Adventure Motorcycles
2018Kawasaki Versys 1000
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The 2018 Kawasaki Versys 1000 is a sport-touring motorcycle designed for riders seeking versatility and performance on both road and light adventure riding. Known for its upright riding position, powerful 1043cc engine, and excellent wind protection, it excels at covering long distances comfortably while delivering spirited handling. The bike suits experienced riders wanting a capable all-rounder that bridges sportiness with practical touring capability.
- Capacity
- 1043.0 ccm
- Engine
- In-line four, four-stroke
- Gearbox
- 6-speed
- Dry weight
- 239.0 kg
- Seat height
- 840 mm
- Power
- 120.0 HP (87.6 kW) @ 9000 RPM
What’s new for the 2018 Kawasaki Versys 1000
vs the 2017| Spec | 2017 | 2018 |
|---|---|---|
| Front suspension | 43 mm inverted fork with stepless | 43 mm inverted fork with stepless rebound damping (right side) and spring preload adjustability |
| Rear suspension | Horizontal Back-link, gas-charged, | Horizontal Back-link, gas-charged, with stepless rebound damping and remote spring preload adjustability |
How it rides
Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested- Best for
- Built primarily as a long-distance and all-round road tourer that can comfortably handle daily commuting and spirited weekend rides.
- Built for
- A refined, torquey in-line four wrapped in an adventure-touring body, offering smooth power delivery, adjustable electronic suspension, and a relaxed yet capable riding position.
- Not ideal for
- Not the right choice for riders seeking genuine off-road capability or a lightweight, stripped-down machine for pure track days.
Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.
Will it fit you?
Worked out in your browser - nothing is sent to usRange and running costs
Worked out in your browser - nothing is sent to usBased on the published US (EPA-style) fuel economy estimate 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.
Engine
- Capacity
- 1043.0 ccm
- Power
- 120.0 HP (87.6 kW) @ 9000 RPM
- CO2 Emissions
- 126 CO2 g/km
- EPA Certificate No.
- JKAXC1.04AAE-008
- EPA Est. Fuel Consumption
- 5.37 L/100km (43.8 US mpg)
- EPA CO Emissions
- 0.4 CO g/km
- Torque
- 102.0 Nm (10.4 kgf-m) @ 7700 RPM
- Engine type
- In-line four, four-stroke
- Power/weight ratio
- 0.5021 HP/kg (dry)
- Bore x stroke
- 77.0 x 56.0 mm
- Compression
- 10.3:1
- Cooling system
- Liquid
- Fuel system
- Injection
- Starting
- Electric
- Ignition
- Digital
- Aspiration
- Naturally aspirated
- 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
- 895 mm
- Overall height
- 1400 mm
- Seat height
- 840 mm
- Dry weight
- 239.0 kg
- Wet weight
- 250.0 kg
- Fuel capacity
- 21.00 litres
- Ground clearance
- 150 mm
Chassis & suspension
- Frame
- Twin-tube, aluminium
- Front suspension
- 43 mm inverted fork with stepless rebound damping (right side) and spring preload adjustability
- Rear suspension
- Horizontal Back-link, gas-charged, with stepless rebound damping and remote spring preload adjustability
- Front wheel travel
- 150 mm
- Rear wheel travel
- 150 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.
- Rear brakes diameter
- 250 mm
- Front tyre
- 120/70-ZR17
- Rear tyre
- 180/55-ZR17
Other
- Color options
- Metallic Flat Spark Black/Metallic Spark Black, Candy Lime Green/Metallic Spark Black
- Comments
- Small windscreen.
- Fuel Tank Material
- Metal
Specs last verified against published sources: .
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 | 2012 | 2015 | 2018 | 2021 | 2024 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 1043 cc | 1043 cc | 1043 cc | 1043 cc | 1043 cc |
| Dry weight | — | — | 239 kg | 239 kg | 239 kg |
| Seat height | 845 mm | 845 mm | 840 mm | 840 mm | 840 mm |
| Fuel capacity | 21 L | 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
Common questions
What is the engine size of the Kawasaki Versys 1000?
The 2018 Kawasaki Versys 1000 has a Capacity of 1043.0 ccm (63.65 cubic inches).
What engine power does the Kawasaki Versys 1000 have?
The 2018 Kawasaki Versys 1000 has a Power of 120.0 HP (87.6 kW) @ 9000 RPM.
How many gears does the Kawasaki Versys 1000 have?
The 2018 Kawasaki Versys 1000 has a Gearbox of 6-speed.
What is the torque of the Kawasaki Versys 1000?
The 2018 Kawasaki Versys 1000 has a Torque of 102.0 Nm (10.4 kgf-m or 75.2 ft.lbs) @ 7700 RPM.
How much does the Kawasaki Versys 1000 weigh?
The 2018 Kawasaki Versys 1000 has a Dry weight of 239.0 kg (526.9 pounds).
Shop this bike
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The 2018 Kawasaki Versys 1000 is a powerful and versatile motorcycle that offers a smooth and comfortable ride. With a 1,043cc engine and advanced technology, this bike delivers impressive performance on both city streets and challenging terrains. The comfortable seating position and adjustable windscreen make it ideal for long rides, while the advanced suspension system ensures a smooth and stable handling experience. The Versys 1000 is also equipped with a range of features such as traction control, power modes, and ABS, making it a safe and reliable choice for riders of all levels.
Overall, the 2018 Kawasaki Versys 1000 is a top-tier motorcycle that delivers a powerful and thrilling riding experience. Whether you're a seasoned rider or a newcomer to the world of motorcycling, this bike offers a combination of performance, comfort, and advanced technology that is sure to impress. With its versatile capabilities and user-friendly features, the Versys 1000 is a great choice for anyone in search of a reliable and high-performing motorcycle.
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