2023 Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE LT+ [Specs, Features, Photos]

Last updated:July 11, 2023

The 2023 Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE LT+ – Performance Meets Comfort On The Open Road

Model Overview
Specifications
Features
Photos
Videos
Links

For 2023 Kawasaki has created a versatile adventure-touring motorcycle in the form of the Versys 1000 SE LT+ that offers a compelling blend of performance, comfort, and value. The 1000 is at the top of Kawasaki’s Adventure lineup in terms of engine size. At the heart of the Versys 1000 LT lies a powerful and smooth 1,043cc inline-four engine. Designed to tackle a wide range of riding environments, the Versys 1000 SE LT+ has received a number of updates, ensuring that it remains a top choice among Japanese motorcycle offerings for riders seeking a well-rounded and reliable machine. Delivering a broad range of power across the rev range, this engine offers strong low-to-mid range torque, ensuring riders have plenty of accessible power for both spirited rides and long-distance touring. In regard to touring, the Versys is well equipped as far as suspension and the adjustable system includes an inverted 43mm fork up front and a horizontal back-link rear shock.

The 2023 Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE LT+ of course comes equipped with an advanced electronics package, including a Bosch Inertial Measurement Unit and a lengthy list of features and acronyms that basically showcase what the Kawasaki brand can pack into a motorcycle. The Versys also features an easy-to-read TFT color instrumentation display, which provides essential information to the rider, including gear position, fuel level, and customizable riding modes.

The Versys is designed with long-distance touring in mind, and as such, it features a comfortable, upright riding position and a well-padded seat. The bike’s adjustable windscreen can be adjusted to the rider’s preference. Additionally, the Versys 1000 SE LT+ comes standard with color-matched, quick-release saddlebags, providing ample storage capacity for weekend getaways or cross-country adventures.

The 2023 Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE LT+ starts at $18,899 USD/$21,199 CAD

On this page: we’ve curated specs, features, news, photos/videos, etc. so you can read up on the new 2023 Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE LT+ in one place.

Model Overview

General Info

Price: $18,899 USD/$21,199 CAD
Key Features:
- LED lighting
- Advanced Rider Aids (KQS, KTRS, ABS)
- Full-color TFT display
- Electronic Control Suspension
- Adjustable controls and windscreen

Main Specs

Engine: 1,043 cc 4-stroke, 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve, liquid-cooled
Power: 118 horsepower
Torque: 75.2 lb-ft
Weight: 566.7lbs (256 kgs)
Seat Height: 33.1 inches (840 mm)

Competitors

2023 Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE LT+ Specifications

From Kawasaki

ENGINE
Engine	1043cc, 4-stroke, 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve, liquid-cooled
Power	118 HP
Bore x Stroke	77.0 x 56.0mm
Compression Ratio	10.3:1
Fuel System	DFI® with 38mm Keihin ETV throttle bodies (4)
Starter	Electric
Electronic Rider Aids	Kawasaki Electronic Control Suspension (KECS), Integrated riding modes, Kawasaki Quick Shifter (KQS), Electronic cruise control and heated grips
DRIVETRAIN
Clutch
Transmission	6-speed, return shift, Kawasaki Quick Shifter (KQS)
Final Drive	Sealed chain
CHASSIS
Suspension Front	43mm inverted fork with KECS-controlled rebound and compression damping, manual spring preload adjustability and top-out springs/5.9 in
Suspension Rear	Horizontal back-link New Uni-Trak®, BFRC gas charged shock with piggyback reservoir, KECS-controlled compression and rebound damping electronically-adjustable spring preload/5.9 in
Brakes Front	Dual 310mm petal-style discs with four-piston calipers, KIBS ABS
Brakes Rear	Single 250mm petal disc with single-piston caliper, KIBS ABS
Tires Front	120/70 ZR-17
Tires Rear	180/55 ZR-17
Fuel Tank Capacity	5.5 gal
Color	Metallic Graphite Gray/Metallic Diablo Black/Metallic Flat Spark Black
ELECTRICAL
Ignition	TCBI with electronic advance
Spark Plugs
Headlight	LED
Tail Light	LED
DIMENSIONS
Overall Length	89.4 in
Overall Width	37.4 in
Overall Height	58.7 in/60.2 in (windshield down/up)
Wheelbase	59.8 in
Ground Clearance	5.9 in
Seat Height	33.1 in
Curb Weight	566.7 lb (+ Saddlebags, Hand Guards, & Hardware approx. 20 lb.)
WARRANTY
Warranty	24 month limited warranty
Kawasaki Protection Plus	12, 24, 36 or 48 months

2023 Kawasaki Versys 1000 SE LT+ Features

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.

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.

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.

Electronic Cruise Control allows a desired speed (engine rpm) to be maintained with the simple press of a button. Once activated, the rider does not have to constantly apply the throttle. This reduces stress on the right hand when traveling long distances, enabling relaxed cruising and contributing to a high level of riding comfort.

Kawasaki’s fully electronic throttle actuation system enables the ECU to control the volume of both the fuel (via fuel injectors) and the air (via throttle valves) delivered to the engine. Ideal fuel injection and throttle valve position results in smooth, natural engine response and the ideal engine output. The system also makes a significant contribution to reduced emissions.

Electronic throttle valves also enable more precise control of electronic engine management systems like S-KTRC and KTRC, and allow the implementation of electronic systems like KLCM, Kawasaki Engine Brake Control, and Electronic Cruise Control.

Using the latest evolution of Kawasaki’s advanced modeling software and feedback from a compact IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit) that gives an even clearer real-time picture of chassis orientation, KCMF monitors engine and chassis parameters throughout the corner – from entry, through the apex, to corner exit – modulating brake force and engine power to facilitate smooth transition from acceleration to braking and back again, and to assist riders in tracing their intended line through the corner. The systems that KCMF oversees vary by model, but may include:

KTRC, Kawasaki’s advanced traction control system provides both enhanced sport riding performance and the peace of mind to negotiate slippery surfaces with confidence. Multiple rider-selectable modes (the number of modes varies by model) offer progressively greater levels of intrusion to suit the riding situation and rider preference.
Less intrusive modes maintain optimum traction during cornering. Designed with sport riding in mind, they facilitate acceleration out of corners by maximizing forward drive from the rear wheel. And because Kawasaki’s sophisticated software bases its dynamic analysis on the chassis’ orientation relative to the track surface (rather than relative to a horizontal plane), it is able to take into account corner camber, gradient, etc., and adapt accordingly.

In the more intrusive modes (and for some models, in any mode), when excessive wheel spin is detected, engine output is reduced to allow grip to be regained, effectively enabling riders to negotiate both short, slippery patches (train tracks or manhole covers) and extended stretches of bad roads (wet pavement, cobblestone, gravel) with confidence.

Models equipped with multiple Power Modes offer riders an easily selectable choice of engine power delivery to suit riding conditions or preference. In addition to Full Power mode, one (Low) or two (Middle, Low) alternate mode(s) in which maximum power is limited and throttle response is milder are provided.

Clever technology enables riders to connect to their motorcycle wirelessly. Using the smartphone application “RIDEOLOGY THE APP,” a number of instrument functions can be accessed, contributing to an enhanced motorcycling experience. Vehicle information (such as the odometer, fuel gauge, maintenance schedule, etc) can be viewed on the smartphone. Riding logs (varies by model, but may include GPS route, gear position, rpm, and other information) can be viewed on the smartphone. When connected, telephone (call, mail) notices are displayed on the instrument panel. Riders can also make changes to their motorcycle’s instrument display settings (preferred units, clock and date setting, etc) via the smartphone. And on certain models, it is even possible to check and adjust vehicle settings (such as Rider Mode, electronic rider support features, and payload settings) using the smartphone.

Designed to help riders maximize their acceleration on the track by enabling clutchless upshifts with the throttle fully open, KQS detects that the shift lever has been actuated and sends a signal to the ECU to cut ignition so that the next gear can be engaged without having to use the clutch. On models that offer clutchless downshifts, during deceleration the system automatically controls engine speed so that the next lower gear can be selected without operating the clutch.

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.