspension with a horizontal arrangement is no worse: it has stepless rebound adjustment and preload adjustment that is remote for ease of adjustment. The rear shock link design allows it to be positioned above the swingarm, closer to the center of gravity, much like today's Z-series models, allowing for better weight distribution and placement of other components.

The remote rear shock adjuster makes it easy to adjust the suspension to suit specific conditions or heavy loads.

The change in the general focus of the KAWASAKI Versys 1000 towards sports tourism also entailed some changes in the suspension design. Compared to the previous generation, the outer fork tubes have become 20 millimeters longer: for additional structural rigidity. The rebound adjustment cartridge is now located in the right leg, and the additional fork springs that are used at maximum suspension extension are longer and slightly softer for reduced rebound shock and increased stability. The spring of the rear shock absorber of the KAWASAKI Versis 1000 means it is loaded with panniers and a passenger while driving. In addition, the suspension settings from the factory are now more focused on comfort, with rebound and compression set to about 30% looser than the previous generation model.

Large suspension travel allows the Versis to ride calmly where any sportbike would shake the soul out of its pilot

The KAWASAKI Versys 1000 suspensions with increased travel, although not designed for off-road driving, help to move without problems on not the best road surfaces and dirt roads. Therefore, Versis is able to take turns “with a knee” where a regular sportbike would be forced to slow down. Updated 17-inch alloy wheels contribute to quick acceleration and greater stability in corners and at high speeds.

Brakes KAWASAKI Versys 1000

Large 310mm brake discs with powerful Tokico four-piston calipers give the Versis a combination of excellent stopping power and good brake feel.

Powerful calipers, large discs and modern ABS - everything you need for fast and safe braking

The simpler rear braking system uses a 250mm disc with a single-piston caliper. All KAWASAKI Versys 1000 brake discs - both front and rear - are petal, ventilated, semi-floating. Compared to the previous generation, the anti-lock braking system (ABS) has been updated. The operation of this unit has become more accurate and more suitable for controlled braking in urban environments, and the system itself has become lighter and more compact. In addition, the brake pad material has been changed for a stronger initial bite.

Electronics KAWASAKI Versis 1000

The Versis' updated three-mode traction control (KTRC) is a combination of the previous version's single-mode KTRC and the sporty S-KTRC, which can, for example, predict rear wheel slip during intense acceleration.

Large, easy-to-read instrument panel helps pilot select desired settings

The KAWASAKI Versys 1000 pilot has two power modes to choose from - full and reduced, up to approximately 75%. Reduced power can be useful for better control of the motorcycle in difficult road conditions and when grip is poor (rain, mud on the road, low temperature).

Using a high-precision electronic engine control system, the KAWASAKI Versis 1000 achieves very impressive fuel economy figures. Of course, fuel consumption largely depends on the use of the throttle, gear selection and many other actions of the pilot, including those that are not optimal from an electronics point of view. To compensate for the “human factor”, the system displays reminders on the dashboard about the most economical driving mode.

Features of KAWASAKI Versys 1000

The new saddlebag mounting system is commendable: it is designed to give the bike a great look while still handling perfectly with the rack installed and removed.

The reinforced subframe is equipped with comfortable handles for the passenger and is designed for easy installation of luggage systems

This is facilitated by the design of the reinforced subframe of the Versis 1000 and the fact that the panniers themselves are located as close as possible to the longitudinal axis of the motorcycle, which, even when fully loaded, reduces their impact on weight distribution and handling. The current version of the KAWASAKI Versys 1000 weighs 11 kg more than the previous version, mainly due to the reinforced subframe. It is designed to carry a load of up to 220 kilograms - more than enough for a pilot with a passenger and any reasonable amount of cargo in the luggage system. Replacement panels in the color of the motorcycle are available for KAWASAKI branded saddlebags purchased separately.

Even large and capacious panniers have minimal impact on the ease of handling and weight distribution of the motorcycle

Well, what kind of touring bike can do without a center stand? So the KAWASAKI Versys 1000 was no exception. The center stand is very helpful in servicing the motorcycle on the road, for example, lubricating the chain or checking the pressure and condition of the tires.

The center stand adds convenience on long journeys

The large tank has become even larger - 21 liters (which is 2 liters more than in the previous version). And, taking into account the improved efficiency of the Versis 1000 engine, the maximum driving range on a single fill-up can now reach 400 kilometers. A high-precision sensor inside the tank is able to well predict the expected mileage until the next refueling.

Headlights with RFT technology can be a great addition to the Versis. Durable, aerodynamic, powerful, they integrate perfectly under the fairing

The KAWASAKI company takes the possible wishes of customers very seriously and produces a huge number of additional accessories and improvements. Fog lights, protective sliders, heated grips, a cigarette lighter socket for powering various equipment and much more.

It is very rare that a motorcycle restyling gives such an impressive result, because in this case not only the appearance of the KAWASAKI Versys 1000 has been transformed. The concept of the model as a whole has been changed, the ergonomics have been improved, the technical part and electronic components have been updated. The bike has become a worthy representative of the “sport-tourist” class, and thanks to improved suspensions, it also provides a greater choice of roads than the average motorcycle of this type.

With the new KAWASAKI Versis 1000 you don’t have to choose any road, you’ll love any one!

And all for what? In order to roll your favorite motorcycle out of the garage early on a weekend morning, the same one you ride every day. Or you fly every city night. Without any difficulties, attach large and pre-prepared trunks with things you need on the road to it. Invite a pretty passenger with you. And drive off to distant lands in pursuit of adventure...

Modifications and competitors

The competitors for the bike are:

• Honda VFR1200X Crosstourer;
• Suzuki DL1000 V-Strom;
• Yamaha XTZ1200 Super Tenere.

Modifications for the bike were copied from the younger model:

• 28 liter side cases , hand protection, tank protection;
• Kawasaki Versys 1000 Tourer Plus - fog lights on the wings + gear indicator on the dashboard are added to the previous set;
• Kawasaki Versys 1000 Grand Tourer - all of the above comes with a branded central case (47 l), as well as a 12 V socket.

Features of VERSYS 1000

The ergonomics of the bike can be greatly improved with additional accessories such as hand guards.

The distinctive features of the bike include:

• traction control with 4 possible parameter settings;
• electronic injection - injector + KDTV;
• Checkpoint - lives its own life;
• engine - locomotive traction under any conditions;
• comfortable seating - large soft seat and wide steering wheel;
• the suspension has a wide range of settings for any road and driving style;
• bad windshield;
• excellent brakes.

Sometimes it is noted that it would be nice to have grips with a larger diameter.

Driving performance

The maximum speed declared by the manufacturer is 226 km/h.

In terms of handling, the motorcycle is not inferior to modern lightweight neoclassics, but without the second number the bike is much better controlled.

Users note that it may correspond to this on the stand, but it is impossible to dial it on the track. The unfortunate tilt and height of the glass cuts off the air right into the helmet, and after 150 km/h the wind simply blows away . Raising the glass to the top position does not solve the problem. Comfortable cruiser - 100–120 km/h .

Overclocking

Acceleration from standstill to 100 km/h according to the instructions is 3.5 seconds .

Model versions

Motorcyclists can choose between the new Versys 1000 S

, which offers a wide range of advanced equipment and electronic assistants, or the updated
Versys 1000 SE
, which features KECS with Skyhook technology. (“Linked” refers to functions associated with integrated control modes. “A” indicates functions available as an accessory.)

New for 2022 model year

* Heated steering grips are an accessory or standard feature depending on the region of sale