New 2021 Kawasaki Versys 1000 Lt Looks To Up The Sports Touring Game With Skyhook Suspension And Self-healing Paint.
The Kawasaki Versys 1000 since inception, has arguably been one of the best- if not the best sports-touring motorcycles money can buy. Couch leveling comfort for both the rider and pillion, a refined inline-four motor, neutral handling, and a bunch of electronic aids- the Versys 1000 has been nothing less than a complete touring package.
Having unveiled the 2020 Versys 1000 in March this year, Kawasaki has once again updated its flagship touring motorcycle for the European market with the 2021 model in two variants.
The styling remains unchanged since its last design update in 2019- however, updates have now spanned across hardware and electronics. The range-topping Versys 1000 SE now features Showa’s Skyhook Electronic Suspension, smartphone connectivity, and self-healing paint in addition to heated grips, a quick-shifter, and cornering auxiliary lights.
Two power modes, three-stage Kawasaki Traction Control, and cruise-control form a standard electronic package. The S model sits below the top-spec SE but retains most of the features except the new SkyHook suspension.
Both the 2021 Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE and S models are further available in three different trims i.e. Tourer, Tourer Plus, and Grand Tourer. The Tourer variant gets a one-key detachable 56 liters combined capacity pannier set and a tank pad.
The Tourer Plus features a pair of low mounted LED fog lights while the Grand Tourer gets a 47 litre top case with an integrated backrest, frame sliders, and a universal GPS mount.
Engine specifications remain unchanged with the sweet 1043cc inline-four producing 120 ps @ 9000 rpm and torque figures of 102 nm @ 7500 rpm mated to a slipper clutch assisted 6-speed transmission.
The Euro-specific 2021 Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE has been priced at €16,127 = SGD$25,690 (Machine Price), with the S priced at a lower €14,227 = SGD$22,667 (Machine Price).
The new updated models should see a global launch and expect to hit the Asian markets very soon. With the new Versys 1000 in place, Kawasaki has amplified an already stiff competition to the likes of the Ducati Multistrada 950 and 1260, BMW S1000XR, Triumph Tiger GT, Yamaha Tracer 900 GT, and the Suzuki VStrom 1000.