If you’re in the market for a 2025 touring motorcycle, two names will inevitably pop up — the Honda NT1100 and the Kawasaki Versys 1100. Both fall into the sport-touring category, meaning they’re designed to carry you across states with comfort while still being nimble enough for weekend twisties.
Now here’s the interesting part: while both bikes target the same audience, they don’t play in the same price league. Honda is the budget-conscious option, while Kawasaki demands a significant premium. The big question then becomes: Honda NT1100 vs Kawasaki Versys 1100 (2025 Models): Worth Paying Extra?
Honda NT1100 2025: A Practical, Tech-Savvy Tourer
The Honda NT1100 enters 2025 with a reputation for blending comfort, tech, and reliability. Priced at around $11,899 in the U.S., it’s almost shockingly affordable for what it delivers.
What stands out immediately is Honda’s decision to offer it with a dual-clutch transmission (DCT). In my experience, riders either love or hate DCT, but for touring, it’s a game-changer. Imagine slogging through stop-and-go traffic on your way out of the city — not having to feather a clutch every two seconds makes the ride less stressful.
The NT1100 borrows its 1,084cc parallel-twin engine from the Africa Twin, tuned for smoother, low-to-midrange power. No, it won’t win drag races, but that’s not its purpose. It’s designed to sip fuel and give you a dependable pull when overtaking. Riders report averaging 50+ mpg on long highway rides, which adds up over a 1,000-mile trip.
Comfort-wise, Honda nailed it. The bike comes with a tall adjustable windscreen, heated grips, USB and ACC sockets, and even Apple CarPlay/Android Auto support on its 6.5-inch TFT screen. This makes it surprisingly modern and travel-ready right out of the box. Toss on panniers, and you’re practically set for a cross-country ride.
Kawasaki Versys 1100 2025: The Premium Contender
On the flip side, the Kawasaki Versys 1100 SE LT+ comes in at $19,499 — almost $7,600 more than the Honda. At first glance, that’s a steep jump. But Kawasaki makes its case with performance and high-end touring features.
The heart of the Versys is a 1,043cc inline-four engine producing more horsepower and torque than Honda’s twin. If you’ve ridden Kawasaki’s inline-fours, you’ll know they’re buttery smooth with a satisfying top-end surge. On the highway, it hums at 70 mph without breaking a sweat, and when you open it up in the mountains, it rewards you with an exhilarating rush.
What sets the Versys apart, though, is its suspension system. Kawasaki equips it with Showa electronically controlled suspension featuring semi-active damping. This means the bike constantly adjusts to road conditions — softening for potholes, firming up for spirited riding. For touring riders who encounter a mix of highways, backroads, and the occasional gravel detour, this suspension alone could justify the upgrade.
The Versys also includes advanced rider aids: cornering ABS, traction control, cruise control, quick-shifter, and multiple ride modes. In short, it’s loaded with everything you’d expect in a luxury touring bike.
Real-World Ride Experience
Specs are one thing, but how do these bikes feel on the road?
- Honda NT1100: Feels calm and composed. The upright ergonomics and plush seat make it ideal for riders who do long commutes or weekend rides. I’ve seen NT1100 owners take them on 400-mile trips in a single day without complaining of backache. The storage options are practical too — you can fit a full-face helmet in the panniers.
- Kawasaki Versys 1100: This is the bike that wants you to stay out longer. The electronic suspension noticeably smooths out rough patches, and the engine’s high-rev eagerness makes overtakes effortless. A friend of mine who rides one mentioned how stable it feels at triple-digit speeds on open highways — something the NT1100 just can’t match.
Both bikes have excellent wind protection, but the Versys edges ahead with its adjustable suspension when you’re carrying a passenger and luggage.
Price Gap: Is the Versys Worth Paying Extra?
Here’s where most buyers hit the brakes: is nearly $7,500 extra worth it?
If you’re the kind of rider who:
- Prioritizes practicality, tech, and budget → go Honda NT1100.
- Wants performance, premium comfort, and luxury touring features → Kawasaki Versys 1100 is the better fit.
To put it in perspective, for the price difference, you could buy the NT1100 plus a full set of touring gear and luggage, and still have change left over for fuel on your first trip.
On the flip side, riders who choose the Versys often argue that the suspension and inline-four engine are worth every penny — especially if you plan on keeping the bike for 5–10 years.
My Personal Take
Personally, I’d lean toward the Honda NT1100 for most riders. It nails the basics — comfort, reliability, and affordability — while giving you enough modern features to feel premium. It’s the kind of bike that doesn’t intimidate you yet grows with your experience.
That said, I can’t ignore the Versys. If you’ve got the budget and you’re serious about long-haul, high-speed touring, it’s the bike that will leave you grinning after every ride. Think of it this way: the NT1100 is the sensible choice, the Versys is the indulgent one.
FAQs
1. Honda NT1100 vs Kawasaki Versys 1100 (2025 Models): Which is better for beginners?
The Honda NT1100 is more forgiving, especially with the DCT option. The Versys is better suited for experienced riders.
2. Which has better touring features in 2025?
Honda emphasizes practicality (heated grips, smartphone connectivity), while Kawasaki offers advanced suspension and electronic aids.
3. Is the Kawasaki Versys 1100 worth paying extra compared to the NT1100?
Yes, if you value performance and electronic suspension. If budget matters more, the NT1100 delivers plenty.
4. Which is more fuel-efficient?
Honda NT1100 wins here, averaging over 50 mpg compared to the Versys’ mid-40s mpg.
5. What’s the main difference between Honda NT1100 and Kawasaki Versys 1100 (2025)?
The NT1100 is about affordability and practical touring, while the Versys is about performance and luxury touring.
So, Honda NT1100 vs Kawasaki Versys 1100 (2025 Models): Worth Paying Extra? It really depends on your priorities. The NT1100 delivers incredible value and comfort at a wallet-friendly price. The Versys, meanwhile, caters to riders who want performance, luxury, and cutting-edge tech — and are willing to pay for it.
My suggestion: test-ride both if you can. Let your riding style and budget guide the decision. And if you enjoyed this breakdown, stick around for more in-depth reviews and riding tips.
