Apart from unveiling the Kawasaki Z400 at 2018 EICMA, the Japanese brand also gave the Versys 1000 a much-deserved update. The first thing one will notice in the Versys 1000 SE LT+ is its new styling and that it has a face similar to the one as seen on the Ninja offerings. The new motorcycle now gets LED headlights and is also equipped with a TFT screen in addition to the self-healing paint featured on the new Kawasaki Ninja H2.
Underneath the fairing sits a 1,043cc in-line-four engine delivering 118hp and 102Nm of peak torque. Transmission duties are handled by a 6-speed gearbox, along with a quickshifter. Other features include LED cornering lights, cruise control and smartphone connectivity. Kawasaki engineers have also loaded the new Versys 1000 with electronic goodies such as a five-axis Bosch IMU, cornering ABS and two power modes.
A major addition on the new Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE LT+ is the inclusion of electronic suspension. The Kawasaki Electronic Control Suspension (KECS) adapts to road and riding conditions, providing the ideal amount of damping in real time. Riders can also select from four suspension settings – Sport, Road, Rain, and Manual.
Anchorage is provided by a pair of four-piston radial-mounted monoblock callipers biting on 310mm twin discs at the front and a single-piston calliper gripping a 250mm disc at the back. The bike rides on 17-inch alloy wheels on both ends. The front employs a 120/70 ZR-17 tyre and the rear wheel comes wrapped with 180/55 ZR17 tyre. Seat height stands at 790mm and the bike has a kerb weight of 257kg.
The 2019 Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE LT+ is expected to be launched in India next year. In the US market, the bike has been priced at $17,999 (Rs 13.13 lakh) excluding taxes.
Ved Janve
Azaman Chothia
Dinshaw Magol
Vishal Venugopal
