2022 Kawasaki Versys-X 300 ABS [Specs, Features, Photos]

The 2022 Kawasaki Versys-X 300 ABS: Sporty & Nimble Adventure Touring

Model Overview
Specifications
Features
Photos
Videos
Links

Adventure bikes are all about versatility, and few brands know that better than Kawasaki. Team Green’s Versys series is famous for providing plenty of performance over long distances and varied terrains, without sacrificing comfort or rider amenities along the way. And for those seeking a smaller-displacement adventure motorcycle, the 2022 Versys-X 300 ABS is an ideal choice.

Other Japanese motorcycle companies have made adventure bikes, of course—you’ve got the Honda CB500X, for example, which offers slightly more power for a slightly higher price. But Kawasaki’s done an excellent job of offering value in a smaller, more affordable adventure motorcycle, and the new model carries on in much the same vein.

You’ve got the same engine that graces the Ninja 300 here—a 296cc liquid-cooled 4-stroke DOHC 8-valve parallel twin producing 40 HP @ 11,500 rpm and just over 19 lb-ft of torque @ 10,000 rpm. You also get long-travel suspension (practically a requirement for a bike that’s designed to go off-road occasionally), an assist & slipper clutch to make those shifts a bit easier, an economical riding indicator, and (of course) ABS.

No major upgrades from last year’s model here, but you do get a new color scheme: Metallic Ocean Blue / Pearl Robotic White, which gives this machine a cool, modern look. Yes, it’s the smallest adventure bike in the 2022 Kawasaki motorcycle lineup, but that doesn’t mean you should overlook it. This is a serious adventure bike that’s perfect for introducing riders to longer road trips over varied terrain.

The 2022 Kawasaki Versys-X 300 ABS starts at $6,099 USD / $6,999 CAD.

On this page: we’ve curated specs, features, news, photos/videos, etc. so you can read up on the new 2022 Kawasaki Versys-X 300 ABS in one place.

Model Overview

General Info

Price: $6,099 USD / $6,999 CAD

Key Features:
- Long-travel suspension
- Assist & slipper clutch
- Economical riding indicator
- ABS

Main Specs

Engine: 296cc liquid-cooled 4-stroke DOHC 8-valve parallel twin
Power: 40 HP @ 11,500 rpm
Torque: 19.2 lb-ft of torque @ 10,000 rpm
Curb Weight: 386 lbs (175 kg)
Seat Height: 32.1 in (815mm)

Competitors

2022 Kawasaki Versys-X 300 ABS Specifications

From Kawasaki

ENGINE
Engine	296cc, 4-stroke, 2-cylinder, DOHC, liquid-cooled
Power	40 Hp
Bore x Stroke	62.0 x 49.0mm
Compression Ratio	10.6:1
Fuel System	DFI® with 32mm throttle bodies (2)
Starter	Electric
Lubrication
DRIVETRAIN
Clutch
Transmission	6-speed, return shift
Final Drive	Sealed chain
CHASSIS
Suspension Front	Telescopic fork/5.1 in
Suspension Rear	Uni-Trak® swingarm/5.8 in
Brakes Front	100/90-19M/C 57S
Brakes Rear	130/80-17M/C 65S
Tires Front	Single 290mm disc, ABS
Tires Rear	Single 220mm disc, ABS
Fuel Tank Capacity	4.5 gal
Color	Metallic Ocean Blue/Pearl Robotic White
ELECTRICAL
Ignition	TCBI with digital advance
Spark Plugs
Headlight	LED
Tail Light	LED
DIMENSIONS
Overall Length	85.4 in
Overall Width	33.9 in
Overall Height	54.7 in
Wheelbase	57.1 in
Ground Clearance	7.1 in
Seat Height	32.1 in
Curb Weight	385.9 lb*
WARRANTY
Warranty	12 Months
Kawasaki Protection Plus	12, 24, or 36 months

2022 Kawasaki Versys-X 300 ABS Features

Based on feedback from racing activities, the Assist & Slipper Clutch uses two types of cams (an assist cam and a slipper cam) to either drive the clutch hub and operating plate together or apart.
Under normal operation, the assist cam functions as a self-servo mechanism, pulling the clutch hub and operating plate together to compress the clutch plates. This allows the total clutch spring load to be reduced, resulting in a lighter clutch lever feel when operating the clutch.
When excessive engine braking occurs – as a result of quick downshifts (or an accidental downshift) – the slipper cam comes into play, forcing the clutch hub and operating plate apart. This relieves pressure on the clutch plates to reduce back-torque and helps prevent the rear tire from hopping and skidding. This race-style function is particularly useful when sport or track riding.

Late-model sport bikes often use large-bore throttle bodies to generate high levels of power. However, with large diameter throttles, when a rider suddenly opens the throttle, the unrestricted torque response can be strong. Dual throttle valve technology was designed to tame engine response while contributing to performance.

On models with dual throttle valves, there are two throttle valves per cylinder: in addition to the main valves, which are physically linked to the throttle grip and controlled by the rider, a second set of valves, opened and closed by the ECU, precisely regulates intake airflow to ensure a natural, linear response. With the air passing through the throttle bodies becoming smoother, combustion efficiency is improved and power is increased.

Using high-precision electronic control for engine management, Kawasaki models can achieve a high level of fuel efficiency. However, fuel consumption is greatly affected by throttle use, gear selection, and other elements under the rider’s control. The Economical Riding Indicator is a function that indicates when current riding conditions are consuming a low amount of fuel. The system continuously monitors fuel consumption, regardless of vehicle speed, engine speed, throttle position and other riding conditions. When fuel consumption is low for a given speed (i.e. fuel efficiency is high), an “ECO” mark appears on the instrument panel’s LCD screen. By riding so that the “ECO” mark remains on, fuel consumption can be reduced.

While effective vehicle speed and engine speed may vary by model, paying attention to conditions that cause the “ECO” mark to appear can help riders improve their fuel efficiency – a handy way to increase cruising range. Further, keeping fuel consumption low also helps minimize negative impact on the environment.

Kawasaki ABS systems use front and rear wheel sensors to constantly monitor wheel speed. Should information from either of the sensors indicate that wheel lock has occurred, the ABS ECU directs the pump in the ABS unit to modulate brake fluid pressure (releasing and reapplying pressure so that traction can be regained) until normal operation resumes. ABS offers rider reassurance that contributes to greater riding enjoyment.

Proper fit is key for rider comfort and control. However, the ideal fit varies from rider to rider, depending on their physical dimensions and riding style.

ERGO-FIT® is an interface system designed to allow riders to find their ideal riding position. Various points of the chassis interface (the handlebar, footpegs and seat, etc.) can be adjusted through a combination of interchangeable parts and parts with adjustable positions. This enables a wide range of riders to find a riding position that offers both comfort and control. Feeling at one with their machine, they will be able to experience how Kawasaki machines are fun and rewarding to ride.
*Adjustable parts and their range of adjustability vary by model.