The 2021 Kawasaki Versys-X 300: A Small Adventurer For City Fun

The Versys-X 300 is Kawasaki’s smallest adventure motorcycle in the 2021 lineup, designed mostly for city roads and maybe some gravel and dirt alleyways. More accurately an adventure tourer than an out-and-out adventure bike, and partially because most of Japan’s roads are paved, the Versys-X 300 is nonetheless a capable commuter and adventure motorcycle. Powered by a 296cc DOHC liquid cooled parallel twin, the Versys-X 300 produces 40 HP and 19 lb-ft of torque. While that may not sound like much, the entire bike weighs only 386 lbs wet.

Borrowing heavily from its larger engined brethren, the Versys-X 300 features a low seat height paired with a high front cowling and windshield. This is to both keep the rider as close to the center of balance on the bike, as well as to help the airflow coming off the windshield to fly over the helmet of the rider, reducing buffeting and wind noise. Optional handguards help keep your hands warm, and the Kawasaki-designed quick mount system is installed on the rear, allowing for your own pannier lockers, saddlebags, or Kawasaki hard luggage system to be installed.

The 2021 Kawasaki Versys-X 300 starts at $5,899 USD / $6,799 CAD.

On this page: we’ve curated specs, features, news, photos/videos, etc. so you can read up on the new 2021 Kawasaki Versys-X 300 in one place.

2021 Kawasaki Versys-X 300


Model Overview

General Info

  • Price: $5,899 USD / $6,799 CAD
  • Key Features:
    • Windscreen and front high cowl
    • Dual-zone ABS
    • Add-on options are extensive, from handguards to engine protectors

Main Specs

  • Engine Type: 296cc, liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, DOHC 8-valve parallel twin
  • Horsepower: 40 HP
  • Torque: 19 lb-ft
  • Wet Weight: 386 lbs (175 kg)
  • Seat Height: 32.1 inches (815 mm)

2021 Kawasaki Versys-X 300


2021 Kawasaki Versys-X 300 Specifications

From Kawasaki

ENGINE

Engine 296cc, liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, DOHC 8-valve parallel twin
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 Single disc, ABS
Brakes Rear
Single disc, ABS
Tires Front 100/90-19M/C 57S
Tires Rear 130/80-17M/C 65S
Fuel Tank Capacity 4.5 gal
Color
 Metallic Graphite Gray/Metallic Spark Black

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 Month Limited Warranty
Kawasaki Protection Plus 12 / 24 / 36 / 48 months

2021 Kawasaki Versys-X 300


2021 Kawasaki Versys-X 300 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.


2021 Kawasaki Versys-X 300 Photos


2021 Kawasaki Versys-X 300 Videos

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1 Comment

  1. October 23, 2021
    Reply

    I bought this Versys as a back to riding after 35 years. I looked and rode a 500x and found it too heavy and too much bike for me. Weigh is the thing that matters to new and returning senior riders and it is often overlooked in articles calling ” beginner bikes over 400++ pounds reasonable….” Tsk.
    I ride the back roads of Pennsylvania and a highway 500 mile round trip for my first overnighter.
    The more you ride this bike and you make some basic mods the realization of it’s performance dawns on you.
    Change the front sprocket to a 15 tooth, add some amenities and off you go. Seat sucks but I have a cushion and have lowered the dog bones and the front suspension accordingly (easy fixes.)
    What a terrific bike that has the Japanese quality and beats the hell out of the competition on the road.
    My other bike is a G 650 GS thumper; I love them both!

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