Kawasaki Versys KLZ1000 2012 – 2019

The kawasaki versys klz1000 2012 – 2019 is one of the most capable and well-rounded adventure tourers to come out of Japan, and it deserves an exhaust upgrade that genuinely matches its performance credentials. At Max Torque Cans, we’ve developed a purpose-built performance exhaust and link pipe kit specifically designed for this model, giving you a cleaner, freer-flowing setup without the need for complex fabrication or specialist tools.

Whether you’re using your KLZ1000 for daily commuting, long-distance touring, or weekend blasts through the Welsh mountains, this exhaust upgrade is a brilliant way to sharpen up the ride and unlock that satisfying deep note the inline-four engine is capable of producing.

Adventure bikes like the Versys KLZ1000 spend their lives working hard—loaded with luggage, tackling motorway miles, and handling everything from city traffic to alpine passes. The standard exhaust system does the job, but it’s heavy, restrictive, and often muted to meet strict noise regulations. Our link pipe kit addresses these limitations head-on, delivering measurable improvements in throttle response, weight reduction, and that all-important soundtrack that makes every ride more engaging.

This isn’t about chasing headline horsepower figures—it’s about making the bike feel sharper, more responsive, and more enjoyable to ride every single day.

What’s Included with the Kawasaki Versys KLZ1000 2012 – 2019 Link Pipe Kit

Our kit for the kawasaki versys klz1000 2012 – 2019 has been carefully put together to give you everything you need for a clean, professional-looking install. There’s no rummaging around for missing hardware or making do with generic fittings—this is a complete, ready-to-fit package designed by riders who understand exactly what’s required. Here’s exactly what you’ll receive when your order arrives:

• 1 x Stainless 304 CNC Mandrel Bent Link Pipe — precision-formed from high-quality 304 stainless steel for long-lasting durability, exceptional heat resistance, and a great finish that won’t corrode or discolour over time
• 1 x Stainless Exhaust Strap — a robust, corrosion-resistant strap engineered to securely mount your can in position without flex or movement
• 1 x Exhaust Strap Rubber — protects against vibration and rattling, ensuring a firm, rattle-free mount that absorbs engine movement without transmitting it to the bodywork

The link pipe is manufactured using CNC mandrel bending techniques, which means the bore remains fully open and consistent through every bend. There’s no crimping, no distortion, and no restriction in the flow path—just clean, smooth gases moving efficiently from the engine to the silencer. That translates directly into better throttle response, crisper acceleration, and a more satisfying power delivery across the entire rev range.

For a bike like the KLZ1000 that thrives on midrange torque and smooth power, this kind of free-flowing exhaust design makes a noticeable difference on the road.

Fitment and Compatibility for the Kawasaki Versys KLZ1000 2012 – 2019

This kit is designed to bolt directly onto the standard OEM downpipes of the kawasaki versys klz1000 2012 – 2019, making it a genuinely straightforward upgrade that can be completed in your own garage with basic hand tools. There’s no need to modify the stock headers, and you won’t require any specialist welding, custom fabrication work, or expensive equipment to get it fitted.

If you’re comfortable tackling routine maintenance like oil changes or brake pad swaps, this installation will be well within your skillset.

The link pipe has been specifically designed, tested, and refined to match the OEM flange dimensions and mounting points on the KLZ1000, so fitment is precise, secure, and repeatable. Combined with the included stainless exhaust strap and rubber mount, you’ll have a solid, vibration-dampened connection that will last for years of hard riding without loosening or developing leaks.

The 304 stainless steel construction means it handles repeated heat cycling beautifully and resists the kind of corrosion that plagues cheaper mild steel alternatives—particularly important if you’re touring in variable British weather or riding year-round through salty winter roads.

We also produce a de-cat link pipe for the kawasaki versys klz1000 2012 – 2019, which removes the catalytic converter for an even freer exhaust flow and a more aggressive, race-inspired exhaust note. This is a popular option among riders who want to extract every last bit of performance from their KLZ1000 and don’t mind the slightly louder soundtrack. Please note that de-cat pipes are intended for off-road or track use only, in accordance with UK emissions regulations.

Installation Notes — Kawasaki Versys KLZ1000 2012 – 2019

Installing this kit on your kawasaki versys klz1000 2012 – 2019 is straightforward, but here are a few professional tips to help you get the best results and avoid common pitfalls:

• Allow the engine to cool completely before starting any work—the OEM downpipes and surrounding components retain heat for a long time after riding, and burnt fingers make for miserable workshop sessions
• Use copper grease on all bolt threads before reassembly. This prevents the bolts from seizing due to repeated heat cycling and makes future removal much easier when it’s time for maintenance
• Check all fastenings after your first ride—a short 10–15 minute warm-up run and cool-down cycle can cause slight settling in the joints. A quick check and re-torque at this stage will keep everything tight and leak-free for the long haul
• Take your time with the strap and rubber mount—getting the alignment spot-on before fully tightening prevents unnecessary stress on the can or link pipe, and ensures a clean, professional finish

If you’d like to see this kit in action before purchasing, we’ve uploaded several fitting and sound videos to our YouTube channel so you can hear and see exactly what to expect from your upgraded kawasaki versys klz1000 2012 – 2019. We’ve also got a dedicated Flickr album showing the kit fitted to the bike in various stages of installation, which is well worth a look for visual reference and peace of mind.

Why Choose Max Torque Cans for Your Kawasaki Versys KLZ1000 2012 – 2019?

Max Torque Cans is a UK-based specialist in motorcycle performance exhausts and automotive accessories. We design, manufacture, and supply our own products—meaning we have complete control over quality from start to finish. Unlike generic importers or budget brands, every product we sell has been developed by riders who understand what you actually need from a performance can: genuine improvements in flow and sound, precision fitment, and build quality that lasts.

Our kits for the kawasaki versys klz1000 2012 – 2019 are no exception—they’re built to a standard we’re genuinely proud of, and they’re backed by real-world feedback from KLZ1000 owners across the UK and Europe.

Our 304 stainless steel construction is a deliberate choice, not a cost-cutting measure. It offers excellent heat resistance, outstanding corrosion protection, and a clean, polished appearance that looks great alongside the KLZ1000’s sharp, adventure-ready bodywork. This isn’t a budget exhaust built to a price—it’s a quality product built to a standard that reflects the engineering ethos of the bike itself.

According to Cycle World’s comprehensive guide to motorcycle exhaust systems, mandrel-bent stainless steel exhausts consistently outperform pressed or crush-bent alternatives in both durability and flow characteristics, which is exactly why we’ve chosen this manufacturing process for our entire range.

If you ride other Kawasaki models or you’re interested in exploring similar upgrades for different bikes, you might also want to check out our Kawasaki Z650 RS Stainless De-Cat System & Rear Silencer, which follows the same philosophy of precision fitment, premium materials, and meaningful performance gains. We also offer systems for the Kawasaki ZX-4RR 2024, proving our commitment to supporting a wide range of Kawasaki motorcycles with high-quality aftermarket exhaust solutions.

Frequently Asked Questions — Kawasaki Versys KLZ1000 2012 – 2019

Will this fit the standard downpipes without modification?
Yes. The link pipe kit for the kawasaki versys klz1000 2012 – 2019 is designed to bolt directly onto the OEM downpipes with no modification, cutting, or welding required.

Do I need to remap the ECU after fitting?
For most riders, fitting the link pipe alone won’t require a remap. However, if you’re combining it with other modifications—such as an aftermarket air filter or our de-cat pipe—a remap is worth considering to optimise fuelling and get the best from the engine.

Is there a de-cat version available for the KLZ1000?
Yes—we produce a dedicated de-cat link pipe for the kawasaki versys klz1000 2012 – 2019. This removes the catalytic converter for improved flow and a more pronounced exhaust note. Please note that de-cat pipes are intended for off-road or track use only.