Versys 1000 S

The Kawasaki Versys 1000 S is the better-equipped road-focused adventure tourer in the revised 1,043 cc Versys family introduced for 2019. Its inline-four is related to the Z1000 unit but tuned for smooth, usable mid-range torque. The S combines the aluminium frame, cruise control, riding modes and cornering ABS with manually adjustable Showa suspension, heated grips and an adjustable screen. It must not be confused with the Versys 1000 SE: the SE uses Kawasaki Electronic Control Suspension with Skyhook logic, while the S does not.

For riders combining long days, pillion use and fast secondary roads, the Versys 1000 S is an alternative to a pure adventure bike or heavyweight sport tourer. Its broad upright seat and 21-litre tank suit distance, while the four-cylinder feels particularly refined and strong beyond urban speeds. It is not an off-road motorcycle, and the 840 mm seat height plus substantial ready-to-ride mass deserve a test ride for shorter riders. On used examples, confirm that the bike is genuinely an S rather than an SE, because the suspension and equipment differ materially.