Kawasaki Expands Versys Lineup with 2027 900 SE LT
Kawasaki’s Versys models are typically underappreciated motorcycles, although some excellent recent machines—like the Versys 1100 SE LT tall tourer—may be changing rider perceptions. Now, the Japanese company is adding a new bike to the Versys family, aiming for the high-end mid-size touring market
The new 2027 Versys 900 SE LT slips in between the 1100 SE LT and the Versys 650. Being the only model available in North America, the nominally special edition SE LT promises a comfortable long-distance touring experience with an upright seating position, unique electronics, and extra standard equipment.
While many parts of the Versys 900 are new, the engine is familiar to Kawasaki fans from the Z900 naked bike. In that bike, the liquid-cooled 948cc in-line four powerplant produces 123 horsepower at 9,500 rpm and 73 lb-ft of torque at 7,700 rpm. We can likely expect similar performance numbers from the Versys, although Kawasaki stated that the engine has been tuned for touring.
The engine connects to a gearbox with an assist and slipper clutch. The V900 SE LT also comes with a standard up-down quickshifter, which remains operational even at 1,500 rpm.
New Chassis
Moving to all-new elements, the first thing on the list is the chassis. Based on but not identical to the Versys 1100’s frame, the Versys 900 features an aluminum twin-tube frame with the engine as a stressed member. The trellis rear frame draws influences from the Z900 and Ninja H2 SX motorcycles.
In ready-to-ride condition with the 5.3-gallon fuel tank filled, the chassis carries 485 pounds of weight. The seat, adjustable without tools, moves between two positions at 32.5 and 33.3 inches, providing what Kawasaki describes as a comfortable upright position with a wide handlebar.
Suspension components consist of a 43mm inverted fork with rebound and preload adjustment and a horizontally mounted rear shock with similar adjustability. Suspension travel is fairly long, with 5.9 inches in the front and 6.3 inches in the rear.
For braking, the front wheel carries dual 310mm discs with four-piston calipers, while the rear sports a 260mm disc and a single-piston caliper. The five-spoke, 17-inch wheels (based on those of the Z900) are equipped with Metzeler Sportec 01 tires.
Electronics
As a first for the Versys family, the 900 SE LT comes with the Kawasaki Advanced Rider Assistance Systems (ARAS). This electronics suite adds the brand’s Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) Lite, forward collision warning, and blind spot detection.
The ACC Lite uses the bike’s front radar to monitor the distance between the motorcycle and the vehicle up ahead, opening or closing the throttle based on whether you’ve set the system to Near, Medium, or Far follow distance. However, as an important note, the Lite system does not apply the brakes—that is the rider’s responsibility.
Other rider aids include three ride modes (Sport, Road, and Rain), which pair with three traction control modes. You can swap between the modes using the right grip control cluster when the throttle is closed and cruise control is inactive. You also get cornering-ABS.
The electronics are controlled through a new five-inch color TFT display that features two swappable layouts, one providing information focused on sport riding and the other on touring. The collision warning system’s alerts also appear on the display.
Smartphone connectivity for vehicle information, turn-by-turn navigation, and other functions through Kawasaki’s Rideology app. A USB-C outlet provides device power.
Design and Extras
Kawasaki has given the Versys 900 its own look with a unique style language. Dubbed the “aero edge,” the bike’s design combines layered body panels and sharp sporty angles that are inspired by previous models. The V900 is unmistakably a Kawasaki, but with a personal character.
As with most Versys bikes, the 2027 900 SE LT is available in a single Plasma Lime Green/Metallic Spark Black colorway.
As the special edition (the base models are not available in North America), the V900 comes with a set of extra goodies that make long-distance touring more comfortable. These include a manually adjustable windshield with three positions, handguards, heated grips, frame-mounted fog lamps, a vented lower cowl, and a radiator shield.
For luggage, you get two 8.5-gallon hard side cases with locks. Kawasaki also offers an accessory 12.4-gallon topcase.
From March 2027 onward, the bike will be available at dealers at an MSRP of $13,599