Understanding the Market for Sport-Touring Bikes
When Kawasaki and Honda recently released new sporty touring bikes, it piqued my interest. The opportunity to test both at the same time presented a unique chance to conduct a head-to-head comparison. I planned to ride them on the same highways, city streets, and back roads to determine which one excelled in various conditions. However, I quickly realized that these two bikes aren’t quite in the same class.
The Honda NT1100 is a new entrant into the American market, offering an impressive feature set for its price. It shares a platform with the Africa Twin and serves as a bridge between smaller adventure bikes and larger flagship models like the Gold Wing. On the other hand, the Kawasaki Versys has a long-standing presence in the U.S. market. The 2025 Versys 1100 model features increased power, but it comes at a significantly higher price than the NT1100.
Price and Value Considerations
The Honda NT1100 starts at $12,674 (including a $775 destination fee). With added features such as hard side cases, specially-fitted luggage, and a mounting kit, the total MSRP reaches $13,237. In contrast, the 2025 Versys 1100 has an MSRP of $20,314 (plus $815 destination fee). Adding side cases brings the total to $21,163.15, creating a nearly $8,000 difference. This raises the question: Is spending over $20,000 necessary for a proper sport touring machine, or can you achieve similar results on a smaller budget?
Power and Performance
The NT1100 is powered by a 1,084cc parallel-twin engine. While not particularly eager to accelerate, it delivers solid low- and mid-range torque. The engine produces 100 horsepower and 82 lb-ft of torque, making it respectable for its class. The bike uses a six-speed DCT transmission, which handles shifting automatically. In urban settings, this works well, especially in “Urban” mode, which balances power and engine braking.
The Kawasaki Versys 1100, on the other hand, features a 1,099cc four-cylinder engine that delivers 133 hp and 82.5 lb-ft of torque. Despite being slightly heavier, the Versys accelerates more aggressively, making it ideal for twisty roads. It uses a traditional six-speed manual transmission with a quick shifter, allowing for smooth gear changes.
Comfort and Riding Experience
Both bikes offer upright riding positions with high handlebars, making them comfortable for long-distance rides. The NT1100’s seat height is 32.3 inches, while the Versys’ is 33.1 inches. The NT’s wider seat offers firmer padding, which can lead to slightly pinched thighs. The Versys’ narrower seat allows for easier ground reach and slightly softer padding.
In terms of suspension, the Versys offers adjustability for rebound and compression damping, giving it a slight edge over the NT, which only provides preload adjustments. However, both bikes provide sufficient comfort for long rides.
Handling and Ride Quality
The Versys demonstrates superior handling around corners, with quick turn-in and confidence through curves. Even on high-speed bends, it remains composed. The NT, while reliable, feels less connected during sporty riding, leading to a more cautious approach.
Technology and Ergonomics
Both bikes come with adjustable windscreens, heated grips, and cruise control. The Honda’s TFT screen is larger and supports Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, while the Kawasaki’s interface is more intuitive. The Honda’s system requires more time to get used to, especially with thin gloves.
Luggage and Storage
The Honda NT1100’s side cases are larger (32 liters and 33 liters), accommodating more gear. They also include removable inner bags for easier packing. The Kawasaki’s side cases are smaller (28 liters) and have a stylized design that limits the size of items that can fit.
Final Verdict
The Honda NT1100 is a practical, affordable, and comfortable long-distance touring bike. It offers excellent value and is suitable for daily commutes and summer adventures. The Kawasaki Versys 1100 provides a more engaging, sporty experience with superior power and suspension. While it is pricier, the extra cost is justified for those seeking a more dynamic ride.
The answer to the earlier question is clear: You don’t need to spend over $20,000 for a proper sport touring machine. The Honda NT1100 proves that adventure and fun can be had at a lower cost. However, the Versys 1100 shows that investing in a higher-end model can bring additional joy with every ride.
