Kawasaki has long been one of motorcycling’s most versatile players, building everything from championship-winning superbikes to rugged off-roaders. For riders who spend as much time on the highway as they do chasing the twisties, the Versys lineup has become a trusted companion, offering comfort, capability, and as the name suggests, versatility, to stand out from the crowd.
Over the years, the big Versys has grown in power and sophistication, quietly becoming one of the most well-rounded sport-tourers you can buy.
The latest update isn’t a radical overhaul, but instead is a subtle refresh aimed at keeping the Versys 1100 S and SE looking sharp in 2026. Both models now come in two fresh paint schemes: Metallic Deep Blue paired with Metallic Diablo Black, or Emerald Blazed Green matched to the same black finish. The standard Versys 1100 sits this round out, but the higher trims keep the same performance and tech upgrades introduced for 2025.
In case you forgot, the “new” Versys 1100 isn’t new per se, Kawasaki simply bumped displacement from 1,043cc to 1,099cc (63.1 cu in to 67.1 cu in) and power from 120 to 133 horsepower, giving the big Versys more punch for overtakes and long-distance cruising, as well as better compliance with changing emissions regulations.
The SE stays at the top of the range with Showa electronically controlled suspension front and rear, making it easy to adapt to varying road conditions with the push of a button. Both the S and SE keep the comfort and convenience features that make the Versys such a solid choice for touring. They come standard with an up and down quickshifter for smooth gear changes, cruise control for effortless highway miles, and smartphone connectivity with voice command integration so you can manage calls or music without fumbling with controls.
It’s worth noting that the Versys 1100 isn’t just about leisurely travel. As we discussed in a previous story, this year, it served as the official bike supplier for the Tour de France, proving its reliability under demanding conditions. That’s the kind of pedigree you want in a bike designed to cross states (or countries) without breaking a sweat.
Kawasaki hasn’t confirmed US availability dates or pricing for these new colors yet, but the update is a reminder that the company’s focus on refinement never really stops, even if it’s just designing and splashing on some new colors. For riders, it’s one more reason to look at the Versys not just as another touring bike, but as a long-term companion for every kind of road ahead.
Source: Kawasaki
