EICMA 2011: Kawasaki Versys 1000 Not Coming to U.S.

by Lucas Cooney

Published: November 9th, 2011

eicma 2011 kawasaki versys 1000 not coming to u s

While Kawasaki unveiled its Versys 1000 at EICMA, don’t expect to see it on American roadways any time soon (edit: but if you live north of the border in Canada you’re in luck, as it will offered for CN$13,999, a bit higher than the Z1000 but the same price as the Ninja 1000):

What will we be missing? A bigger, badder version of the original Kawasaki Versys seems to be the answer.

“Created as the long-awaited big brother of Kawasaki’s mid-size any-road street surfer, the new Versys 1000 is designed to enable the greatest riding enjoyment in the widest variety of street riding situations,” Kawasaki Motors Europe says in a release. “Whether riding solo or two-up, around the corner or around the globe, its unique combination of a highly responsive In-Line Four engine tuned for flexibility, and a nimble chassis fitted with dynamic suspension will have riders grinning in their helmets.”

More details and plenty of photos available below the jump.

Powering the Versys 1000 is 1043cc, liquid-cooled In-line Four with a bore and stroke of 77.0 x 56.0 mm. This is pretty much the same mill found in the Z1000, but Kawasaki says the Versys 1000 delivers a stronger low-mid range with a slightly reduced peak power. As well, both peak power and torque occur at lower rpm than on the Z1000.

A choice of Full Power or Low Power modes allows riders to set power delivery to suit preference and conditions. Low Power mode limits output to approximately 75 percent of full power and uses a milder throttle response.

Other features of the Versys 1000 include long-travel suspension front (rebound and pre-load adjustable) & rear, Kawasaki Traction Control, ABS, adjustable windscreen, 17-inch wheels, and a large five-gallon fuel tank.