New Kawasaki Versys S for 2021 and Versys SE gains Skyhook

Kawasaki is changing up the game in the adventure touring segment for 2021 as the Versys 1000 SE gains Skyhook suspension and a new S model is launched

Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE 2021

KAWASAKI has just announced a new model is to be added to the Versys range in the form of the Versys 1000 S and the Versys 1000 SE gets updated Showa Skyhook electronic suspension.

Kawasaki Versys 1000 S 2021

The first bike to discuss is the new model which is joining Kawasaki’s successful adventure touring range. The Versys 1000 S sits above the now outgoing standard model. It gains a load of extras included on the model straight from the dealership. The bike still features the same Showa 43mm inverted front forks that include rebound damping and spring preload adjustability. The rear suspension is a horizontal back-link gas-charged Showa shock, with rebound damping and remote spring preload adjustability.

As with the rest of the Versys 1000 range, the new S model is available as a Standard model plus Tourer and Grand Tourer editions. Each edition brings an increasing number of touring accessories from panniers, handguards and a tank pad for the Tourer model, right up to the Grand Tourer which also benefits from a 47 litre top-case.

Kawasaki Versys 1000 S Colours:

  • Emerald Blazed Green / Metallic Diablo Black / Metallic Flat Spark Black
  • Pearl Storm Gray / Metallic Diablo Black / Metallic Flat Spark Black

Kawasaki Versys 1000 - Review 2019

Kawasaki Versys 1000 S editions:

  • Tourer spec – 56l Panniers, Pannier inner bags, Tank Pad
  • Grand Tourer spec – 56l Panniers, Pannier inner bags, 47l Top Case, Top Case inner bag, Tank Pad, Fog lights, GPS Bracket, Frame Sliders

Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE 2021

Despite not being a new model, the Versys 1000 SE is the bike that will draw the most affectionate gaze from motorcyclists. As we reported last week, the new model is equipped with Showa’s advanced Skyhook suspension system.

The bike already had the Kawasaki Electronic Control Suspension (KECS) system, although the new Skyhook system is widely regarded as the best for this type of motorcycle. Skyhook provides the rider with a much smoother ride, as the name suggests, it like hanging the bike from a giant hook that is hanging from the sky.

The addition of the system brings the bike in line with bikes like the Ducati Multistrada 1260 S and 950 S, both of which have been using the system for some time.

Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE colours:

  • Emerald Blazed Green / Metallic Diablo Black / Metallic Flat Spark Black
  • Pearl Storm Gray / Metallic Diablo Black / Metallic Flat Spark Black

Kawasaki Versys 1000 2021 new model pricing

These two models will be the only variants of the Versys 1000 available in the UK in 2021, with the all-new Versys 1000 S arriving in dealers this December retailing at £12,999, whilst the upgraded Versys 1000 SE will cost £14,899 and will be in dealers from February. The Editions will be priced:

  • Versys 1000 S Tourer - £13,799
  • Versys 1000 S Grand Tourer - £14,699
  • Versys 1000 SE Tourer - £15,699
  • Versys 1000 SE Grand Tourer - £16,599