If your first thought of adventure touring motorcycles paints a picture of heavy, high-priced models that are often a handful when ventured off road, open your mind to the lightweight 2020 Kawasaki Versys-X 300. Although known for its affordability and entry-level approachability, this small-displacement Versys offers comfort, capability, and convenience to riders of all skill levels.
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Making use of the 296cc, DOHC, liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine originally developed in the previous Ninja 300 supersport machine, Kawasaki has given the Versys performance with a load of novice-friendly delivery. When strapped to our in-house Dynojet 250i dyno, the Versys produced a modest 32.3 hp at 11,400 rpm and 16.7 pound-feet of torque at 8,600 rpm, but with an ultra-linear power curve and an admirably flat torque delivery. What’s that mean? Throttle response via the digital fuel injection is crisp with a linear power delivery from idle to its 12,750-rpm redline with flexibility in gear selection when chugging around town.
Light clutch pull and quick acceleration from first gear makes pulling away from traffic lights easy and predictable, even if the Versys requires very quick work through its six-speed, tightly spaced gearbox. In fact, the overall final drive gearing is short for the Southern California rat race. The Versys spins at a dizzying 9,000 rpm at 70 mph in top gear with little passing power left in reserve. A quick modification to a taller gearing will make for a more enjoyable riding experience, and might eliminate the desire for a seventh gear. In truth, the small-displacement package can be outgrown quickly, which raises questions as to why Kawasaki hasn’t adopted the beloved 399cc parallel twin seen in the Ninja 400. Is a Versys-X 400 in the future?
A comfortable upright rider triangle and relatively tall windscreen provide a comfortable pocket to log miles. The only wish? Having adjustability to the windscreen position might offer a shade more wind protection. The reach to the one-piece motocross-style handlebar is relaxed while providing enough leverage for tight corners, and the footpeg position combats cramping while remaining in a somewhat aggressive stance. At 5-foot-7, I find the relatively low 32.3-inch seat height helps navigate slow-moving traffic with an easy reach to the ground.
The Versys encompasses a delightfully neutral on-road handling too. Riding on somewhat-aggressive IRC Trail Winner GP-210 dual sport tires, the Kawasaki is still comfortable and confident on the asphalt. With its 19-inch front and 17-inch rear wire-spoked wheelset, the Versys will support a wide selection of more off-road-oriented rubber, should an owner want to venture the gnarl. At 410 pounds fully fueled (measured with the equipped accessories), it possesses a confidence-inspiring stability yet remains nimble when coaxed. The 41mm nonadjustable conventional fork and preload-adjustable rear shock strike a fair balance of small-bump compliance and big-hit support for normal road conditions, but firmer settings might be appreciated in the dirt.
Our test unit came equipped with add-on components offered via Kawasaki’s accessory catalog. The most obvious addition is the pair of 17-liter hard saddlebag sets ($439.95). From a distance, these bags look rugged and ready to pack luggage in waterproof safety and convenience, but in the real world feel flimsy and are tight on space. A look to similarly priced aftermarket options is well deserved. A set of LED auxiliary lights ($409.95) offer wide-spread illumination at low speeds and extra visibility to traffic, but are highly priced in comparison to aftermarket options. The hand guard set ($115.95) and engine guard kit ($225.95) are reasonable upgrades should you plan on off-roading the Versys. Our Versys also came equipped with a centerstand ($299.95) and other small bits.
The Kawasaki Versys-X 300 packs a punch of adventure in a small-displacement, approachable package. Relatively light weight, comfort, and ease of use make this motorcycle a worthy option for less-experienced riders looking to venture into the segment, even if the Versys’ powerplant has grown long in the tooth. Still, the Versys is ready for adventure—not to mention roughly a quarter of the cost of the flagship models you may have first pictured.
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Videography/edit: Bert Beltran
Photography: Jeff Allen
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