Fresh for 2018, the “any roads” Versys X 300 combines big bike adventure styling with small machine running costs. Long travel suspension, wide reach bars and a low seat aid the manoeuvrability while genuine accessories meet adventure or city commuting needs.
The incredibly popular Kawasaki Versys family grows once more in 2017 with the announcement of the Versys-X 300, a machine destined to make the Versys “Any road, any time” concept available to a vast cross-section of new riders.
Offering the established Versys values of comfort with an upright riding stance and a thirst for distance, the Versys-X 300 displays its adventurous soul with an impressive standard specification plus a duo of special “Editions” available in European Kawasaki dealers for the 2017 season.
At the heart of the rugged looking machine beats a 296cc water-cooled parallel twin engine tuned for low and mid-range power equipped with a soft pull Assist and Slipper clutch. Fine atomizing injectors and dual throttle valves contribute to combustion efficiency and favorable fuel consumption.
A comfortable ergonomically designed riding position reveals a large windshield to deter the elements while wide handlebars aid in and out-of-town maneuverability. The meter package offers a digital gear indicator, dual trip meters, remaining fuel range plus current and average consumption and an eco-riding indicator allowing over 400kms between tank re-fills.
The all new steel backbone frame uses the engine as a stressed member, contributing to high rigidity and light weight. Suspension duties are taken care of thanks long travel 41mm telescopic front forks and a bottom link Uni-Trak gas charged shock at the rear housed in a reinforced framework anticipating the unpaved roads capabilities of the Versys-X 300.
Styling has been a key feature of the Versys family since the original 650cc machine was launched in 2006 and the new Versys-X is no exception. The large-volume bodywork displays fashionable adventure styling delivering the “big bike looks” that so many aspiring riders are attracted to. Combined with the low seat height the accessibility of the latest in the Versys line is undeniable.
It’s not just the Versys that is versatile, the range of accessories also allows a range of options including an ERGO-FIT optional higher seat plus a wide variety of other parts including luggage and touring oriented options.
For those looking for a “walk-in-ride-out” solution, Kawasaki dealers will offer two accessory editions in 2017 as well as the standard model of Versys-X.
The Versys-X 300 Urban features Tank pad, hand guards, centre stand and a 30l Top case while the Versys-X 300 Adventure boasts tank pad, tubular engine guard, centre stand and panniers of 17l capacity each.
With a distinct personality, a reassuring ride in challenging unpaved road conditions plus impressive in-town city street maneuverability, the new Versys-X 300 is a worthy addition to the established and popular Versys family.
| Engine | |
| Engine type | Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke Parallel Twin |
| Displacement | 296 cm3 |
| Bore x stroke | 62 x 49 mm |
| Compression ratio | 10:6:1 |
| Valve/Induction system | DOHC, 8 valves |
| Fuel system | Fuel injection:φ32 mm x 2 with dual throttles valves |
| Starting | Electric |
| Lubrication | Forced lubrication, wet sump |
| Performance & Transmission | |
| Maximum power | 29.3 kW {40 PS} / 11,500 rpm |
| Fuel consumption | 4.1 l/100 km |
| CO2 Emission | 103 g/km |
| Maximum torque | 25.7 N•m {2.6 kgf•m} / 10,000 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-speed |
| Final Drive | Sealed chain |
| Primary reduction ratio | 3.087 (71/23) |
| Gear ratios: 1st | 2.714 (38/14) |
| Gear ratios: 2nd | 1.789 (34/19) |
| Gear ratios: 3rd | 1.409 (31/22) |
| Gear ratios: 4th | 1.160 (29/25) |
| Gear ratios: 5th | 1.000 (27/27) |
| Gear ratios: 6th | 0.857 (24/28) |
| Clutch | Wet multi-disc, manual |
| Brakes | |
| Brakes, front | Single 290 mm petal disc. Caliper: Single balanced actuation dual piston |
| Brakes, rear | Single 220 mm petal disc. Caliper: Dual piston |
| Suspension, front | 41 mm telescopic fork |
| Suspension, rear |
Bottom-Link Uni-Trak, gas-charged shock and adjustable preload |
| Frame & Dimensions | |
| Frame type | Backbone, high-tensile steel |
| Rake/Trail | 108 mm |
| Wheel travel, front |
130 mm |
| Wheel travel, rear |
148 mm |
| Tyre, front | 100/90-19M/C 57S |
| Tyre, rear | 130/80-17M/C 65S |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 2,170 x 860 x 1,390 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1,450 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 180 mm |
| Fuel capacity | 17 litres |
| Seat height | 845 mm |
| Curb Mass | TBC |
