By Kawasaki's own admission, the 2017 Versys-X 300 isn't a serious off-roader. However, it should be able to handle a bit of the rough stuff and potholed tarmac shouldn't be a problem
Kawasaki already have the Ninja 300 in their line-up, so the next logical step had to be to put that 296cc parallel-twin into a dual-purpose 'adventure' type bike and that's exactly what they've done - lo and behold the 2017 Kawasaki Versyx-X 300, which was recently unveiled at the EICMA, in Milan. With an estimated 32-35bhp from its DOHC 8-valve liquid-cooled engine, the Versys-X 300 isn't exactly a high-performance motorcycle, but with its basic steel-tube chassis (which uses the engine as a stressed member), upright riding position, fairly substantial windshield and 19-inch (front) and 17-inch (rear) wire-spoked wheels, it should certainly be suitable for a bit of mild off-road use. Hard panniers, LED fog lamps, a DC outlet, hand guards and centre stand are available as optional accessories for those who're really serious about their riding adventures.
Notable bits on the new Versys-X 300 include a wide, comfortable saddle that's designed for two regular-sized persons, a multi-function LCD instrument panel, assist & slipper clutch, 41mm telescopic fork at the front, bottom-link Uni-Trak gas-charged monoshock at the back, 290mm (front) and 220mm (rear) brake discs and Bosch ABS. Fuel tank capacity is 17 litres, which should be adequate ...