Versys 900 SE

The Versys 900 is a new sporty multi-purpose model that combines versatile capability with the street excitement of an In-Line Four engine. Its all-new steel trellis frame delivers both high-speed stability with or without a passenger and luggage and sporty handling, while chassis geometry developed to achieve a 50:50 front-to-rear weight distribution, together with long-travel suspension and 17” wheels front and rear, offers the freedom to enjoy everything from comfortable cruising to spirited sport riding across a wide variety of on-road situations.

An upright riding position, a height-adjustable seat, a fuel tank shape designed to facilitate reach to the ground, and a windshield that balances sporty styling with wind protection all contribute to the comfort and controllability required for long-distance touring. Advanced technologies including ARAS, ESS, and a 5” TFT full-colour instrumentation system with Turn-by-Turn Navigation display further enhance convenience during cruising.

The next-generation Versys design was developed to visually express not only the versatile capability that has long defined the Versys family, but also the sporty character offered by its exhilarating In-Line Four engine and light, agile chassis. With bodywork sculpted to suggest airflow, floating design elements, and well-balanced front-rear proportions, the Versys 900 projects a distinctive presence as a sporty multi-purpose model, setting it apart from conventional adventure-style motorcycles.

Designed to offer light, agile handling, comfort and stability, the Versys 900 features an all-new steel trellis frame. Developed using Kawasaki’s advanced dynamic analysis, the frame’s balance of rigidity and flexibility delivers a planted feel, light and agile cornering performance, and a three-bag capable rear frame that contributes to composed chassis behaviour when carrying a passenger and luggage.

To achieve both agile handling worthy of a sporty multipurpose model and a high level of riding stability, the chassis was developed around a 50:50 front-to-rear weight distribution. Geometry that places emphasis on being able to load the front wheel contributes to light, direct handling, and chassis behaviour that responds to the rider’s inputs, complementing the exhilarating performance of the In-Line Four engine across a wide range of riding situations.

Inspired by Kawasaki’s Supernaked Z models, the 948 cm3 liquid-cooled, 4-stroke In-Line Four engine delivers a substantial output (89.6 kW (122 PS)). Intake and exhaust system settings developed with multi-purpose performance in mind contribute to strong, smooth torque characteristics at low and medium engine speeds, offering controllability in everyday riding, while a linear and direct response at higher engine speeds provides an exhilarating acceleration feel. Long final gearing contributes to comfort during highway riding.

Long-travel suspension front and rear offers a high level of road-following ability and shock absorption, helping to maintain a planted feel even on uneven road surfaces and roads with frequent surface changes. Combined with 17” wheels front and rear, the chassis delivers light, direct handling.

Kawasaki’s highly sophisticated electronic management systems offer rider support to allow riders to more fully enjoy the Versys 900’s light handling and exhilarating performance across a wide variety of onroad situations. IMU feedback adds greater precision to the ABS.

Advanced Rider Assistance Systems (ARAS) and Emergency Stop Signal (ESS) make their debut on a Versys model. Together, they offer rider support across a wide variety of on-road situations, from everyday riding to long-distance touring.

An upright riding position and carefully considered ergonomics contribute to rider comfort during long hours in the saddle. The height-adjustable seat offers greater freedom of movement while optimised urethane firmness helps reduce fatigue on extended rides. A fuel tank shape designed to facilitate reach to the ground, together with a windshield that balances sporty styling and wind protection, contributes to comfortable cruising performance and a high level of controllability.

The Versys 900 can accommodate a top case and panniers at the same time. The specially designed mounting system offers easy mounting/removal and includes dampers that contribute to the Versys 900’s high level of riding stability even when fully loaded. The cases were also styled to complement the motorcycle’s Aero Edge concept, helping to maintain the machine’s light and agile appearance when equipped for touring.

The Versys 900’s well-balanced proportions create visual harmony from the front of the machine to its tail. A visual representation of the Versys 900’s 50:50 front-rear balance, the design reinforces the Versys 900’s light, sporty image while suggesting an approachable, rider-friendly nature.

The 5” TFT full-colour instrumentation combines information visibility suited to touring with a display design that highlights the exhilarating character of the In-Line Four engine. In addition to visually emphasizing engine speed as revs rise, it supports Turn-by-Turn Navigation display. Riders can choose between two display layouts according to their preferences and riding needs: Type 1, which emphasises the excitement of the engine, and Type 2, which prioritises the visibility of navigation and vehicle information.

Smartphone connectivity via RIDEOLOGY THE APP MOTORCYCLE enhances riding enjoyment by giving riders access to a range of useful functions for everything from everyday riding to touring. Turn-by-Turn Navigation can be displayed directly on the instrumentation, allowing riders to intuitively confirm their route direction. Voice Command functionality further enhances convenience by enabling hands-free operation of various functions.

Conjuring an image of effortlessly following the curves of the road, the Versys 900’s Aero Edge concept embodies the fusion of the Versys series’ versatility and the excitement of Kawasaki’s 900cc-class In-Line Four engine. Smooth, flowing lines extend from the front face to the elevated rear, while layered bodywork that suggests airflow and floating design elements positioned throughout the machine express the Versys 900’s sporty, light and agile character.