KAWASAKI

2027 Kawasaki Versys: Even sportier, featuring a 948cc, 122 hp engine

Kawasaki is expanding its family of sport-touring motorcycles with one of the most significant additions to its lineup. The new Kawasaki Versys 900 elevates the Versys concept to a sportier level, incorporating a 948cc inline-four engine derived from the Z family. According to the brand, it is the sportiest Versys ever created.

New chassis and a sportier approach...For this Versys 900, Kawasaki has developed a new tubular steel frame, aimed at balancing rigidity with front-end feel. The rear subframe is designed to support travel with a passenger and luggage, while a near 50:50 weight distribution ensures more agile handling.

The chassis is complemented by long-travel suspension and 17-inch sport-oriented wheels, fitted with Metzeler ROADTEC 01 tires. An upright riding position, a seven-position adjustable windshield, and a seat height that can be adjusted between 825 and 845 mm reinforce its focus on touring without sacrificing control.

The first Versys with ARAS assistance...One of the most notable updates lies in its technology. The new Versys 900 is the first in the Versys line to be equipped with ARAS—Kawasaki’s suite of advanced rider assistance systems. This includes Adaptive Cruise Control (Lite version), forward collision warning, blind-spot detection, and an emergency braking signal. It also incorporates connectivity via the RIDEOLOGY THE APP MOTORCYCLE application and a new 5-inch full-color TFT instrument panel with turn-by-turn navigation. Riders can choose between two display layouts: one focused on highlighting engine performance, and another that prioritizes navigation and vehicle information.

Versys 900 SE and Tourer versions...The lineup will be expanded with various versions and options, including Tourer and Grand Tourer editions, which come equipped with genuine Kawasaki accessories. There will also be a 70 kW version and a more comprehensively equipped Versys 900 SE.

The Versys 900 SE comes standard with compact LED fog lights, hand guards, heated grips, a radiator guard, frame sliders, an engine skid plate, and a center stand.

2027 Kawasaki Versys 900 colors...The 2027 Kawasaki Versys 900 will be available in Metallic Spark Black and Pearl Robotic White. The Versys 900 SE will be offered in the following color combinations: Plasma Lime Green/Metallic Spark Black and Firecracker Red/Metallic Carbon Gray.

With the new Versys 900, Kawasaki introduces a sportier dimension to its "Adventure Sport" concept: a motorcycle designed for touring, yet also tailored for those who want to enjoy the open road, featuring a four-cylinder engine and advanced technological equipment.

The engine delivers 122 hp at 9,500 rpm and a peak torque of 97.3 Nm at 8,000 rpm, with a power delivery designed to combine strength at low and mid-range RPMs with a more exhilarating performance in the upper rev range.

The 2027 Kawasaki Versys 900 features a 122 hp engine. The main highlight of the 2027 Kawasaki Versys 900 is its 948cc inline-four engine, developed based on the architecture used in the manufacturer’s Z family. The unit delivers 122 hp at 9,500 rpm and a maximum torque of 9.92 kgf.m at 8,000 rpm.

According to Kawasaki’s design philosophy, the engine combines progressive throttle response at low and mid-range RPMs with vigorous acceleration at higher revs. In this way, the motorcycle aims to offer both control for daily riding and high performance on open roads and winding routes.

Furthermore, the four-cylinder engine reinforces the sporty character of this new crossover, which seeks to blend the traditional versatility of the Versys line with the riding experience typically associated with the brand’s naked motorcycles.

Kawasaki has developed a new trellis frame for the Versys 900. The front section prioritizes a balance between rigidity and handling feedback, while the rear structure is designed to support a passenger and the mounting of luggage.

A weight distribution of nearly 50/50 across both axles also contributes to agile handling. The bike utilizes long-travel suspension—a hallmark of the Versys family—paired with 17-inch wheels.

This configuration aims to strike a balance between stability, cornering precision, and comfort across various riding conditions. Consequently, the Versys 900 upholds its identity as a touring-oriented motorcycle, while incorporating features that emphasize its sporty potential.

An upright riding position is a core element of the 2027 Versys 900’s design. The motorcycle includes a windshield that can be adjusted to seven different positions, as well as a seat with an adjustable height ranging from 825 mm to 845 mm. The shape of the fuel tank has also been designed to facilitate knee contact and allow the rider’s feet to reach the ground more easily. These elements aim to make riding more comfortable, whether for urban commuting or long-distance travel.

Luggage capacity can reach 111 liters...The new Versys 900 can be equipped with a luggage system consisting of a 47-liter top case and two 32-liter side panniers. Combined, this provides a total capacity of 111 liters, offering ample space for gear and personal belongings on trips.

The design of the luggage is integrated into the bodywork, ensuring the motorcycle retains its sporty look even when set up for touring.

Kawasaki also plans to offer "Edition" versions—such as the Tourer and Grand Tourer—featuring the manufacturer’s own genuine accessories. The 2027 Kawasaki Versys 900 will be the first model in the Versys family to feature ARAS (Advanced Rider Assistance Systems). This technology suite is designed to enhance the rider's awareness of traffic conditions.

5-inch TFT display with connectivity—The Versys 900’s instrument cluster features a 5-inch full-color TFT display that offers two different layout options. The first prioritizes information related to engine operation, while the second highlights navigation and motorcycle data.

Smartphone connectivity is managed via the Rideology app, which provides features designed for daily use and trip planning. The display also offers turn-by-turn navigation, making it easier to follow routes while on the road.

With these features, Kawasaki enhances the integration between the motorcycle and mobile devices, combining riding information and route guidance into a single interface.

Smartphone connectivity is managed via the Rideology app, which provides functions designed for daily use and trip planning. The display also offers turn-by-turn navigation, making it easier to follow routes while on the road.

With these features, Kawasaki enhances the integration between the motorcycle and mobile devices, combining riding information and route guidance into a single interface.

Announced features include:

Adaptive Cruise Control Lite (ACC Lite): Assists in maintaining speed and a set distance from the vehicle ahead.

Forward Collision Warning (FCW): Alerts the rider to potential front-end collision risks.

Blind Spot Detection (BSD): Helps identify vehicles in areas that are difficult to see in the rearview mirrors.

Emergency Stop Signal (ESS): Signals sudden braking to alert vehicles following behind.

In addition to these features, the motorcycle incorporates established Kawasaki technologies, such as Kawasaki Traction Control (KTRC), an enhanced ABS system, selectable power modes, integrated riding modes, and the Kawasaki Quick Shifter (KQS). The instrumentation on the Versys 900 features a five-inch full-color TFT display, which offers two different layout options. The first prioritizes information related to engine performance, while the second highlights navigation and motorcycle data.

 

by Autonews