Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE — Top Speed 240 km/h (149 mph)

Is the Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE a good buy? Quick answer

The Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE has a listed top speed of 240 km/h (149 mph) with 120 hp, 102 Nm torque, 1000 cc engine, 257 kg curb weight. It sits in the Adventure segment and is better matched to experienced sport riders than absolute beginners. Compare rivals side-by-side using the tools on this page.

Feature Value
Brand KAWASAKI
Model Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE
Engine size 1000 cc
Power 120 hp
Torque 102 Nm
Cylinder / Valve 4 Cylinders, 16 valves
Weight 257 kg (567 lb)
Front Brake 310 mm dual discs, radially mounted monoblock 4-piston caliper
Rear Brake 250 mm single disc, single-piston caliper
Seat Height 84 cm (33.1 in)
Front Tyre 120/70 ZR 17
Rear Tyre 180/55 ZR 17
Cooling Liquid Cooled
Front Suspension Showa KECS-controlled rebound and compression damping. 43 mm inverted fork, manually adjustable spring preload
Rear Suspension Horizontal Back-link, BFRC lite shock, KECS-controlled compression damping, rebound damping, and spring preload
Motorcycle Type Adventure
Top Speed 240 km/h (149 mph)
Fuel Capacity 21 L (5.5 US gal)
Fuel Consumption 6.0 L/100 km (39.2 mpg US)
Prevalence of Service Network
Service Quality
Spare Parts Availability
Price $17,849
For Other Motorcycle Price Lists Click for KAWASAKI Price List

Spec-based reading of the Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE as a Adventure: focus on the numbers that match how you ride — power, weight, seat height, and fuel range — then verify with a dealer test ride.

Pros

  • Liquid cooling for more consistent heat management

Cons

  • Heavy curb weight (~257 kg / 567 lb) — parking and U-turns need more care
  • Tall seat (~840 mm / 33.1 in) — shorter riders should test fit

Who is it for?

Best suited for adventure and dual-purpose riders.

Who is it not for?

Less ideal for very short riders who need both feet flat at stops, brand-new riders looking for a first motorcycle.

Commuting / city use

As an adventure motorcycle, expect a mix of road touring ability and light off-road capability.

Highway / longer rides

Range and rider comfort usually matter more here than pure track pace.

Good for beginners?

Power and/or sport focus make the Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE a demanding first motorcycle. Newer riders should usually step up gradually.

Seat height & rider fit

Seat height is about 840 mm (33.1 in). Shorter riders should sit on the bike before deciding.

Fuel economy & range

Listed fuel use is about 6 L/100 km (~39.2 mpg US). With a ~21 L tank, theoretical range is around 350 km (real-world range varies).

Two-up riding

Two-up comfort depends on seat length, passenger pegs, and load capacity — check fit with a passenger before long trips.

Frequently asked questions

What is the top speed of the Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE?

Our specification data lists 240 km/h (149 mph) for the Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE.

How much horsepower does the Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE have?

Listed power is 120 hp.

How much torque does the Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE have?

Listed torque is 102 Nm.

What is the engine size of the Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE?

Engine displacement is listed as 1000 cc.

How much does the Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE weigh?

Curb weight is listed at about 257 kg (567 lb).

What is the seat height of the Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE?

Seat height is about 840 mm (33.1 in).

What is the fuel economy of the Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE?

Listed consumption is about 6 L/100 km (about 39.2 mpg US).

What is the fuel range of the Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE?

Theoretical range is around 350 km based on tank size and listed consumption; real-world range varies with riding style.

Is the Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE liquid cooled?

Yes — it is listed as liquid-cooled.

How many cylinders does the Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE have?

It is listed as a 4-cylinder engine.

Is the Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE good for beginners?

Power and/or sport focus make the Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE a demanding first motorcycle. Newer riders should usually step up gradually.

Is the Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE good for commuting?

The Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE can be used for everyday commuting while also offering the versatility expected from an adventure-style motorcycle.

Is the Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE good for highway riding?

With a listed top speed of 240 km/h, the Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE has enough performance for typical highway speeds and overtaking. Long-distance comfort still depends on riding position, wind protection and rider preference.

Is the Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE suitable for short riders?

Seat height is about 840 mm (33.1 in). Shorter riders should sit on the bike before deciding.

Is the Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE A2 licence friendly?

A2 licence fit depends on power and power-to-weight limits (≤35 kW and ≤0.2 kW/kg). Based on listed figures, it may exceed typical A2 limits unless a restricted kit version exists.

What are the pros of the Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE?

Liquid cooling for more consistent heat management.

What are the cons of the Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE?

Heavy curb weight (~257 kg / 567 lb) — parking and U-turns need more care; Tall seat (~840 mm / 33.1 in) — shorter riders should test fit.

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