Complete all-rounder: Kawasaki Versys 650 reviewed

07 February 2023 , 18:22

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The smaller adventurer - Kawasaki Versys 650 (Image: Megan Rudd)

We all know that “adventure bikes” have been the runaway success in terms of popularity of style for well over 10 years now.

From big, brash, go-anywhere 1300cc beasts right down to 125cc mini-adventures, there is now something for everyone in that sector.

While the big-capacity adventures have the obvious appeal of superbly powerful engines, I have long advocated that smaller machines, around the 800 or 850cc mark, are more than adequate for most riders and most requirements, being that bit lighter and more manageable.

Great looks - Fraser admires the Versys (Megan Rudd)

So, what of something a little smaller than that – like the Kawasaki Versys 650 we are looking at here?

The Japanese giant launched the model back in 2006 and it had updates in 2010, 2015 and 2022.

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There are two versions and I am testing the Grand Tourer, which comes with colour-matched 56litre panniers, 47litre top box, adjustable screen, heated grips, hand guards, fog lights, engine guards, GPS mount, USB outlet and tank pad.

Ready to roll - Grand Tourer comes with three-piece luggage kit

It’s a great-looking bike with strong hints of its big brother, the Versys 1000.

With an 845mm seat height, it’s actually quite tall for a smaller middleweight, but with wide, upswept bars, the ride position is pure comfort.

Kitted out - GT version also has hand guards, heated grips and fog lights (Megan Rudd)

That said, the slightly rear-set footpegs do allow a more tucked stance should you desire.

The 649cc parallel twin is a real peach – really rider-friendly and approachable.

On paper, 66 horse power and 45ft lb of torque doesn’t look like it’s going to provide seat-of-the-pants excitement and the truth is, it isn’t.

Engaging - Engine lacks a few horses, but is more than capable enough for most riders (Megan Rudd)

But the linear power delivery and flat torque curve mean you get the very best from the engine.

Nevertheless, overtaking at higher speeds will often require dropping down a gear.

My view is that the engine is plenty engaging enough, particularly for beginner riders moving up to a first “big bike”, especially as it’s so easy to ride.

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The steel diamond frame, 41mm USD forks and rear monoshock all combine to provide entirely predictable and smooth handling.

And the brakes with twin 300mm front discs do a perfectly dependable job of hauling up its 219kg wet weight.

Quality - 4.3in colour TFT dash (Megan Rudd)

The Versys is very well equipped, coming with a 4.3in digital colour TFT dash, smartphone connectivity, LED lighting all round and two-mode traction control.

With two 17in wheels, this Kawasaki doesn’t pretend to have any real off-road capability.

But it makes an ideal easy-to-ride, dependable adventure-tourer, especially for a newer rider.

Fraser Addecott