The new Kawasaki Versys 250 is rumoured to be sharing its underpinnings with the Z250 street-fighter, but will adopt its styling from the larger Versys 650 and 1000 motorcycles.
It is exciting times for the explorers on two-wheels as manufacturer’s are paying detailed attention to what is needed in the adventure motorcycle category. With the growing demand for adventure bikes in emerging markets as well, small capacity offerings in this segment are expected to be the next major popular category of two-wheelers in the niche space. Banking on this thought, news now comes in that Kawasaki is working on a Z250 based adventure motorcycle likely to be called the ‘Versys 250’ and a new rendering has emerged online showcasing the possible outcome.
With news rife about KTM working on an adventure motorcycle sharing its powertrain with the Duke 390, Kawasaki wouldn’t want to be left behind in the race and is quickly churning up an offering based on its tried platform. The Z250 uses a diamond frame that will underpin the Versys 250 while the styling will come from the larger Versys 650 and 1000, complete with the twin headlamp setup, side fenders and comfortable seats. The rendering shows an underbelly exhaust being used on the Versys 250, but we reckon Kawasaki will opt for a high mounted unit in order to improve the bike’s water wading capabilities.
In terms of mechanicals, the new Kawasaki Versys 250 will get Upside Down (USD) forks will longer travel, new swingarm, mudguard, taller windscreen, cushioned seats, luggage case mounts and much more. Power is said to come from the existing 249cc liquid-cooled, fuel-injected, twin-cylinder engine that will be tuned to produce well over 30 PS of power and close to 30 Nm of torque, paired to a 6-speed gearbox. The development is reportedly in the early stages and official details will be available in the coming months with a reveal anticipated at the Indonesia Motorcycle Show later this year.
Rendering Source – Indobikermags.com
