The Versys 900 brings Kawasaki's Z-derived four to sport touring

Kawasaki's new Versys 900 builds a sport tourer around the 948cc inline-four from its Z family. It pairs an upright riding position with 17-inch wheels, a new steel trellis frame and a claimed 120hp (89.6kW). The emphasis is on road riding, with the engine character of a large naked and the screen, seating and luggage options needed for longer journeys.

The four-cylinder appeal

Peak power arrives at 9,500rpm, with 97.3Nm at 8,000rpm. A bidirectional quickshifter is part of the package. Kawasaki also offers a separate 94hp (70kW) version in Europe; its specification should be kept distinct from the full-output bike when considering licence restrictions.

Fit, wind protection and road wheels

The chassis combines longer suspension travel with road-sized wheels and Metzeler Roadtec 01 tyres. Seat height adjusts between 825 and 845mm, and the screen has seven positions. Those adjustments give the rider some scope to change wind protection and legroom without buying another seat or screen straight away.

Radar joins the Versys range

Radar is the other major addition. Adaptive Cruise Control Lite, forward-collision warning and blind-spot detection appear on a Versys for the first time, alongside an emergency-stop signal. They bring assistance for busy roads and motorway travel, while the 5-inch TFT provides turn-by-turn navigation through Kawasaki's Rideology app.

SE equipment and prices

The SE builds on that with heated grips, handguards, LED fog lights, radiator protection, frame sliders, a lower engine cover and a centrestand. Luggage remains a separate consideration: Kawasaki's accessories include a 47-litre top box and two 32-litre panniers, with Tourer and Grand Tourer editions offered by European dealers.

German prices start at €12,795 including VAT, or €13,270 with delivery. The SE is €13,695, or €14,170 delivered, with both due from April 2027. In the US, the differently packaged Versys 900 SE LT starts at $13,599 MSRP before destination, tax and local fees.