Good Motorcycle

2012 Kawasaki Versys 1000

2012 Kawasaki Versys 1000 - The gang in Green spooned the potent powerplant from the Kawasaki Z1000 into its big adventure sportbike, tuning it to deliver more low- and mid-range grunt, and gave the popular platform traction control to keep the Versys’ newfound power under control. To maximise the Versys 1000’s fun factor, engineers wanted to provide the most exciting engine possible. The engine needed to deliver more than just performance figures. The engine they chose was a 1,043 cm3 In- line Four, tuned for flexibility. Superb throttle response, strong torque at all rpm (especially in the low-mid range), and a seductive intake howl ensure that every twist of the throttle delivers a physical and aural sensation that riders may easily find addictive.

2012 Kawasaki Versys 1000 comes with two Power Mode selections, Full or Low, that allow riders to adjust output based on riding preference and road conditions. Low reduces power output by 25% for a milder throttle response, a boon when roads are slick because if the 1043cc mill has the same character as the Zed’s, it can spool up the rear quickly if riders aren’t careful.

Aluminium twin-tube frame design features frame beams that go over engine, allowing a narrow construction that is easy to grip with the knees. Lightweight and highly rigid, the frame uses the engine as a stressed member. The frame contributes to handling, offering a firm, planted feeling, good stability and light, nimble turning. The frame is a 5-piece cast aluminium construction, consisting of steering stem, left and right main frames, and two cross pieces. The two main frame components have open C-shaped cross sections and were die-cast to ensure a smooth surface finish.

Kawasaki has taken this fact into consideration and equipped the 2012 Kawasaki Versys 1000 with Kawasaki’s Three-Mode KTRC, the same traction control system as the ZX-14R. The system on the Versys 1000 reportedly combines elements of Kawasaki’s two traction control systems, the S-KTRC and KTRC. It has three modes: Modes 1 & 2 concentrate on providing maximum acceleration while Mode 3 focuses on riding stability in adverse conditions, responding in the same manner as the KTRC system on the Concours 14. Riders can also opt to turn the system off. 

Advanced ECU programming contributes to the Versys 1000’s high fuel efficiency. Careful adjustment of fuel volume and ignition timing when speed is constant improves fuel consumption without compromising driveability.

The Economical Riding Indicator appears on the LCD screen to indicate favourable fuel consumption. Paying attention to conditions that result in the mark appearing can assist riders to maximise their fuel efficiency. This handy feature is active all the time, although to be effective, the rider must ride in a gentle manner: less than 6,000 rpm, less than 30% throttle and under 160 km/h.

• Engine: Liquid-cooled, DOHC 4-stroke Inline-four
• Displacement: 1043cc
• Bore/Stroke: 77 X 56mm
• Compression Ratio: 10.3:1
• Fueling: EFI 38mm Keihin throttle bodies
• Ignition: Digital
• Frame: Aluminum twin-tube
• Rake/Trail: 27-degrees/4.2 in.
• Clutch: Wet multi-disc
• Transmission: 6-speed
• Final Drive: Chain
• Wheel Travel – Front: 5.9 in. Rear: 5.9 in.
• Tire – Front: 120/70ZR17
• Rear: 180/55ZR17
• Suspension - Front: 43mm inverted fork
• Rear: Horizonal back-link, gas-charged shock
• Brakes – Front: Dual semi-floating 300mm petal discs w/ dual opposed 4-piston calipers
• Back: Single 250mm petal disc w/single-piston caliper
• Wheelbase: 59.84 in.
• Seat Height: 33.27 in.
• Fuel Capacity: 5.5 gal.
• Weight (claimed curb wt.): 526.9 lb.