Kawasaki Versys 1000: specifications, pros and cons, compatible accessories
The touring four-cylinder, with three generations and codes that change with the year
The 1,043 cc inline four-cylinder, 17-inch wheels and high riding position make the Versys 1000 a touring road bike, not an adventure bike. The catalogue is built accordingly: handguards, cruise control, protection for the original luggage and a complete range of Eazi-Grip films, with different codes for each generation.
- In summaryHandguards, cruise control, luggage protection and films for each generation.
- Do this firstBarkbusters handguard kit and Kaoko cruise control.
- Pay attention to the yearFilms and instrumentation differ between 2015-2018 and from 2019.
- Good to knowAftermarket crash bars and luggage racks are not currently in the catalogue.
- BrandsBarkbusters, Kaoko, Eazi-Grip.
Who it's recommended for
It's the right bike if
- You mainly ride on asphalt and want a high, comfortable riding position
- You like the smooth, continuous power delivery of a four-cylinder
- You do long motorway trips: the mechanical cruise control makes a difference
- You travel two-up with the original Kawasaki luggage
- You're looking for a reliable bike with low running costs
Look elsewhere if
- You want to go off-road: 17-inch wheels and its weight keep it on the asphalt
- You're looking for aftermarket crash bars and luggage racks: they aren't currently in the catalogue
- You want a light and agile bike for tight, twisty roads
- You need an accessories catalogue as extensive as the GS's
- Order films without checking the year: the codes change by generation
In a nutshell: it's the four-cylinder touring road bike. If you want the same setup in a lighter format, the Kawasaki Versys 650 shares the luggage protection; if you're also interested in off-road riding, the BMW R 1300 GS has a much more extensive catalogue.
Technical specifications
| Engine | 1,043 cc inline four-cylinder, liquid-cooled |
|---|---|
| Power | 120 hp from 2019 |
| Transmission | 6 gears, chain final drive |
| Wheels | 17 inches front and rear |
| Fuel tank | 21 litres |
| Generations | 2012-2014, 2015-2018, from 2019; SE version with electronic suspension |
Pros and cons
Pros
- Smooth and reliable four-cylinder
- High, comfortable riding position for two
- 21-liter tank, good range
- Dedicated handguard and cruise control kits
- Eazi-Grip films for each generation
Cons
- Not suitable for off-road use
- No crash bars in the catalog
- No aftermarket pannier frames
- Significant weight during maneuvers
- Different codes for each generation
What to install, in order of priority
On a touring road bike, start with comfort over long distances, then protect the parts that get scratched.
- 1
Two-point Barkbusters handguard kit, from 2019Protects hands and levers from wind, cold and falls. For previous generations, there is the BHG-046, shared with the Honda NC750X and Suzuki V-Strom: check the year in the product sheet table. - 2
Kaoko mechanical cruise controlThe version designed for those with Barkbusters handguards: it maintains the throttle on the highway without electronics. Without Barkbusters, there is the code for the Versys 650 and 1000. - 3
Protection for the original side panniersFilm for the Kawasaki panniers on the 2015-2024 Versys 1000, also shared with the Versys 650, Z 1000 SX and H2 SX. There is also the version up to 2025, which also covers the Versys 1100. - 4
Tank anti-slip stickersFor the Versys 1000 and SE from 2019; for 2015-2018 there is the dedicated code. For the lower section, the tank film is recommended. - 5
Instrument protectionSince 2019, with a separate code for the SE version, which has a different dashboard, and one for 2015-2018.
For the bodywork, there are protective films for 2015-2018 and 2019-2020, and the 2015-2018 tank protection.
See all accessories for Versys 1000Compatibility table
On the Versys 1000, the code is determined by the generation, and for the dashboard also by the SE version.
| Accessory | 2015-2018 | from 2019 | SE from 2019 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barkbusters KLZ1000 handguard kit | no, see BHG-046 | yes | yes |
| Original side pannier protection | yes | yes | yes |
| Tank anti-slip stickers | 2015-2018 code | 2019 code | 2019 code |
| Instrument protection | 2015-2018 code | 2019 code | SE code |
| Bodywork film | 2015-2018 code | 2019-2020 code | to be checked |
Brands with dedicated accessories
BarkbustersHandguardsTwo-point KLZ1000 kit from 2019 and BHG-046 for earlier generations.- KaokoCruise controlTwo versions: for those with Barkbusters handguards and for those with the original bar-end weights.
Eazi-GripGrip and filmsTank stickers, bodywork films, instrument protection, and protection for the original panniers.
Frequently asked questions
Which handguard kit should I get for my Versys 1000?
From 2019, the two-point Barkbusters KLZ1000 kit. For earlier generations, there is the BHG-046, shared with other motorcycles: check your year in the product page table before ordering. In both cases, the plastics are chosen separately.
Which Kaoko cruise control fits the Versys 1000?
It depends on the handguards: if you have Barkbusters, there is a dedicated version designed to be installed with them; with the original bar-end weights, there is the code shared with the Versys 650.
Does the pannier protection fit the original Kawasaki panniers?
Yes, it is an Eazi-Grip film for the original side panniers of the Versys 1000 2015-2024, shared with the Versys 650, Z 1000 SX, and H2 SX. The version up to 2025 also covers the Versys 1100.
Does the SE version use the same codes?
Almost always, yes, except for the instrument protection: the SE has a different dashboard and its own code.
Do you have crash bars or pannier frames for the Versys 1000?
Not today. The catalog covers handguards, cruise control, and protection for the original bodywork, tank, dashboard, and panniers.