Holder of six Olympic gold medals and Kawasaki Z1000SX owner, Jason Kenny collected his brand-new 17-plate Kawasaki Versys 1000 Grand Tourer to add to his collection of ‘green’ machines this weekend.

Following his attendance at the annual Motorcycle Live show at the Birmingham National Exhibition Centre, Jason took a look around the updated 2017 Versys 1000 machine and decided to add one to his powered two-wheeled garage.

Jason Kenny OBE said: “I was so excited to get my hands on my new Versys 1000. I’ve had my 2016 Z1000SX last year from Bolton Motorcycles and it’s been great as an all-rounder, but I saw the Versys 1000 at Motorcycle Live and my heart was set on it. The more I learnt about it too, such as the power modes and assist and slipper clutch, made me think it was even more perfect for what I was looking for. I’m looking forward to racking up the miles on it and riding it everywhere! At some point, I’d like to go on a little tour and the Versys will be perfect for that, especially with the luggage capacity.”

Jonathan Hughes, General Manager of Bolton Motorcycles, said: “This is the third bike that Jason has had from us now. It’s great that he keeps coming back to Kawasaki as a brand as his needs and wants from his motorcycles change as the Kawasaki range is so vast, it offers plenty of choice. He’s a real petrol-head – just like all of us so it’s always a pleasure when he comes in. We wish him lots of happy miles aboard his new Versys 1000.”

Craig Watson, Kawasaki Motors UK Sales Manager, said: “The Versys range has been updated for 2017 – changes that have made an already fantastic machine, even better. Whether it’s a trip to the Alps or getting to a meeting in central London, the Versys 1000 will be a great companion.”

Priced from £11,799, the new Versys 1000 offers maximum riding enjoyment whether solo or two-up. The responsive in-line four engine and nimble chassis is a recipe for riding fun and, add in the upright riding position, it makes the Versys an ideal city roamer that really comes into its own on twisty roads.

Available in three colour options for 2017, Jason opted for Candy Burnt Orange and Flat Ebony – other options include Candy Lime Green and Metallic Carbon Grey and Metallic Flat Spark Black.

The Grand Tourer options include: accessory 47-litre top case, clean-mount panniers, pannier bags, a tank pad, top case bag, fog lamps, handguards, engine guards and a 12V socket as standard.

To find out more about the Versys 1000 GT and for the full range, visit www.kawasaki.co.uk