Kawasaki Unveils 2026 Sport Touring Lineup

Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A. announced its 2026 street motorcycle lineup, reaffirming its commitment to the sport-touring segment with refined updates across several returning favorites. The Ninja H2 SX SE ABS and Ninja 1100 SX ABS headline the lineup once again, joined by the versatile Versys 650 LT ABS – a nimble, mid-weight alternative designed for everyday adventure.

Together these motorcycles showcase Kawasaki’s unique blend of performance, comfort, and technology that continues to shape modern sport touring.

Ninja H2 SX SE ABS – Hypercharged Touring Redefined

The flagship H2 SX SE ABS returns for 2026 as the ultimate expression of Kawasaki performance touring. Powered by a balanced-supercharged 998 cc inline-four, the H2 SX SE delivers breathtaking acceleration while maintaining remarkable smoothness on long highway stretches.

For 2026, Kawasaki pairs this engine with a full suite of electronic rider aids and radar-based safety systems, including Adaptive Cruise Control, Forward Collision Warning, and Blind Spot Detection. Brembo Stylema® brakes and Kawasaki Electronically Controlled Suspension (KECS) with Skyhook EERA technology remain standard, adapting in real time to road and load conditions.

Styling updates for 2026 include a striking new Metallic Brilliant Golden Black / Metallic Diablo Black colorway and subtle aerodynamic refinements to fairing vents for improved stability at speed.  MSRP is $29,999.

Ninja 1100 SX / 1100 SX SE ABS – Pure Sport Touring Performance

Replacing last year’s 1100 SX ABS and SE ABS models, the 2026 editions continue to refine Kawasaki’s new-generation sport-touring platform introduced in 2025.  Both versions feature the 1099 cc inline-four engine known for robust midrange and top-end power, combined with a six-speed quick-shifter transmission and Kawasaki Cornering Management Function (KCMF).

The standard 1100 SX ABS features a new color scheme (Metallic Brilliant Golden Black / Metallic Carbon Gray) and an updated TFT instrument interface for enhanced readability.

The SE version adds Öhlins S46 rear suspension, Brembo M4.32 calipers, and heated grips as standard, along with a distinctive Metallic Deep Blue / Metallic Diablo Black finish.  MSRPs are $13,999 and $15,799 respectively.

These refinements underscore Kawasaki’s strategy to offer sport touring performance in a lighter, more nimble package while maintaining long-distance comfort.

Versys 650 LT ABS – Lightweight Touring Versatility

While larger-displacement Versys models carried the flag in 2025, Kawasaki’s 2026 touring lineup turns the spotlight toward the middleweight Versys 650 LT ABS. Powered by a 649 cc parallel-twin engine with long-travel suspension and upright ergonomics, the Versys 650 is equally comfortable commuting through traffic or carving mountain passes.

For 2026, the bike adds a fresh Metallic Deep Blue / Metallic Spark Black paint scheme, revised LED headlighting, and Kawasaki’s latest traction-control software. Standard LT equipment includes hand guards and KQR™ 28-liter hard saddlebags that accept a full-face helmet. MSRP is $10,399.

A Tradition of Innovation Continues

Kawasaki’s 2026 sport-touring lineup builds on decades of engineering that trace back to the Concours GTR1000 introduced in 1986. From the supercharged H2 SX SE ABS to the versatile Versys 650 LT, these machines embody the brand’s passion for making high-performance motorcycling accessible to riders who crave both speed and distance.

For more on how Kawasaki’s sport touring evolution began, see American Sport Touring’s previous coverage of the 2025 Kawasaki Sport Touring Lineup.