There’s a new motor, electronically controlled suspension and more tech than you could shake a stick at (well, not really, but you get the gist). The new Kawasaki Versys 1000 and 1000 SE have really upped their game from the Japanese bike maker.
Here’s how the bikes, just unveiled at EICMA in Milan, line up as part of the 2019 model year.
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NEW In-Line Four Engine
The 1,043cc In-line Four has, according to Kawasaki, strong torque at all rpm (especially in the low-mid range), and a new intake howl. Electronic Throttle Valves for, used for the first time on the 2019 Versys, also gives the bike of Electronic Cruise Control.
The Electronic Throttle Valves mean ideal fuel injection and throttle valve position means smooth response and prime engine output at all throttle positions whilst the bike also gets an Assist & Slipper Clutch which gives both a back-torque limiting function as well as a light lever feel.
Long-Travel Suspension + Sporty 17” Wheels
Lightweight 17” wheels front and rear mean quick, sporty handling. A spacious, upright riding position is good for both bike control and rider comfort.
NEW Radial-Mount Front Brake Calipers
The ø310mm front petal discs are now gripped by highly rigid radial-mount monobloc calipers complemented by a radial-pump front brake master cylinder.
NEW KCMF (Kawasaki Cornering Management Function):
Using feedback from a compact Bosch IMU, the KCMF system monitors engine and chassis parameters throughout the corner, modulating brake force and engine power for a smooth transition from acceleration to braking and back again, helping bike and rider keep on a consistent line through a corner. On the Versys 1000, KCMF oversees the following systems:
– KECS (this is on the SE version only)
– KIBS (including pitching management and corner braking management)
KIBS (Kawasaki Intelligent anti-lock Brake System)
KIBS is now standard equipment on the Versys 1000. This is the same base system used on the Ninja H2 and Ninja ZX-10R, with programming and settings revised to suit street riding needs.
NEW KECS (Kawasaki Electronic Control Suspension) (SE)
KECS adapts to road and riding conditions in real time, providing the ideal amount of
damping . KECS also includes electronically adjustable rear preload. Riders can choose from three payload modes (each with +5/-5 adjustment):
– Rider only
– Rider with luggage
– Rider with passenger and luggage
NEW Integrated Riding Modes (SE): Sport, Road, Rain, Rider (manual)
All-inclusive modes that link KTRC, Power Mode and KECS allow riders to efficiently set
traction control, power delivery and suspension character to suit a given riding situation.
NEW KQS (Kawasaki Quick Shifter) (SE)
Enables clutchless upshifts and downshifts for seamless acceleration and quick and easy
deceleration.
NEW Adjustable Windscreen
The adjustable windscreen can be tailored to rider preference, contributing to comfortable
highway cruising. Windscreen height can now be easily adjusted from the rider’s seat.
NEW Two Available Seats
Two front seats are available: the standard Comfort Seat features thicker urethane
cushioning, providing the comfort to enable long hours in the saddle, while offering taller
riders a relaxed knee bend. The accessory Low Seat (20 mm lower) prioritises an easy reach
to the ground as part of the Ergo-Fit accessory programme.
NEW Twin LED Headlamps
Each of the new LED headlamps features low and high beams as well as position lamps.
NEW LED Cornering Lights (SE)
Each of the three lights has a fixed direction and is activated based on lean angle. As the
bike leans over, the lights come on in order, creating a wider illuminated path in the
direction the bike is heading.
NEW Handy power source
A DC socket (previously an accessory) is now standard equipment. The socket is complemented by prepared pre-wiring. A total of 40 W of power is available.
NEW Smartphone Connectivity (SE)
A Bluetooth chip built into the instrument panel enables riders to connect to their
motorcycle wirelessly. Using the smartphone application “RIDEOLOGY THE APP,” a number
of instrument functions can be accessed.
NEW All-LED Lighting
From the new twin headlamps and compact LED turn signals to the new LED taillight and
LED licence plate bulb, the Versys 1000 offers an all-LED lighting package.
NEW Instrumentation
The analogue-style tachometer is complemented by a full digital LCD screen (STD model), or a high-grade full colour TFT LCD screen (SE model).
NEW Highly Durable Paint (SE)
Kawasaki’s new Highly Durable paint and Highly Durable matte paint feature a special coat
that allows scratches to repair themselves, enabling the paint to maintain its high-quality
finish.
COLOUR(S)
Versys 1000:
* Pearl Stardust White / Metallic Spark Black
* Candy Steel Furnace Orange / Metallic Spark Black
Versys 1000 (SE):
* Emerald Blazed Green / Pearl Storm Gray
* Metallic Flat Spark Black / Pearl Flat Stardust White
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