The Kawasaki Versys 1100, launched in India in February 2025, marks a significant evolution in the Japanese manufacturer’s adventure-touring lineup. Positioned as the successor to the popular Versys 1000, this motorcycle brings a blend of enhanced power, refined design, and advanced technology to cater to the growing demand for premium sports-tourers in the Indian market. Known for its versatility—hence the name “Versys,” derived from “versatile system”—this bike is designed to conquer long-distance highways, winding backroads, and urban jungles alike. With its larger 1,099cc engine and a host of modern features, the Versys 1100 promises an exhilarating yet comfortable riding experience, making it a compelling choice for enthusiasts who crave adventure without compromising on refinement.
Kawasaki has a storied history of crafting motorcycles that blend performance with practicality, and the Versys 1100 is no exception. Introduced globally in late 2024 and brought to India shortly after, this bike reflects the brand’s commitment to meeting the needs of riders who demand more power and sophistication from their machines. Priced competitively at Rs. 12.90 lakh (ex-showroom), it undercuts its predecessor’s final price, signaling Kawasaki’s intent to capture a larger share of India’s premium motorcycle segment. Available in a single variant and a striking Metallic Matte Graphenesteel Gray / Metallic Diablo Black color scheme, the Versys 1100 combines aggressive styling with cutting-edge technology, positioning it as a worthy contender against some of the fiercest rivals in its class.
In this detailed product overview, we’ll dive into the technical specifications, explore its design and features, analyze its variants and pricing across metro cities, and compare it with close competitors. Whether you’re a seasoned tourer or a rider looking to upgrade to a litre-class machine, the Kawasaki Versys 1100 offers a tantalizing proposition that’s worth exploring.
Technical Specifications
Below is a comprehensive table of the Kawasaki Versys 1100’s technical specifications, compiled from credible sources like BikeDekho and BikeWale, ensuring accuracy as of April 2025.
| Category | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, In-line Four-cylinder, DOHC, 16 valves |
| Displacement | 1,099 cc |
| Power | 135 PS (133 bhp) @ 9,000 rpm |
| Torque | 112 Nm @ 7,500 rpm |
| Bore x Stroke | 92.0 mm x 41.4 mm |
| Compression Ratio | 11.8:1 |
| Fuel System | Fuel Injection: 38 mm x 4 |
| Transmission | 6-speed, return shift with slip-and-assist clutch |
| Mileage (ARAI) | 17.85 kmpl |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 21 liters |
| Chassis | Twin-tube aluminum frame |
| Front Suspension | 43 mm USD forks with adjustable rebound damping and spring preload |
| Rear Suspension | Horizontal back-link, gas-charged monoshock with adjustable preload and rebound |
| Front Brake | Dual 310 mm semi-floating discs, 4-piston calipers, ABS |
| Rear Brake | Single 260 mm disc, single-piston caliper, ABS |
| Tyres (Front / Rear) | 120/70-ZR17 / 180/55-ZR17 (Tubeless) |
| Wheel Size | 17-inch front and rear |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 2,240 mm x 950 mm x 1,465 mm (with windscreen at max height) |
| Wheelbase | 1,520 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 150 mm |
| Seat Height | 840 mm |
| Kerb Weight | 257 kg |
| Emission Standard | BS6 Phase 2 |
These specifications highlight the Versys 1100’s robust engineering, tailored for performance and long-distance touring comfort.
Design and Features
Exteriors
The Kawasaki Versys 1100 retains the aggressive, adventure-ready design language of its predecessor, the Versys 1000, with subtle refinements that enhance its visual appeal and functionality. The front fascia is dominated by sharp, split LED headlights, giving it a predatory stance that’s both stylish and practical for night riding. Above the headlights sits an adjustable windscreen—tweakable from the rider’s seat—offering excellent wind protection for high-speed cruising. The muscular fuel tank, flanked by boomerang-shaped cladding, not only adds to the bike’s bulkier silhouette but also provides a secure grip for the rider’s knees during long rides.
The Versys 1100’s bodywork flows seamlessly from front to rear, with a single color option: Metallic Matte Graphenesteel Gray / Metallic Diablo Black. This sophisticated palette, accented with neon highlights, lends a premium and modern aesthetic. The rear features a sleek LED taillight and a trimmed fender that showcases the fat 180-section rear tyre, adding a touch of muscularity. Practical touches like knuckle guards (available as an accessory) and a sturdy skid plate underscore its adventure-touring credentials, making it ready for diverse terrains while maintaining a sporty edge.
Interiors
While motorcycles don’t have “interiors” in the traditional sense, the rider’s cockpit on the Versys 1100 is a tech-laden command center. The centerpiece is a negative LCD instrument cluster, offering crisp readouts for speed, fuel level, odometer, trip meters, and more. Though not as flashy as a full-color TFT display, it integrates seamlessly with the bike’s electronic suite, displaying data on ride modes, traction control settings, and cruise control status. The ergonomic layout includes a tall handlebar and center-set footpegs, promoting an upright riding posture that reduces fatigue on extended journeys.
The seat, designed with both rider and pillion comfort in mind, is thickly cushioned and split for optimal support. Kawasaki’s Ergo-Fit system allows riders to tweak the setup to suit their physique, enhancing accessibility for a wide range of body types. A USB Type-C charging port near the cockpit ensures devices stay powered, a thoughtful addition for tech-savvy tourers navigating with smartphones or GPS.
Advanced Features
The Versys 1100 is packed with cutting-edge technology that elevates its performance and safety. At its core is an Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU), which enables advanced rider aids like cornering management and lean-sensitive ABS. Riders can toggle between two power modes—Full and Low—to suit conditions, while switchable traction control and wheelie control keep the 135 PS powerplant in check. Cruise control is a boon for highway stints, allowing riders to relax their throttle hand over long distances.
The bike’s suspension is manually adjustable, with USD front forks and a gas-charged monoshock offering fine-tuning for preload and rebound damping. Braking is handled by dual 310 mm front discs and a 260 mm rear disc, both equipped with ABS for confident stopping power. An optional bi-directional quickshifter adds seamless gear changes, enhancing the sporty feel. Together, these features make the Versys 1100 a technologically advanced tourer that balances thrill with safety.
Variants
The Kawasaki Versys 1100 is available in a single variant in India, unlike its global counterparts, which include Base, S, and SE trims. Below is a table detailing the Indian variant:
| Variant | Description |
|---|---|
| Versys 1100 STD | Single variant with 1,099cc engine, manual suspension, ABS, traction control, and cruise control |
Globally, the SE variant offers Showa electronic semi-active suspension, while the S trim adds more adjustment options. However, Kawasaki has streamlined its Indian offering to the STD variant, keeping costs competitive while retaining essential features.
Price in Metro Cities
Pricing for the Versys 1100 varies across India’s metro cities due to differences in RTO charges, insurance, and local taxes. Here’s a table of on-road prices as of April 2025, sourced from BikeWale and BikeDekho:
| City | Ex-Showroom Price | On-Road Price |
|---|---|---|
| Delhi | Rs. 12,90,000 | Rs. 14,80,000 |
| Mumbai | Rs. 12,90,000 | Rs. 15,10,000 |
| Bangalore | Rs. 12,90,000 | Rs. 15,20,000 |
| Chennai | Rs. 12,90,000 | Rs. 14,95,000 |
| Hyderabad | Rs. 12,90,000 | Rs. 14,95,839 |
| Kolkata | Rs. 12,90,000 | Rs. 14,85,000 |
These prices include RTO, insurance, and other charges, making the Versys 1100 a premium yet accessible option in its segment.
About the Bike
Engine and Performance
At the heart of the Kawasaki Versys 1100 lies a 1,099cc inline four-cylinder engine, an upgrade from the 1,043cc unit in the Versys 1000. This liquid-cooled, DOHC powerplant delivers 135 PS at 9,000 rpm and 112 Nm at 7,500 rpm, offering a noticeable bump in power and torque over its predecessor. The increase in displacement comes from a longer stroke, paired with a higher compression ratio (11.8:1), a heavier flywheel, and revised camshafts with reduced valve lift. These tweaks result in a smoother power delivery, with a rewarding surge of acceleration that’s ideal for overtaking on highways or tackling twisty roads.
The engine is mated to a 6-speed gearbox with a slip-and-assist clutch, ensuring smooth shifts and reduced lever effort. Riders can opt for a bi-directional quickshifter, which enhances the sporty riding experience by allowing clutchless upshifts and downshifts. With an ARAI-claimed mileage of 17.85 kmpl and a generous 21-liter fuel tank, the Versys 1100 offers a theoretical range of over 370 km—perfect for cross-country tours. However, real-world mileage may vary depending on riding style and conditions, likely dipping to 15-16 kmpl in aggressive use.
The inline-four configuration is renowned for its refinement, and the Versys 1100 lives up to this reputation. It delivers a linear powerband with minimal vibration, making it a joy to ride over long distances. While it excels on tarmac, its 150 mm ground clearance and 257 kg kerb weight suggest it’s not built for serious off-road adventures—unlike some competitors with higher clearance and lighter builds.
Ride and Handling
The Versys 1100’s chassis is a twin-tube aluminum frame, paired with long-travel suspension tuned for street performance. The front features 43 mm USD forks with adjustable rebound damping and preload, while the rear employs a horizontal back-link monoshock with similar adjustability. This setup provides a balanced ride, soaking up road imperfections while maintaining stability at high speeds or through corners. The suspension isn’t electronically adjustable in the Indian variant (unlike the global SE model), but its manual adjustments offer enough versatility for most riders.
With a wheelbase of 1,520 mm and 17-inch alloy wheels shod with tubeless tyres (120/70 front, 180/55 rear), the bike feels planted and agile. The upright riding position, adjustable windscreen, and ergonomic seat height of 840 mm cater to a wide range of riders, though shorter individuals might find it a tad tall. At 257 kg, it’s not the lightest in its class, and low-speed maneuvers in traffic can feel cumbersome. However, once underway, the weight contributes to its rock-solid stability, especially on highways.
Braking performance is top-notch, thanks to dual 310 mm front discs with 4-piston calipers and a 260 mm rear disc, both backed by ABS. The IMU-enhanced cornering ABS adds an extra layer of safety, modulating brake pressure during lean angles. Whether cruising at triple-digit speeds or navigating tight bends, the Versys 1100 inspires confidence.
Practicality and Comfort
For a sports-tourer, practicality is paramount, and the Versys 1100 delivers. The 21-liter fuel tank ensures fewer stops on long rides, while optional luggage solutions—like panniers and a top box—make it a capable mile-muncher. The adjustable windscreen, wide shrouds, and aerodynamic bodywork minimize wind fatigue, allowing riders to cover 500-750 km in a day without exhaustion. The split seat offers ample cushioning for both rider and pillion, though the latter might find the rear grab rail placement slightly awkward on extended trips.
The inclusion of a USB Type-C port is a modern touch, keeping gadgets charged for navigation or music. The bike’s all-LED lighting package—headlights, taillight, and turn signals—ensures excellent visibility, a critical factor for night riding or adverse weather. While it lacks a full-color TFT display (a feature found on some rivals), the negative LCD cluster is functional and easy to read in all lighting conditions.
Market Positioning and Value
Priced at Rs. 12.90 lakh (ex-showroom), the Versys 1100 is a steal compared to the Versys 1000’s final price of Rs. 13.91 lakh. This aggressive pricing reflects Kawasaki’s strategy to boost sales in India’s premium motorcycle market, where litre-class bikes are gaining traction. It undercuts many competitors while offering a potent inline-four engine—a rarity in a segment dominated by twins and triples. Maintenance costs, however, could be a concern, as litre-class Kawasakis tend to have higher service expenses than smaller-capacity alternatives.
The Versys 1100 appeals to riders upgrading from mid-capacity ADVs like the Versys 650 or those seeking a more refined alternative to off-road-focused machines. Its blend of performance, comfort, and technology makes it a strong value proposition, though it lacks the off-road prowess of some rivals—a trade-off for its superior on-road dynamics.
Close Competitors
The Versys 1100 faces stiff competition in India’s adventure-touring segment. Here’s how it stacks up against its closest rivals:
BMW M 1000 XR
- Engine: 999cc inline-four, 205 PS, 113 Nm
- Price: Rs. 45 lakh (ex-showroom)
- Key Features: Electronic suspension, advanced rider aids, TFT display
- Comparison: The M 1000 XR is a performance monster, dwarfing the Versys 1100 in power and tech. However, its exorbitant price and track-focused nature make it less practical for touring compared to the Kawasaki’s balanced approach.
Ducati Multistrada V4
- Engine: 1,158cc V4, 170 PS, 125 Nm
- Price: Rs. 21.48 lakh (ex-showroom)
- Key Features: Adaptive radar, semi-active suspension, premium build
- Comparison: The Multistrada V4 offers superior power and cutting-edge features like radar-based cruise control. It’s more versatile off-road but comes at a steep premium, making the Versys 1100 a budget-friendly alternative with comparable touring chops.
Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250
- Engine: 1,252cc V-twin, 150 PS, 128 Nm
- Price: Rs. 18.50 lakh (ex-showroom)
- Key Features: Adaptive ride height, off-road capability, TFT display
- Comparison: The Pan America excels in off-road scenarios with its higher ground clearance and rugged design. The Versys 1100, however, counters with a smoother inline-four engine and a lower price, appealing to road-focused tourers.
Triumph Tiger 900
- Engine: 888cc inline-three, 95 PS, 87 Nm
- Price: Rs. 13.95 lakh (ex-showroom)
- Key Features: Lightweight, off-road modes, TFT display
- Comparison: The Tiger 900 is lighter and cheaper, with better off-road potential. The Versys 1100 trumps it with more power and refinement, making it the better highway companion.
The Versys 1100 holds its own by offering a unique combination of inline-four smoothness, competitive pricing, and touring-friendly features. It’s less off-road capable than the Pan America or Tiger 900 but excels as a sports-tourer, rivaling the Multistrada V4 in comfort at a fraction of the cost.
Final Thoughts!
The Kawasaki Versys 1100 is a triumph of engineering and value, bringing litre-class performance to India’s adventure-touring scene at an accessible price point. Its 1,099cc inline-four engine, delivering 135 PS and 112 Nm, paired with a robust chassis and advanced rider aids, makes it a formidable machine for long-distance travel. The single STD variant simplifies the buying decision, while features like cruise control, ABS, and an adjustable windscreen cater to practical needs. Priced at Rs. 12.90 lakh (ex-showroom), it undercuts many rivals, offering premium performance without breaking the bank.
For riders seeking a motorcycle that blends sporty dynamics with touring comfort, the Versys 1100 is a standout choice. It may not match the off-road prowess of some competitors or the tech-laden opulence of pricier options, but its refinement, power, and affordability make it a compelling package. Whether you’re crossing state lines or carving through mountain passes, the Kawasaki Versys 1100 is built to extend your horizons—destination everywhere, indeed.
