Kawasaki Unveils 2027 Versys 900 SE LT ABS

An all-new chassis, 948cc inline-four engine, radar-based rider assistance, and comprehensive touring equipment highlight Kawasaki’s latest sport touring motorcycle.

Kawasaki has announced the all-new 2027 Versys 900 SE LT ABS, expanding its adventure touring lineup with a motorcycle designed for spirited road performance and long-distance comfort.

Positioned between the Versys 650 and Versys 1100, the new 900 offers a middleweight alternative for riders seeking four-cylinder performance and advanced touring technology. The motorcycle is expected to reach U.S. dealerships in March 2027, with an MSRP of $13,599.

Four-Cylinder Performance and an All-New Chassis

At the heart of the Versys 900 is a liquid-cooled, 948cc DOHC inline-four engine derived from Kawasaki’s Z900 platform. Tuned for strong low- and midrange torque while maintaining responsive high-rpm performance, the engine is intended to provide relaxed highway cruising and engaging acceleration on winding roads.

Although Kawasaki’s U.S. announcement did not specify engine output, Kawasaki’s UK website lists 120 horsepower at 9,500 rpm and 71.8 lb-ft of torque at 8,000 rpm. These figures provide a clearer indication of the new motorcycle’s performance potential, although U.S.-market specifications remain subject to confirmation.

Power is delivered through a six-speed transmission with gearing designed to reduce engine speeds during highway cruising.

An all-new steel trellis frame and revised engine placement contribute to nearly equal front-to-rear weight distribution, supporting responsive handling and stability when carrying a passenger or luggage.

Suspension consists of a 43mm inverted front fork with 5.9 inches of travel and a horizontal back-link rear suspension providing approximately 6.3 inches. Adjustable damping and spring preload, including a remote rear preload adjuster, allow riders to accommodate different loads and riding conditions.

Seventeen-inch wheels, radial-mount front brake calipers, and cornering ABS reinforce the motorcycle’s road-focused sporting character.

Radar-Based Rider Assistance Comes to the Versys

One of the most significant developments is Kawasaki’s Advanced Rider Assistance Systems (ARAS), bringing radar-based technology to the Versys family for the first time.

The system incorporates three features:

• Adaptive Cruise Control Lite (ACC Lite): Uses forward-facing radar to adjust throttle input and maintain a selectable following distance from traffic ahead.
• Forward Collision Warning (FCW): Alerts the rider when the system detects a potential collision risk with a vehicle ahead.
• Blind-Spot Detection (BSD): Uses rear-facing radar to monitor adjacent lanes, illuminating warning indicators in the mirrors when another vehicle enters a blind spot.

An important distinction is that ACC Lite does not automatically apply the brakes. It reduces throttle to manage following distance, but the rider remains responsible for braking when traffic slows significantly or additional deceleration is required.

Other electronic features include an inertial measurement unit (IMU), Kawasaki Cornering Management Function, selectable power modes, traction control, and a bidirectional quick shifter for clutchless upshifts and downshifts.

Equipped for Long-Distance Touring

The Versys 900 SE LT ABS comes with heated grips, hand guards, LED fog lights, a center stand, and hard saddlebags as standard equipment.

An upright riding position, rubber-mounted handlebars and footpegs, and a seven-position adjustable windshield are intended to reduce fatigue during extended rides. Riders can also select between two seat heights, approximately 32.5 and 33.3 inches, without tools.

The standard SHAD side cases provide approximately 8.5 gallons of storage each and use the motorcycle’s ignition key for locking and removal. An optional 12.4-gallon top case expands luggage capacity for longer trips.

Fuel capacity is 5.3 gallons, although Kawasaki has not yet published an estimated highway cruising range.

A new 5-inch TFT color display offers separate sport and touring layouts. Smartphone connectivity through Kawasaki’s RIDEOLOGY THE APP MOTORCYCLE supports ride logging, vehicle information, and available turn-by-turn navigation and voice commands. Some connected functions require a separate license.

Pricing and Availability

The 2027 Versys 900 SE LT ABS will be offered in Plasma Lime Green / Metallic Spark Black, with U.S. availability expected in March 2027.

Model	U.S. MSRP
2027 Versys 650 LT ABS	$10,599
2027 Versys 900 SE LT ABS	$13,599
2027 Versys 1100 SE LT ABS	$19,799

For sport touring enthusiasts who favor paved highways, winding back roads, and multi-day trips, the Versys 900 presents an intriguing combination of performance and technology at a price considerably below Kawasaki’s flagship Versys 1100.

For more information, visit Kawasaki’s official 2027 Versys 900 SE LT ABS product page.