Kawasaki Versys 650

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Kawasaki Versys 650
Manufacturer
Also called Versys City, Versys Tourer, Versys ABS, Versys 650L ABS, Versys 650 Grand Tourer, Versys 650 Tourer Plus, Versys 650 Tourer, Versys 650 Special Edition, Versys 650 ABS, Versys 650LT, Versys
Production 2007 - 2019
Class Adventure
Engine
twin, four-stroke
Bore / Stroke 83.0mm x 60.0mm
Compression ratio 10:6:1
Top Speed 197 km/h / 122.4 mph
Horsepower 67.59 HP (50.4 KW) @ 8500RPM
Torque 47.21 ft/lbs (64.0 Nm) @ 7000RPM
Fuel System injection. dfi® with two 38mm keihin throttle bodies
Ignition tcbi with digital advance
Spark Plug NGK CR9EIA-9 [1]
Transmission Gear box: 6-speed

Final Drive: chain

Clutch: wet multi-disc
Suspension Front: 41mm hydraulic telescopic fork with stepless adjustable rebound and preload
Rear: single offset laydown shock with 13-position adjustable rebound damping and adjustable spring preload
Brakes Front: double disc. two-piston calipers. abs.
Rear: single disc. single-piston caliper. abs.
Front Tire 120/70-17
Rear Tire 160/60-17
Wheelbase 55.71 inches (1415 mm)
Length 85.2 inches (2164 mm)
Width 37.2 inches (945 mm)
Height 55.12 inches (1400 mm)
Seat Height 33.11 inches (841 mm)
Weight 476.42 pounds (216.1 Kg) (dry), 216.1 kg (wet)
Oil Capacity 2.4 L (2.5 US qt)
Recommended Oil K-tech 10W-40
Fuel Capacity 5.5 Gallon (20.82 Liters)
Competition Suzuki DL650
Manuals 2013 Kawasaki Versys ABS owners manual
More Manuals

Reviews ·


The Kawasaki Versys 650 was a twin, four-stroke Adventure motorcycle produced by Kawasaki between 2007 and 2019. Max torque was 47.21 ft/lbs (64.0 Nm) @ 7000 RPM. Claimed horsepower was 67.59 HP (50.4 KW) @ 8500 RPM.

Engine[edit | edit source]

The engine was a liquid cooled twin, four-stroke. A 83.0mm bore x 60.0mm stroke result in a displacement of just 649.0 cubic centimeters. Fuel was supplied via a double overhead cams/twin cam (dohc).

Drive[edit | edit source]

The bike has a 6-speed transmission. Power was moderated via the wet multi-disc.

Chassis[edit | edit source]

It came with a 120/70-17 front tire and a 160/60-17 rear tire. Stopping was achieved via double disc. two-piston calipers. abs. in the front and a single disc. single-piston caliper. abs. in the rear. The front suspension was a 41mm hydraulic telescopic fork with stepless adjustable rebound and preload while the rear was equipped with a single offset laydown shock with 13-position adjustable rebound damping and adjustable spring preload. The Versys 650LT was fitted with a 5.5 Gallon (20.82 Liters) fuel tank. The bike weighed just 476.42 pounds (216.1 Kg). The wheelbase was 55.71 inches (1415 mm) long.

2007 Kawasaki Versys[edit | edit source]

Starting with 2006, the old faithful KLE 500 is accompanied by a new bike in its class: the Versys. The name and looks are different, and a ton of changes have also been made on the tech side, but the new bike retains the versatile nature of the previous one.

Equally suitable for street riding and fast turns, the 2006 Kawasaki Versys can also handle the thrashing unpaved roads put up against it. Accessories can turn this bike into a very nifty touring beast, with plenty of storage using panniers.

The displacement of the parallel-twin engine went up to 649cc, with power increasing to 64 hp. The Versys received inverted forks and a sturdy chassis offering good handling and touring potential. The rear shock goes to the side for a more sporty look, while the wide handlebar provides easy steering in the city and on the forest roads, alike.


2008 Kawasaki Versys[edit | edit source]

Kawasaki Versys comes to replace the old and faithful KLE bikes, even though the new machine is much different. The whole character of the new Kawasaki is oriented more towards the street, but the bike can also handle some little roughness, as well.

The cast tubeless wheels are no longer that willing to hit the rocks hard, but light trail adventures off the paved road are no problem, especially if you show your Versys with dual-sport tires. With an inverted fork, the 2007 Kawasaki Versys offers the nifty adjustability of sport bikes, while retaining all the fun, no matter whether you're be riding it on winding countryside roads or commuting, city or highway.

The 2007 Versys also sports all the nice features of the previous models, with the offset rear shock, mildly-aggressive naked design and low-swung exhaust for a sportier look and lower center of gravity.


2009 Kawasaki Versys[edit | edit source]

2008 brings aesthetic changes to the Kawasaki Versys, especially on the dashboard side: the instrument cluster is now tidier and sports a massive analog rpm gauge in the middle, while the adjacent multi-function LCD screen provides essential riding data at a glance.

The adjustable forks offer an efficient way to set up the bike for great performance over a wide palette of road surfaces, so you'll be riding safely on both paved and unpaved roads. While the 2008 Versys is no off-road motorcycle, it can handle rougher roads quite well, and if you load some appropriate tires, there's also fun in the forest.

The short silencer is mounted underneath the bike for a better mass centralization resulting in better steering and a more balanced feel, while the upright position offers comfortable riding for both cross-town commuting and longer trips.


2010 Kawasaki Versys[edit | edit source]

Sporting major upgrades, the 2009 Kawasaki Versys is a modern middleweight naked bike which will be equally fun when commuting or going on a touring vacation. Thanks to its natural, upright rider position, the Versys offers increased comfort without sacrificing the sporty driving pleasure.

The redesigned bodywork adds a sharper styling, with a new headlight and front cowl, new seats and and overall slimmer appearance. Optional ABS for the adjustable suspension provides better and safer braking, while the long-travel suspensions offer great stability and road contact on almost any surface.

The Versys is no dirt-machine, but taking it for a ride on unpaved roads will feel surprisingly reassuring and will be more than fun, especially if you run on dual-sport tires. Accessories can also turn the 2009 Kawasaki Versys into a nifty touring bike.


2011 Kawasaki Versys City[edit | edit source]

The 2010 Kawasaki Versys City sports all the nifty features of the stock bike, but boasts functional additions for the discerning rider. Destined to carry you across the town on a daily basis, the 2010 Versys City offers increased protection against the wind thanks to its taller windshield and handguards.

Even more, the handguards are reinforced with an aluminum bar for even better shielding your hands against the occasional bumps, as the Versys is still fun to ride off the paved road. Self-adhesive resin gel pads protect the tank and its sides from scratches while adding to the whole style of the bike.

The 30 L (1.05 cf) top case is loaded onto a sturdy, power-coated rack doubling as a handgrip. There is enough storage space for almost any type of full-face helmets, while the top case could also store some of your small shopping items or personal belongings.


2011 Kawasaki Versys Tourer[edit | edit source]

If you like to travel quite a lot on your motorcycle, then a touring-equipped 2010 Kawasaki Versys Tourer might be just the bike you were looking for. Sporty on the streets yet also capable to handle some rougher roads, the Versys Tourer boasts a lot of features to make your ride as safe as it will be fun.

With the new bodywork and dual-lamp headlight, the 2010 Versys Tourer screams its modern character. The 3-way adjustable vario windscreen offers enhanced protection at any speed, while the custom resin gel protectors defend the rear and sides of the tank against occasional scratches.

Aluminum-reinforced hand guards and a comfortable redesigned rider and passenger seat will have the ones riding the Versys Tourer smiling even after long hours on two wheels. Dual 35 L (1.22 cf) panniers with color-matched panels offer the much needed storage for longer trips, solo, or with your significant other.


2011 Kawasaki Versys[edit | edit source]

The 2010 Kawasaki Versys is a modern middleweight naked bike suitable for both daily commuting and touring around the country. Inheriting the excellent handling and comfortable, upright position of the older KLE models, the new Versys offers a great experience for both rider and pillion.

The redesigned bodywork adds a sharper styling, with a dual-lamp headlight and a slender front cowl, new seats and and overall slimmer appearance. Optional ABS for the adjustable suspension provides better and safer braking, while the long-travel suspensions offer great stability and road contact on almost any surface.

The Versys is no dirt-machine, but taking it for a ride on unpaved roads will feel surprisingly reassuring and will be more than fun, especially if you run on dual-sport tires. Accessories can also turn the 2010 Kawasaki Versys into a nifty touring bike.


2012 Kawasaki Versys 650[edit | edit source]

2012 Kawasaki Versys 650 2012 Kawasaki Versys 650 2012 Kawasaki Versys 650 2012 Kawasaki Versys 650 2012 Kawasaki Versys 650

The 2012 MY Kawasaki Versys 650, proudly carrying on the torch from its predecessors, is an neat piece of motorcycle engineering. The 649cc DOHC parallel twin-cylinder engine that produces 64 horsepower and 61 Nm is the most compact engine in its category and was especially designed to deliver power smoothly in the low and mid-range rpm. This really helps the rider to easily navigate through traffic or through narrow city alleys.

The Ninja style six-spoke wheels, designed to use less material, and thus, reducing their overall weight, were created to increase performance in acceleration/deceleration, handling, suspension and initial turn-in.

The smooth engine and mechanics are compensated by a long-travel fork so it is also very comfortable to ride, whether it is in the city, or out on the open road. All in one, the 2012 MY Kawasaki Versys 650 is a worthy heir to it's award-winning forefathers.

The motorcycle comes with optional ABS.


2012 Kawasaki Versys[edit | edit source]

2012 Kawasaki Versys 2012 Kawasaki Versys 2012 Kawasaki Versys 2012 Kawasaki Versys 2012 Kawasaki Versys

With minor adjustments to this almost perfect middleweight naked street bike, the 2011 Kawasaki Versys carries on the heritage of the older KLE models: awesome maneuverability, a comfortable riding position, great commuting capabilities for daily rides and serious touring potential with optional accessories.

The slim and aggressive design of the modern-era Versys bikes offer plenty of nifty functional features, such as the compact and easy-to-read instrument cluster, redesigned rider and passenger seats, dual-lamp headlight, LED tail lights and blinkers. Optionally, the Versys can receive ABS for better, safer braking on difficult surfaces.

Still, the 2011 Versys can offer plenty of fun on unpaved roads; while definitely a street bike, it retains enough of the robust character of older KLEs to make for a nice mild forest adventure.


2012 Kawasaki Versys City[edit | edit source]

2012 Kawasaki Versys City 2012 Kawasaki Versys City 2012 Kawasaki Versys City 2012 Kawasaki Versys City

Equipped from the start with some nifty functional additions, the 2011 Kawasaki Versys City offers the perfect package for the commuting rider used to get on his bike on a daily basis and use it as the main transportation method. Sporting all the proven maneuverability and long-time riding comfort, the 2011 Versys City brings a taller windscreen with 3-way adjustability and less wind pressure, no matter the speed.

Gel pads protect the paint on the rear and sides of the fuel tank, while making the bike look even better, while the 30 l (1 cf) top case offers enough storage for a full-face helmet, a medium grocery bag or some of your small personal belongings.

And since you can also take the 2011 Versys City off the paved roads, the aluminum-reinforced hand guards will offer increased protection against both wind and branches and whatnot. Thanks to its adjustable suspensions and optional ABS, the 2011 Versys City will offer great road contact on most roads and safer, more stable braking on difficult surfaces.


2012 Kawasaki Versys Tourer[edit | edit source]

2012 Kawasaki Versys Tourer 2012 Kawasaki Versys Tourer 2012 Kawasaki Versys Tourer 2012 Kawasaki Versys Tourer

The 2011 Kawasaki Versys Tourer might be just the bike you were looking for, in care you're quite fond of longer trips on your bike. With a sportive attitude while on the city roads, the Versys Tourer can also provide a lot of fun on unpaved roads, especially if you shoe it with dual-sport tires.

You get a 3-way adjustable vario windscreen for enhanced protection at any speed, while the custom resin gel protectors defend the rear and sides of the tank against occasional scratches. Aluminum-reinforced hand guards and a comfortable redesigned rider and passenger seat will have the ones riding the Versys Tourer smiling even after long hours on two wheels.

Dual 35 L (1.22 cf) panniers with color-matched panels offer the much needed storage for longer trips, solo, or with your significant other. As for the engine, the 2011 Versys Tourer sports the same 649cc, 64 hp parallel-twin power unit which has made so many people love this bike.


2013 Kawasaki Versys[edit | edit source]

2013 Kawasaki Versys 2013 Kawasaki Versys 2013 Kawasaki Versys 2013 Kawasaki Versys 2013 Kawasaki Versys

2012 brings and all blacked-out frame for the Kawasaki Versys. While the magnesium color scheme is not as spectacular as we'd wish, the white one makes a striking yet pleasant contrast. This naked motorcycle is suitable for both daily city rides and for touring purposes, provided you load it with the necessary accessories.

With enhanced ergonomics coming form the redesigned seats and the natural, upright position, the 2012 Versys will still feel comfortable after hours of hard riding. Its adjustable suspension offers plenty of setup possibilities for pretty much any kind of roads, while the optional ABS makes braking on difficult surfaces easier and safer.

Still fun when taken off the paved road, the 2012 Kawasaki Versys is the perfect tool for those looking for a sporty, easy to handle bike.


2013 Kawasaki Versys 650[edit | edit source]

2013 Kawasaki Versys 650 2013 Kawasaki Versys 650 2013 Kawasaki Versys 650 2013 Kawasaki Versys 650

The Kawasaki Versys 650 enters 2013 with the same versatile design and comfort-minded architecture that is suitable for multiple scenarios, from everyday commuting to longer travels and even light off-road outings. The 649cc parallel twin-cylinder engine is the most compact one in its class, and helps reducing the overall dimensions of the bike, making it more maneuverable.

The bike sports an aluminum swingarm and 17-inch cast aluminum wheels which reduce unsprung weight, adding better ground tracking to this all-purpose machine. The boxy design of the bodywork is more of a love it or hate it matter, but one thing is certain. It adds weather protection to the rider, and this is a huge plus when long hauls are envisaged.


2013 Kawasaki Versys Tourer[edit | edit source]

2013 Kawasaki Versys Tourer 2013 Kawasaki Versys Tourer 2013 Kawasaki Versys Tourer 2013 Kawasaki Versys Tourer 2013 Kawasaki Versys Tourer

The 2012 Kawasaki Versys Tourer is ready to take you on the trip of your dreams across the stateline: it packs all the nifty features of the modern Versys series, such as a powerful and dependable engine, adjustable top-notch suspensions and a modern, redesigned body work and comes with some functional extras.

For starters it's the pannier system, offering 2 x 35 L (2.45 cf) of storage space for longer rides, including two custom premium nylon bags to keep things tidy. The vario 3-way adjustable windshield offers excellent protection no matter the speed, while the branded gel resin tank protector makes your Versys look better while defending the paint from scratches.

Add in the aluminum-reinforced hand guards and a redesigned seat with better ergonomics and you get the nice bike for both asphalt and unpaved roads touring.


2014 Kawasaki Versys 650 ABS[edit | edit source]

2014 Kawasaki Versys 650 ABS 2014 Kawasaki Versys 650 ABS 2014 Kawasaki Versys 650 ABS 2014 Kawasaki Versys 650 ABS 2014 Kawasaki Versys 650 ABS 2014 Kawasaki Versys 650 ABS 2014 Kawasaki Versys 650 ABS

The 2014 MY Kawasaki Versys 650 comes with standard ABS this year, which means enhanced stopping power when the going gets tough. ABS adds more peace of mind when the rider has to do an emergency brake, preventing wheels from locking and the bike sliding out of control.

At the heart of the bike we can find a 4-stroke 649cc parallel-twin engine that produces 64 horsepower and 61 Nm of torque. A highly-versatile bike capable of tackling a wide range of scenarios, the Versys 650 ABS comes with long-travel forks and an adjustable rear shock.

A 3-way adjustable windscreen adds enhanced weather protection even to taller riders, while the centralized mass helps the bike feel agile and easy to flip around the bend.


2016 Kawasaki VERSYS 650[edit | edit source]

2016 Kawasaki VERSYS 650 2016 Kawasaki VERSYS 650 2016 Kawasaki VERSYS 650 2016 Kawasaki VERSYS 650 2016 Kawasaki VERSYS 650

The Kawasaki Versys 650 ABS comes into the 2016 model year with a host of updates, including dramatic new styling, more power and torque, improved comfort as well as rubber-mounted engine and handlebars, plus new suspension to maximize your riding fun. The 2016 Versys 650 ABS is one of those rare motorcycles that is equally at home commuting on your favorite back road. For 2016 Kawasaki Versys 650 will be offered only as an ABS model, with everything you’ve come to expect from this flexible motorcycle, as well as a touring and a grand touring model. The touring edition includes all the same high specification but will additionally have panniers and Hand Guards to increase its overall versatility. Whilst the Grand Tourer includes top box, fog lights and gear indicator.


2016 Kawasaki VERSYS 650 TOURER[edit | edit source]

2016 Kawasaki VERSYS 650 TOURER 2016 Kawasaki VERSYS 650 TOURER 2016 Kawasaki VERSYS 650 TOURER 2016 Kawasaki VERSYS 650 TOURER 2016 Kawasaki VERSYS 650 TOURER

In addition to the standard Kawasaki Versys 650 ABS model, this Versys 650 Tourer version, which is equipped with standard handguards and a pair of 28-liter color-matched saddlebags that utilize the same key as the ignition.

Changes to both models include a new subframe that accommodates the saddlebags and an optional 47-liter top case (both of which can be fit to the standard model). The footpeg location has been altered on both machines (15mm lower, 20mm forward) for improved comfort. Other changes include a larger windscreen with tool-less adjusters (there’s 2.4 in. of vertical adjustment), and completely updated styling. A fully adjustable Showa SFF fork and KYB shock with a remote preload adjuster are new, as is the complete braking system with new Nissin calipers front and rear, twin 300mm petal-style discs, and a larger 250mm rear rotor. ABS is standard.


2018 Kawasaki VERSYS 650 LT[edit | edit source]

2018 Kawasaki VERSYS 650 LT 2018 Kawasaki VERSYS 650 LT 2018 Kawasaki VERSYS 650 LT 2018 Kawasaki VERSYS 650 LT 2018 Kawasaki VERSYS 650 LT

The Versys 650 LT, has a compact 649cc parallel-twin engine combines maximum low and mid-range torque and high-rpm performance for an exhilarating ride. LT models come equipped with hand guards for increased wind protection.

Specifications[edit | edit source]

Make Model Kawasaki KLE 650 Versys
Year 2009 - 10
Engine Type Four stroke, parallel twin, DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Displacement 650 cc / 39.6 cu-in
Bore X Stroke 83 X 60mm
Cooling System Liquid cooled
Compression 10.6:1
Induction Fuel injection: ø38 mm
Ignition Digital CBI
Starting Electric
Max Power 47 kW / 64 hp @ 8000 rpm
Max Torque 61 Nm / 6,2 kgf-m @ 6800 rpm
Transmission 6 Speed
Final Drive Chain
Frame Diamond, high-tensile steel
Front Suspension 41 mm inverted telescopic fork with stepless (right-side) adjustable rebound damping and adjustable preload
Rear Suspension Offset laydown single-shock with 13-way adjustable rebound damping and 7-way adjustable preload
Front Brakes 2x 300mm discs 2 piston calipers
Rear Brakes Single 220mm disc 1 piston caliper
Front Tire 120/70ZR17
Rear Tire 160/60ZR17M
Rake 25°
Trail 110 mm / 4.3 in
Dimensions Length 2126 mm / 83.7 in Width 840 mm / 33.1 in Height 1315.7 mm / 51.8 in
Wheelbase 1415 mm / 55.7 in
Seat Height 840 mm / 33.1 in
Dry Weight 181 kg / 399 lbs
Fuel Capacity 19 Liters / 5.0 gal
Consumption Average 19.3 km/lit
Standing ¼ Mile 13.1 sec / 160.4 km/h
Standing 1000 M 25.7 sec / 178.2 km/h
Top Speed 197 km/h / 122.4 mph

Videos[edit | edit source]


In Media[edit | edit source]


References[edit | edit source]

  1. 2013 Kawasaki Concours 14 ABS owners manual. Kawasaki.