Kawasaki Versys 1100 SE 2026 — Specifications

In a time that now seems distant, Kawasaki had managed to provide a very good touring machine with the GTR 1000; its success was as eloquent as its reliability. Trail bikes were then merely off-road machines, underpowered, easy, light, and manageable. Progressively, everything has shifted. Today, Grand Touring is only conceived as a maxi-trail for many manufacturers. Kawasaki has its Versys range for this, with the 1100 S.E. at the top of its positioning.

For a dozen years, the engine of the large Versys was 1043 cm3 – that of the roadster Z 1000. It was, in fact, the first trail to be equipped with an inline 4-cylinder engine. Previously rated at 120 horsepower, the engine takes a step forward in 2025 and climbs directly to 135 horsepower – a 12% gain in power with a good series of modifications.

Displacement increased by 56 cm3, intake revised, ECU reprogrammed, more torque between 4,000 and 7,000 rpm, exhaust headers linked together, increased engine inertia, addition of a second balancing shaft - Kawasaki has brought its engine towards more power and smoothness.

Torque is also up, with 1 mkg more in the basket to reach 11.4 mkg. Mechanical improvements also include an active quickshifter from 1,500 rpm and the addition of an oil cooler. Reliability will appreciate it, although it has always been to Japanese standards.

But what brings the long-distance rider to an 1100 Versys S.E. rather than an S, already well-equipped? Comfort... Superior comfort with semi-active suspension. Showa components and the KECS electronic module handle adapting the damping in real time according to the road profile and the rider's demand, the latter being able to opt for a firmer or softer profile. On top of that, the Skyhook algorithm maintains the ride height; as if the motorcycle wanted to float horizontally while the suspension works.

This is what leads you to the most upscale of the Versys (excluding accessorized versions like the Grand Tourer). The 1100 brings more watts, the SE takes care of the piloted suspension. That being said, the equipment strives to bring tranquility on every piece of journey, short or expeditionary. Kawasaki maxi-trails have heated grips, handguards, a USB-C socket, headlights illuminating in curves, cruise control, an adjustable screen, luggage anchors, Smartphone connectivity, a luggage rack and a center stand.

And on the driver assistance side, there are 4 Riding Modes, 2 Power Modes, traction control, cornering ABS, an Up&Down quickshifter, and 3 profiles for the KECS.

Let's chat about design, an area where Kawasaki had to endure a strong strike movement. How do you recognize the 1100 S from the SE? With the color of the fork tubes and the wires protruding from the fork caps. And to distinguish the 1100 from the 1000? The black color of the engine and the redesigned cylinder block reliefs. Were you expecting a new Versys? It doesn't show, but is discovered while riding.

M.B - manufacturer media