Kawasaki Versys 650 2011
KAWASAKI VERSYS 650 (2010 - on) Review
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At a glance
| Owners' reliability rating: | 4.5 out of 5 (4.5/5) |
|---|---|
| Annual servicing cost: | £310 |
| Power: | 60 bhp |
| Seat height: | Tall (33.3 in / 845 mm) |
| Weight: | Medium (399 lbs / 181 kg) |
Prices
New £6,549
Used £3,500 - £6,500
Overall rating
Next up: Ride & brakes
4 out of 5 (4/5)
There wasn't much wrong with the original Versys, it just needed a few minor faults addressing, which Kawasaki did. They engine vibration - which was a major fault - was addressed and Kawasaki improved the bike cosmetically, whilst adding more extras like heated grips. It's a jack of trades, and a bargain all round bike.
- Video: 2010 Kawasaki Versys first ride
Ride quality & brakes
Next up: Engine
4 out of 5 (4/5)
Low speed handling is excellent making the new Kawasaki Versys ideally suited for town and city riding. Turns easily, very tight turning circle, you can just jump on the Kawasaki Versys and have fun, making the Kawasaki Versys ideal for new riders. However, when you up the pace well above the national speed limit the soft suspension starts to complain. Brakes are excellent if you can stop the front from burying itself into the road.
Engine
Next up: Reliability
4 out of 5 (4/5)
You can be forgiven into thinking the Versys isn't up to much in terms of performance but you would be wrong, the parallel twin has some real punch and on paper produces are respectful 64bhp. It's got plenty of torque to loft the front easily, and it's perfect for darting around town and still has enough top end revs for fun and a top speed around 125mph.
Reliability & build quality
Next up: Value
4 out of 5 (4/5)
We've not heard any horror stories with any of the Versys models and in our experience they've always been perfectly reliable. Despite the price it doesn't feel too budget, either.
Value vs rivals
Next up: Equipment
5 out of 5 (5/5)
The second generation Versys can now be picked up for around £3000 on the used market, which is great value for money for such a versatile bike. In terms of value and being able to perform in so many ways it has to score 5 out of 5. Find a Kawasaki Versys for sale.
Equipment
4 out of 5 (4/5)
ABS is optional, so are heated grips and the 12v socket, but in basic form you get a lot for the money. The screen is three way adjustable, mirrors and indicators are larger and most importantly Kawasaki have rubber mounted the engine to reduce vibration - a similar trick they performed on the ER-6N and F. Compare and buy parts for the Versys in the MCN Shop.
Specs | |
| Engine size | 649cc |
|---|---|
| Engine type | Parallel twin, 6 gears |
| Frame type | Tubular Steel |
| Fuel capacity | 19 litres |
| Seat height | 845mm |
| Bike weight | 181kg |
| Front suspension | Preload, rebound |
| Rear suspension | Preload, rebound |
| Front brake | 2 x 300mm discs |
| Rear brake | 245mm disc |
| Front tyre size | 120/70 x 17 in |
| Rear tyre size | 160/60 x 17 in |
Mpg, costs & insurance | |
| Average fuel consumption | 48 mpg |
|---|---|
| Annual road tax | £96 |
| Annual service cost | £310 |
| New price | £6,549 |
| Used price | £3,500 - £6,500 |
| Insurance group | 9 of 17 How much to insure? |
| Warranty term | Two year unlimited mileage |
Top speed & performance | |
| Max power | 60 bhp |
|---|---|
| Max torque | 43 ft-lb |
| Top speed | 128 mph |
| 1/4 mile acceleration | - |
| Tank range | 152 miles |
Model history & versions
Model history
2006: Original Versys launched
2010: Updated model introduced
2011: Available as Versys ABS [£6,834], Versys Tourer (incl. panniers, varioscreen and tank protector) [£6,937] and Versys Tourer ABS [£7,294]
MCN Long term test reports
Bike of the day: Kawasaki Versys 650
Today's bike of the day is this 2012 Kawasaki Versys 650. Seller says: "Nice mid range adventure bike that can be restricted for A2 licence holders and comes fitted with top box, tinted screen, hand guards and hugger. Supplied with FSH, long MOT, owner's hand book, service book and 2 keys." MC…
Read the latest report
Owners' reviews for the KAWASAKI VERSYS 650 (2010 - on)
15 owners have reviewed their KAWASAKI VERSYS 650 (2010 - on) and rated it in a number of areas. Read what they have to say and what they like and dislike about the bike below.
Review your KAWASAKI VERSYS 650 (2010 - on)
Summary of owners' reviews | |
| Overall rating: | 4.4 out of 5 (4.4/5) |
|---|---|
| Ride quality & brakes: | 4.3 out of 5 (4.3/5) |
| Engine: | 4.3 out of 5 (4.3/5) |
| Reliability & build quality: | 4.5 out of 5 (4.5/5) |
| Value vs rivals: | 4.3 out of 5 (4.3/5) |
| Equipment: | 3.9 out of 5 (3.9/5) |
| Annual servicing cost: | £310 |
4 out of 5 Totally reliable bike
16 October 2020
Version: Grand Tourer
Year: 2011
Annual servicing cost: £170
Would certainly recommend - reliable and easy to ride. A great purchase back in the day.
Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5
Generally quite comfortable - can usually go a couple of hours at a push before having to take a break. The bike itself feels planted to the road and I have no issues trying to do tight 'U' turns. Brakes are good - and although I wish it had just a few more BHP it does have a reasonable acceleration for getting past stuff. It's biggest problem are the mirrors - over 10mph they are pretty much next to useless due to vibes. Some people have complained about vibes in the pegs as well but I haven't experienced that. Also with these older GT's they only provided panniers because they were worried about it being unable to take a pillion and a top box at the same time which is a shame - something I think they addressed with later versions. Is beginning to show a few signs of wear in various places now - but it is nearly 10 years old. Always starts first time, doesn't lose any oil whatsoever and has been a great bike for me.
Engine 4 out of 5
never skips a beat and always delivers, but I (personally) do wish it had just a few more BHP.
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 4 out of 5
Fuel consumption is only average, and I probably replace the chain every couple of years as I'm not one who pays too much attention to maintaining the bike myself. It doesn't go through tyres (for me, anyway) that quickly and the bike has been utterly reliable. I only had to replace the original battery after 7 years use.
Equipment 4 out of 5
Replaced the front screen with an aftermarket one, and added a rather useless set of heated grips, but other than that I left everything else as standard. I always go for good quality tyres though.
Buying experience: Bought the 2011 version in 2012 - brand new with great discount from main dealer.
5 out of 5 Great bike for tall newbies or experienced riders
15 September 2019 by Erica from Valencia
Version: A2 lÃmited
Year: 2018
Great A2 option for taller riders
Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
My wife and I exceed the GVWR slightly, but even limited to A2, the bike has no issues pulling away from stops and railing thru hilly twisties. Wife needs a break after 3 hours of riding but says the pillion seat is very comfy. Suspension is easy to dial between solo and 2up (for us, max at the rear and almost max the forks for best balance).
Engine 4 out of 5
I'm still in break-in period. Some vibes at around 4k (90kph) but smooth at 6k (120kph). Little useful power at or below 3k rpm so don't lug it. Fun engine, likes to rev, easy to manage for quick cornering.
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Build quality is great, fit and finish better than the price would suggest.
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Only 100€ for initial 1000km service at Kawasaki dealer in Valencia Spain.
Equipment 5 out of 5
Mine has a Givi Maxia top box, no panniers, and a Comstands center stand. Wife loves the rear seat grab bars and trunk. Stock Dunlop tires kinda suck (poor edge grip) and will be replaced with Michelin Pilot Roads when it's time. Will soon add USB charging plug, which Kawi make easy to do.
Buying experience: Bought 2018 model in 2019 from a dealer in Valencia Spain for about 8k€ out the door including the Givi trunk and A2 limitation. (They wouldn't discount price but did throw in some extras instead). My first ever brand new bike after 25-30 used bikes in the USA (30+years riding).
5 out of 5 My Kawasaki Versys 650 GT
05 July 2017 by Boyan Love
Version: GT
Year: 2016
Annual servicing cost: £150
Great fun - I have owned this bike for 9 months. The bike had done 350 miles as it was their demonstrator and now has 3300. I wanted a mid size tourer adventure bike, and it has ticked all the boxes. Great fun to ride, corners as on rails. Fantastic noise as you accelerate, and is a smile a mile. I have taken it off road a couple of time, and it handles pot holes, and allows me to stand on the pegs giving good stabilty. Being relatively light, it is easy to manvover, especially when you want to rurn round in a narrow country rail. I love the LED spot lights, which at night make a big difference in improving lighting and during the day give the bike more presence to the other road users. Luggage is fantatstic. Most of the time, I keep the top box on, but the colour co-ordinated paniers are eary to take on and off, so fantastic for holidays.
Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Very comfortable on long trips. it has ABS brakes which work very well. No problems with sharp braking.
Engine 5 out of 5
The bike reves up freely and acceleration can be ask fast as required.
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 3 out of 5
So far I have had to replace the rear tyre, which had a puncture. The service comes up at 4000 miles.
Equipment 4 out of 5
I have added a gell saddle, upgraded the horn to twin horns with 120 sB,.fitted an MRA touring screen, a rear hugger, fender extender and a Scott oiler.
Buying experience: I bought the bike form Morotcycle Centre Orell near Wigan. I part exd my Honda Deavulle. I saved abotu £1000 on the list price of the same speck of bike.
5 out of 5 I miss my stolen Versys 650 already
03 April 2017 by Kamikazenaz
Year: 2010
Annual servicing cost: £500
My daily commute bike in Manchester, around 5000 miles done on a 2010 model and the only reason I might not buy another one after mine was stolen yesterday would be to try and broaden my riding and ownership history. I didn't like the old garaged tyres with my second-hand bike, and the rear suspension can bounce for someone who isn't prepared to fiddle with it (me). But with Michelin Pilot 4s recently put in, I cannot find fault. I like the seating position, the comfortable twin at low speeds but never needed more than 8 on the 13 rev counter.. it is Versys, it is bloody versatile. I learned riding on 100ccs on the streets of Bangalore, and this bike will still balance with the best of them in traffic and still open up nicely to clear gaps. I've had issues with the clutch cable, had to buy a paddock stand to clean the chain properly as it has no central stand.. and there may be better looking bikes out there. But I am surprised the Versys doesn't have more fans for it's value and what it does.
Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5
There are definitely better bikes out there, so not a 5, but I don't know if any can match this price.
Engine 4 out of 5
An all-rounder; no surprises, long torque band and punchy, not revvy.
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Clutch cable issues, and the odometer sparked out at one point.
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
A true number, mainly including my own oil changes, chain cleaning and lubing, etc Garage has cost me 400 but with top box fitting and some others included.
Equipment 4 out of 5
Bought second-hand, it had Oxford grip-warmers and I had to pay to fit my Givi top box from my previous bike. Dunno if the tall wind-shield is standard, but defo should be; it offers great protection.
Buying experience: Rochdale Honda. No worries.
5 out of 5
04 November 2016 by Paul Sutton
Version: LT
Year: 2016
It's just a great all round bike with character, comfort and fun. It might not be the fastest bike out there but that is not why you buy a Versys, it's no slouch mind you either but I don't think I have enjoyed riding a bike so much since I was 16. If you are considering buying this bike you won't be disappointed - you will probably wish you bought one years ago !
Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Plenty of adjustment to suit rider preference as standard set up was a bit soft for me but a few careful tweaks and feeling the difference was perfect !
Engine 4 out of 5
A little bit lurchy in slow traffic but I found taking most of the slack out of the throttle cable helped a lot to give a bit more control and feel taking care not to take all the slack out obviously!
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
So far so good - 4 months old wth 3.5k miles on no reliability issues and no corrosion showing yet and I ride in all weathers !
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Returning an average of 65 mpg can't complain about that. Will give more the more sensibly you ride !!!
Equipment 4 out of 5
Should have an engine temperature gauge - I am still disappointed that it doesn't. Otherwise it has what you need for this size/style of bike.
Buying experience: Dealer bought brand new. Got the LT package free. Excellent service as always from GT Superbikes
4 out of 5 We love this all-rounder with understated character
01 September 2016 by Kamikazenaz
Year: 2010
Annual servicing cost: £70
If you're looking for a genuine off-road adventurer, there are probably better bikes. If you're looking for a stylish commuter, there are probably better.. etc. But this does everything and I really enjoy riding mine to work everyday. My only complaints are with the rear suspension, which wallows noticeably at speed in tightening corners but seems a combo of old tyres and set-up on mine, and the brakes seeming slightly mis-matched for bite front and back. But what you get is an all-rounder of the sort that is hard to beat. Motorway 70(ish, give or take)mph and there is superb wind protection in a comfortable stance. Everyday commute and she bends on a pin, for a tall bike. Putter along in traffic, but also rip open mid-range for over-taking. I really enjoy this bike, take a test ride and you'll understand why. I almost went for a more-famous Africa Twin at twice the mileage and more cash...
Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5
I loved my Bandit, but long-distance there is no contest, Versys wins. Bandit used to corner much sharper, but I had cracking tyres on that so I can't say until after another 2000 when I change these flattened ones for some Michelin Pilots.
Engine 5 out of 5
No problems, I didn't think I would like a parallel twin after a straight four but very smooth, has it's own little growl ( and a bit of afters if you know how to make the exhaust burp) but generally approach it with the expectations from a work-horse and let it surprise you, not the other way around.
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
I've done about 10,00 miles on a 15,000 miler bought second-hand. I've only had chain and sprocket replaced, and oil changes done by myself.
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
What I spent last time, but had spent quite a bit for top-box, panniers, etc so probably not truly reflective of cost.
Equipment 4 out of 5
Bought second-hand, I wasn't sure that the heated grips were add-ons as they're supposed to come with the bike..dealer probs making some money there. Screen was the biggest difference from my previous, and really noticeable on long haul, but remember for this price you get a lot of bike, and therefore the choice to remove/add/improve what you want.
Buying experience: Bought from Rochdale Honda, my second second-hand bought from them, never an issue with service or stuff on offer. I must say re: booking, once a mechanic went missing so had to re-schedule while at work, but they are bike guys and cannot fault their knowledge and friendliness. I go from South Manchester especially avoiding Hunts on Stockport Way.
4 out of 5 Not a bad allrounder
15 May 2016 by Artman
Year: 2010
Annual servicing cost: £100
Nimble, comfortable and cheap to run. Doesn't look too bad either in black/silver. Would I buy another, yes I probably would.
Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5
Can ride for approx. 2 hours before numbness sets in. Not a grand tourer but have travelled to France on it without any real discomfort. Have road pilot 3s fitted and handling and breaking is very self assured and inspires confidence
Engine 4 out of 5
Not the fastest out of the blocks but rev it and it does move. Smooth delivery through the gears and in town or out on clear roads I'm more than happy
Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5
No reliability issues at all. Just a shame with the vibe noise around plastics at 4000 revs.
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Do all my own servicing
Equipment 4 out of 5
For what you pay one can't really complain. Have fitted Road Pilot 3s, OEM tyres are less confidence inspiring particularly in the wet. Have also fitted a Givi taller screen (better when it rains) and hand guards (again, better when it rains)
4 out of 5
08 March 2016 by Scott A
Year: 2012
Annual servicing cost: £1,000
Extremely well-balanced bike that doesn't do anything poorly, and does a lot very well for the price.
Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5
Feedback from the front brakes feel odd, but the double discs bite plenty hard when you ask them to. Stock suspension is respectable quality and can be ridden quite hard. I would probably prefer a shorter, stiffer fork to get more out of the sporty side of the Versys, but when that long stock fork is happily soaking up all the bumps of everyday riding I can't complain too much. Those complaints aside, everything else about the Versys is pure fun. First, the Versys is incredibly agile for its size and weight, likely due to the short wheelbase, sporty rake, and low centre of gravity. Once you replace the stock tyres, you can throw this bike back and forth with a huge amount of control and confidence. The wide handlebars and agility also make the Versys very forgiving in corners compared to other sport bikes I ride, allowing mid-corner corrections with no problem. The real fun of the Versys, however, is that you can ride it any way you'd like. Grip with a knee and hang off on the sweepers, then get up and over the handlebars and push the bike down to the road, supermoto-style in the tight stuff. Straight up and down touring? No problem, totally comfortable all the way over until you're scraping pegs. The sheer versatility of the Versys has kept me coming back despite the fact that I now also own two "better" bikes that cost twice as much.
Engine 3 out of 5
Once broken in, the Versys engine revs smoothly and playfully between 3-7K RPM delivering some solid, solid fun. Below 3K, it tends to lug a little, and above 9K the 650 starts feeling underpowered, but everything in between is a blast. The early torque curve also means that the Versys jumps out to 30mph faster than comparably sized sport bikes. That said, the engine is the biggest limitation on this bike. Most sport bikes will leave it in the dust above 60mph and I often find myself looking for a bigger handful of torque popping out of corners. I would love to see this same platform with about +20HP and a nice boost to mid-range torque. Still, the sweet spot for the Versys is anything between 15-80mph. This engine is perfectly suited for anything from dicing backroads, or cruising comfortably along at 80mph on the slab. Depending on riding style, my mileage ranges from 45-55mpg, often over 200 miles per tank.
Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5
10,000+ miles with only one failed part (kinked chain @ 8,000 miles) and an engine that has only gotten smoother with time. You get what you pay for aesthetically, and Kawasaki didn't exactly go over the top
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Stupidly cheap to insure. The insurance co's seem to think this is an old man's bike, but that shouldn't stop you from riding like a hooligan while paying 1/3 the rate you would for a similar motorcycle. Maintenance is fairly inexpensive, being a Kawi, and everything is accessible enough that you can mostly DIY.
Equipment 3 out of 5
OEM tires are junk, and the windshield of the 2010-2014 model is nearly useless. I switched to Pirelli Angel GT tires after a few thousand miles and never looked back. There are plenty of mods and aftermarket parts available. For newer riders I highly recommend the engine guards, which not only cheaply protect your bike from drops and crashes, but look great on the Versys too.
5 out of 5 My Motorway Versys
02 January 2016 by Steve
Year: 2014
Annual servicing cost: £250
With just over 11,000 miles in 6 mths I couldn't have chosen a better bike. 95% done on the motorway at a cruising speed that has allowed me to get 200+ miles from a FULL tank. It just eats up the miles and loves the long rides.
Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5
My only complaint is the seat. After 5hrs my butt cheek gets a bit numb.
Engine 5 out of 5
After a quick running in period and some careful cruising on the motorway, the engine is now giving me some brilliant returns. 200+ on a FULL tank.
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
The 'earlier models are known for engine vibes and mine is no different. After 5hrs I think everybody would feel something. But that said, I can't think of owt else.
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
But I've had it in every 6weeks because of the mileage. 11,000 in 6 months
Equipment 4 out of 5
It's the basic model, no add ons so basic.
Buying experience: Bought from Blades of Swindon. Shop soiled, last years model, old stock. £5,000 on the day.
5 out of 5 Versy's 650 Grand Tourer review.
19 August 2015 by Steve Groves
Version: Versys 650 Grand Tourer.
Year: 2015
Annual servicing cost: £250
Fantastic all rounder, comfortable, brisk and corners well. The bike is fitted with Dunlop tyres, brilliant grip in the wet but oh, goodness, hard riding and soft tyres; don't expect a high mileage. Fit Maxxis; took my big Suzuki around the I of M with Maxxis tyres, brilliant. Ditch the Dunlop's.
Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
If you can ride a bike, this will corner with the best of them. Don't be fooled by its small size and light weight. It can move when required, simply sort out the suspension.
Engine 5 out of 5
Power to weight ratio is spot on. 69bhp and 216Kg equals a truly fun package.
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
These engines have been around for some time now without any major identified problems. The fact that this 'small' engine has been going for so long says it all really. Only a twin yes, but in the right hands a peach.
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
I do use my bikes, tyres probably the most expensive item. Any dealer service will surely cost you money.
Equipment 5 out of 5
The Grand Tourer is perfect for one up long distance touring. Passenger; go for the Versys 1000. Different ball game. I have ridden in many countries and would not hesitate to ride on this bike. I have short legs so went for the lowered gel seat option. Cost extra mind.
Buying experience: Bought from D&K Newcastle under Lyme; superb. I have bought bikes from them previously. Great after care when needed. Staff helpful and all bikers. Nothing too much trouble as far as I am concerned.
4 out of 5
19 June 2015 by guzzi850m2
Year: 2015
It's a almost perfect poor man's do it all bike and perfect for Thailand (I live there). I fell very comfortable on it and the screen gives good wind/rain protection at higher speeds. You have to push it if you really wants to move fast but it's fun to ride a bike where you can use all the power (on the road) and fun doing it. Very cheap to maintain since it's made here, so parts are very cheap and service as well. On-board fuel calculated km/l is very optimistic, on my bike it sometimes says +22 but are more at app18/l in the "real" world.
Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5
This bike is an all rounder and it does all of it very well, well maybe not serious off-roading, I never tried that, maybe with a pair of more rugged tires it can do some gravel road riding.
Engine 4 out of 5
The engine have been on the market for almost 10 years and they have re-mapped it for 2015, power delivery is still very good but don't expect miracles from a app 65HP engine.
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 3 out of 5
The screen is very very well designed and takes the worst of the wind force when riding fast, well done. In the sometimes mad Thai traffic I have locked up the front/rear wheels a couple of times before the ABS kicked in but I suspect with better tires that would not had happened.
4 out of 5
28 May 2015 by DP2412
Year: 2015
Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5
Engine 4 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5
Value vs rivals 3 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5
4 out of 5 Too good
04 May 2012 by enf005980
I am in love, i am saving money for a new versys 650 but just one detail, here in Texas they cannot sale it..... I could not find even one used for sale 2010 or 2011!
Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5
Engine 4 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 3 out of 5
Value vs rivals 1 out of 5
Equipment 3 out of 5
4 out of 5 2010 Versys
22 July 2010 by Phaelok
Well, I turned up at Kawasaki Bristol at 3pm in the afternoon for my allotted ride with my girlfriend and the new versys. My route took me from the dealership down the M32, M4 and M5, turning off the Clevedon junction to head out towards cheddar gorge. The route back involved a couple back lanes and the versys coped admirably with all I could throw at it. A first impression when sat on the bike is this is going to be a comfortable ride, and it is. The seat is extremely plush and whilst I had no immediate discomfort, it seemed to be all day comfy. I would consider a gel seat as my bum did get a bit numb just from being sat on it for ages... Wind protection is astounding. I often wondered how people could wizz past me down the motorway at 80mph constant when I could only do 70 maximum. Wind would try to rip my face off constantly. With the versys there is no drama; 80mph cruising could be covered all day. Her ladyship was also impressed. Its the first time she has let go of me completely, placing her hands on her lap. Compared with the SV she was holding on for dear life. She found the seat comfortable and much more so than the SV, and the riding position much roomier. This bike has furthered her confidence in riding as a pillion. With regards to the ergonomics, the sizing of the bike is adequate for my lardy self, and the bars are not a stretch or awkwardly placed. The foot position is perfectly acceptable and its easy to get onto and be comfortable. Everything seems to fall into place naturally. As for the engine, all I can say is wow. It suits my riding style perfectly. I am lazy with the throttle and the torque just kicks in when I need it, powering out of corners. Setting off from the show room saw me surprised by the instant pick-up and acceleration. I had opened the throttle as if on the SV, it certainly woke me up! Two up the torque is plentiful, carrying myself and the lady with no fuss at all. There's enough poke from the engine for overtakes I wouldn't have even attempted on the SV. Though the bike is down on power on paper compared to the SV, it certainly doesn't feel it. Still in-keeping with the engine subject, the vibrations have been mentioned by many a review and I will agree they are noticeable. I became used to them over the course of the test ride. However when cruising at 70mph the vibes were certainly noticeable, to the point I tried to prod for another gear. There were two options, power through it up to 75mph or down to 65mph. Emma also commented on vibes compared to the SV, but on the whole conceded that the comfort much outweighed it as an issue. The vibes seemed to be most noticeable to me at 5k rpm, but sit above or below, or power through and its perfectly fine. Moving onto all round ability, as aforementioned I took the bike down the motorway and through country roads and back lanes. The bike coped admirably in all situations. I had attempted roads on the versys I would never have attempted on the SV. The suspension was lovely and plush, wafting over road imperfections with notable state of comfort. Hitting a pot hole however, would see the suspension react harshly, feeding it back through the bike to rider and passenger. On the whole whilst riding I noticed suspension producing a see-saw effect. Under braking, the front began to dive a lot more than on the SV. This could be a trait of tall bikes, because I have never ridden one – which means I would need to get used to it. The handling is neutral and I managed to throw the bike into some corners comfortably, with the bike remaining composed for a range of bends. From only riding a cruiser, naked and semi sports bike the handling on the versys is confidence inspiring. It has a weird sensation of 'falling' into corners; however feedback is adequate for the speeds undertaken. One instant observation when leaving the dealership is the back brake is pants, whilst the front brakes offer plenty of initial bite. I can make a direct comparison with these brakes as I have exactly the same system on the SV. The brakes on the SV seem more balanced, with the front providing enough power when braking hard, but no initial bite. The rear on the SV is strong in comparison with the versys, making back brake maneuvering on the SV easier. The versys provided a few head bumping moments when braking due to the bite present on the front end. The rear could do with the same sort of power, if not a little less. Perhaps changing pads and over to braided hoses would help somewhat… On the whole this bike is an impressive bit of kit, whilst it might not be much of a looker (though it is growing on me), its ability far outweighs its visual aesthetics. It's a similar story to some BMW's, many also look ugly and squinty with an asymmetrical design, but function far outweighs its looks. I was so impressed with the bike I didn't want to go back to the showroom with it. Fortunately there were no other test riders after me, so I was able to stay out longer – and I relished the chance. I was supposed to be out for an hour, I returned two and a half hours later.
Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5
Value vs rivals 4 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5
4 out of 5 2010 Versys
13 July 2010 by cmc1
Just got a 2010 Versys ABS model. MCN said it's a "Jack of all trades, master of none" I agree with jack of all trades but disagree with the master of none, on twisty country roads it's superb and has real punch out of the corners which see it leave the high reving 600 sports bikes even if it's only for a short while. If the roads not straight you'll struggle to keep up. I found this out for my self last year riding a TL1000 when some bloke on a Versys left me for dead on the twisties and it looked completely composed at the same time. in a nut shell it's a porky supermoto that can handle motorways and carry two people.
Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5
Engine 4 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5
Value vs rivals 4 out of 5
Equipment 3 out of 5
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Source: https://www.motorcyclenews.com/bike-reviews/kawasaki/versys-650/2010/
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