2020 Kawasaki VersysX 300 Review MC Commute

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If your first thought of adventure touring motorcycles paints a picture of heavy, high-priced models that are often a handful when ventured off road, open your mind to the lightweight 2020 Kawasaki Versys-X 300. Although known for its affordability and entry-level approachability, this small-displacement Versys offers comfort, capability, and convenience to riders of all skill levels. • -- • Making use of the 296cc, DOHC, liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine originally developed in the previous Ninja 300 supersport machine, Kawasaki has given the Versys performance with a load of novice-friendly delivery. When strapped to our in-house Dynojet 250i dyno, the Versys produced a modest 32.3 hp at 11,400 rpm and 16.7 pound-feet of torque at 8,600 rpm, but with an ultra-linear power curve and an admirably flat torque delivery. What’s that mean? Throttle response via the digital fuel injection is crisp with a linear power delivery from idle to its 12,750-rpm redline with flexibility in gear selection when chugging around town. • Light clutch pull and quick acceleration from first gear makes pulling away from traffic lights easy and predictable, even if the Versys requires very quick work through its six-speed, tightly spaced gearbox. In fact, the overall final drive gearing is short for the Southern California rat race. The Versys spins at a dizzying 9,000 rpm at 70 mph in top gear with little passing power left in reserve. A quick modification to a taller gearing will make for a more enjoyable riding experience, and might eliminate the desire for a seventh gear. In truth, the small-displacement package can be outgrown quickly, which raises questions as to why Kawasaki hasn’t adopted the beloved 399cc parallel twin seen in the Ninja 400. Is a Versys-X 400 in the future? • A comfortable upright rider triangle and relatively tall windscreen provide a comfortable pocket to log miles. The only wish? Having adjustability to the windscreen position might offer a shade more wind protection. The reach to the one-piece motocross-style handlebar is relaxed while providing enough leverage for tight corners, and the footpeg position combats cramping while remaining in a somewhat aggressive stance. At 5-foot-7, I find the relatively low 32.3-inch seat height helps navigate slow-moving traffic with an easy reach to the ground. • The Versys encompasses a delightfully neutral on-road handling too. Riding on somewhat-aggressive IRC Trail Winner GP-210 dual sport tires, the Kawasaki is still comfortable and confident on the asphalt. With its 19-inch front and 17-inch rear wire-spoked wheelset, the Versys will support a wide selection of more off-road-oriented rubber, should an owner want to venture the gnarl. At 410 pounds fully fueled (measured with the equipped accessories), it possesses a confidence-inspiring stability yet remains nimble when coaxed. The 41mm nonadjustable conventional fork and preload-adjustable rear shock strike a fair balance of small-bump compliance and big-hit support for normal road conditions, but firmer settings might be appreciated in the dirt. • Our test unit came equipped with add-on components offered via Kawasaki’s accessory catalog. The most obvious addition is the pair of 17-liter hard saddlebag sets ($439.95). From a distance, these bags look rugged and ready to pack luggage in waterproof safety and convenience, but in the real world feel flimsy and are tight on space. A look to similarly priced aftermarket options is well deserved. A set of LED auxiliary lights ($409.95) offer wide-spread illumination at low speeds and extra visibility to traffic, but are highly priced in comparison to aftermarket options. The hand guard set ($115.95) and engine guard kit ($225.95) are reasonable upgrades should you plan on off-roading the Versys. Our Versys also came equipped with a centerstand ($299.95) and other small bits. • The Kawasaki Versys-X 300 packs a punch of adventure in a small-displacement, approachable package. Relatively light weight, comfort, and ease of use make this motorcycle a worthy option for less-experienced riders looking to venture into the segment, even if the Versys’ powerplant has grown long in the tooth. Still, the Versys is ready for adventure—not to mention roughly a quarter of the cost of the flagship models you may have first pictured. • Find out more: https://www.motorcyclistonline.com/st... • Videography/edit: Bert Beltran • Photography: Jeff Allen • Subscribe: http://www.youtube.com/c/Motorcyclist... • Motorcyclist Shirts: https://teespring.com/stores/motorcyc... • Shop Products We Use: https://www.amazon.com/shop/motorcycl... • See more from us: http://www.motorcyclistonline.com/

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