Kawasaki Hybrid Versys Adventure Tourer
It is no secret that Kawasaki has committed to achieving carbon neutrality and plans to electrify its entire motorcycle range by 2035. Based on recently leaked patent documents, Kawasaki is set to redefine the adventure motorcycle landscape with an all-new Versys Hybrid. This new Versys will build on the design elements of the current Versys 650 and the recently released Ninja Z 7 Hybrid which hits European showrooms in early 2024 (no date set for US launch). Kawasaki aims to revolutionize the adventure touring segment with a combination of electric and internal combustion power.
Sharing its powertrain with the Z 7 Hybrid, the Versys is expected to feature a 9kW electric motor, a 1.4kWh battery, and a robust 451cc parallel-twin engine. A parallel hybrid design this motor can be propelled by either one or both of the powerplants on board. In its current form, the Z7 motor creates 59 horsepower from the internal combustion engine (ICE) and adds 10 more from e-boost, for a total overall horsepower of about 69hp, which is respectable for a mid-size adventure touring motorcycle.
The hybrid powertrain of the Versys Hybrid addresses the key concern for the adventure touring crowd relating to EV bikes, which is of course range. Adventure touring by definition can mean traveling long distances between fuel stops and or recharges. The ability to leverage both powerplants extends the bike's touring capacity, providing a solution to battery life worries on long journeys. This strategic integration aligns with the demand for eco-friendly alternatives without compromising the versitility and practicality of traditional motorcycles.
Kawasaki introduced the Ninja e-1 and Z e-1 electric motorcycles in 2023. Based on the feature set on these bikes and the Ninja 7 HEV, the Versys Hybrid is anticipated to have a walking speed electric reverse gear, with manual and automatic gear shift options, full LED illumination, a color TFT digital dashboard, and multiple riding modes.
The Versys Hybrid represents another bold step as Kawasaki continues to drive to stay ahead of the competition in the race towards a greener and more versatile future for motorcycles. While the patent leak sparked some excitement, die-hard enthusiasts anxiously await more details, tests, and release dates. If that’s you…stay tuned for further updates…could be interesting!
