Versys 1000?

[Giaka]

Can someone translate?

http://www.moto-net.com/breve.php?RefBreve=4225

[Grainbelt]

Says it has the four cylinder from the Z1000.

No idea wtf else it says, or whether it is legit.

[jp]

Moto-Net say they heard rumors about this and found the pictures somewhere... Expect news at the Milan show this fall. Kawasaki neither confirm or deny, etc...
Seems to be based on a Z1000, frame and all, which would be weird for an 'adventure' bike, but maybe OK since most are used on the road pretty exclusively. The longer seat is attached with a trellis sub-frame. They think the block might be from a 750 though... The fairing and shrouds and the like come directly from a Versys (obviously)...
Most of the comments from readers on the page were negative, and I can see why. It would be one of those bikes that is not bad, but does nothing well... I'd vote for a no-show in this form anyways...

[Big D]

Kawi's version of the first gen Multistrada?

[Giaka]

Kawi's version of the first gen Multistrada?

The more I read, the more this seems to be a legit bike. I guess we will know in a month or so.

[falconati]

It would be sweet!  Just add a comfy seat and you're good to go!  Pricing just under the Ninja thou?

[JSharp]

It appears Kawasaki wants to use this engine and frame one more place. The purists will hate it because it has too many cylinders but it's not as ridiculous as it seems.  It follows the Adventure bike blueprint. Take an underpowered street bike, jack up the suspension, put dual sport tires on it, make it as ugly as possible, and since it's far too large and heavy to be called a dirt bike call it an adventure bike.  Except for this one won't be underpowered.

[Kraz]

The Kawi response to the V-strom... 10 years later.    Now in 1000cc variety.

Would be fun to ride - not sure there's much to offer that's new though.

[Rincewind]

The Kawi response to the V-strom was to make a V-strom replica in other markets.  KLV1000 I think it was called.

MCN says Kawi is not denying the Versys 1000 -- http://www.motorcyclenews.com/MCN/News/newsresults/New-bikes/2011/October/oct1211-kawasaki-versys-z1000/

After not liking my Ninja 1000 test ride, I'm not all that interested.  

[ZZR12]

What didn't you like about your Ninja 1000 test ride?

[Rincewind]

What didn't you like about your Ninja 1000 test ride?

I loved it at low revs below 6000rpm - buttery smooth.  The bike has easy handling and is generally comfortable.  At higher revs I loved the power surge but really hated the engine vibes that were fairly harsh, tingly and intrusive.  To me it rears an ugly head with those high RPM vibes, but it's a subjective thing and if you mostly short-shift it's an excellent motor.  

[ZZR12]

Kawasaki has always had that "tingle" I wish they could get rid of it.

[xsrider]

I'm planning to replace my Kaw ZR-7s in the near future.  A Versys 1000 would be something I'd definitely consider.

[Giaka]

After spending 2 years on a Versys 650 I can tell you with an additional 40+ hp this thing would make for a wheely good time.  

[jfurf]

Reading the French moto commenters... apparently hatred of inline-4 engines knows no linguistic boundaries.  

Also, they're all complaining about how "trail" bikes now refer to giant too-heavy GS-style behemoths, unlike the glory days of the 80s and 90s dual sports. We really are all the same.  

[dietDrThunder]

Wow...if they make a Z1000-based adv-looking bike like those in the pics, that will move right to the top of my list for next year's new bike. I absolutely loved the Ninja 1000 I rode...just need better passenger accommodations.

[R Doug]

This thread should be merged w/ the one in the proper Kawi forum.  


http://www.sport-touring.net/forums/index.php/topic,67353.0.html

[falconati]

Mods: please check your mirrors before merging.  Thanks!!!!

[R Doug]

 

[HipGnosis]

Can I get the longer sub-frame / tail and luggage on a Ninja?