Kawasaki KLE 1000 Versys

Created as the long-awaited big brother of Kawasaki�s mid-size any-road street surfer, the new Versys 1000 is designed to enable the greatest riding enjoyment in the widest variety of street riding situations. Whether riding solo or two-up, around the corner or around the globe, its unique combination of a highly responsive In-Line Four engine tuned for flexibility will have your grinning in your helmet.

KAWASAKI IN-LINE FOUR EXHILARATION FUN PACKAGE ON WINDING ROADS
Both the Versys 1000�s engine and chassis were designed to maximise rider enjoyment on the street. Its 1,043cc In-line Four
delivers a rewarding surge of acceleration with every twist of the throttle. The chassis balance and long-travel suspension
settings enable superb control and feedback, offering a high level of rider confidence in numerous street riding situations and
accommodating a variety of riding styles. The almost zen-like serenity is complemented by a relaxed, upright riding position that
offers a high level of machine control as well as a good vantage ahead. The nimble aluminium chassis and spor ty 17� wheels
enable aggressive spor t riding when the mood suits.

ANY STREET, ANY TIME. ESPECIALLY FUN ON WINDING ROADS.
Following up on the any-street promise of its predecessor, the new Versys 1000 continues to offer maximum riding enjoyment across a wide variety of street riding situations. Whether riding solo or two-up, around the corner or around the globe, this fun-to-ride road sports bike�s unique combination of a highly responsive In-Line Four engine tuned for flexibility, and a nimble chassis fitted with dynamic suspension will have riders grinning in their helmets. Add in the upright riding position and you have package that really comes into its own on twisty mountain roads. For 2015, its new styling package better reflects this fun, sporty nature, while a number of updates to the chassis and a host of new accessory items make it easier for Versys owners to ride longer and farther.

Exciting Engine
To maximise the Versys 1000�fs fun factor, engineers wanted to provide the most exciting engine possible. The engine needed to
deliver more than just performance figures. The engine they chose was a 1,043cc In-line Four, tuned for flexibility. Superb throttle
response, strong torque at all rpm (especially in the low-mid range), and a seductive intake howl ensure that every twist of the
throttle delivers a physical and aural sensation that riders may easily find addictive.

* Z1000-based liquid-cooled, DOHC, 16-valve 1,043 cc In-line Four with a bore and stroke of 77.0 x 56.0 mm offers strong low-mid range torque with smooth power delivery.
* Downdraft throttle bodies allow intake air to travel to the engine in the shortest possible distance, contributing to performance. While downdraft throttle bodies often use short intake funnels to maximise high-rpm performance, the Versys 1000�fs are longer to offer the best power characteristics for street riding excitement.
* Throttle bore is o38 mm, chosen for low-mid range response.
* Oval sub-throttles are used to deliver extremely smooth response. The oval sub-throttles also help keep the engine slim . important
since the throttle bodies are positioned between the rider�'s knees.
* An intoxicating intake howl contributes to the engine feel and tempts riders to twist the throttle just to enjoy the aural sensation when accelerating.
* The addition of two additional intake passages (one below the main passage, one at the bottom of the airbox) contribute to increased engine performance.
* Good over-rev characteristics mean that power does not drop off suddenly at high rpm.
* Power delivery is quite linear and, thanks to FI settings, response is both quick and silky smooth. Both characteristics facilitate control (especially for low-rpm manoeuvres or when rolling the throttle back on) and contribute to sport riding potential.
* Flexible engine character means the Versys 1000 will be just as happy cruising along at low-rpm as it is being ridden more aggressively in the mid-high rpm range.
* Connecting passageways added between the cylinders help reduce pumping loss. The increased performance helps ensure
the power feeling of the previous model is maintained while achieving cleaner emissions.
* Long-type Denso 12-hole fine-atomising injectors with tapered holes (previously 8-hole injectors with straight holes) spray 60 droplets in a narrower spray pattern. More centrally directed fuel spray and more consistent droplet size contribute to increased
combustion efficiency.
* Denso stick-type ignition coils with reversed coils (primary coil on the outside) helps minimise electrical interference.
* Revised ignition timing matches the changes to the injectors, air cleaner and exhaust.
* A secondary balancer, driven off a gear on the 6th web of the crankshaft, eliminates excess vibration. Of course, a certain
amount of engine vibration was desired as part of the bike�fs character (vibration contributes to the feeling of acceleration,
increasing linearly with rpm), so vibration was not totally eliminated.
* With the new cowling, cooling performance is improved, allowing the water-cooled oil cooler to be eliminated to save weight.
* Increased generator output (12.3 A -> 15.3 A) at idling speed (1,100 min-1) ensures sufficient generating capacity with a full
complement of accessories.

Exhaust System Race-derived Clutch Technology
* Large, oval-shaped connector pipes join exhaust headers 1-4 and Improved Shift Feeling 2-3, contributing to better performance at all rpm. (The reduced exhaust resistance results in an ideal exhaust flow.)
* Under-engine pre-chamber contributes to a more centralised mass by enabling a smaller-volume silencer.
* Single side muffler offers lower weight than twin mufflers.
* 3-way catalysers in the exhaust collector and pre-chamber ensure strict emissions regulations are met. Revised main catalyser
material contributes to clean emissions. * Assist & Slipper Clutch was developed based on feedback from
racing activities. The clutch uses two types of cams (an assist cam and a slipper cam), offering two new functions not available
on the standard clutch of the previous model.
* When the engine is operating at normal rpm the assist cam functions as a self-servo mechanism, pulling the clutch hub and
operating plate together to compress the clutch plates. This allows the total clutch spring load to be reduced, resulting in a
lighter clutch lever pull when operating the clutch. Fewer (3, vs 5 on the previous model) clutch springs translate to a 30% lighter
clutch lever feel.
* When excessive engine braking occurs � as a result of quick downshifts (or an accidental downshift) � the slipper cam comes
into play, forcing the clutch hub and operating plate apart. This relieves pressure on the clutch plates to reduce back-torque and
help prevent the rear tire from hopping and skidding.

Gearing
* Gear ratios were chosen to accommodate a wide range of riding situations, including sport riding, highway cruising, and riding fully
loaded with passenger and luggage.
* Compared to the 2014 Z1000, 1st gear feels shorter (the shorter gearing facilitates moving off from a stop when fully loaded), while 3rd-6th gears are longer (ratios selected to enable sport riding as well as relaxed highway cruising).

Long-travel Suspension
* At the front, the Versys 1000 is supported by a �43 mm inverted cartridge-type fork.
* Damping mechanism is now concentrated in the right fork tube.
* Rebound and compression damping are about 30% less than on the previous model. The softer suspension action contributes to
increased ride comfort.
* Longer outer tubes (length increased 20 mm) increase fork rigidity. The more composed movement contributes to increased riding
stability.
* Long travel of 150 mm (unchanged from the previous model) contributes to the fork�s excellent bump absorption and road holding performance.
* Top-out springs with revised a softer spring rate and increased length contribute to reduced shock at maximum extension, for increased stability.
Because real world riding occurs on streets that are often less than circuit smooth � road imperfections (bumps, potholes) are far
from rare, and some streets are not even paved (cobblestone, etc) � Kawasaki engineers chose long-travel suspension to enable
riders to carve corners with aplomb. While not designed for off-road use, the long-travel suspension�s ability to cope with lessthan-
perfect street conditions allows the Versys 1000 to remain composed where bikes with stiffer, sportier set-ups would require
backing off the throttle.

Relaxed, Upright Riding Position
* Wide handlebar offers easy control, especially for low-speed manoeuvring. Positioned to offer a natural grip, it allows the
rider�s elbows to be slightly bent when sitting in a relaxed, upright stance.
* The seat�s slim design and the knee grip characteristics of the tank afford good freedom of movement, allowing the riders to
change sitting position should they so choose. Thick urethane increases comfort and contributes to a seat height that places the
rider in a position of fun controllability. The stepped shape of the seat also provides support for the rider when accelerating. (

Aluminium Twin-tube Frame
* Lightweight and highly rigid, the frame uses the engine as a stressed member. It contributes to handling, offering a firm,
planted feeling, good stability and light, nimble turning.
* Setting the caster angle at 27o contributes to a good balance of high-speed stability and a neutral handling character that facilitates sporty street riding.
* The frame is a 5-piece cast aluminium construction, consisting of steering stem, left and right main frames, and two cross pieces.
The two main frame components have open C-shaped cross sections and were die-cast to ensure a smooth surface finish.
* Reinforcing pipes join the engine hangers to the main frame, offering increased chassis rigidity to suit the long-suspension frame configuration.

Sporty 17� Wheels & Tires

Triple Petal Disc Brakes with Latest-spec ABS

3-Mode KTRC (Kawasaki Traction Control)
Three modes cover a wide range of riding conditions, offering either enhanced sport riding performance or the peace of mind to negotiate slippery surfaces with confidence.
* Conditions are confirmed every 5 milliseconds, and control via ignition timing allows extremely quick reaction.
* In Mode 3 (the most intrusive) the same logic and control as in Modes 1 and 2 is employed during normal operation. However,
when excessive rear wheel spin is detected, Mode 3 switches to three-way control � governing ignition timing, fuel delivery and
airflow (via the sub-throttles) � and engine output is reduced to a level that allows the rear wheel to regain grip. It is the control of
the sub-throttles that enables smooth operation. This fine control results in a very natural feeling: engagement is smooth, on/off
transition is smooth, and stability is maintained during extended operation.
* In Mode 3, KTRC effectively enables riders to negotiate both short slippery patches (train tracks or manhole covers) and extended stretches of bad road (wet pavement, cobblestone, gravel, etc) without worry. Wheel spin is also limited when starting on a slippery surface.
* The system is also able to distinguish between torque wheelies, which are smooth, and other wheelies. In Modes 1 and 2, torque
wheelies are allowed as long as acceptable acceleration is maintained. Other wheelies trigger system intervention. In Mode 3,
all wheelies are prevented.
* The system uses minimal hardware but complex software. Apart from the engine ECU, the system relies on only front and rear
wheel speed sensors � which means minimal additional weight (none, in the case of an ABS model like the Versys 1000, which
already has wheel speed sensors).
* By default, KTRC is always ON when the engine is started. (The mode will be the same as when the engine was turned off, or in
Mode 1 if the system had been turned off.) To ride with KTRC off, riders must consciously turn the system OFF (using the mode
button on the left grip).

* Riders can choose from three modes. Modes 1 and 2 prioritise maximum forward acceleration. Mode 3 provides rider
reassurance by facilitating smooth riding on slippery surfaces. Riders may also elect to turn the system off.
* In Modes 1 and 2, highly sophisticated programming allows a degree of slip � a certain amount of slip is required to maximise
acceleration. The ideal slip ratio varies according to conditions. The system looks at a number of parameters to get an accurate
real-time picture of what is going on: front and rear wheel speed (slippage) and various engine, machine and rider input parameters
are monitored.
* Using complex analysis, the system is able to predict when traction conditions are about to become unfavourable. By acting
before slippage exceeds the range for optimal traction, drops in power can be minimised, resulting in ultra-smooth operation.

Power Mode Selection
* A choice of Full Power or Low Power modes allows riders to set power delivery to suit preference and conditions. Low Power
mode limits output to approximately 75% of Full Power and uses a milder throttle response. (Reduction of both power and throttle
response varies according to engine speed (rpm), throttle position and gear position.)
* Combining the various KTRC and Power Mode options, riders have eight combinations from which to choose. For example,
an experienced rider on dry pavement might choose Full Power and KTRC Mode 1 for sport riding. On a wet and/or slippery
road surface, Low Power and KTRC Mode 3 might be selected. Each system can be set independently to best suit rider skill/
preference, riding location and road conditions.

RIDE LONGER, RIDE FARTHER
In addition to the riding excitement offered by the nimble chassis and exhilarating engine, the Versys 1000 offers the comfor t and carrying capacity to allow riders to ride long and far. A highly comfortable seat and good wind protection complement the
relaxed riding position, making it easy to spend a long time in the saddle. Passenger comfor t is also superb, so riders can easily share the fun. A high payload and numerous accessories, including new luggage mounted with a clean-mount system, add to comfor t
and convenience, making it easy for riders to get away for more than a day at a time. And a large-volume fuel tank and great fuel economy allow a greater range between fill-ups.

Rider & Passenger Comfort
* A new design tapered handlebar has a shorter rise that makes it stronger and more rigid. A fatter middle section contributes to the
increased strength.

The handlebar mounting position is 20 mm higher to compensate for the new handlebar bend. Handgrip position is the same as
before.
* Single-piece handle clamp (previously separate left/right pieces with a brace) offers increased rigidity. The new design also enables the repositioning of the ignition key switch.
* Complementing the high rigidity handlebar and handle clamps, the clamps are now rubber mounted. Two types of dampers are used: tapered dampers are used with the stud-bolt mounts to absorb vibration for increased rider comfort, while flat dampers fore and aft of the tapered dampers absorb forward/backward play in the handle to ensure excellent control.

Wind Protection & Airflow Management

* Adjustable windscreen has a stepless range of approximately 75 mm. The greater range of adjustability (previously 30 mm) contributes to increased wind protection and comfort. Height can be adjusted without tools (using two knobs on the front of the screen) to suit rider preference.

Clean-mount Saddlebag System
* The mounting system for the saddlebags allows the saddlebags to be attached and removed very simply, contributing to increased
convenience. Completely revised to allow the saddlebags to be better integrated with the rear of the bike, the clean-mount system
positions the saddlebags much closer to the bike centreline, and, thanks to its clean clutter-free design, ensures the rear of the bike still looks good with the saddlebags removed.

High Payload & Carrying Capacity
* Robust steel pipe rear frame enables the substantial payload of 220 kg � plenty for carrying two passengers and luggage.
* A lightweight resin-construction rear carrier (6 kg maximum capacity) is fitted as standard equipment. (Photo 15)
* An accessory top case (and mount) can be fitted. The top case is rated for 5 kg, and with its 47 litre volume is large
enough to fit two full-face helmets.

SHARP, SPORTY STYLING
Spor ty new looks give the Versys 1000 a stronger Kawasaki identity, while reflecting the exciting spor t-riding potential offered by
its nimble chassis and exhilarating In-Line Four engine.

Instrumentation
* Tough-design multi-function instrumentation includes an analogue-style tachometer and LCD with speedometer, fuel gauge, odometer, clock, dual trip meters, current and average fuel consumption, remaining range, and external air temperature. (Photo 36)
* Tachometer face is now black, contributing to sporty looks and offering increased legibility.
* KTRC (3 modes + OFF), Power Mode (2 modes) and the various LCD modes (including the trip meter reset) are all controlled using the multi-function button located at the left handle.
* The Economical Riding Indicator appears on the LCD screen to indicate favourable fuel consumption. Paying attention to conditions that result in the mark appearing can assist riders to maximise their fuel efficiency. This handy feature is active all the time, although to be effective, the rider must ride in a gentle manner: less than 6,000 rpm, less than 30% throttle, under 160 km/h.

Bodywork

Upper cowl features a horizontally split design that reinforces the compact and sporty image of the Versys 1000. The aggressive new design contributes to a strong Kawasaki identity. (Photo 35)
* Previously featuring vertically stacked headlamps, the Versys 1000�s �face� is now adorned with twin headlamps arranged
horizontally. The new layout contributes to a more aggressive, sporty Kawasaki design.
* While its primary purpose is functional, the chin spoiler below the headlamps adds to the aggressive, sporty looks.
* Front turn signals were relocated from the upper cowl beside the headlamp to the shrouds to match the new headlamp and cowl
design.
* Tapered handlebar with a shorter rise adds tougher looks to the cockpit area, complemented by the new single-piece handlebar
clamp.
* Wedge-shaped front brake reservoir tank adds a touch of class to the cockpit area.
* Revised mirror design contributes a fresh appearance to the new styling.
* Heel guard pads prevent paint from being rubbed off, adding to higher quality appearance in this area.
* Hairline finish for the silencer body and an aluminium die-cast end-cap design contribute to a stronger sporty image.