Comments on: Review: 2017 Kawasaki Versys-X 300 (LAMS)

By: Jeff Ware

Jeff Ware — Tue, 27 Oct 2020 20:33:10 +0000

Hi Ben, it’d be tight… I also am not sure of the load limit… They are quite small. The V-Strom 250 is another to look at, or even a Royal Enfield Himalayan. BMW G 310 GS is another possibility, or just a road/trail – like a KLX230R or similar?

By: Ben walker

Ben walker — Tue, 20 Oct 2020 23:54:29 +0000

Hi , im contemplating purchasing one of these to cart with my motorhome . it meets the criteria on weight and size .My only concern is it big enough to cart a pillion ?
Me and my partner are about 90kg , is there any chance we would fit?
I can cope with the low power and speeds , just not sure on the actual size .
Only looking at riding for an hour or 2 at a time so any comments on this would be much appreciated.

By: Jeff Ware

Jeff Ware — Tue, 20 Aug 2019 01:00:55 +0000

In reply to Ray. Hi Ray, sounds like you have the Versys 300 sorted - I reckon it is a top little bike as well. I like the sound of the trip you are going on, sounds awesome. I reckon an upgraded shock and some fork work would transform the Versys 300 and make it amazing.

By: Ray

Ray — Fri, 16 Aug 2019 06:03:02 +0000

I am 70 years old – cut my teeth on dirt bikes (currently a Husaberg FE390). We are riding the TAT and other similar tracks so I bought a Versys X300 in April of 2019. Contrary to what some seem to think, I personally consider this bike to be a legitimate Adventure bike. After 1600 miles (about half off pavement) I am loving this bike more and more. NO, it’s not a powerhouse, but it will cruise at highway speeds (ignore the high revs – it’s made for it). I am impressed with the off-road performance and REALLY impressed with the GREAT handling on pavement. I’m not deeply experienced, but I’ve ridded several bikes, including a couple of 1/2 liter bikes (one was a Ninja 550 – a great crotch rocket.) But for the design parameters of the X300, it is excellent! Would not be my first pick for a road bike, but no road bike would be my first pick for the gravel and single track I ride. The Berg has a plastic subframe and just won’t carry luggage (think back pack and maybe one gallon of fuel). So I got the X300 because it DOES have just enough power and will carry my long-trip luggage very well. This IS a proper ADV bike, albeit one with a small engine. I can pick up the bike alone; it has great instrumentation, powers my LED auxiliary lights and phone/GPS charger. (Replacing all the factory bulbs with LEDs will free up more usable power from the rather small stator.) T-Rex engine guards and skid plate, plus EnduroEngineering hand guards and you’re good to go – ALMOST. This little sweetheart has a HARD SEAT. I’m 6’3″ and 205 lbs. so I just added a Mad Dog seat cover and put extra padding under it. I dropped the foot pegs one inch (blocks) and added wider metal pegs to the factory peg (removed the rubber). I also added a 2 inch Rox Pivoting Bar Riser so standing is near perfect for tall guys. Don’t overlook this bike – it’s a balanced machine that is probably the very best small ADV bike on the market. (IF Kawi brings out this platform with the new Ninja 400 engine, all the better. We are planning a multi-state TransAmerica Trail trip in October and for my purposes, this bike is perfect. -Ray near Durango, CO

By: Bike Review

Bike Review — Fri, 15 Jun 2018 04:12:22 +0000

In reply to Rob Askin. Thanks Rob, great to hear that you share our experiences with this bike. I was very sorry to see it go! -Kris

By: Rob Askin

Rob Askin — Fri, 15 Jun 2018 03:27:44 +0000

Excellent review Kris….of an excellent bike!! Retired and at age 65, I thought better late than never. I bought in Sept ’17 and have to agree with every point you make. I’m 6 foot tall at 180 lbs and the bike fits perfectly and yes, the seat becomes uncomfortable after and hour or so, but the ride is fantastic. Smooth shifting, ample power, light weight, easy handling and great ergonomics. Very forgiving bike for a learner !

Thank you Kawasaki for putting this bike on the road.
Rob – Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, Canada