2025 Kawasaki Versys 1100 is all about carefully considered evolution. Chief among the “under the surface” changes are an increase in cylinder capacity and a hike in peak power. Developed by Kawasaki specifically for any roads excitement from perfectly surfaced highways to poorly maintained country roads, the Versys In-Line Four engine is boosted in displacement from 1,043 cc to 1,099 cc for the 2025 season via a 3mm longer stroke. This in turn – and with other more subtle adjustments – lifts maximum power from 120 PS to 135 PS. Plus, heightened mid-high rpm torque makes an already great riding experience even more delightful. And a plethora of upgrades focusing on enhancing touring capability has also been bestowed upon the new models-including Standard, S and SE plus Edition machines and luggage options.
New 2025 Versys 1100 key specifications
- Increase in capacity from 1,043 cc to 1,099 cc
- 3 mm longer stroke
- 120 PS to 135 PS increase in power
- Kawasaki Quick Shifter (KQS) now shifts from 1500 rpm
- Showa electronically damped suspension (SE version)
- KTRC traction control
- Cornering management
- Power modes and riding modes
The revised Kawasaki Quick Shifter (KQS) feature now operates from an even more reasonably low minimum shift point of 1500 rpm, while new upper gear ratios increase tour comfort with electronic cruise control. For changes in the engine itself, selected headlines include center intake funnels now 45 mm longer than the outer intake funnels adding to an improvement in torque at 4,000-7,000 rpm. The intake ports were optimised, too, for changing a throttle body and are narrower now relatively to the increased displacement of the bike.
This in turn increases the flow velocity of intake in the low- to mid-rpm range and is beneficial for low-mid range torque. Furthermore, the ECU settings also feature revised throttle valve opening characteristics across the rev range owing to higher engine displacement; cam profiles with a lower valve lift also contribute to increased low-mid rpm range torque. Increased rideability is also due to a heavier flywheel mass and a secondary balancer reduces excess vibration while large connector pipes join exhaust headers 1-4 and 2-3, further contributing to better performance at all rpm. And to keep things under control, an oil cooler has been added in 2025 for improved cooling performance. Braking is revised too with the rear disc increasing from ø250 mm > ø260 mm while.
A USB-C port is standard and in terms of electronic rider aids, the Versys 1100 owner will be well looked after in having a raft of items including KTRC traction control, cornering management, power mode and riding mode selections and – for SE owners – Showa electronically damped suspension. With the added convenience of Kawasaki’s unique Rideology smartphone App, which is now also voice command function ready, you have the ideal platform for on-planet exploration.
