Adventure Motorcycles

2021Kawasaki Versys 1000 S

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The 2021 Kawasaki Versys 1000 S is a versatile sport-tourer powered by a 1043cc inline-four engine delivering 120 horsepower and 102 Nm of torque. Designed for riders seeking a balanced blend of performance, comfort, and practicality, it excels on both road and light adventure riding. Known for its agile handling and powerful mid-range delivery, the Versys 1000 S suits experienced riders wanting genuine sport-touring capability.

Capacity: 1043.0 ccm
Engine: In-line four, four-stroke
Gearbox: 6-speed
Wet weight: 257.0 kg
Seat height: 838 mm
Power: 120.0 HP (87.6 kW) @ 9000 RPM

⇄ Compare with another bike ＋ Add to garage All model years

Other years 2021 2022 2023 2024

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail25%

Cornering75%

City riding65%

Daily riding82%

Touring90%

Two-up80%

Track40%

Best for: Built as a versatile sport-tourer that blends long-distance comfort with genuine backroad sportiness.
Built for: A refined, torquey inline-four allrounder that feels planted, smooth, and eager on twisty roads or motorway miles alike.
Not ideal for: Not ideal for riders seeking a lightweight commuter or genuine off-road adventure capability.

Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.

Will it fit you?

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Your height

Inseam (optional)

Units

At 838mm, a rider of 68.9" with a 31" (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with balls of both feet on the 2021 Kawasaki Versys 1000 S, with a moderate knee angle of around 90 degrees and a slightly forward riding position.

Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated. This is an approximation from category-typical geometry, not a measurement of this bike or of you - sit on one before you buy.

More bikes at 821-900 mm — Long Legs →

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Range and running costs

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Units

Currency

Fuel per litre

Riding a year

Based on the maker's published fuel consumption and tank size. Real-world figures depend on how and where you ride, and the last litres of a tank are reserve. Prices shown greyed are examples - type your own.

Full specifications

Engine

Capacity: 1043.0 ccm
Power: 120.0 HP (87.6 kW) @ 9000 RPM
CO2 Emissions: 128 CO2 g/km
Torque: 102.0 Nm (10.4 kgf-m) @ 7500 RPM
Engine type: In-line four, four-stroke
Fuel consumption: 5.50 litres/100 km (18.2 km/l)
Power/weight ratio: 0.4669 HP/kg (wet)
Bore x stroke: 77.0 x 56.0 mm
Compression: 10.3:1
Cooling system: Liquid
Fuel system: Injection
Starting: Electric
Ignition: Digital
Valves per cylinder: 4
Lubrication system: Forced lubrication, wet sump

Transmission

Gearbox: 6-speed
Transmission type: Manual
Final drive: Chain
Clutch: Wet multi-disc, manual

Dimensions & weight

Wheelbase: 1520 mm
Overall length: 2270 mm
Overall width: 950 mm
Overall height: 1490 mm
Seat height: 838 mm
Wet weight: 257.0 kg
Fuel capacity: 21.00 litres
Ground clearance: 150 mm
Carrying capacity: 56l Panniers
Dry weight: Not on record - add it

Chassis & suspension

Frame: Twin-tube, aluminium
Front suspension: 43 mm inverted fork with KECS-controlled rebound and compression damping, manual spring preload adjustability and top-out springs
Rear suspension: Horizontal Back-link, BFRC lite shock, KECS-controlled compression damping, rebound damping and spring preload adjustability.
Front wheel travel: 150 mm
Rear wheel travel: 152 mm
Rake (fork angle): 27.0°
Trail: 106 mm

Brakes & wheels

Front brakes: Double disc. Petal discs. Dual opposed 4-piston caliper
Front brakes diameter: 310 mm
Rear brakes: Single disc. Petal disc. Single-piston caliper.
Front tyre: 120/70-ZR17
Rear tyre: 180/55-ZR17

Other

Color options: Emerald Blazed Green/Metallic Diablo Black/Metallic Flat Spark Black, Pearl Storm Gray/Metallic Diablo Black/Metallic Flat Spark Black
Comments: Small windscreen. Smartphone connectivity. Sport, road, rain riding modes.

Compiled from manufacturer documentation and user contributions, corrected on an ongoing basis. Spotted something wrong? Tell us.

What changed, year to year

Differences highlighted

Specification	2021	2022	2023	2024
Capacity	1043 cc	1043 cc	1043 cc	1043 cc
Seat height	838 mm	838 mm	840 mm	840 mm
Fuel capacity	21 L	21 L	21 L	21 L

Illustrative - generated automatically by diffing the year records already on file, not a manufacturer-published changelog.

Rider Reviews

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MotorcycleDB

The 2021 Kawasaki Versys 1000 S is a versatile and powerful adventure touring motorcycle that offers a smooth and exhilarating riding experience. With its 1,043cc engine, this bike delivers impressive performance on both city streets and winding roads. The advanced electronic suspension and traction control system provide stability and control, making it an ideal choice for long-distance rides or off-road adventures. The ergonomic design and comfortable seating make it easy to spend hours in the saddle without feeling fatigued. Overall, the 2021 Kawasaki Versys 1000 S is a top-notch motorcycle that delivers on both performance and comfort, making it a standout choice in the adventure touring category.

The 2021 Kawasaki Versys 1000 S motorcycle is a game-changer in the adventure touring segment, with its powerful engine, advanced electronic suspension, and comfortable seating. Whether you're navigating city streets or exploring off-road trails, this bike offers a smooth and stable ride. The traction control system ensures a high level of control, making it an excellent option for riders of all skill levels. With its versatile performance and ergonomic design, the Versys 1000 S is a top contender in the adventure touring market. If you're in the market for a reliable and thrilling adventure motorcycle, the 2021 Kawasaki Versys 1000 S is definitely worth considering.

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