14 August. Friday 2026
Kawasaki Versys 1000 Grand Tourer - 2012 Specifications and Reviews
The 2012 Kawasaki Versys 1000 Grand Tourer is a sport-touring motorcycle designed for riders seeking versatility and long-distance capability. Its 1043cc inline-four engine delivers strong mid-range torque ideal for highway cruising and real-world riding, while the upright riding position and comprehensive feature set make it equally suited to daily commuting and weekend adventures. Known for blending sport-bike performance with practical touring comfort, it appeals to experienced riders wanting one capable all-rounder.
General information | |
| Category | Touring |
| Year | 2012 |
| Model | Kawasaki Versys 1000 Grand Tourer |
Engine and Transmission Specifications | |
| Driveline | Sealed chain |
| Clutch | Wet multi-disc, manual |
| Transmission type,final drive | Chain |
| Gearbox | 6-speed |
| Cooling system | Liquid |
| Lubrication system | Forced lubrication, wet sump |
| Ignition | Digital |
| Fuel control | OHV |
| Fuel system | Injection |
| Valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Bore x stroke | 77.0 x 56.0 mm (3.0 x 2.2 inches) |
| Compression | 10.3:1 |
| Torque | 102.00 Nm (10.4 kgf-m or 75.2 ft.lbs) @ 10400 |
| Engine type | In-line four, four-stroke |
| Capacity: | 1043.00 ccm (63.64 cubic inches) |
Brakes, suspension, Frame and wheels | |
| Rear brakes diameter | 250 mm (9.8 inches) |
| Rear brakes | Single disc. Petal disc |
| Front brakes diameter | 300 mm (11.8 inches) |
| Front brakes | Double disc. Semi-floating petal discs |
| Rear tyre dimensions | 160/60-ZR17 |
| Front tyre dimensions | 120/70-ZR17 |
| Rear suspension travel | 145 mm (5.7 inches) |
| Rear suspension | Horizontal Back-link, gas-charged, with stepless rebound damping and remote spring preload adjustability |
| Front suspension travel | 150 mm (5.9 inches) |
| Front suspension | 43 mm inverted fork with stepless rebound damping and spring preload adjustability |
| Trail | 108 mm (4.3 inches) |
| Rake (fork angle) | 25.0° |
| | |
Physical measures and capacities | |
| Fuel capacity | 21.00 litres (5.55 gallons) |
| Wheelbase | 1,520 mm (59.8 inches) |
| Ground clearance | 155 mm (6.1 inches) |
| Overall width | 900 mm (35.4 inches) |
| Overall length | 2,235 mm (88.0 inches) |
| Overall height | 1,405 mm (55.3 inches) |
| Seat height | 845 mm (33.3 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting. |
| Weight incl. oil, gas, etc | 239.0 kg (526.9 pounds) |
Other specs | |
| Maintenance | Find parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay |
| Color options | Red/black |
| Starter | Electric |
Performance Profile & Rider Fit
120 hp
Peak Power
3.5s
0-60 mph
Best For
Track30%
City60%
Cornering68%
Daily Riding78%
Touring95%
Passenger88%
Rider Profile
| Best For | Suited to licensed riders with at least some prior experience who want a confidence-inspiring, electronics-assisted big-bore tourer rather than a beginner's first bike. |
| Purpose | Built primarily for long-distance touring and comfortable road covering with a pillion and luggage, blending sport-touring performance with all-day comfort. |
| Rider Fit | The 840 mm seat height and 253 kg wet weight are manageable for average-to-taller riders, though shorter riders may find it a stretch at a standstill. |
| Character | A refined, torquey in-line four with a plush chassis, full electronics suite, and standard hard luggage that rewards smooth, unhurried riding over long distances. |
| Not Ideal For | Not the ideal choice for riders seeking a lightweight city commuter, an off-road adventure bike, or a razor-sharp track-focused sportbike. |
Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.
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