Positioned in Kawasaki's allround motorcycle lineup, the 2015 Kawasaki Versys 1000 features a 1043 cc (63.6 cu in) liquid-cooled in-line four, four-stroke configuration. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 120 HP (87.6 kW) at 9,000 rpm while maximum torque reaches 102 Nm (75.2 lb-ft) at 7,700 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 6-speed gearbox and chain final drive. With a specific output of 115.1 HP per liter and a 1,300 rpm working window between peak torque (7,700 rpm) and peak power (9,000 rpm), the engine character is reflecting a performance-oriented street tune that balances strong mid-range pull with an energetic top-end rush.
On the scales, the Versys 1000 measures 239 kg (527 lbs) wet (curb), translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.5 HP/kg (1.99 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 845 mm (33.3 in) seat height — resulting in a taller command-style riding posture suited to medium-to-tall inseams, combined with a 1,520 mm (59.8 in) wheelbase engineered for balanced agility and highway composure. The 21-liter (5.5 US gal) fuel tank supports practical everyday commuting and weekend road stints.
Within MotoLibrary's Kawasaki archive, this model family spans 11 indexed model years from 2012 to 2024, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.
Specific Output
115.1 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.5 HP/kg (1.99 kg/HP)
Power Band Window
7,700–9,000 rpm
Standover Height
845 mm (33.3 in)
Engine
Displacement1043.0 ccm (63.64 cubic inches)
Engine TypeIn-line four, four-stroke
Engine DetailsIn-line four, four-stroke
Power120.0 HP (87.6 kW)) @ 9000 RPM
Torque102.0 Nm (10.4 kgf-m or 75.2 ft.lbs) @ 7700 RPM
Compression10.3:1
Bore x Stroke77.0 x 56.0 mm (3.0 x 2.2 inches)
Valves/Cylinder4
Fuel SystemInjection
Fuel ControlDouble Overhead Cams/Twin Cam (DOHC)
IgnitionDigital
LubricationForced lubrication, wet sump
CoolingLiquid
Transmission
Gearbox6-speed
Final DriveChain (final drive)
ClutchWet multi-disc, manual
DrivelineSealed chain
Chassis
Frame TypeAluminium twin-tube
Rake27.0°
Trail106 mm (4.2 inches)
Front Suspension43 mm inverted fork with stepless
Front Travel150 mm (5.9 inches)
Rear SuspensionHorizontal Back-link, gas-charged,
Rear Travel150 mm (5.9 inches)
Wheelbase1520 mm (59.8 inches)
Ground Clearance155 mm (6.1 inches)
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre120/70-ZR17
Rear Tyre180/55-ZR17
Front BrakesDouble disc. Petal discs. Dual opposed 4-piston caliper
Use this page to compare this motorcycle by its real specifications, not only by model name. Focus on the details that affect fit, comfort, handling, range and ownership.
Power
Compare engine output with similar motorcycles if acceleration, highway use or two-up riding matters.
Torque
Torque is useful for judging real-world pull, especially for touring, commuting and loaded riding.
Seat Height
Check the seat height against your inseam and riding posture before choosing a motorcycle.
Fuel Capacity
Fuel capacity helps estimate touring range and how often you may need to stop.
Brakes
Brake setup is worth comparing if you ride in traffic, mountains or with a passenger.
Suspension
Suspension details can matter for comfort, road feel and long-distance riding.
Transmission
Transmission and final drive affect maintenance, smoothness and everyday usability.
