EICMA 2010: Kawasaki Versys

It was about time for the Versys model to be revised, as it has often been overlooked, while the rest of the ER-6 range was getting improvements after improvements. This time, Kawasaki’s middleweight motorcycle has finally been given a new look with different lights and a new bodywork.

The bike therefore boasts new front and rear lights and a modified radiator cowl. The engine, however, remains the same as we know it, the one based on the Ninja 650R. And so do the chassis and suspension. The bike is still powered by the 62 horsepower 649 cc 4-stroke parallel twin engine of its predecessor.

The new front lights are stacked above each other, the new rear light is LED and, just like the new Z1000, there is also a new front mudguard. The mirrors have also been revised and therefore offer improved visibility. A host of other accessories have been added, including handguards, heated grips and a 12 volt outlet.

In addition, the vibration damping has been improved, the passenger accommodations have been upgraded, and along with the new tie-down hooks and revised footrests with hollow rubber inserts, they all work together to increase the rider’s comfort.

“The end result is a machine that truly offers the suspension compliance of a dual sport, the responsiveness and grip of a sportbike and the all-day comfort of a light tourer,” the company said in a release.

Kawasaki announced the following available colors for the 2010 Versys, however without giving details on the pricing yet:

• Metallic Spark Black / Metallic Flat Spark Black
• Pearl Solar Yellow / Metallic Flat Spark Black