Become a Member: Get Ad-Free Access to 3,000+ Reviews, Guides, & More

2022 Kawasaki Versys-X 300 ABS [Specs, Features, Photos]

2022 Kawasaki Versys-X 300 ABS

The 2022 Kawasaki Versys-X 300 ABS: Sporty & Nimble Adventure Touring

 

Adventure bikes are all about versatility, and few brands know that better than Kawasaki. Team Green’s Versys series is famous for providing plenty of performance over long distances and varied terrains, without sacrificing comfort or rider amenities along the way. And for those seeking a smaller-displacement adventure motorcycle, the 2022 Versys-X 300 ABS is an ideal choice.

Other Japanese motorcycle companies have made adventure bikes, of course—you’ve got the Honda CB500X, for example, which offers slightly more power for a slightly higher price. But Kawasaki’s done an excellent job of offering value in a smaller, more affordable adventure motorcycle, and the new model carries on in much the same vein.

You’ve got the same engine that graces the Ninja 300 here—a 296cc liquid-cooled 4-stroke DOHC 8-valve parallel twin producing 40 HP @ 11,500 rpm and just over 19 lb-ft of torque @ 10,000 rpm. You also get long-travel suspension (practically a requirement for a bike that’s designed to go off-road occasionally), an assist & slipper clutch to make those shifts a bit easier, an economical riding indicator, and (of course) ABS.

No major upgrades from last year’s model here, but you do get a new color scheme: Metallic Ocean Blue / Pearl Robotic White, which gives this machine a cool, modern look. Yes, it’s the smallest adventure bike in the 2022 Kawasaki motorcycle lineup, but that doesn’t mean you should overlook it. This is a serious adventure bike that’s perfect for introducing riders to longer road trips over varied terrain.

The 2022 Kawasaki Versys-X 300 ABS starts at $6,099 USD / $6,999 CAD.

On this page: we’ve curated specs, features, news, photos/videos, etc. so you can read up on the new 2022 Kawasaki Versys-X 300 ABS in one place.

2022 Kawasaki Versys-X 300 ABS


Model Overview

General Info

  • Price: $6,099 USD / $6,999 CAD
  • Key Features:
    • Long-travel suspension
    • Assist & slipper clutch
    • Economical riding indicator
    • ABS

Main Specs

  • Engine: 296cc liquid-cooled 4-stroke DOHC 8-valve parallel twin
  • Power: 40 HP @ 11,500 rpm
  • Torque:  19.2 lb-ft of torque @ 10,000 rpm
  • Curb Weight: 386 lbs (175 kg)
  • Seat Height: 32.1 in (815mm)

2022 Kawasaki Versys-X 300 ABS


2022 Kawasaki Versys-X 300 ABS Specifications

From Kawasaki

ENGINE

Engine 296cc, 4-stroke, 2-cylinder, DOHC, liquid-cooled
Power 40 Hp
Bore x Stroke 62.0 x 49.0mm
Compression Ratio
10.6:1
Fuel System DFI® with 32mm throttle bodies (2)
Starter Electric
Lubrication

DRIVETRAIN

Clutch
Transmission 6-speed, return shift
Final Drive Sealed chain

CHASSIS

Suspension Front Telescopic fork/5.1 in
Suspension Rear Uni-Trak® swingarm/5.8 in
Brakes Front 100/90-19M/C 57S
Brakes Rear
130/80-17M/C 65S
Tires Front Single 290mm disc, ABS
Tires Rear Single 220mm disc, ABS
Fuel Tank Capacity 4.5 gal
Color
Metallic Ocean Blue/Pearl Robotic White

ELECTRICAL

Ignition TCBI with digital advance
Spark Plugs
Headlight LED
Tail Light LED

DIMENSIONS

Overall Length 85.4 in
Overall Width 33.9 in
Overall Height 54.7 in
Wheelbase 57.1 in
Ground Clearance 7.1 in
Seat Height 32.1 in
Curb Weight 385.9 lb*

WARRANTY

Warranty 12 Months
Kawasaki Protection Plus 12, 24, or 36 months

2022 Kawasaki Versys-X 300 ABS


2022 Kawasaki Versys-X 300 ABS Features

Assist & Slipper Clutch

Based on feedback from racing activities, the Assist & Slipper Clutch uses two types of cams (an assist cam and a slipper cam) to either drive the clutch hub and operating plate together or apart.
Under normal operation, the assist cam functions as a self-servo mechanism, pulling the clutch hub and operating plate together to compress the clutch plates. This allows the total clutch spring load to be reduced, resulting in a lighter clutch lever feel when operating the clutch.
When excessive engine braking occurs – as a result of quick downshifts (or an accidental downshift) – the slipper cam comes into play, forcing the clutch hub and operating plate apart. This relieves pressure on the clutch plates to reduce back-torque and helps prevent the rear tire from hopping and skidding. This race-style function is particularly useful when sport or track riding.

Dual Throttle Valves

Late-model sport bikes often use large-bore throttle bodies to generate high levels of power. However, with large diameter throttles, when a rider suddenly opens the throttle, the unrestricted torque response can be strong. Dual throttle valve technology was designed to tame engine response while contributing to performance.

On models with dual throttle valves, there are two throttle valves per cylinder: in addition to the main valves, which are physically linked to the throttle grip and controlled by the rider, a second set of valves, opened and closed by the ECU, precisely regulates intake airflow to ensure a natural, linear response. With the air passing through the throttle bodies becoming smoother, combustion efficiency is improved and power is increased.

Economical Riding Indicator

Using high-precision electronic control for engine management, Kawasaki models can achieve a high level of fuel efficiency. However, fuel consumption is greatly affected by throttle use, gear selection, and other elements under the rider’s control. The Economical Riding Indicator is a function that indicates when current riding conditions are consuming a low amount of fuel. The system continuously monitors fuel consumption, regardless of vehicle speed, engine speed, throttle position and other riding conditions. When fuel consumption is low for a given speed (i.e. fuel efficiency is high), an “ECO” mark appears on the instrument panel’s LCD screen. By riding so that the “ECO” mark remains on, fuel consumption can be reduced.

While effective vehicle speed and engine speed may vary by model, paying attention to conditions that cause the “ECO” mark to appear can help riders improve their fuel efficiency – a handy way to increase cruising range. Further, keeping fuel consumption low also helps minimize negative impact on the environment.

ABS (Anti-lock Brake System)

Kawasaki ABS systems use front and rear wheel sensors to constantly monitor wheel speed. Should information from either of the sensors indicate that wheel lock has occurred, the ABS ECU directs the pump in the ABS unit to modulate brake fluid pressure (releasing and reapplying pressure so that traction can be regained) until normal operation resumes. ABS offers rider reassurance that contributes to greater riding enjoyment.

ERGO-FIT

Proper fit is key for rider comfort and control. However, the ideal fit varies from rider to rider, depending on their physical dimensions and riding style.

ERGO-FIT® is an interface system designed to allow riders to find their ideal riding position. Various points of the chassis interface (the handlebar, footpegs and seat, etc.) can be adjusted through a combination of interchangeable parts and parts with adjustable positions. This enables a wide range of riders to find a riding position that offers both comfort and control. Feeling at one with their machine, they will be able to experience how Kawasaki machines are fun and rewarding to ride.
*Adjustable parts and their range of adjustability vary by model.


2022 Kawasaki Versys-X 300 ABS Photos


2022 Kawasaki Versys-X 300 ABS Videos

Kawasaki Versys X300 Review – First Ride – My Opinion Of This Small ADV Motorcycle

Kawasaki Versys-X 300 On and Off Road Test Ride: My New Favorite Adventure Bike for Beginners


Kawasaki Official Websites

Social Media Links