NEW Kawasaki Versys 1100 | First Ride Review

[@cocky_potato]

Kawasaki has to be the most overlooked, underestimated manufacturer out there, I truly do think so. Brilliant review my guy.

[@kwakithailand]

Not overlooked by my brothers and myself. We had at least 15 Kwakis between us.

[@cocky_potato]

@@kwakithailand my dude, your family alone is keeping them in business 🤣

[@ricardo6861]

Ya think😂😂

[@lelouchabrilvelda1794]

​@@cocky_potatoAccording to my research Kawasaki are more richer companies than any European motorcycle brands. Even Ducati. Thats the reason why they sell it to Volkswagen 😂.

[@PeteAnda]

Super chargers, screaming 400, hybrid. Kept the sports tourer alive when everyone went SUV. They are not dull and are willing to be different.

[@temibankole3541]

I moved from a CBR600RR to an MT10 but then in July, I did the unthinkable and got a 2021 Versys 1000. It seemed like a weird decision at the time but now I think I got the best bike for me. I'm 6"1 and my physique is just perfect for this bike. It's such an under-rated machine and i wish more people would experience the comfort and fluidity of the Versys series first before writing it off. Great review, LCR. Keep up the good work!

[@snowballed4]

I totally agree with you. I too recently bought a 2021 Versys 1000, the S model, and I'm 2 inches taller than you. It is brilliant, comfortable and totally suits my laid back riding, plus the induction noise is addictive when I do get those - errrrr - urgent moments.... What a great all rounder though! I see the 2025 Versys 1100 is out - 15bhp extra, but I'm not sure what else. I'm sticking with mine. As ever, people's viewpoints differ. You can put the Versys 1000 (or anything in life really) in the centre, draw a circle around that and then you can think of people all sat round the circle, all the way around, each person then having a different view of the centre. The only problems in life then come from someone with a certain view insisting that theirs is so great that everyone else in the circle should adopt their viewpoint too. And those other people don't want to. You can see where this goes.... Anyway, I might have another beer. Ride safe....(no, I'm not riding tonight).

[@zyghom]

I was thinking and amongst nice competition I chose Tracer 9 GT. Less power, less mass, probably more electronics - probably the same fun ;-)

[@alexandrehenri9508]

Don't you miss the power of the mt10?

[@carybarron4344]

I own a 2015 Versys 1000 and I will never sell it! It only has 2 power modes, 3 levels of traction control and abs, that's it! Plenty of power! I have never felt underpowered and it will lean over to ridiculous angles! I have put Michelin road 6 tires that really makes it perfect. The suspension is just right and manually adjustable for preload and damping. Incidentally, I'm also 6'2" and this bike fits me just right! Not a great bike for short people.So now I'm going to have to save my pennies so I can add this new 1100 to my garage. Great review Chopsy! One of my favorite bike reviewers! Keep up the good work sir!

[@LambChopRides]

Thanks very much Cary and enjoy the 1100 when you get it 👍

[@viktorkatona7521]

What’s your inseam if i may ask?

[@carybarron4344]

34”-35”

[@AlienApe.]

A tourer designed for touring. Great stuff.

[@RRRRefuelRideRace]

No doubt. :)

[@alanbarnes2920]

Just missing shaft drive 😉

[@steveball2307]

Smashing vid Chops, great decision to ride alone away from the rest of the launch crowd - really illustrated what I love about solo touring, ride at what pace you fancy and even get the odd look at the view! Looks a decent bike too - very interesting how it grew on you as the ride went on. Good stuff.

[@LambChopRides]

Yes I wish more launches were like this and you can set off on your own. It's very rare, actually the first time I've seen it! 👍

[@grumpsrides42]

I absolutely loved my 2015 Versys 1000! I commuted, travelled and had fun in the twisties, in absolute comfort. Yes, 'on paper', the Versys is down on power and up on weight, but not everyone wants/needs 150+ bhp! Want something more sporty? buy an SX?! ALL the toys, luggage and centre stand etc. for around £15K?! Personally, I think the Versys, is a very underrated motorcycle.

[@JAF41972]

I've got a 2017 versys 1000 and i absolutely love it so much so I've put 32000mls on it. After watching your video i think I've found my next new bike 😊. I'm 6ft4 and 19st ish so i like a big bike feel etc 👍

[@exothermal.sprocket]

You have to consider the kind of potential buyer considering this class of machine, also in Kawasaki's products it's the only "comfort sports tourer" left. Weight is not necessarily a con, it offers better stability at speed, absorbs road conditions, ignores buffeting and side winds. All of that adds up to low fatigue and easy comfort over traveling long range. That's the kind of buyer looking here. The S1000XR is a monster both in horsepower AND cost. That's not what the Versys 1100 is about. The Tracer 9GT+ is less powerful but it is a good bit lighter, has a more frothy and exciting engine (but that can be a con over long range and comfort as well, speaking of general fatigue). The GSX-S1000GX is more sporty. It also has less wind protection and less 2-up potential. I think Kawasaki has targeted a specific touring market, considering their Concours14 went away, and the only other touring bike they offer is the bonkers Ninja H2SX, or the big Vtwin Vulcan Voyager 1700.

[@SanderLikesBikes]

Thanks for this one Chops! Just came back from a 3500km trip on the 1000SE 2023 model and it was great. Coming from an XR it sure has less power, but loved the touring aspect. Very comfortable, good fuel consumption and enough power for the twisty roads. Curious to compare the 1100 to the 1000cc!

[@kwak1k]

The versys has always had a ton of midrange drive. More than the Tracer 900 for sure. I've got a gen 2 and it's its got smooth power right through the revs and brilliant low speed control. It's always been good.Neevesy gave it a 5/5 and that'll do me...

[@davidpate6095]

I makes sense Kawasaki positioned the Versys as more touring oriented because they also have the Ninja 1000 SX. I had a 650 Versys years ago and thought it was a bit bland but a great all-rounder.

[@RobertJones-pm3zk]

The tft with the analogue tach is pretty nice, wish more bikes would come like that. Interesting bike and great video, ride safe!

[@LambChopRides]

Yes absolutely agree the screen layout is lovely. Very classy looking too 👌

[@CptSlow89]

@@LambChopRides I saw you are doing tight and slow turns at 2nd gear @ 2000rpm without clutch, is it smooth to puul from there or its better to shift into 1st on these slow corners?

[@craigg4246]

The screen looks black and white? Could that be true? Looks like it’s from 2005, not 2025…

[@4tech69]

I really do love that. I've got a 22 model SE and appreciate the analogue tach. The whole look from the riders view point of the dash on this bike is very Executive in nature.

[@4tech69]

@@craigg4246 it was in Dark mode. It has a lite mode as well. It's an excellent screen.

[@Cowelly84]

The bike looks great. Im looking forward to trying this bike next year

[@Nyez]

Used to have a 23' versys. Very capable bike. 50 degree lean angles left and right. Brakes are so so.. needs 'a lot of' input to steer aswell. But for the money you cant go wrong. Buy the base model and upgrade the suspension. Base versys has cruise control, imui, traction/wheelie control and you can het the quick shifter

[@ninja12lawbreaker]

Its nice to ride in a bubble of calm. I recall 170mph on my Thunderace and R1 after 140mph it goes quiet as the air is now flying way over your helmet, even the exhaust noise is half left behind. The bike looks the right size for the bigger gentleman. As for Kawasaki, I've only had one, the early unrestricted ZX12R for 6 years. That engine was super smooth, and power was rapid to build but linear in all gears. Bloody awful to work on though, nearly 2 hours to change the battery. Hopefully Kawasaki have now given chassis design to the same people who build the engines

[@RE650NZGraeme]

Well done Chopsy! Yes torque and comfort are King when touring - you dont want to be fussing with chasing gears from corner to corner - get a Sports bike with HP and tight adjustable suspension for that. You nailed it when you said that about torque. Don't go chasing HP, you will empty the tank too quick, leave it in 3rd and ride in comfort - you will get better fuel economy!! My R1200RT confirms that!!

[@LambChopRides]

Thanks buddy 👍

[@magaudion]

Great bike. Had a Versys 1000 in 2015. Why pay £23k ish for a GS or even more for an M XR or Multi RS , unless you want to go dick-swinging to the local bike cafe. This 1100 is a proper comfortable touring bike for those that just want to get out there without shouting it from the rooftops.

[@LambChopRides]

Very true!

[@ItsAllJustBollox]

The previous 1000cc version was so dull with its detuned z1000 engine spoiling a good bike, it's great to see Kawasaki have finally given it some extra horses.

[@magaudion]

@@ItsAllJustBollox utter crap. Was a great bike .

[@MajorDrama1]

@@magaudion Yeah it was a great bike but I agree with Bollox in that it had a decidedly bland feel to the power delivery and the handling - It was actually very refined and relaxing bike to ride - Strangely good 2-Up - And would generally hoof along alright if you gave it time to build steam, but sold mine after relatively few miles for something much more lively and european of course - Cant see those minor extra cubes being enough to really shift the needle...?

[@Nyez]

@@MajorDrama1 the 1100 is probably just as dull. A few more ponies wont change the characteristics of the bike

[@simongoodwin926]

My 2019 1000 Versys SE is very spongy and bouncy in Rain mode. I find Road mode perfect for most situations, and only use Sport mode when out of the city. I don't especially like riding fast, so the comfort really works for me. The pork cheek and calamari sounds delicious, I'll have yours next time Chopsy!

[@ehiggins7476]

Engine note sound great, nice and throaty

[@KiwiMoto72]

mate - another nice little chat about a super underrated Moto. I think it really threads the needle nicely between a few of the other options out there..

[@fundymentalism]

Might be time to move up from my c1000 finally. Been eyeballing versys1000 for a long time, and this iteration seems to have solved my quibbles

[@karanchoxi1]

Seat height adjustment, windscreen adjustment on the fly maybe electronically, bigger tank , lower weight of the bike, blind spot, radar tech not required but to count, bigger or newer more accomodative luggage boxes, apple car play and android auto, touch screen display, shaft drive, phone mounting space, keyless ride.

[@after75]

Hi @Chopsy! How would you rate this vs the new Honda NT1100 with electronic suspension? “Low” budget touring comparison with the 1250 or 1300 Bmw RT? 👍🏻

[@garytoft9447]

I had a Versys 1000 for a couple of years. Great bike to ride and really enjoyed it except for one major fault - the seat. The seat was sloped forward and you would slide onto the tank and squash your balls. At the time, this appeared to be a common complaint from riders. There were options to do something about it but they all meant replacing the seat at a cost of around $1,000. I ended up selling it because of the seat. I sure hope they got the seat right this time.

[@49googie]

Been riding GS's for 20 years do a lot of two up prob 95% of the time, went to buy an RT its ok but the Kwak looks a far better prospect and price is more sensible. Must get a test ride. Great vlog by the way regards Robert

[@pietin4321]

my mate has a versys 1000 hes a tall chap and can really hustle it - very under rated motorcycle

[@ticthedog6095]

👍 Great review and the 1100 seams to be a decent performance upgrade on the 1000, which was already a great touring bike with its 3 box luggage and decent payload. The majority of modern Kawasaki gearbox’s have a positive neutral finder and the gearbox is designed so you can’t go from 1st to 2nd without the rear wheel rotating.

[@zardportugal]

This Kawie is much better than it looks or seams, for sure.

[@tonydare7614]

Maybe I moved too fast (as usual) and pre-ordered the new Tiger 800 sport for Feb/March. I'm sure that it'll be amazing but this bike looks pretty spot on. And really miss those Spanish roads!

[@twowheelsoneleg5672]

I think the Versys, a little like the NT1100, maybe the 1250RT they don't grab the headlines but they are proper touring motorcycles for guys who do big miles in comfort and do have a core following

[@ivanhoe4766]

That's a good point. I have the "21RT and love it. The 1100 would be my choice bang for the buck if the RT was not available, although I wouldn't pay new prices for an RT. I can carve the twisties as fast as I want to go. The front drops so easily into the corner and stays locked in through the exit.

[@PeteAnda]

Great review. Kawasaki tend do their own thing,. Im not ready for this style (only55) but in a few years when comfort is key, it sounds brilliant.

[@Achilles22]

I agree but I’m 6ft 4ins and comfort is very important?

[@PeteAnda]

Blimey it should fit well then. Im only 6’2” and still fold up well. But age will get me.

[@nitrousninja882]

I'm 69 and ride a Hayabusa and Kawasaki ZX-14R. Young guys can't believe someone my age rides those two bikes.

[@PeteAnda]

That is brilliant, inspiring. We get old, some seem to jump straight to it and miss the exciting sexy thrilling stuff. Going to keep fit n strong and ride Daytonas as long as i can.

[@brianwalter7560]

I've owned a Versys 1000S for nearly 3 years and love almost everything about it. I do plan to fit a Nitron shock this winter, though, as the standard shock is definitely a weak point. I seem to spend most of my time at less than 4,000 revs as the motor is so torquey & flexible. It's interesting that the graph comparing the 1100 with 1000 showed no increase in torque and power until you get beyond 4k so, for me, there'd be no real benefit in changing. I noticed that you seemed to spend most of your solo ride at under 4k as well, Chops.

[@paulfarcas1514]

Reason for that is that the most complaints about the previous version were about mid and top end power. I've got 4000 km on mine and never felt it needs it. Probably down to Kawi getting the wrong feedback. What I changed on mine is the front suspention coils to fix the braking fork dive. Other than that, it's the perfect fit for my riding.

[@paulneedham3608]

Had versys 1000 for 5 years change for bmwr1250rt. But wish I had another versys 1000se.

[@MontysMotos]

I was mostly sold on the 1000 but think that little bump in displacement was all it needed for me. I'll have to test ride the 1100 version. It checks every box aside from the chain drive.

[@kugangles9860]

I wouldn't worry about a chain drive. It's simple to maintain esp with a center stand. Lube every few hundred miles and check slack every once and awhile and it will last for 10-15k miles.

[@MontysMotos]

@kugangles9860 I'm well aware but would rather not.

[@brentmatheson4729]

Thanks for the review. I have been a KLR 650 rider for a long time so I have a soft spot for the brand and for a bike that has an upright seating position. My wife and I are looking for a bike to do maybe 2 to 3 day trips two up and this one has moved to the top of the list for us.

[@aleksmoto72]

Chopsy...I notice in many of the reviews when the "competition" is listed KTM SDGT is not mentioned...yeah the new 1390 is to be released in a few weeks...but 1290 GT trumps XR is many ways and is super versatile machine. Appreciate your work, and hopefully the feed back. Godspeed!

[@LambChopRides]

Yeah good point.. I do forget about the GT.. Next year will be interesting, I've seen pics of new GT and really like it

[@ArmadilloGodzilla]

The quality issues and rumors make me stay away from ktm.

[@PNH63]

Beautiful bike, great polished review chops. Thanks

[@andyfairchild2383]

Would it be an upgrade from the 1000? Well for me yes, very much so, I’m still riding a 2012 Versys 1000, the stacked headlight version! I still enjoy it, fast enough for me, 200 miles before lunch? No problem. Sure it’s never going to suit a track day but then neither am I so that’s not an issue. Great review Chops, thanks 👍

[@RRRRefuelRideRace]

Not a lot of changes, but it was already a very good bike. :) Nice video, Just like always. Cheers.

[@michaelgaull5517]

Hi Chopsy, thanks for your fantastic review. Just wondering if you put a full Akrapovic exhaust system on & got it ecu flash tuned & removed the centre stand, I'm assuming you could liven this bike up quite a lot? Then change out the tyres for something a bit stickier. 👍🏍 But that exhaust does sound nice as it is. 👍 Did the bike feel a bit stronger once you took it out of rain mode? 🤔

[@LambChopRides]

Yes absolutely it would like any new Euro setup machine 👍

[@pricklypunter]

I considered one of these or a maybe a Strom when I was last bike shopping in '21, but ended up with the Z900RS instead, which could be considered the polar opposite. I have always been fond of Kawasaki's, since childhood, they just seem to nail it for me. I think as a touring bike that has a bit of poke, this new Versys is definitely a contender. Price doesn't seem out of the way either, considering what you get for the money. I'll be surprised if it doesn't sell really well 👍

[@BlazinBlades]

What a Giant of a bike! Makes a big guy like yourself look smallish when you stand behind it 😁😁

[@KelvinChilvers]

Very professional video and review. Comprehensive description of the bike and performance. Great to see another video. Is there another video to come on your trip to Copenhagen.

[@LambChopRides]

Thanks Kelvin much appreciated 👍 Yes one more GX Tour trip to come. I wanted this one out ASAP as it's a new model so it jumped the queue 👍

[@gopher1471]

The less accurate front end on my Versys was completely cured by a change of tyres, I don't think the Bridgestone's suit it, I have Road 6 GT's on mine and it really is transformed. My friend runs Road Attack 4 GT's on his and it feels better on these too. Other than that, a great all-round bike that can do pretty much everything including mild off road etc. Good fair review thanks LCR. :)

[@LANKY123]

great video thanks, kawaskai versys has positive neutral finder - picking up your comment about finding neutral easy - the way the positive neutral finder works is that you will only be able to shift from 1st to 2nd while you are in motion. When you are stationary, you will not be able to shift into 2nd, it will go into neutral instead. The price of them ,comparatively, is a bargain

[@LambChopRides]

OK very interesting 👍

[@inspectorclouseau3880]

You're getting about a bit mate, great views and that Kawasaki ticks a lot of the boxes. Like you say set up for touring, nice and smooth and comfy. I think this will sell well it's great value

[@LambChopRides]

Thanks Inpector 👍

[@michakowalski1440]

Hi! I`ve been spending 12 seasons on Versys 1000. I owned 2012 version for three s. and till now I`ve ridden 2015 Versys 1000. It`s a great bike for twisted roads. But last time I spent a weekend on Honda NT 1100. What a weather protection! more comfortable bike and It`s easier for me to reach the ground. My height is 172 cm. After 12 years I`d like to change sth. in 2025 and this V1100 is perfect but it`s only an evolution but not a revolution. I can`t choose NT1100 - more comfort, DCT, weather protection or V1100 almost the same but perfect quickshifter and divine engine....Help me.!!!

[@garrywilson8982]

The air intake makes a lovely noise when winding it on in 4th and 5th gear , bwoooop

[@SomewhereInside]

Thanks for video , having the Versys 650 , just put half a tank of fuel in at a time and you shed approx 7kg in weight from top of tank . Even here in Australia you rarely travel more than 200kms before seeing a petrol station …..on bitumen . Good method of stopping to hydrate the body and for toilet breaks . Here in Oz it’s $23500 plus for a 2024 1000S model , and they devalue by up to 40% in three years even with low ish kms.

[@jimmymc10021]

if you can find one second hand. They are pretty rare here in Perth WA

[@paulfarcas1514]

3 year olds still market at about 80% of the value in Europe, maybe even more.

[@evanjohn503]

when you see just how bad those roads were, Kawasaki must have been very confident with the bike - almost like GB roads? and still 12k for the base model. Great bike

[@nickrider5220]

They've gone for a different area of the tall sports tourers, which makes more sense. Good you've got the gsx1000gx and have ridden the 1000xr recently Chopsy, it gives a good perspective 👍🏻

[@LambChopRides]

Thanks Nick 👍

[@skts2610]

Cracking first review Chopsy, think the Honda Crosstourer may be getting traded in! The H2SXSE needs another Kwacker to keep it company😂👍🏽

[@douglasgrosch228]

How is this vs. Concourse 14 such a great bike ..?? Love my connie

[@HalfManHalfPirate]

Nice vid matey, I really enjoyed it and those views were stunning and whilst the roads were lumpy at least it was a real world test. The Versys has come a long way since the 2012 versions but even they had the comfort and creamy smooth engine. A bit like me though, a chubby good ride and often overlooked😂 😂

[@LambChopRides]

Thanks buddy much appreciated 👍

[@rafikshahnazarian7632]

That engine sounds so good ,mummy I want one , Great review 👍

[@Red-74-]

You can reach the same level of ability on a versys 1000, than on multistrada's/xr unless your a pro racer, plus you have the best reliability, comfort and wind protection. Truthfully you don't need electronic suspension either. My 21 versys 1000s is ample for two up fully loaded. Another honest realworld review Chopsy👍.

[@tf3834]

Thanks for the test and honest information. I plan to trade the V-Strom 650 for a Versys. I'm wondering if the bike upgrades make sense to wait and buy a Versys 1100 or buy a Versys 1000 where I expect special prices and discounts from sellers. What do you think? Thanks.

[@prof.2248]

Really good bike

[@alanshearing7515]

Nice bike , great roads enjoy the ride 👍.

[@UsernameKate]

Chopsy, that intro was SOOO ZEN!

[@LambChopRides]

Thanks Kate! 😁👍

[@HISOBIKE]

I own Yamaha Tracer, BMW GS, Tiger 1200. The versys is the best among others.

[@tf3834]

Thank you for a good test. if you were shopping for yourself again today and only had the Versys 1100 and GSX S-1000GX to choose from, which would you choose? Thank you.

[@4tech69]

Love my 22 model 1000 SE. Sometimes think I wish is had more power and Torque. But at the same time I find myself really enjoying a brisk pace down the back roads. It's not a liter sports bike. But it sounds like one and often feels like one. I've got other bikes to satisfy that itch. Not sure if it was mentioned but this model has full quick shifter, anti dive setting for front which works really well. Maybe unimportant some some, but the center stand is the best on any bike available. A 12 year old girl could put this thing on the center stand. is it enough to make me upgrade? Probably not. But if you're looking for a comfortable, fun, reliable bike with a lot of bells and whistles to ferry you 1000 miles in a couple days and then back another 1000, it's a good choice. I do wish they would take some changes with it though. At this point, that's probably not in the cards.

[@phantomrider22]

They are putting this engine in the Ninja, too. I wasn't sure about the changes, so I'm glad I watched this video!

[@kwak1k]

Should have 150+ hp in the Ninja then....

[@paulfowler6665]

​@@kwak1k Nope it has the same bhp as the versys

[@fyorbane]

@@kwak1k It has less peak power than the previous Z1000 sx ninja which was 140 hp.But it will have a fair bit more real world low and midrange grunt.

[@SomewhereInside]

Have extensively ridden a restricted Versys 650 tuned for torque learners version , and the unrestricted version with rev limiter removed tuned for power, guess which bike is more relaxed to ride ? And in the twisties , the restricted torque tuned 650 is also better. Of course on straight roads the unrestricted version is more fun , as it revs out approx 35000 revs more in each gear , but the restricted version still goes quick enough to lose your license .

[@fgsghvufd]

The most curious thing is the quick shift operation feel of this motorcycle. The previous version had a bad quick shift operation and too many errors. Please let me know!

[@LambChopRides]

It's superb now 👌

[@fgsghvufd]

@LambChopRides Thank you~ 🫡

[@noice5291]

handsome bike!

[@PaulBarry-u5x]

Can you name the exact route travelled on the test as the roads look really good?

[@reverendhoover]

I wonder if the extra power comes from the reed block they fitted in the screen? 😊

[@mrcintheuk4641]

So when discovered it was in rain mode and you changed to sport mode did it make a significant change to your previous comments? When in sport mode it came across that it was more than sufficient for the twisties in the Pyrenees?

[@LambChopRides]

I was in Sport for most of the time, only a couple of miles in rain. Yes once you are dialed in it handed great at the end. But still more comfort over sports.

[@MrAndrew1953]

A very impressive bike though, wonder if at 5’8 my stature is more suited to a Tracer? Can you put a topbox on that rack?

[@LambChopRides]

Yes with the Grand Tour pack you get the top box option Andrew. I would say it's no taller than the Tracer but you may notice the extra weight 👍

[@ItsAllJustBollox]

I had the previous version and the engine was so dull its nice to see Kawasaki have finally given it an engine to equal the ninja 1100.

[@stephenclarke6114]

Do you find yourself getting converted into that style of bike the more you ride them I bought a versys 650 last year just to spend more time with my now 10 year old boy I love fast bikes but the more I ride the versys the more I like it I have 3 bikes and the versys has covered the most miles out of the 3

[@valebliz]

I own a versys 650 as my daily bike while owning more expensive bikes for we riding, tbh the versys is incredibly good for what it is.

[@LambChopRides]

Absolutely, this sort of bike just wouldn't be on my radar. But riding these at launches etc I've realised just how good they are.

[@stephenclarke6114]

​@@LambChopRidesyes and unfortunately we do get older and more sensible ISH 😅

[@richardegan5797]

So given the Versys is a similar weight to the H2SX, which one handles best Chopsy?

[@MrSimonfoz]

I suppose if you want sporty you would buy the H2 SX . I like these but I’m going to swap my ZZR for the H2 eventually.

[@carleddison7479]

I did just that. I find the H2 SX SE more comfortable than my GS. Stunning machine.

[@paulfowler7618]

For a while i owned a versys 1000 2015 model but I had a z1000sx at the same time and one had to go. I kept the sx as it was more suited to my riding. I thought the versys was heavy and suffered really bad wind noise but i think the newer ones are better. Shame you couldn't try old and new back to back to see if its worth upgrading. I would think not and the same will go for the new Ninja 1100 over the current 1000 which is what I now own

[@markb4772]

I have owned 2 Z1000sx’s and the worst thing for me was the gear ratios, when in 6th gear on a motorway section it was extremely annoying and felt like they needed another gear or 2. It seems they have finally sorted that issue out which should be a big benefit

[@magnuswegren7204]

Would this be better for two up riding than the GX you think?

[@LambChopRides]

Yes I do believe it would be more comfortable two up, passenger seat is huge!!

[@DavidEvans-er3td]

Great review and will be changing my bike in 2025, it's between the Tiger 1200 Rally Pro and this new 1100, I never go off road but I go touring, which would you choose.

[@Achilles22]

I’m a potential customer, so watching with great interest 😅

[@noggintube]

Don't be put off the previous 2019-2024 model unless you specifically want a shiny new bike. This really is just the same bike, with a tiny increase in engine and a few tweaks - it's only 57cc after all. If you can get the previous model for a good price, a remap will sort the power out and be close to this, with very little else different. I have a 2020 SE GT model and wouldn't 'upgrade' to this as it has enough power for me to be honest. As he says at the end, don't be put off by low peak power figures, and that's just as relevant for the outgoing model.

[@craigcooper8810]

sweet looking bike chopsy!!!

[@joebloggs1583]

After owning a 2019 z1000sx I'm looking forward to the ninja 1100 a bit less old codger than the versys 😎👍

[@christopherhorton5449]

A great video. An amazing location. The best view of the Versys is sat on the bike. Boy its ugly. But it looks really capable and that's what matters

[@fyorbane]

Great video chops. If you want more sporty but with a Kawasaki then go with the new Z1100 sx Ninja. Or, if you can afford it the mighty H2 sx.

[@Globemasters]

Thanks for vid chops. Could you please share fuel consumption and route 🙏🏼🙃

[@SuperchargedLlama]

I'm really interested in this one, will have to go and give it a test ride! They'll make a great second hand buy...not quite what they were after I'm sure 😅

[@robertpaisley7257]

Best channel love it

[@motomark7671]

It’s a great bike, having owned one. I did always think it needed a little more power though! However, the handling is great for its size, I would have thought Kawasaki would have changed the dash to a full TFT, plus it could have done with a headlight change, just to set it apart from the old model, sadly it wouldn’t make me run out and change from the old model, there’s just not enough physical changes to make you feel you are moving to better bike. I think they missed a trick to be honest………just a quick question, did the airbag go off in you jacket? 🤓

[@scotwilson4169]

Sounds like they've gone away woth with the different engine tunes for the Versys and the SX sports tourer and just put the same 1100 engine in now, i think thays a good idea.

[@paul.vanhout57]

Not in the market for a Tall-Rounder but always enjoy LCR bike reviews. Wouldn’t be hard to convince me to ride those roads but would most likely pass on pork cheeks as well😬

[@LambChopRides]

Thanks Paul really appreciated 👏

[@fredh1475]

Good stuff mate. Not sure if I like the looks of it. At least it is not yellow. I see you have the same jacket as me. I absolutely love it. What's your opinion?

[@LambChopRides]

Yes love the jacket and do agree on looks. Looks better in the flesh but not as good looking as the GX in my view. But very nice bike and has a higher quality feel

[@andrewshore262]

Denmark 🇩🇰 tour all things be equal (change rubber if required), which one GX or Versys?

[@RodaLivreMotoVlog]

No mention of the KTM Super Duke GT? You mentioned every other bike in this segment...

[@LambChopRides]

Yes good point I did miss it, next year will include the new one in the tests 👍

[@Neutronb0mb]

What do you think of the Knox jacket chops? You got the chest armour in it?

[@LambChopRides]

Yes love it really I do, I did have chest armor but lost it at the Yam AMT launch 😫

[@ragerider6283]

Great review & it seems like a really good bike, but I also find it completely uninspiring. I just couldn't get excited about buying or owning one I don't think. It seems like more of a very practical, competent & capable touring workhorse etc but that just doesn't do it for me. However, I totally get why someone else would be buy it & be very happy too.

[@peterkoning21]

I am a dedicated Kawa fan. ... but never liked the Versys from inception.

[@Wats1984]

I currently have an xr and was thing versys or super duke gt. 🤔 good review, I am leaning towards the duke!

[@Nell1052]

Kawasaki have always understood what the customer wants more than most, in terms of practicality, rider comfort & budget. I almost bought a Ninja 1000sx this summer but went for a used low mile V4S Multi instead as i wanted a bit more comfort & thought the previous Versys was a bit underpowered and dare i say it, fugly. This is the step in the right direction but ive heard this motor is now identical & shared with the Ninja 1000sx which means the Ninja 1000sx is detuned slightly? Be interesting to see how it compares with the Hornet 1000 derived CB1000X when it arrives 😊

[@giaccos]

if it arrives......looks disappeared from radar....... why?

[@jmsmikey]

Great review but I don't understand why the passenger seat is SO much higher than the rider portion. Corbin has it at a 5.5 inch rise~ that's crazy. Previous generations of bikes had about a 2" rise, where it should be. This is a deal killer for me~

[@mikkosaukkonen3108]

Pillion loves to see forward too. That seat is brilliant for twp-up touring.

[@deanzaZZR]

The Ninja 1100SX is the bike that competes with that list of bikes you listed. What does the big Versys compete with? It's a bit of an odd duck. Perhaps the Suzuki Vstroms.

[@balazstoth5298]

How is handle bar vibration,

[@AldredsquashUk]

What mpg does it do? Average fuel range for tank? No integrated sat nav?

[@LambChopRides]

Unfortunately we don't get to test range on these launches as they put fuel in at the stops. You can use integrated nav with the apps but we didn't test this sorry

[@kwak1k]

My gen 2 gets 52mpg average. This is probably close to that