2018 Kawasaki Versys 650 Review
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 24 ก.พ. 2018
- 2018 Kawasaki Versys 650 Review: Having ridden and reviewed the big brother Kawasaki Versys 1000 a few months back, I received a lot of requests to try the parallel twin little brother, the Kawasaki Versys 650. The first thing I noticed was that it didn't feel that little! Stay tuned for my first impressions review of the Kawasaki Versys 650...
Many thanks to Blade Motorcycles in Abingdon for lending me the bike to review. Check them out at www.blademotorcycles.co.uk/
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Just sold my 2011 Versys 650 two months ago. Though I was stepping up dramatically to a new Multistrada 1200 S, it was still a bit hard to let go. Despite the practical layout, the bike is quite willing to show its athletic side. The engine won't win drag races, but it's eager, willing and quite revvy for a twin, pulling healthily through the mid-range. And the 17" front makes it surprisingly nimble and quick to transition. It'll lean enough to drag a knee, should you be so inclined. Yes, it's "agricultural." Transmission is chunk-chunk stiff and the engine is unrefined. But this also translates into a feeling of sturdy solidity throughout. Suffice to say, my new, delicate Italian bike is likely to give me far more trouble.
If you're looking for an inexpensive bike that gets the job done with more fun and fighting spirit than perhaps indicated in this video (not to take away from TMF's excellent work), the Versys 650 is highly recommended by this rider with a number of happy seasons on one.
Thanks for the comment and I completely agree! All the best - TMF
MSF : "It's a busy road out here"
Me in India : "Damn, that's how our roads look during total lockdown" 😅
Everyone who has ever reviewed this Versys has mentioned that you can't adjust the windscreen on the move. I don't get that, who would want that? Seems like Kawa made a good decision in putting the nuts on the front of the window, to protect people from idiotic fiddling with the screen while riding. :)
There are some motorcycle with electric adjustable windscreens while on the move. I guess some like to raise it on the expressway and lower it on the city streets. But its a luxury not a necessity.
BMW made a better decision making theirs electric screens. For me, the Kwak needs electric screen, heated grips, and cruise control. Then it would be the perfect bike.
@@BibTheBoulderTheOriginalOne Kawasaki has all those things ... on their premium bikes. You aren't paying 6.5K new for a BMW with all of those features brand new. Its a completely ridiculous standard to hold a bike to.
@@ondank I collected my brand new 2020 ZZR1400 last week. I t does not have heated grips, cruise control, or an electric screen. At £12,599 I think it is fair to say it is a premium priced machine...
@@BibTheBoulderTheOriginalOne if you want creature comforts you should have got the GTR not a super sports ... Does the R1/ hayabusa / GSX / panigale ect have any of those things ? Of course not.
I have this bike, but a 2015 in the Kawasaki green and it’s the LT so it has hand guards and panniers. I’ve put 4,000 miles on her so far, and I have loved Avery single mile. I commute 30 miles one way to work each day on it, such a wonderful bike! So underrated and understated. Thank you for the review!
At last! These are far more than a commuter bike. I have had mine 2years and done 90k kms. Daily ride to work, ride days and big trips across Australia! The bike has never failed, the engine is bullet proof and the ride comfort (once you adjust the preload a little) is great. As you say it's a basic bike, but it delivers the goods every time. Great review!
Thanks Versys Rider - there's a lot to be said for a basic bike sometimes isn't there....
Im on my 2nd versys, 60 mpg,cheap insurance, good looks,loves the curves,magic touring ability, and loads of storage, quick enough to lose yr licence, and its a good old simple bike,minimal rider aids,comfy,and a great price.....if carlsberg made motorbikes. ...mmmm
LAMS only for new ones unfortunately
Gday mate,I am miffed about what people say about the comfort of a Versys infact I bought one 2 weeks ago on the good reviews because here in Melbourne there wasn't a demo I could try anywhere. I find the vibration exccessive , It make my ass and wrist sore /numb and the seat make my tailbone sore. I watched many reviews from all over world and none of my problems are mentioned.I'm also having trouble with the rear brake locking up before the ABS kicks in. If you have any advise for me about the bike I would appreciate it. Cheers Dan
Adjust preloaded??
The versys is the bike you buy with your brain and not your heart. It's kind of boring, but it's so damn practical... Put the largest top case you can find and your car will never get driven. Since I got my versys 2 years ago, I could count the number over other Versys' i've seen on one hand, including at the dealer on one hand :( ... 2 years and 15k miles laters, every 6 months i'm finding the battery in my car dead because it doesn't get used anymore!
I'm in the process of getting one, and I have to admit this is a head over heart thing for me too. I have had bigger more expensive bikes, but as I don't drive a car have always gone for a GT configuration, but I have come to the conclusion that actually the smaller/cheaper/more full efficient bike just makes more sense than having some huge engine sport tourer where I can never really take advantage of the extra hp anyway. (not to mention as I get older, a more upright posture for riding makes more sense for my back)
Frag EightyFive The most underrated bike in the UK and more fool them! I have travelled thousands of mile touring Thailand & Cambodia on a Versys and they’re fantastic machines!
we need a couple more likes
Just I bought the versys 650 2017 model with the heart.. Not because is only practical.. It's a very beautiful bike, very fun to ride, good torgue, very nice handling.. One of the best all arounder bikes..
@@stabes70 Hi Enstrom, Do you think it would benefit from gearing it up a little for longer highway riding?
I have just bought the 2020 and will be riding 3500 odd kms over xmas, predominately on main highways. I was just feeling it could do with a little extra gearing.
Thoughts mate?
I just bought this amazing bike. Great review as usual boss. Big hug from Vietnam!
Bought my Versys 650 in August, as a new rider, ridden right through the winter. Absolutely delighted with it. Great review as always. Interesting to get a view point from someone who has ridden so many other bikes. Cheers! Ride safe!
You too Bob!
Nice bike. Thanks for the review Mr Missendenflyer. This bike can be my first big bike to start with.
Yes! Finally. Thanks for doing the review.
You're welcome!
Thank you! Finally someone roughly about my size, I’m a tiny little bit shorter than you.
You see I'm looking to buy a bike, I just finished my license today and aside from the ones my driving school had (F650CS, F700GS with low seat and suspension) I haven't driven anything else yet.
The Versys 650 seemed like a nice option with a very competitive price on the used market and I wanted to try it out at a dealer since I couldn't find a “smaller” person talking or demonstrating the 840mm seat height.
But now I can discard the Versys 650 and look more into other options. I don't want to tiptoe, most certainly not on the first bike.
Seems like most things in motorcycling are made for Mr. Sixfoot.
Thanks for the review TMF. Had mine a few months now and it does everything I need a bike to do. Planning to follow in your tyre tracks with trips to Wales, the Lake District and the Nc500 in June. Find your videos really helpful in sorting out accommodation etc.
Big thumbs up.
Thank you sir - enjoy!
Underrated machine ! Often dismissed as a learner/commuter bike ....1500 mile tour of Scotland on mine and never missed a beat .....nice review !
Cheers Moog
You passed my front door at 2.18 if I'd known you were coming I'd of baked a cake.
Another great review, great bike, commuter, tourer, sport tourer or adventure bike with the right tyres. I really don't understand why you don't see more on the road.
Another great review. Kawasaki has vastly improved the styling of this bike over the previous model and indeed the competition.
Yes the older one looked awful didn't it - this one though is quite a good looking machine I reckon...
Excellent review. Amazing you could remember all that while on the move. Thinking of getting back into riding after selling my KLR650 TO PAY OFF THE FAMILY MINI VAN.
Thanks , This is on my hit list for an upgrade on my Honda cb500x ,
your review was spot on and the video was just like being on board ,
i think i’m in with this bike ,
very informative work cheers .
Pete.
I have a 2012 versys and it's great she gets ridden every day for work and did the NC500 last summer on her never missed a beat
Thanks for the great video. Have watched your video numerous times trying to decide what to get, and fingers crossed I'm buying one of these tomorrow. 🤞🏻
Glad it was helpful! Enjoy your new bike!
Great review, keep them coming please.
Thanks a million for the review, TMF. I'm always surprised how many reviewers like this machine despite its simplicity. I think the punchy engine makes up a lot for its relative lack of power. The adjustable suspension at this price is worth its weight in gold I reckon. I had the same breaking dive as you in the beginning, but a few turns and it was sorted. The post 2015 versions also don't have the hefty vibrations which earlier ones like mine had. Steering's much lighter too. Another nice thing about them is their longevity; they last forever, and you can get used ones fairly cheaply too. They're great for filtering and general urban riding as well.
Agreed - a proper sensible work horse of a motorbike....
The missenden flyer
For me on my Versys, I had to make that choice as well... I was looking at the Versys or the Vstrom... The Vstrom has traction control but no adjustable suspension, and the Versys has the opposite!
I'll rarely need TC... Whereas being able to adjust the suspension for different riding scenarios is something you can use multiple times each day!
LOVE my Versys 650, perfect CC size, comfortable for me being 6'5-6'8" (200cm+-) in boots and helmet!
GanglesGon'Ridin have you carried a pillion while you have owned it. just wondering if it has enough torque etc to ride two up.
Yep! Did a couple road trips with a pillion and you notice the extra weight but the bike handles it well. Still enough grunt to pass easily and i'm not sure how but I got my best recorded mileage ever going up a big hillclimb, two up with a bunch of stuff in the panniers/topbox!
Great review. I sold my 08 Wing a couple years ago and now I have new job - 50 miles away and has some great back roads ( Florida USA ) and have been looking to change my mindset from cruiser/touring bikes to commuter which is most of my riding. I’m gonna test ride this. If anyone has any more recommendations please feel free to add.
I really enjoy your test ride vids, the best on TH-cam imo. I started biking on an Er-6 and the Versys 650 is basically the touring/more practical brother. Brilliant first big bikes and commuters. The prices have crept up though, my brand new Er-6 in 2008 was £4050!
Don't get me started Sam!!!
Was never a Kwaka fan, but did an open day and test rode a few including this one. I was very impressed. Great review thanks.
Thanks for watching and for stopping by! All the best - TMF
Nicely put toghther mate, thankyou for the review, you have a really good voice for it☺
Thank you very much!
I really enjoyed this review. I’ve been struggling to go for either the Versys or V-Strom (1000 range) but I’m really liking the look of the Versys. Cheers TMF. Still loving your reviews!
Thank you Ben - you won't go far wrong with one of these.....
I bought the full touring spec 2019 SE version four months ago to the day. I did a half an hour test ride and went back to the dealer to buy it the next day. It'll pass 6000km when I ride to work on Monday. Of course there are better looking and more powerful bikes out there. But it looks pretty damn nice in matte black with Kawa green accents. And I can ride it every day, in all circumstances without any issues. Commuting, touring, back road fun, all possible and enough real world speed and power for me. Do I like the look of a top case? Not really... but the panniers are pretty nice and combined with the top case it is perfect for traveling. The panniers are somewhat oddly shaped, but the perfectly fitting liner bags they come with make packing extremely easy. Did a four day, 1700km road trip to the Vosges with it and it handled the boring highway pretty well. And for a still inexperienced rider like me (I got my license last October and had only done 2000km on a 2011 CBF600 before I got the Versys), this nimble machine with its comfortable riding position was a lot of fun on the mountain roads. Especially following my more experienced travel buddies on sportier bikes. So basically, I really love its versatility. And I'm sure that the fact that it's a no frills motorcycle without electronic gadgets, riding modes and so on, really helps me improve my riding skills. So Mr. Flyer, I'd have to agree with everything you said, in the first 6000km I couldn't find any real negatives either. But the fact that I'm happy with my Versys at the moment, won't stop me from watching your reviews. I enjoy them too much for that. So thanks a lot and keep them coming!
Thanks for watching and for stopping by!
After watching your review, I purchased a new 2019 Kawasaki Versys 650. Very much love this bike, I think it will do all that I need, very well. I must commend you on a very well done, very informative video. Thank you. - CJ
Thank you very much CJ and congratulations on getting the bike!
Very very informative review with great sound quality. After this review the Versys is definitely one of my contenders to replace my Yamaha xmax 400.
Glad I was of use you - cheers - TMF
Just pushed the bike over the Hardknott Pass with some attitude. A great bike indeed 👍
It's funny, the thought is that this kinda bike is for people graduating from smaller bikes. While that is perhaps what one would expect, I find that most guys that ride these are old guys that have ridden forever and realize the enormous waste in buying the latest overpowered, over electronically governed hyper bikes to tiddle around on public roads.
Guys I've known started on liter bikes and moved to luxury bikes or stop riding. Seems the thrill of being a street Rossi is short lived.
I had an old riding buddy with a Goldwing that he loved. He bought a standard version of that Kaw 650 and hardly ever rode the GW afterward unless his wife was going. The acute knee angle finally got to him and he grudgingly let it go.
Yes I completely agree - and indeed I've seen a similar pattern....
I’ve done the same. Had several litre plus bikes before my Versys. Don’t miss the extra weight and running costs. And I’ve had my license for over 30 years
I also agree, especially on the wastefulness part. There are few parts of the world where you can legally or safely use the extra power from modern litre bikes. Just no point mostly.
Yep turning 50 this year, and I'm going from a background of over 1000CC sport tourers in a GT configuration to the GT configuration of this.... I still need the practicality of a GT, but I don't need all the bells and whistles and actually think living in a place with a lot of narrow rural roads, something a bit more maneuverable makes more sense as long as it is still good for distance... which everything I have read and heard and my impression from a test ride,
appears to be the case.
Good review of a good all round bike it seems. Like how you moved your TMF intro to after the first 30 seconds, nice.
Err, probably more by accident than design....
Nice review, I like that bike even though I have never even sit on one. All the reviews I have seen on it have been positive. Thanks!
Thanks for watching Roy - TMF
Nice review.Enjoyed.Simple , enjoyable motorcycling- Versys 650.
Superbly comfortable.
i have the 2016 grand tourer my third versys, i have been to spain, france,switzerland , germany on it camping it's got more than enough power for my needs and sits happy at 80mph loaded with luggage on european motorways
Thanks for the review! For my most recent toy purchase it was Versys vs. Street Triple R. Both nice machines.
Cheers Chris - thanks for watching!
Just found you on TH-cam, thank God I did. Great review thanks
Thank you Edmund - welcome along!
I really enjoy your reviews....
Howdy from the USA....
Howdy Howard - glad you like 'em....
I have in the past owned an older version of this machine and was very pleased with it .It does appear tmf that Kawasaki have genuinely done some nice updates and listened to the rider feedback i.e. adjustable suspension more rubber mounts to quash the vibes oh and made it look a lot better . Nice review as usual . The one thing I think is missing from your reviews is taking a pillion on these machines you test ride .
Sadly logistically difficult for me but thanks for watching - TMF
Yes, Kwakas always feel like good solid bikes..
That was the best review of this bike that I've see!! Those are some beautiful country roads you are riding on!! I assume your in England. I live in Florida so I don't have to worry too much about the cold but we don't have that beautiful countryside that you have!!
Thanks Chris and yes, that’s good ol Blighty...give me Florida any time!!!
One of the most underrated bikes ever produced. i own the 08, switched out the seat and a few other bits and it's been one of my favorite bikes of all time. ive acquired 2 other bikes since the Versys and i cannot bring myself to trade it in!
Had to give you a like just for your username
@@lis3728 very few get it. thx! lol
I've just got back into biking after 7yrs last bike was a 1200gs I liked the look of it after a test ride i was amazed and bought it cant wait to ride it when lockdown finishes a really capable machine for reasonable money. thanks TMF
My pleasure!
@@TheMissendenFlyer I'm sure other viewers have found your channel a tonic at the moment too.🍸
Great review as usual. Spotted you on the Principal Ins stand @ London Bike Show on the Friday but you were deep in conversation with various folk - long conversations too! And I'm too much of a gent to interrupt. 😁
Ah sorry about that RD - I was too much of a gent to tell people to stop talking!!!! :0)
Been riding for a couple years and since I can only afford one motorcycle, I’m looking for a good all-around bike. This might just be the ticket. Your videos are pleasant to listen to and have a mature take on motorcycles.
Love those quick passes.!
The quicker the better!
I own this motorcycle and it's one of the best options for an A2 license. (imo)
The 'Grand Touring Packet' makes it perfect for commuting & bringing along a LOT of stuff. Did I mention the pricing of all those features? Damn good for a brand new motorcycle.
All it misses are heated grips (Oxford gotcha covered in that), a bigger windscreen if you are a taller rider (I got a Puig one) and you might optimise your ride with a seat upgrade.
I get about 17-20 km/l - the tank is crazy big for its fuel economy.
Thank you for showing the people what this bike is about!
You're very welcome - I'm glad you're getting on well with the bike...
Is the service intervals still 6000km? Cause that is a deal breaker for me, seeing as I do about 20 000km a year... That was one of the biggest reasons I went for a BMW, seeing the service intervals are 10 000km. Two services a year are cheaper than three.
I'm not sure what the guidelines are on that - I THINK it's about 7-8 km/service.
hi Andy
i bought a 2019 versys 650 at beginning of this year( i am in my mid sixties and it is the first bike i have owned for almost 40 yrs), i am loving every minute of my new found lease of life although i dont give it as much gas as you did but hopefully now i have had one seasons riding i will give it a bit more gas this coming season. i have found it to be well comfy although i get a bit of numb bum after about 2 to 3 hours in the saddle and have to take a break, i fitted a MRA Vario touring screen andi find it to be a big improvement over stock screen( no buffeting or flies on my visor). i have really enjoyed your Alaska,Canada,Usa tour, fantastic scenery, dont think i could cover those miles on a daily basis tho. Keep up with the excellent videos and let me wish you a Merry Xmas and a Happy New Year.
Thank you Nigel, so glad you like the videos and thank you for such a nice comment. Merry Christmas - Andy
I had the first model of Versys. Excellent bike !! I missed it ...
That looks like a perfect choice for me after my A2. Great value, great look and cracking exhaust note.
Sounds good to me!
I love the quieter pipes, still a nice tone!
Excellent review - very useful. Thanks very much.
My pleasure!
I went and bought one after watching this. I was looking for something else but I liked this better. I like it, 1200 on it so far.
I own a 2018 versys for a month now and i really love it perfect bike the engine is actually strong and powerful and i think underated by most reviews.
Congratulations on the bike and glad you like it.....
At what speed does the engine start screaming? I like an engine that is comfortable at higher speeds-if the 650 doesn't pass that test..maybe the 1000cc is better.
The 650 is at its best in the higher gears!
Lucas Filewalker more bike than you will ever use..
Hand guards to keep the cold air off and heated grips and I reckon she’d be a fab commuter, as always cheers TMF 👍
I agree - cheers Shane....
Descendant of the GPZ500S, another Kawasaki mid-sized bike which got labelled 'beginner, budget, ideal first bike etc' but was actually a very quick and amazingly versatile machine, even for an experienced rider like me. I am still struggling with the styling of modern machines but I can see this is a great value all-rounder like its ancestor.
Thanks for watching Rory, all the best - TMF
This video helped my decision to buy this bike...and it was done on my birthday so that is a sign :) Thank you
Happy birthday!
Toured nc500 route with the Versys from London, great bike, great luggage space with panniers, great price and damn good price!! Good review
Thank you Mario - great bike for that sort of mission. Cheers for watching - TMF
Had one of these as a rental when I done a lap of blighty about 5 years ago, was very impressed.
They are quite a good bike to do a tour on, comfort is surprisingly good, power is sufficient, it will sit on 70 on the motorway very nicely.
Worst part of the trip was the rain for 2 days going from Glasgow - Cardiff, got wet as a shag, thank fully it stopped after I left Wales, but thumbs up to the Kwaka, nice bike.
But I think I will still keep my DR 650.
Good review sir. 👍👍👍
"got wet as a shag" - not sure about that!
TMF - I think he’s referring to Phalacrocorax aristotelis - useless info I know! Interesting bike review though and thanks again.
docgreen 49 correct on that assumption, also known as a cormorant in Europe.
It is an Aussie term for getting soaked, like the bird does when it searches for food.
Shag also means the same in OZ that it does in the UK, a bit of naughty. 😂😂
WhiteDRguy 650 Hi - a shag’s a shag n a cormorant is a cormorant! What r u riding in Oz?
docgreen 49 I am no expert on birds, i guess they are different but the same in some regards, but any how.
I am the proud owner of a Suzuki DR 650, on to number 3 now, good all round bike, does everything I need it to do, lots of dirt down here, and they are cheap and reliable bikes.
First one I had was a 98 model with 115,000 Klms, number 2 490,000 Klms, current bike is a 2014 with 180,000 Klms, they get ridden year round, every day, best bike I have owned.
I have the 2015 model and I do Germany Greece every summer. My first proper bike. Love it. Simple agile lean. Load it like a donkey. Sometimes I get jealous of the GS1200 riders... but then I think of the complexity the electronics and the BMW costs and arrogance and I that goes away quickly!
Am I an arrogant BMW GS owner do you think? It's a genuine question as I've heard that a few times (not something I knew before I bought one) and now wonder if I'm "tarred with the same brush"! Glad you like the Kawasaki, great machine...all the best - TMF
TheMissendenFlyer Dude you’re right! I didn’t express my self quite right! The “arrogant” only goes for the dealership and sellers! I get these vibes when I go check new models. Enjoy your BMW! I’m sure at some point I’m gonna break and give in to the GS1200 and the BMW ecosystem. Sweet machines!
This is kinda funny, I went from a Tracer 700 (almost got the Versys 650 at the time) to a 1200 GS after I rode it once . I was very hesitant though thinking it was a bike for middle-aged men, me being 27 y/o lol. The comfort and electronics (read: cruise control lol) did it for me tbh... But yes, you cannot beat the practicality and the cost of the Versys, as a BMW owner I envy this quite a bit haha.
I waldn't call Showa fully adjustable suspension "basic" , specialy in budget bike, great job Kawasaki.
Overall very good review thanks.
When people say "say something nasty about them" I think they are trying to compare these bikes to the likes of the R1200GS the Multistrada or the Super Adventure, which completely misses the point. For the price, the category and the competition I think the Versys is a no-brainer, but so is the V-Strom imo. I would say that the Suzuki is more touring oriented than the Versys but both are pretty capable all-in-one bikes.
Great review, TMF! Love from India.
Thank you Rohan
Good morning TMF thank you for the video and review,Take Care 😎👍🇬🇧.
Morning Wayne.....
I currently have a Tracer 700 as I've had enough of large capacity machines and I love it, yes it has basic suspension and only 75 odd horse power but it ticks all the boxes for me, it goes,stops and handles well and if you add a colour coded hugger, belly pan it looks finished!
:0)
Good review, I've just got an 18 model and as a rider for nearly 40 years it suit my needs perfectly. I recently sold my ZX-9R and my GPz900R because I just couldn't use the performance of them on today's crowded roads. Mine has the touring pack fitted and I'm looking forward to getting some miles under her wheels.
Thanks for watching and for stopping by! All the best - TMF
oh man, I have such a soft spot for the versys. Looks fantastic and is just a very practical, straightforward bike.
Yes - a lot to be said for good old fashioned simplicity isn't there....
4:09....yes, this IS a top heavy bike. I have the 2018 model. The seat is high, plus it has a large gas tank...which also sits up high. With a full tank, that's about 40lbs sitting up high. I'm 5'10 and I can't flat foot my heels. Combine this with the top heavy feel, it requires a little extra attention when stopped.
Be taller. What doesn’t work for you may work for others.
The mirrors are specifically designed with the bottom shaped like that to give you the maximum of depth to see the road while also being aerodynamic, so as not to cause wind buffeting and that would cause them to shake a lot. Pretty clever by Kawasaki, that's why a lot of people praise mirrors on the Versys. On the surface it seems unusual and counter-productive, 'cause you want big round or square shaped mirrors, but those are the ones that catch most air and tend to shake quite a lot.
Good stuff - cheers
Love your signature intro mate. :)
Thanks
I have a 2007 model which I have owned since new, I love the bike, it never disappoints and never have a problem keeping up with my friends who all have liter bikes and when the twistys start they have problems keeping up with me, I have been riding for over 50 years and I used to have a whole raft of BSA's and Nortons and other than engine size there is nothing the same, I guess I am a slow learner because I love my learner bike
Hehe, me thinks you are a skilled rider sir!
This was my first bike in 2008, so happy with it. I now use it as a long distance touring machine. Really happy I didn't sell it.
Thanks for the feedback - TMF
First let me say I like your reviews as I have watched many of them. And there will clearly be a Triumph in my future just not sure which one. I also prefer the style of your later reviews. But that’s my opinion. Now let me comment on the Versys 650. I purchased my LT model with the luggage and hand guards new last year. In that time I have put approximately 4000 miles , as I have a 30 mile daily commute. Your review was well done. If I may let me put in my 2 cents as a long term review. As a rider I am 6’1 in height so the seat height for me is perfect. But the foot peg height on long commutes left my legs feeling a bit bunched up and cramped. An after market peg lowering kit did wonders and I give a thumbs up to others considering this. Next the engine has a very abrupt on or off feel to it . Leaving off the throttle to abruptly heading into a curve has a very sharp engine breaking sending the nose down. This can be a bit scary at first but you just have to learn to feather the throttle. Lastly and my biggest critique of the Versys is it can be quite vibey when cruising the highways over 60 mph. My hands are numb at the end of my commute. But this bike is right at home on back roads cruising at speeds 60mph and lower. I can easily ride for hours. Overall the pros out weight the cons on the versys. At is price point it’s a smart motorcycle packed with a lot to technology making it a bargain in its class. Keep up the good work. P.S . Which Triumph to buy? I like so many. But I have to say I am leaning toward the T120 or the Speedmaster. Just beautiful bike.
I particularly liked the Speedmaster I have to say - but of course the Speed Twin won for me! Thanks for watching and for stopping by - TMF
Nicely put together review, as usual. 👍 With a fuel range of 250 of miles, built in luggage system and an all round comfortable and we'll put together bike, it's perhaps a little more than a commuter or first time big bike.
Yes, if you could only have one bike then this is a great practical all-rounder....
TMF, looks like a excellent all arounder..touring, twisties, commuting or just weekend flogging! Good video!
Thanks
shrek sexy weekend companion
I have had an er6n since new and it’s about to tick over 100,000 Klms, with no trouble at all, so I can certainly say the power train in the Versys is great.
Wow, nice one, thanks for stopping by....TMF
Waiting for Kawasaki to upgrade the Versys to the trellis frame seen on the Ninja650 & Z650. That would make this brilliant bike more lighter and more fun!
Another cracking review Mr TMF! If I’d been thinking with my head instead of my heart I might have got one of these as my first “big bike” instead of my Street Triple - cheaper, more weather protection, maybe a bit more versatile...
Indeed.....
Great comments below, a lot of them hit the nail on the head. These middleweight bikes from the big manufacturers give a lot of bike for the money, and really are all you need on today’s roads. You can do a lot more than just commute on the Versys 650. True what you say TMF, 650 would have been considered a beast not that many years ago! The reason it’s hard to find negative things to say on reviews is because the big manufacturers really do their homework and research prior to launching. All the same, great review, and as always gives a real feel for what the bike is like. I’ve heard of Variable Valve Timing, but we do need to see your Variable Inseam. On second thoughts....
Nice one :0)
Looks like a good commuter if one is in need. Great review, TMF. NOW GO GET WARMED UP!
Cheers Gary....
Love this bike
They are big. Same with the Honda NC700X and Vstrom 650. big bikes !!
Thanks so much, great video.
Thanks for watching Beau...
Love the Versys, don't see many on the road. Good vid.
Cheers John....
I recently made the choice between this bike and the VStrom. Went for the VStrom. Better engine and looks (from 2017) and has traction control. VStrom XT model also has hand Guards and and a 12v socket included. The 19 inch front wheel also means it can handle some light off-roading.
Fair enough...thanks for watching - TMF
TheMissendenFlyer BTW. It was your VStrom 650 review that initially got me interested in the bike. Thanks. I also found the mid-range and throttle response much easier to live with for a rider returning to riding (via a Versys X300) after many years. The Low RPM Assist feature is just lovely in stop start traffic too. Both are great bikes, as is the Tracer 700, although a little more expensive in South Africa. Glad to see you now have access to some Kawasaki bikes. Keep up the good work!
450+ views in an hour! That's gotta be a record for the channel...so congrats. At this rate you'll have to release a "Best of TMF" album.
Hehe, I'm not sure it's a record but we'll see how this one goes!
Brilliant! I have 2017 Vulcan S, so was very keen to hear your thoughts on this! :-)
Thanks for watching!
I just test rode one. I've decided to sell my sportserto get one of these. For commuting and fun rides it suits me better.
Great review.
Thanks as ever....
TMF would you pick the Versys 650 or the Suzuki VSTROM 650?
Nice detailed pertinent review, bloody cold down here in Aberystwyth, you'll have to come for a visit, you're welcome to stay & partake of Welsh hospitality
A bit parky down here in Buckinghamshire this morning too - so much so I'm postponing rides I had planned for today....bbbrrrgghhhh
I don't blame you
Good review, good bike. But I prefer the Vstrom 650, way more practical, more equipment and reliable.
270° crank? These used to be rare, a friend bought crank/camshaft/(main bearings) for a Norton Combat once. Good to see, and hear more of them.
Looks similar to the Honda NC 750! Nice review!
Thanks :0)
Just ordered a new one in metallic green after spending a week riding around Tenerife on a hired 2016 model. Some may say it’s not the most exciting bike, but as a general purpose bike it would be ideal I’m sure. Plus points for me are the bike’s size and comfort, and no doubt reliability.
There’s lightweight centrestand available for both 650 & 1000 Versys
Did a border run two weeks ago peru to Bolivia , met some Brazilian riders doing a tour as they often do . V strom and versys always amongst those Brazilian riders .. they love them . I had my 955i tiger parked next to there bikes . I thought they were 1litre models not 650s . They look beautiful but also big . I made my way to La Paz , they soon caught me up .
Wow - sounds like quite a ride!
Thanks for another video! There really is something to be said about bikes that are just basic and do everything right.
But while you have nice weather out there, I just got snow. :( I guess I'll have to bring some sacrifices to the weather gods...
....it's pretty cold today and as I speak, snow is falling.....
That means we'll have to sacrifice even more to the Gods ;)
The best bike I have ever owned! I am 62 yrs old and have been riding since I was seventeen (a long ride). Go to the shops or to the Alps in total comfort. It is versatile and very comfortable, but the looks are a bit futuristic for my taste. The bike looks heavy but it's all plastic panels so in reality it's nice and light and everything works as it should. Hard to fault for the money.
Thanks for the real world feedback Alan! All the best - TMF
Cool 2nd bike
Nice review😁
Thank you...