EICMA 2018: New Kawasaki Versys 1000 revealed to the world

- 2019 Versys 1000 gets revised bodywork, engine, electronics

- 6-axis IMU is now standard

- Might come to India next year

Kawasaki has given a major update to its litre-class touring machine, the Versys 1000. The 2019 model was just unveiled at the ongoing 2018 EICMA Show in Italy. 

For 2019, the Versys 1000 gets aesthetics, mechanical and technological updates. The new Versys 1000 inherits the aggressive front design from the Ninja family. It gets new side panels on the sides of the radiator, which is sharper and have aggressive creases. 

The Japanese maker hasn't touched the chassis of the Versys 1000. The frame remains a double tube aluminium truss. The 1043cc in-line four cylinder engine has been updated to deliver 120bhp and 102Nm. Major work has been concentrated on the suspensions and brakes. This tourer is now equipped with Kawsaaki Electronic Control Suspension (KECS) on the SE variant, while on the standard we find traditional adjustable suspensions. On both versions at the foot of the fork legs will work radial calipers controlled by KIBS (Kawasaki Intelligent Anti-Lock Brake System) ABS. 

The six-axis IMU has finally made its debut in the Versys 1000. Kawasaki Cornering Management Function manages the behaviour of the engine, brakes and traction control even when cornering. On the SE the driver can exploit the Bluetooth connectivity of the TFT colour dashboard.

The Versys 1000 was discontinued from the Indian market a few months ago due to poor sales. It’s highly unlikely the 2019 Versys 1000 will come to India. But if Kawasaki India plans to assemble this sports-tourer in India, then there’s a high chance of this Kawasaki becoming a success.