THE Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE is getting an upgrade for 2021, as the House of Akashi adds Showa Skyhook suspension to the top-spec model.
Now, if that all sounds a bit familiar, that’s because the Versys 1000 SE already had electronic suspension, although it was the in-house system called KECS (Kawasaki Electronic Control Suspension). The suspension will bring the Versys inline with the Multistrada 1260 S and 950 S, both of which have used the system for a couple of years now.
Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE video review
The statement released by Kawasaki doesn’t totally explain why the system is being adopted, although part of the statement refers to the new system’s accuracy, hinting at its superiority. “The upgraded Skyhook software delivers a smoother, more comfortable riding experience when riding solo or with a passenger. By using the KECS sensors to “read” the road 1,000 times per second, Skyhook is able to further enhance the versatility and comfort of the ultra-smooth Versys 1000 making it possible for riders to tackle mile after mile.” It reads.
How does Skyhook suspension work?
The theory behind Skyhook, as the name suggests, is to keep the bike perfectly balanced and level, regardless of the road conditions – as if it were hanging from a butcher’s hook anchored in the sky. To do this the front and rear suspension work together, reducing dive at the front and squat at the rear by constantly altering the damping rates.
The system uses to sensors to measure the speed and distance the suspension is moving. One of them is located on the sprung mass, the chassis, for example, the second on the un-sprung mass of the bike. As the distance between these sensors changes, the system calculates the amount of damping adjustment needed and alters it accordingly.
The rest of the 2021 Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE looks to be pretty much the same as before, engine, dash, options, and styling all seem to be the same. There are two colours available for the 2021 model, green and black with grey touches, or grey and black with red sections. Pricing as yet for the UK is TBC.
