Kawasaki Versys 1000 S 2024 — Specifications

Tired of being a second choice or second-tier? That’s probably what the big Versys thought after spending time beside (or behind) the SE version. A little trickery later, it steals quite a few of its attributes and becomes the Versys 1000 S.

This will simplify things. With 3 models and therefore 3 levels of equipment, Kawasaki no longer excludes the undecided. The standard model focuses on the essentials; then you add equipment. Whether it’s the SE or the S, the two ‘trail’ heavyweights in the range have exactly the same equipment, with the only difference being electronic suspension on the SE.

Concretely, this means that this Versys S gains a lot onboard. It must be said that the trend is towards one-upmanship. Immediately, you notice that it has inherited the turn signals to illuminate in corners. Let’s stay on the visual cues to guess a larger, adjustable bubble and the presence of handguards. Protection is gained; the motorcycle’s protection too. Some parts are covered in scratch-resistant paint.

The engine is content, as mentioned, to pass Euro5. This good old 1043 cm3 engine carries through the Z models and the Versys without losing its charm. Still rebellious on the former roadster, it sees its character tempered here by 4 riding modes (Sport – Road – Rain – Rider, the customizable one). If the two power levels and the KTRCs are still present, they are now supervised by the Riding Modes. Efficiency on demand and to suit your mood, complemented by left-foot comfort with a standard quickshifter.

Cruise control has joined the party? No, it was already present on the Versys. Just like the 12V socket, heated grips, full LED lighting and a few practical elements. Let's mention the anchor points for the cases, the luggage rack, the center stand or the good, large two-part seat, also double-layered; if the seat appears somewhat high for the rider, Kawa has provided a 20 mm lower seat. One of the new features is the dashboard, combining a color TFT screen and an analog tachometer. You surely know it. It is shared with the H2 phase 2, the H2 SX, and the Versys SE. In addition to providing a lot of information, the screen adapts to the ambient light, offers a black or white background, has 2 types of display and can communicate with the smartphone. The Rideology app allows you to view the motorcycle’s logbook, find details of your routes, pilot the basic functions of the phone and check maintenance periods; among other things.

This S on the Versys 1000 comes with 2 kilos more. On a mass of 250 kg, let's say we don't care at all. The entire chassis will only see it as a benefit. No changes on that side. The perimeter aluminum frame retains its rolling buddies, namely the 43 mm inverted fork, the 320 mm brake discs assisted by radial 4-piston calipers and intelligent ABS KIBS, the 17-inch spoke rims announcing a lot of road and very little off-road (or none at all), the horizontal mono-shock rear suspension and the KCMF traction control. The Showa-signed suspension is adjustable for preload and rebound.

As is customary, the Versys will be declined in Tourer, TourerPlus and Grand Tourer versions. One step above, there is the SE version, mainly differing with the Showa Skyhook electronic suspension.

Let’s summarize once again, to simplify everything. From the Versys 1000 to the Versys 1000 S, there is in addition:- The larger bubble- The turn signals- The SE dashboard- The 4 Riding Modes- The handguards- The ‘scratch-resistant’ paint- The quickshifter- €2,700

M.B - media constructeur