Kawasaki is expanding its Versys sport-touring lineup for 2027 with the new Versys 900 SE LT, slotting between the Versys 650 and Versys 1100 SE LT. Powered by a 948cc inline-four derived from the Z900, the new model combines an upright riding position, long-travel suspension and 17-inch wheels with a significantly expanded electronics package.
The liquid-cooled, DOHC, 16-valve engine produces a claimed 120 horsepower at 9500 rpm and 71.8 lb-ft of torque at 8000 rpm. An assist-and-slipper clutch and six-speed transmission with a quickshifter use long final gearing to reduce cruising rpm and limit the need for frequent gear changes.
The engine serves as a stressed member of a new trellis frame, with a reinforced rear section designed to support a passenger and luggage. Kawasaki says the chassis provides near 50:50 weight distribution.
Suspension consists of a 43mm inverted cartridge fork with 5.9 inches of travel and adjustable preload and rebound damping, paired with a horizontal back-link shock offering 6.3 inches of travel, rebound adjustment and remote preload adjustment.
Braking comes from twin 310mm front discs with radial-mount four-piston calipers and a radial master cylinder, with a 260mm rear disc. Five-spoke 17-inch wheels wear Metzeler SPORTEC 01 tires.
The Versys 900’s most notable new feature is its rider-assistance technology. Front- and rear-facing radar sensors enable front collision warning, blind-spot detection and adaptive cruise control Lite. Unlike the full adaptive cruise system used on Kawasaki’s Ninja H2 SX, the ACC Lite system does not apply the brakes when coming up on a vehicle in front. It uses engine braking to reduce speed, with the rider responsible for applying the brakes when necessary.
An IMU supports Kawasaki’s cornering-management system, incorporating lean-sensitive traction control and ABS. Selectable riding modes and the quickshifter round out the electronics package.
Other equipment includes a five-inch TFT display with smartphone connectivity, USB-C charging, a height-adjustable seat, seven-position adjustable windscreen and 5.3-gallon fuel tank.
The Versys 900 SE LT ABS comes standard with side cases, hand guards, heated grips, LED fog lights, radiator screen, frame sliders, center stand and lower cowl. It will arrive in March 2027 with a starting MSRP of $13,599, finished in Plasma Lime Green/Metallic Spark Black. Full specs will be released by Kawasaki in the coming weeks.
