Fresh four cylinder sports tourer boasts sharper road performance and radar technology
Kawasaki has unveiled an all new Versys 900, positioning it as the sportiest model yet to wear the Versys badge.
Sitting above the adventure styled middleweights in intent and performance, the new machine blends the upright ergonomics and touring versatility the Versys range is known for with a 948cc inline four derived from Kawasaki’s naked bike family. The result, at least on paper, looks more sports tourer than soft roader.
The liquid cooled four cylinder engine is claimed to make 122PS, or 89.6kW, at 9500rpm, with peak torque of 97.3Nm at 8000rpm. Kawasaki says the motor is tuned to deliver strong response through the low and midrange while still offering the free revving top end character expected of a four cylinder road bike.
A new trellis frame has been developed specifically for the model, with Kawasaki claiming a near 50:50 front to rear weight distribution to help deliver light and agile handling. Long travel suspension remains part of the Versys formula, but the use of 17 inch wheels at both ends underlines the bike’s road focused character.
Rider comfort and adjustability have also been given plenty of attention. The Versys 900 gets an upright riding position, a seven position adjustable screen and a seat adjustable between 825mm and 845mm. Kawasaki says the fuel tank has also been shaped to make ground reach easier while still allowing a secure knee grip.
In a first for the Versys range, the new 900 also introduces ARAS, or Advanced Rider Assistance Systems. That package includes Adaptive Cruise Control Lite, Forward Collision Warning and Blind Spot Detection. An Emergency Stop Signal function is also fitted to help alert traffic behind during hard braking.
The electronics package goes well beyond that. Standard equipment includes Kawasaki Cornering Management Function, traction control, enhanced ABS, power modes, integrated riding modes and a quickshifter.
A five inch full colour TFT dash comes standard and works with Rideology The App Motorcycle smartphone connectivity. Turn by turn navigation is included, and riders can choose between two display layouts depending on whether they want a sportier interface or one that prioritises navigation and vehicle information.
Visually, Kawasaki says the new bike follows an Aero Edge styling concept intended to give the bodywork a lighter, more flowing look. There is also a newly designed luggage system made up of a 47 litre top box and twin 32 litre panniers, with the brand claiming it has been integrated to preserve the bike’s styling when set up for touring.
Two variants have been announced: the Versys 900 and the higher spec Versys 900 SE. At this stage Kawasaki has only confirmed colours, with the standard bike in Metallic Spark Black and the SE in Lime Green and Metallic Spark Black.
Local pricing and full Australian specification are still to come, but Kawasaki says the new Versys 900 range is expected to reach Australia and New Zealand by mid 2027.
