Kawasaki Versys-X 300: Lightweight touring enduro — engine and versions
Kawasaki Versys-X 300 — a compact touring enduro motorcycle with a twin-cylinder engine, produced since 2017. It's suitable for the A2 category, and in this article, we'll review its tech and what to check when buying used.
Versys-X 300 in brief
Versys-X 300 — the smaller member of the Versys family, designed for both city and touring. It features a higher seating position, a 19-inch front wheel, and a longer-travel suspension than typical road bikes, making it comfortable on rough asphalt and dirt tracks.
While it mimics the design of larger Versys models, it's a lightweight and affordable motorcycle that's easy for beginners to handle.
Who is the Versys-X 300 suitable for?
Thanks to its lightweight and A2-compliant power, it's popular among first-time motorcycle buyers. The high seating position and wind protection make for a more comfortable ride than on a naked bike.
It's not a true enduro: off-road, it's suited only to light gravel and farm tracks. But for daily commuting, short trips, and city riding — it's very comfortable.
Engine and transmission
The engine is a roughly 300 cm³ twin-cylinder, liquid-cooled, around 39 hp. It's smooth and economical, though it lacks the punch to keep up with larger bikes on the motorway.
The gearbox is a six-speed, chain-driven. In many markets, it's offered with ABS, and the main selling points are low running and maintenance costs.
What to check when buying a used Versys-X 300
Check the chain, sprockets and tyres — they wear out first. Inspect the guard rails, steering wheel and footrests for signs of wear or damage.
Many motorcycles come with accessories — panniers, screens, guards. Check if they're fitted properly and that no major parts have been replaced.
Ask for the service book. Ensure the oil, coolant and brake fluid have been changed, and the engine starts without issues.
Versions
Names and equipment vary by market and year; we list the versions most commonly found in Europe.
Versys-X 300
2017 onwardsBase version with ABS and touring suspension.
- 19-inch front and 17-inch rear wheels
- Often — ABS
- Windshield and high seating position
Versys-X 300 Tourer
2017 onwardsWith panniers and additional touring equipment.
- Often — side and top cases
- Additional protection
- More comfortable for the passenger
Versys-X 300 ABS
2017 onwardsOptional version with ABS.
- ABS for two wheels
- Brakes optimized for wet conditions
- Similar equipment to the base model
Pritaikyti egzemplioriai
According to the ownerMany used motorcycles are decked out with accessories.
- Additional windshield and fairings
- Extra lighting
- Requires an open inspection
Versys-X 300 version comparison
| Versys-X 300 | Tourer | Su ABS | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Who it's for | Ideal for city and light road use | For long journeys | For safer riding |
| Storage compartments | None | Often it is | Depends on the example |
| Engine | Around 300 cc, around 39 hp | Around 300 cc, around 39 hp | Around 300 cc, around 39 hp |
| Category | A2 | A2 | A2 |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | €€ | €€ | €€ |
Most buyers will be happy with the base version with ABS. If you're planning trips, go for the Tourer with luggage space.
Pros
- Light and easy to handle
- Suitable for A2 category
- Comfortable seating position and wind protection
- Economical and cheap to run
Cons
- Not much power for the motorway with a passenger
- It's not a true enduro bike
- A small used market
Frequently asked questions
Is the Versys-X 300 suitable for a beginner?
Yes, it's one of the most comfortable choices for a first motorcycle — light, with a high seating position, and easy to handle.
Can it be ridden off-road?
Only on light gravel and farm tracks. Although it has a 19-inch wheel and longer suspension, it's not a true enduro.
What category is required?
The engine is suitable for the A2 category, so you can ride with it.
Updated 2026-10-21 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically





























