KAWASAKI VERSYS-X 300 (2017-Present) Specs, Performance & Photos

In late 2016, Kawasaki announced the Versys-X300, the smallest model in the Versys range of motorcycles intended for those riders who wanted a lightweight, maneuverable machine that would handle everyday commuting, touring, and even off-roading.

The production of the Kawasaki Versys-X 300 started with the 2017 model, powered by a 300cc engine and also intended for shorter riders with its relatively low seat height of 815 mm. It also featured an optional extended-reach saddle that raised the seat height by 25 mm.

The parallel-twin liquid-cooled engine was taken from the Kawasaki Ninja 300 and modified for more torque at lower rpm to suit its off-road capabilities. In the US market, the bike was sold with optional ABS, while in the Australian and Canadian markets, the bike was sold with ABS as a standard option.

The Versys-X 300 featured a new steel backbone frame that used the engine as a stressed member, which added to its rigidity and lightweight, while the suspension performance was handled by a long-travel 41 mm telescopic fork on the front and a Uni-Trak gas-charged shock absorber on the rear.

In the performance department, the 2017 Kawasaki Versys-X 300 had at its core a 296cc four-stroke parallel-twin liquid-cooled engine that delivered an output power of 40 hp with a peak at 11,500 rpm and 26 Nm (19 lb-ft) of torque available at 10,000 rpm.