Nice video, I rode a Honda Nc700x for about a month and gained a lot of confidence. I'm 6-7/235 lbs and needed something a little bigger. I purchased a 17 Versys 1000LT and love it! On another note, I took a MSF class and would tell people if you don't take one of these you are not doing yourself any favors.
The MSF is a very good way to start. They offered a follow up one day course with your own bike. It was pretty similar to the Basic MSF, but not test and they look at you control your bike. It was nice to know I wasn't developing any bad habits. Yeah, the MSF and any follow up training is a good thing.
I always advise someone who has never ridden to learn to ride off road. Just buy a bike the can do both road and trail. Learn on that bike and then trade up to a road bike. If you can ride trail, you can ride road. You learn so much more on the trails. Those skills transfer to the road when unexpected things happen.
I seriously considered a dual sport, but I feel that a good off road bike should be light and not as powerful as a highway bike. I've known many street rides that started off road, you're right about it teaching you great skills.
Want to add a couple of words about Versys 650. Since I'm the lucky owner of one :) Actually, I tried some mountain roads on it last autumn... and I found it easier when I kept the motorcycle in 2nd or 3rd gear during uphills... I had enough torque doing that. Just didn't switch to 4th gear. Motorcycle is not a car.. we don't have a goal to keep our RPMs low. So, in the very beginning my normal riding RPMs were around 3.5-4k. But now... I rarely ride in that diapason. I'd say 5-7k is standard for me now. (The bike is broken in, so I can do that) Just imagine, Versys 650 does 60mph on the second gear. Easily. The thing is... lower displacement requires you to open the throttle more... and that's it. I have an experience riding other bikes... Triumph Tiger 800 picks up the speed on 35mph even being in the 6th gear. Versys can't do that. But the price is twice lower :) Worth turning throttle a little more :)
Yeah, I ran it in 2nd gear most of the time on Devils Highway. On another long uphill curvy road toward Prescott, I could run the Versys between 2nd and 3rd pretty easily, but with the FJ-09, I ascended that same hill in 4th gear.
I've seen a few guys get test rides and video it, but I wasn't able to do it. Some people complain that the throttle is a bit twitchy and the brakes are soft, but it feels okay to me.
Exactly, either change it or get used to it, are your only choices. Had a few things about my FJ that I didn't exactly like, but after a while I adjusted.
You should add a list of your gear and mods in the details of your video posting. I am loving my 2015 FJ-09. I just got a woodcraft stator cover in matching red. It will get put on when I do my next oil change. I have only had 4 snow days this season here in Victoria B.C. so hopefully I can keep going! Drive fast and take chances! My equivalent to break a leg I learned from my late best friend.
Like you I did a LOT of research before getting my first moto and also started on a Kawasaki 650 (16 Vulcan S) and traded up to an FJ09. great minds think alike 👍 subscribed
Thanks for putting together your videos! I've been riding for years, but I still find the information you put out to be useful. I have a Versys 650 that I just bought, but haven't been able to ride much due to weather. :( the video you did on the Versys helped me decide on that bike. Thanks again! FYI, I went from a Harley to the Versys, no regrets!
The Versys is a great bike and just easy to ride, you can ride without really thinking about it. I hope you can get out riding soon. Stay safe and thanks for watching and for your comments.
Very interesting video to me as I consider myself a "new" rider. I have owned bikes in the past. After alittle over 20 years being without a bike I purchased a 09 KLR last year. My thinking was to find a cheap used bike to see if I was still able to ride and still enjoyed it as I did in my younger years. After a short time I realized I'm in love with riding again and have been looking something more. The Versys 650 is one of 3 bikes I am seriously looking at. After watching this and reading comments. My size comes to mind with the power in mind. "6ft at 207 lbs." Versys might not be the one for me?
I liked the Versys, but being 6ft 230, I wanted something with a bit more power, but not something really heavy. I seriously looked at going to Versys 1000. I've been really happy with the FJ-09, but I think I'd be on a Super Tenere if I could. S many awesome bike out there. Thanks for watching my video.
MattMan, the Versey 650 will have a lot more power than your KLR650. Since I was 19, I've been riding bike with 4 cylinder engines 1000 cc- 1200 cc. After 36 years, I'm back to riding a 650 twin. Do I miss the for and torque of the bigger engines? Yes, I,ve been a bit of an acceleration junkie for a long time. The 650 Versey is a very good all around bike that is capable of doing many things well. Hence the name Versey. versatile system. Good luck, Rich S.
I grew up riding dirt bikes (klx 140 and then on to a KTM 250) and really like the upright seating position that they have, I've really wanted to get a street bike for the road and feel like the fj09 sits pretty upright like most dirt bikes would you say it's kind of like a dirt bike seating position? or would you recommend something else for that? I really don't want a dual sport because if I'm going to ride it on the road I feel like I want tires meant for the road. Also would you say it's a good starter bike? or should I go with something smaller I'm 5"9 165lbs? Sorry for all the questions I feel like you know quite a bit about this stuff! Thanks for your time!
I started on a Kawasaki Versys 650 and I'm actually glad I didn't start with the fj-09, but I don't see why you couldn't start on it, since you;re not totally new to motorcycles. Both the Versys and fj-09 are upright neutral position, but are more comfortable seating than a dirt bike. I find that the fj-09 is a little better on the highway, for me anyway. I also like a bike that's less than 500 lbs and is tall like the Versys or fj-09, but that's just my choice. I'm goad you find my video useful, thanks for watching...
chuckasaki Thanks for the advice! Definitely enjoyed the video, I'm still a bit torn between the two I'll probably end up going with the versys to start because of the price point.
Cover up the ignition switch some more! And you buy a bike that fits your body and suits your riding style and needs.and yes start on a moped as all people do not have the common sense to start on a bigger bike
Awesome review / information. I am currently in the same boat as you were and going thru the same bike selection. I have my MSF riding this weekend and cannot wait. Would you think the FJ-09 is too much bike for a newby? I had dirt bikes during my early teens but have not ridden in 45 years. I'd like to start out with a Versys 1000 or the bike you have now but don't want to be road kill also. I do think I'm a responsible on the road. Sweet review.
Thanks for watching my video and for the comment. The biggest issue with the FJ-09 is the abruptness of the throttle, even with the traction control, the throttle response is really strong and touchy. Just be careful until you get used to it. You could crash on any bike, but if you've been a careful driver and stay alert and defensive, you should be fine. The FJ-09 has most of its power in the low to mid range, so it's actually very easy to ride. My MSF offered a followup course with your own bike. It was good to have the MSF instructor look at my skills after 3 or 4 months, I learned some things from it too. It feels really good to be on the bike. I hope your riding is as enjoyable and safe as mine has been. Stay safe...
Nice video full of information. And, well you have a very respectable attitude as what I can tell. Motorcycles to me are also interesting technical creations and because every individual is more or less different so there must be one for everyone... About cameras, we use them first as security, to have video if something happens, then for educational purposes - we try to learn of our rides and close calls, too... And they are entertainment (for us) even if they sure are not exciting by any measure for anyone else. When we had these ones (bikes, I mean) we have now, I at least didn't like the looks but it was wonderful to sit on. And to ride. So looks is not everything, you might say that one gets used to it on the long run. But, a very important thing is to know if the manufacturer is interested in after-sales, dealer is valid, if the service is done professionally - I think you should first get to know the mechanic and only after that the sales personnell... I ended up doing my own servicing (would not have liked to but had to).
I too like motorcycles and many other machines. I originally got a camera, just for protection on the road, in case it comes to my word against someone else's. I also have a front and rear bike mounted cameras that automatically record, but fortunately I've never had to use them for any legal purposes. I like doing my own servicing because of economic reasons and I just like doing some things myself and being self reliant. I took my first bike to the dealer for service and I was very dis-satisfied with the quality of their work.
Enjoyed the video though I have a question on how the versys did on the highway? My Klr650 is just enough to ride on the freeway but I is just not a comfortable bike to be driving 300+ miles. I'm now looking to see if I should get a 650 versys or to a 1000.
Good concise information. Appreciate the time in giving your thoughts. I've been on scooters in Thailand and a motorcycle years ago. So decided my first motorcycle will be a 2018 Honda NC750 DCT. This model is a step up from NC700. The 750 will hit US market this summer, but know I like features the DCT gives. I will use some of your info on riding as well. Took the MSF course too. Very informative. In any case, thanks for sharing. What branch military you in? Me, US Army 82-85 :-)
Your video was really helpful thank you for vlogging! I have a quick question, I'm considering getting a Versys 650 as my first bike... I find it interesting you talked about them not having much power on mountains, I'm 6'6" and 250lbs, I live on a mountain. I've sat on the Versys and felt comfortable but will the 650cc be enough power to get me around the mountains? What are your thoughts (or anyone else's)?
The 650 has plenty of power and is an excellent first bike, but on mountain grades you will be shifting frequently. Before I started riding motorcycles, I always had fast, powerful cars and trucks, so the lust for more power is just my quirk. I rode the Versys more than 10,000 miles and if I could afford it, I would have just kept it as a second bike. I would think that you may do some upgrades and minor changes after you have had it a while, but all motorcyclist do that. Seriously, the Versys is an excellent choice for a first bike.
Great video! I'm getting into bikes was thinking about the versys but I settled on FJ-09 instead. I'd like to know if you ever dropped your bike at low speed, stops or medium speed and how do you protect your bike against these incidents? I'm concerned about dropping my bike since I'm new to riding and wouldn't want to damage the frame or the engine. Any advice or experience to share?
I never dropped my Versys, but came close twice due to stepping down on loose gravel. My FJ-09 went down about 20 - 30 mph, from my not paying full attention around a curve, minor damage $400, then I dropped it in my driveway, no damage. Didn't get the kickstand down all the way before getting off it. I did a video about my sliders back in November, take a look at that, I really can't recommend sliders enough.
Sir, your video was very good. I appreciate your calm and thoughtful approach to teaching. It was quite refreshing to take in what you were saying. I, too am doing research for a purchase. In my case it is more of a "bucket" list kind of thing. I am 67 years young, recently retired from a big city police department. I have no interest in "go fast" or any other sort of insanity on two wheels. I spent 5 years in our Traffic Division, specifically the Accident Investigation bureau. I have seen every sort of motorcycle mishap. Most were the result of rider mis-adventure, that is, driving too fast, driving above their skill level and people in cars not aware they were about to smash into a biker. My question, is this, you started on the 650. Did you out grow it quickly. If you had started on the FJ09, instead, would you have been overwhelmed? I am trying to decide where to spend the money for the best bang for the buck. I have no special affinity for any specific make or model. I am not interested in starting too big but something that i can grow in to. Like you say, ultimately, it is what feels good to me. I get that, I just want whatever it is, to be manageable for a "noob." (my grandson's word) So, thanks again for an enjoyable and thoughtful video.
Thank you for your comments. A motorcycle is a personal choice and those choices are as different as we all are. To answer your question; I really never felt I out grew my 650, I saw an fj-09 and just really liked it. I liked that it was more powerful, but mostly I wanted to stay with a bike under 500 pounds that I could do most anything with. In many ways, the fj-09 is easier to ride, because it has more torque at low rpm, so you're less likely to stall and most riding is actually done at lower speeds anyway. I don't feel that the fj-09 is overwhelming, but I've read that a lot of riders find the throttle to be touchy and somewhat abrupt, but I found it easily controllable. If you're new to riding, I would suggest you find an MSF course, then take any following training courses they offer. I stayed on residential streets and rural roads as my skill and confidence improved. I too have no brand loyalty or preference, I wanted ABS, traction control and something reliable. I visited several dealers and sat on a bunch of bikes. When I found something I liked, I would get online and read and watch reviews. You're wise for researching things first, there are a lot of valuable videos you can learn from. Enjoy your rides and stay safe.
![เจ็บที่ยังฮัก - ม่อน วรวิทย์ [ Official Mv ] จอนนี่มิวสิค](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/KALIGSRSjFs/mqdefault.jpg)
Great advice! Your honest comments are very useful. Thanks
Really enjoy your videos, Chuck.
Thanks Don...
Nice video, I rode a Honda Nc700x for about a month and gained a lot of confidence. I'm 6-7/235 lbs and needed something a little bigger. I purchased a 17 Versys 1000LT and love it! On another note, I took a MSF class and would tell people if you don't take one of these you are not doing yourself any favors.
The MSF is a very good way to start. They offered a follow up one day course with your own bike. It was pretty similar to the Basic MSF, but not test and they look at you control your bike. It was nice to know I wasn't developing any bad habits. Yeah, the MSF and any follow up training is a good thing.
I always advise someone who has never ridden to learn to ride off road. Just buy a bike the can do both road and trail. Learn on that bike and then trade up to a road bike. If you can ride trail, you can ride road. You learn so much more on the trails. Those skills transfer to the road when unexpected things happen.
I seriously considered a dual sport, but I feel that a good off road bike should be light and not as powerful as a highway bike. I've known many street rides that started off road, you're right about it teaching you great skills.
Want to add a couple of words about Versys 650. Since I'm the lucky owner of one :) Actually, I tried some mountain roads on it last autumn... and I found it easier when I kept the motorcycle in 2nd or 3rd gear during uphills... I had enough torque doing that. Just didn't switch to 4th gear. Motorcycle is not a car.. we don't have a goal to keep our RPMs low. So, in the very beginning my normal riding RPMs were around 3.5-4k. But now... I rarely ride in that diapason. I'd say 5-7k is standard for me now. (The bike is broken in, so I can do that) Just imagine, Versys 650 does 60mph on the second gear. Easily. The thing is... lower displacement requires you to open the throttle more... and that's it. I have an experience riding other bikes... Triumph Tiger 800 picks up the speed on 35mph even being in the 6th gear. Versys can't do that. But the price is twice lower :) Worth turning throttle a little more :)
Yeah, I ran it in 2nd gear most of the time on Devils Highway. On another long uphill curvy road toward Prescott, I could run the Versys between 2nd and 3rd pretty easily, but with the FJ-09, I ascended that same hill in 4th gear.
Yep, FJ-09 is powerful enough to do that. I actually tried to get a test ride... but it doesn't look possible here in VA.
I've seen a few guys get test rides and video it, but I wasn't able to do it. Some people complain that the throttle is a bit twitchy and the brakes are soft, but it feels okay to me.
When you're an owner... you don't have a choice but get used to it :) Even if something is not 100% excellent :)
Exactly, either change it or get used to it, are your only choices. Had a few things about my FJ that I didn't exactly like, but after a while I adjusted.
You should add a list of your gear and mods in the details of your video posting. I am loving my 2015 FJ-09. I just got a woodcraft stator cover in matching red. It will get put on when I do my next oil change. I have only had 4 snow days this season here in Victoria B.C. so hopefully I can keep going! Drive fast and take chances! My equivalent to break a leg I learned from my late best friend.
Like you I did a LOT of research before getting my first moto and also started on a Kawasaki 650 (16 Vulcan S) and traded up to an FJ09. great minds think alike 👍 subscribed
Thanks for putting together your videos! I've been riding for years, but I still find the information you put out to be useful. I have a Versys 650 that I just bought, but haven't been able to ride much due to weather. :( the video you did on the Versys helped me decide on that bike. Thanks again! FYI, I went from a Harley to the Versys, no regrets!
The Versys is a great bike and just easy to ride, you can ride without really thinking about it. I hope you can get out riding soon. Stay safe and thanks for watching and for your comments.
Very interesting video to me as I consider myself a "new" rider. I have owned bikes in the past. After alittle over 20 years being without a bike I purchased a 09 KLR last year. My thinking was to find a cheap used bike to see if I was still able to ride and still enjoyed it as I did in my younger years. After a short time I realized I'm in love with riding again and have been looking something more. The Versys 650 is one of 3 bikes I am seriously looking at.
After watching this and reading comments. My size comes to mind with the power in mind. "6ft at 207 lbs." Versys might not be the one for me?
I liked the Versys, but being 6ft 230, I wanted something with a bit more power, but not something really heavy. I seriously looked at going to Versys 1000. I've been really happy with the FJ-09, but I think I'd be on a Super Tenere if I could. S many awesome bike out there. Thanks for watching my video.
I'm basically the same size as you, and the Versys 650 has plenty of power for me.
MattMan, the Versey 650 will have a lot more power than your KLR650. Since I was 19, I've been riding bike with 4 cylinder engines 1000 cc- 1200 cc. After 36 years, I'm back to riding a 650 twin. Do I miss the for and torque of the bigger engines? Yes, I,ve been a bit of an acceleration junkie for a long time. The 650 Versey is a very good all around bike that is capable of doing many things well. Hence the name Versey. versatile system. Good luck, Rich S.
I grew up riding dirt bikes (klx 140 and then on to a KTM 250) and really like the upright seating position that they have, I've really wanted to get a street bike for the road and feel like the fj09 sits pretty upright like most dirt bikes would you say it's kind of like a dirt bike seating position? or would you recommend something else for that? I really don't want a dual sport because if I'm going to ride it on the road I feel like I want tires meant for the road. Also would you say it's a good starter bike? or should I go with something smaller I'm 5"9 165lbs? Sorry for all the questions I feel like you know quite a bit about this stuff! Thanks for your time!
I started on a Kawasaki Versys 650 and I'm actually glad I didn't start with the fj-09, but I don't see why you couldn't start on it, since you;re not totally new to motorcycles. Both the Versys and fj-09 are upright neutral position, but are more comfortable seating than a dirt bike. I find that the fj-09 is a little better on the highway, for me anyway. I also like a bike that's less than 500 lbs and is tall like the Versys or fj-09, but that's just my choice. I'm goad you find my video useful, thanks for watching...
chuckasaki Thanks for the advice! Definitely enjoyed the video, I'm still a bit torn between the two I'll probably end up going with the versys to start because of the price point.
Cover up the ignition switch some more! And you buy a bike that fits your body and suits your riding style and needs.and yes start on a moped as all people do not have the common sense to start on a bigger bike
Awesome review / information. I am currently in the same boat as you were and going thru the same bike selection. I have my MSF riding this weekend and cannot wait. Would you think the FJ-09 is too much bike for a newby? I had dirt bikes during my early teens but have not ridden in 45 years. I'd like to start out with a Versys 1000 or the bike you have now but don't want to be road kill also. I do think I'm a responsible on the road. Sweet review.
Thanks for watching my video and for the comment. The biggest issue with the FJ-09 is the abruptness of the throttle, even with the traction control, the throttle response is really strong and touchy. Just be careful until you get used to it. You could crash on any bike, but if you've been a careful driver and stay alert and defensive, you should be fine. The FJ-09 has most of its power in the low to mid range, so it's actually very easy to ride. My MSF offered a followup course with your own bike. It was good to have the MSF instructor look at my skills after 3 or 4 months, I learned some things from it too. It feels really good to be on the bike. I hope your riding is as enjoyable and safe as mine has been. Stay safe...
Nice video full of information. And, well you have a very respectable attitude as what I can tell. Motorcycles to me are also interesting technical creations and because every individual is more or less different so there must be one for everyone... About cameras, we use them first as security, to have video if something happens, then for educational purposes - we try to learn of our rides and close calls, too... And they are entertainment (for us) even if they sure are not exciting by any measure for anyone else.
When we had these ones (bikes, I mean) we have now, I at least didn't like the looks but it was wonderful to sit on. And to ride. So looks is not everything, you might say that one gets used to it on the long run. But, a very important thing is to know if the manufacturer is interested in after-sales, dealer is valid, if the service is done professionally - I think you should first get to know the mechanic and only after that the sales personnell... I ended up doing my own servicing (would not have liked to but had to).
I too like motorcycles and many other machines. I originally got a camera, just for protection on the road, in case it comes to my word against someone else's. I also have a front and rear bike mounted cameras that automatically record, but fortunately I've never had to use them for any legal purposes.
I like doing my own servicing because of economic reasons and I just like doing some things myself and being self reliant. I took my first bike to the dealer for service and I was very dis-satisfied with the quality of their work.
Enjoyed the video though I have a question on how the versys did on the highway? My Klr650 is just enough to ride on the freeway but I is just not a comfortable bike to be driving 300+ miles. I'm now looking to see if I should get a 650 versys or to a 1000.
Good concise information. Appreciate the time in giving your thoughts. I've been on scooters in Thailand and a motorcycle years ago. So decided my first motorcycle will be a 2018 Honda NC750 DCT. This model is a step up from NC700. The 750 will hit US market this summer, but know I like features the DCT gives. I will use some of your info on riding as well. Took the MSF course too. Very informative. In any case, thanks for sharing. What branch military you in? Me, US Army 82-85 :-)
Your video was really helpful thank you for vlogging! I have a quick question, I'm considering getting a Versys 650 as my first bike... I find it interesting you talked about them not having much power on mountains, I'm 6'6" and 250lbs, I live on a mountain. I've sat on the Versys and felt comfortable but will the 650cc be enough power to get me around the mountains? What are your thoughts (or anyone else's)?
The 650 has plenty of power and is an excellent first bike, but on mountain grades you will be shifting frequently. Before I started riding motorcycles, I always had fast, powerful cars and trucks, so the lust for more power is just my quirk. I rode the Versys more than 10,000 miles and if I could afford it, I would have just kept it as a second bike. I would think that you may do some upgrades and minor changes after you have had it a while, but all motorcyclist do that. Seriously, the Versys is an excellent choice for a first bike.
chuckasaki Great! Thank you for the fast reply. I'll probably go buy one after the MSF.. thanks again!
Great video! I'm getting into bikes was thinking about the versys but I settled on FJ-09 instead. I'd like to know if you ever dropped your bike at low speed, stops or medium speed and how do you protect your bike against these incidents? I'm concerned about dropping my bike since I'm new to riding and wouldn't want to damage the frame or the engine. Any advice or experience to share?
I never dropped my Versys, but came close twice due to stepping down on loose gravel. My FJ-09 went down about 20 - 30 mph, from my not paying full attention around a curve, minor damage $400, then I dropped it in my driveway, no damage. Didn't get the kickstand down all the way before getting off it.
I did a video about my sliders back in November, take a look at that, I really can't recommend sliders enough.
Get a stator cover so you don't get scratches on the machine if you drop it. Scratches on the cover look cool haha.
I'm already considering engine covers for both sides.
Sir, your video was very good. I appreciate your calm and thoughtful approach to teaching. It was quite refreshing to take in what you were saying. I, too am doing research for a purchase. In my case it is more of a "bucket" list kind of thing. I am 67 years young, recently retired from a big city police department. I have no interest in "go fast" or any other sort of insanity on two wheels. I spent 5 years in our Traffic Division, specifically the Accident Investigation bureau. I have seen every sort of motorcycle mishap. Most were the result of rider mis-adventure, that is, driving too fast, driving above their skill level and people in cars not aware they were about to smash into a biker.
My question, is this, you started on the 650. Did you out grow it quickly. If you had started on the FJ09, instead, would you have been overwhelmed? I am trying to decide where to spend the money for the best bang for the buck. I have no special affinity for any specific make or model. I am not interested in starting too big but something that i can grow in to. Like you say, ultimately, it is what feels good to me. I get that, I just want whatever it is, to be manageable for a "noob." (my grandson's word) So, thanks again for an enjoyable and thoughtful video.
Thank you for your comments. A motorcycle is a personal choice and those choices are as different as we all are. To answer your question; I really never felt I out grew my 650, I saw an fj-09 and just really liked it. I liked that it was more powerful, but mostly I wanted to stay with a bike under 500 pounds that I could do most anything with.
In many ways, the fj-09 is easier to ride, because it has more torque at low rpm, so you're less likely to stall and most riding is actually done at lower speeds anyway. I don't feel that the fj-09 is overwhelming, but I've read that a lot of riders find the throttle to be touchy and somewhat abrupt, but I found it easily controllable.
If you're new to riding, I would suggest you find an MSF course, then take any following training courses they offer. I stayed on residential streets and rural roads as my skill and confidence improved.
I too have no brand loyalty or preference, I wanted ABS, traction control and something reliable. I visited several dealers and sat on a bunch of bikes. When I found something I liked, I would get online and read and watch reviews. You're wise for researching things first, there are a lot of valuable videos you can learn from. Enjoy your rides and stay safe.