The 2021 Kawasaki Versys-X 300 has proven itself to be a surprisingly capable and versatile lightweight adventure bike, especially after clocking over 8,000 miles that included a mix of highway riding, fire roads, moderate hill climbs, and even some light single track. While it's often marketed as an entry-level adventure bike, it continues to impress even seasoned riders with its reliability, composure, and surprising off-road agility.
Powered by a 296cc parallel-twin engine derived from the Ninja 300, the Versys-X 300 puts out around 39 horsepower. It’s a high-revving engine that likes to be pushed, and while it won’t win any drag races, it makes up for that with smooth power delivery and excellent fuel efficiency. On highways, you’ll find yourself cruising comfortably at 70–75 mph with the tach needle hovering around 9,000–10,000 RPM. Passing power is minimal, but the engine remains composed and rarely feels strained, which is impressive for a sub-300cc bike.
Fuel range and efficiency are major selling points. With a 4.5-gallon fuel tank and an average of 60–70 mpg depending on terrain and throttle usage, the Versys-X 300 easily delivers a range of over 250 miles on a full tank. This makes it ideal for long-distance touring or off-road exploration where fuel stations may be scarce.
The bike weighs in at approximately 385 lbs wet, which helps it maintain a light and manageable feel on technical terrain. This makes it a great option for newer riders who want to explore off the pavement without the intimidation of a larger ADV bike. Yet, it’s also light enough that experienced riders will appreciate its nimbleness on tighter trails and single track.
Braking duties are handled by a single 290mm front disc and a 220mm rear disc, with optional ABS. While the brakes are adequate for the bike's weight and speed, they can feel a bit soft under aggressive riding, especially on steep descents. However, for the majority of ADV-style riding, they perform reliably and consistently.
Off-road, the Versys-X 300 punches above its weight class. With the addition of Continental TKC80 dual-sport tires, the bike gains a significant amount of grip and confidence on dirt, gravel, and rocky terrain. These tires transform the riding experience, making moderate hill climbs and loose fire roads much more manageable and fun.
Accessory-wise, outfitting the bike with Givi crash bars and side bags not only provides extra protection and storage but also enhances its visual presence. The crash bars have saved the plastics more than once during tip-overs on rough trails, and the side bags are perfect for weekend camping trips or long adventure routes. Together, they make the Versys-X feel like a mini ADV touring rig.
Suspension travel sits at 5.1 inches in the front and 5.8 inches in the rear, which is modest but well-tuned for light to moderate off-road use. The stock suspension isn't designed for aggressive jumps or fast whoops but handles rocky climbs, ruts, and uneven fire roads with composure. The long wheelbase (57.1 inches) adds stability, especially at speed or when carrying luggage.
On pavement, the Versys-X is surprisingly fun. It handles twisty back roads with confidence and remains stable even in windy highway conditions. The upright seating position, wide handlebars, and tall windshield contribute to a comfortable cockpit that minimizes fatigue on longer rides. For riders commuting during the week and exploring trails on the weekend, it offers a nice balance of utility and excitement.
The ergonomics are friendly for a wide range of riders, with a relatively low seat height of 32.1 inches. This allows for easy footing when stopped, which builds confidence in new riders and aids in off-road maneuvering. Taller riders may want to add a seat pad or consider bar risers, but overall, the riding triangle is neutral and forgiving.
One of the most impressive aspects of the Versys-X 300 is its reliability. With over 8,000 miles logged in a mix of environments—mud, rocks, sand, and tarmac—the bike has required nothing beyond basic maintenance like oil changes, chain adjustments, and tire swaps. It’s a testament to Kawasaki’s engineering and the platform’s durability.
In conclusion, the 2021 Kawasaki Versys-X 300 is a small-displacement ADV bike that far exceeds expectations. Whether you're just getting into adventure riding or you're a seasoned veteran looking for a lightweight second bike, the Versys-X offers a compelling blend of value, versatility, and rugged capability. With the right tires and accessories, it’s more than capable of serious off-road adventures while still maintaining street-friendly manners and outstanding fuel range.