Motorcycle

2021 Kawasaki Versys-X 300
Adventure touring - lightweight agility meets capability
Manufacturer	Kawasaki
Production	2017–present
Class	Adventure touring / Dual-sport
Engine	296 cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin
Power	40 hp @ 11,500 rpm
Torque	19 lb⋅ft @ 10,000 rpm
Transmission	6-speed
Seat Height	32.1 in (815 mm)
Weight (wet)	386 lb (175 kg)
Fuel Capacity	4.5 US gal (17 L)

The 2021 Kawasaki Versys-X 300 is a lightweight adventure touring motorcycle. At 386 pounds wet with 40 horsepower, it strikes the balance between manageable weight and sufficient power for highway touring and technical off-road riding.

This particular machine, with over 15,000 miles of hard-earned adventure through upstate New York seasons, proves that adventure isn't limited by displacement.

The Machine

Based on the proven Kawasaki Ninja 300 engine platform, the Versys-X 300 transforms a sport bike heart into an adventure-ready soul:

• Peak Power: 40 hp @ 11,500 rpm - enough to cruise highways comfortably
• Peak Torque: 19 lb⋅ft @ 10,000 rpm - delivered smoothly for technical terrain
• Character: Loves to be revved out, starts reliably in all conditions
• Assist & Slipper Clutch: Reduces lever effort and prevents rear wheel hop

The Tires That Changed Everything

The switch to Shinko 805 dual-sport tires elevated this Versys from capable tourer to unstoppable adventure machine:

• Design: 40% on-road, 60% off-road big block pattern
• Performance: Exceptional in snow, rain, gravel, and dirt
• Durability: Approximately 4,500-5,000 miles per rear tire
• Value: ~$200 for a complete set
• Most Importantly: Works even in fresh snow

Adventures & Battle Scars

Beginning life after its owner graduated from a Honda Grom, this Versys was chosen specifically for its ability to "go further and go offroad." That promise has been fulfilled beyond expectation.

The Maine Farm Expedition

A defining moment came during a trip to a buddy's farm in Maine, where the Versys conquered roads that defeated even trucks. The combination of lightweight agility, ground clearance, and those Shinko 805s proved that sometimes less is more.

The Catskill Snowstorm

Near Phoenicia in early April, caught in a sudden snowstorm with nowhere to pull over - the kind of ride that tests both machine and rider, forging character in adverse conditions.

The Drops

Because adventure riding means sometimes testing gravity:

1. Indian Head Wilderness: Dropped on a fire/ATV trail in the rain near sunset
2. Mt. Washington Parking Lot: The classic embarrassment - dropped in front of gawking spectators

Daily Life

This Versys doesn't hibernate:

• Winter Riding: Down to 40°F
• Maintenance: Local shop love and regular TLC
• Philosophy: When weather's too bad to ride, it's hacking time

What Makes It Special

In the owner's words: "I love the shit out of it"

• Revability: "I love that I can rev her out"
• Reliability: "I love that she starts right up"
• Capability: "I love that she rides over anything"
• Practicality: "I love that I can drop her and pick her back up again"

Future Dreams

The ultimate goal: 14 days each way to California, plus hang time

• Budget: $7,777
• Purpose: Because every great motorcycle deserves a transcontinental adventure

When asked about the dream ride: "versys x 300, for me, right now"

• Maybe a Husqvarna Norden 901 someday
• But for now: "I love how light and nimble and how much I know her now"

Technical Specifications

Feature	Specification
Engine Type	Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke parallel-twin
Displacement	296cc
Power	40 hp @ 11,500 rpm
Transmission	6-speed
Wheelbase	57.1 in (1,450 mm)
Seat Height	32.1 in (815 mm)
Fuel Capacity	4.5 US gal (17 L)
Curb Weight	385.8 lb (175 kg)

See Also

• Adventure touring
• Motorcycle engineering
• Field Kit - what you bring with you