Kawasaki Versys 1000 launch this month; bookings commenced

Kawasaki is on a roll. After launching the Z250 and the ER6n last month, the Japanese manufacturer will launch the Versys 1000 for the Indian market this month. This makes the Versys 1000 the third motorcycle type to make its way to India after the Ninja and Z series. 

India will get the 2015 model which was unveiled at the 2014 EICMA and Intermot show. The major change the tourer received was in the cosmetic department where the new headlamp design gave the bike a meaner and sharper look. The frame was altered slightly for a stronger rear section, to accommodate bigger paniers. 

The new Versys 1000 retains the 1,043cc engine which churns out 120bhp and 102Nm of torque through a six-speed gearbox. The liquid-cooled powertrain gets a three-mode KTRC traction control system as well as full and low engine maps. The Versys 1000 gets 17-inch alloy wheels with 180/55 tyre at the rear and 120/70 at the front. Just like the Ninja 1000, the Versys 1000 get an adjustable windshield which doesn’t need any tools to adjust. With wide handlebars and upright riding position, the Versys 1000 could be a very good tourer for the Indian market. 

Kawasaki dealers have started taking the bookings for the Versys 1000 for Rs 6 lakh with deliveries set to commence from the first week of December. The bike will be sold in India via the completely-built-up (CBU) route and it is expected to be priced between Rs 13 lakh and Rs 15 lakh. Once launched, it will compete with the Triumph Tiger 800XC and the Suzuki V-Strom 1000.