Kawasaki launches V-Strom rival

Kawasaki is launching a rival for Honda’s Varadero and Suzuki’s V-Strom.

The KLV1000 uses a 90-degree V-twin 996cc fuel-injected engine making close to 100bhp in a twin-spar aluminium frame. Outside of cruisers, this is the first V-twin Kawasaki has offered, but it is essentially a re-badged Suzuki TL1000 engine, like the one used in the V-Strom.

The firm has close ties with Suzuki for bike development these days and other similarities between the new Kawasaki and the current Suzuki are clear to see. Click here to see the V-Strom.

In our next issue of MCN, out on Wednesday February 11, we’ll bring you full details of the wide range of accessories Kawasaki will be making available for the bike, together with its arrival date in the UK and full technical spec.

The KLV1000’s price has yet to be announced but the V-Strom costs around £7000 and it’s unlikely the price of the Kawasaki will be much different.

The KLV weighs 208kg, has a 22-litre fuel tank, a three-way adjustable screen and an 840mm seat height.

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