BadAss Bikes on a Budget The 2015 Kawasaki Versys 650

[@PriestsandParamedics]

I got a 2011 Versys last fall for my first bike and I absolutely love it! Very fun to ride and comfy for a tall guy (6'4") like me.

[@ivanbrgic]

Thanks for this!

[@tomisaac842]

Yours was the first comment I’ve seen and it answered my biggest question. 👍

[@SeanWilsonPiano]

dude! your salesmans skills are impeccable 👌! you've drawn me in to this story, wow! ok back to watching

[@danielfrancis2847]

Most reasonable and level-headed Versys review. Not a commercial or a bitch session. Thanks for the review.

[@words2liveby639]

Yes I have purchased this Kawasaki Versy 2019 and let me tell you I love this bike 😎 I'm standing at 6'5 very comfortable to ride 🏍

[@jeffcraft1456]

I have a 2009 verseys 650. I paid $ 2500 for it. It had only 13.000 miles on it & didn't have a scratch on it. I've had it 18 months now & never had any problems. The original owner kept it inside & was very meticulous about it. I do the same. WOW I couldn't have made a better choice. I know I was very lucky to find this bike at that price point. Great VIDEO.

[@jimbo92107]

I totally recommend these bikes. My own Versys will go over 600 miles from San Diego to Petaluma Ca in one day. Hard ride, but doable. With a good Sargent saddle, you can ride for ten hours. Get a Givi wind screen for long highway rides.

[@ESX021]

Hey man, I'm hoping to get a versys as i need something i can commute on daily but can also do tours with. What do you find to be an issue when taking this on tours? Thanks

[@kipmillwee6936]

I thought I would never have one of these bikes, found one with super low miles for cheap and over time and about 10k miles, I think I agree with this guy. I have the panniers and do a little touring around California and it is pretty sweet. Not quite the bike my Triumph Sprint was.....but this is the perfect bike for The SF Bay Area....

[@bigpapa8152]

Versys 1000, Concours 1400....not the same engine. Nice review on the 650. All the bike a practical person really needs.

[@michaelwright4525]

Thanks for the presentation/review of this m/c. I do not have one yet, but someday soon. I'm keeping an eye on a for-sale 2015 right now. This is one of the best reviews I have seen to date. Thanks again!

[@stewartmckay9830]

Most of us will never really go off road just on to unsealed roads I think that's what this bike was intended for. I bought a small Kawasaki when I came back to Australia because it was all I could afford it I will never want anything else but a Kawasaki now they are the ultimate beater

[@mindspinn311]

Picked up a 2014 that was basically new for a very agreeable price and I love it. It’s a very misunderstood bike. Not at all an adventure bike. It handles better than a Ninja 650 on pavement. It’s just a tall sportbike.

[@Andriig75]

Which means more comfortable, I don't like to be 'squshed' . Currently riding very nice DR650 set up for ADV riding. Thanks

[@johnnygross4415]

Have you changed the windscreen?

[@johnnygross4415]

I've changed the windscreen and two brothers pipe

[@dadsafrantic]

that's my commute every day. great bike. all together 80 miles a day in the sf bay area.

[@ShortCircuit1987]

Agree totally about the aesthetics of the 2010-2014 models with the vertical headlights looking meaner than the current models. Reminds me a ton of my 2001 KTM Duke generation II model I had years ago and miss dearly. However a Kawasaki like this would offer far more affordable parts options and availability here in the states as well as a six speed transmission and fuel injection. My last bike was an 07 Harley Softail Custom, and being a smaller framed guy, I was never comfortable with it’s inferior handling, I think a mid-size Versys like this will be my next purchase. After many months of research, it checks off more boxes than any other model I can think of...

[@davidschilling4861]

The 2019 is the same engine and suspension. They added a gear indicator and the 12 volt outlet. That’s it.

[@ericramirez5499]

David Schilling I have a 2017 and it has the gear indicator, it was the first year it was offered I believe

[@theyoutubeguy1]

@@ericramirez5499 But now it is standard and built into digital dash :)

[@michals1108]

@@theyoutubeguy1 yeah it started in 2017

[@josk5389]

I own a 2015 and added the relay for the power outlet, an USB outlet and the gear indacator (Some clone from ebay) for below 100$. Besides that the < 2017 models are euro 3 and you have a lot more street legal exhaust options.

[@leosedf]

After 2017 the only thing changing is the stickers and colors. I've got a 2020. To be honest there isn't much to improve on it. The only thing remaining is a modern clock set or a TFT display like the other models and it will be more than enough.

[@Merkaba954]

You don't take it to a motocross track but don't hesitate toi take it on a dirt road hard pan road. It's fine even slightly rough. In actually highly thinking of one of these. The z650 and ninja 650 are the top of my list of bikes but I think the versys is exactly what I want

[@ioar5481]

I absolutely agree with that isn ‘t an adventure bike, it is an sport touring one, but with the proper tires it performs off-road duties very decently thanks to its adjustable suspension, providing you don’t try to ride across very sandy terrain or crossing deep water obstacles. Very good review indexes.

[@doulos77]

One of the most underrated motorcycles ever built. I own a 2008 versus and I have owned 2 bikes since and just cannot bring myself to trade it in. I have loved it since day one

[@Gregthehill]

Hey there have you ever ridden a “Vstrom 650” would love an opinion on how they compare

[@doulos77]

@@Gregthehill yes, I have. my best friend bought one around when I got my Versys. another friend also had a VStrom and was able to pick up a Versys cheap, liked it so much he sold his VStrom... Greg, this is just my opinion - Both are bullet proof, great bikes. I don't ride off road more than trails/camp grounds and gravel driveways so I found the Versys much more to my liking. it's an exceedingly comfortable bike once I had SeatConcepts.com fix the seat ($189 at last check). I like that it is much more street oriented than VStrom. think Ninja with dirt bike handlebars. u could do a track day on the versys. not so on the VStrom. Somehow the VStrom felt like I was sitting down in it and that 19" front wheel felt so far way... didn't feel as planted when wicking it up on the Blue Ridge Parkway etc. and to me it felt luggy & cumbersome while Versys felt quick and agile - even when loaded with camping gear. the Versys is the most fun bike I've ever owned while the VStrom felt...ok. if u can, ride both. unless you're honestly going to spend much time off road, I don't know how the VStrom would or could make u smile as much as the Versys 😉

[@Gregthehill]

@@doulos77 Wow I honestly really appreciate the time and detailed response. It will help quite a bit with my decision. Wishing all the best!

[@doulos77]

@@Gregthehill you're quite welcome. motorbikes, my favorite subject, i could go on and on about...😁

[@travelinben1966]

One of the best overviews of the Versys 650 I've seen.Thank you!

[@ClevelandMoto]

Wow, thanks!

[@zombiebiker5581]

You are correct, it's a sports-tourer ,I got 2013/14 , love it

[@zombiebiker5581]

My mistake,dual-sports

[@azianbaharuddin1973]

Decided to buy one now after watching this review ❤

[@althewhite9756]

Just bought my second one, mint 2009, best bang for the buck!

[@ClevelandMoto]

I totally agree. Great bike.

[@okinawanah3463]

if i’m not mistaken a Concours is the 1st Gen ZX14 1352cc engine. The 1000 engine is the one from the Ninja 1000 and Z1000

[@pnfctg12]

VStrom 650 actually has a 19 inch front wheel, not 21. Have had a 2012 versys 650 since 2014 and you're spot on...it's a great machine. I don't hesitate to take the bike on a fire trail, that too, with Michelin road pilot 5 tires ...not a problem. Anything more than a fire trail though, I wouldn't be comfortable. The versys 1000 with it's 4 cylinders and weight isn't an adventure bike by any means ...it's a sport tourer ...like the tracer 9 gt, except that the tracer is a lot lighter.

[@hdjdjfjfjdkwkwiwiidkfk3059]

I keep going back and forth between this 650lt and the 1000lt. I've never ridden on the street but I have close to a life time of experience on the dirt. Just not sure if I should get the more powerful bike or not.

[@jeffhudspeth6397]

The V-strom has a 19” front wheel, and it’s also quite happy to travel at 90-100 mph.

[@frankbutaric3565]

How many of these bikes are taken off road? I would rather have 17” wheels with a better choice of tires. I also love the vstrom. They are both great bikes.

[@ridenm7748]

@@frankbutaric3565 For sure. If the bike weighs more than 375lbs wet I want a 17 inch front wheel.

[@shawnolson4522]

What a informative video. I aleays liked them. I think I'll get a 14. I love that headlight

[@johnnygross4415]

I've got one, love it

[@LeonVanDyk]

Thanks, very well presented and very helpful.

[@allans7281]

Excellent review! I appreciate all your attention to detail. You are the consummate reviewer

[@ClevelandMoto]

Well, thanks, and shucks.

[@Thizlamic]

I live in the Bay Area and I ride a Versys. Its just a big Supermoto I sold my XR650 to get one lol.

[@ossa60]

I owned one and the thing is....it sucks in loose gravel and wet pavement!!! It is very agile and sometimes you can wheelie on it like an enduro bike but that 17"front tire is uselss and the weight is not very low so it feels clumsy and heavy in lose terrain. On twisty roads it's just marvelous and it's good on the highway. Would I buy one again?...yes! But I'd have to have on off road dual sport bike as a second bike or else I'd be very bored.

[@IAmYourReflection]

Maybe better tires would help w that???

[@oldtimer3824]

A+ Excellent unique review that truly recaps what the Versys 650 is and isn’t. Greetings from Oakland California, I know and enjoy the Santa Cruz to SF ride. As an older slower Versys x-300 rider, is it possible to gear the Versys 650 taller (less wheelies) without throwing an engine code? I’m seriously tempted to add the Versys 650 LT to my garage.

[@filoIII]

Can change the rear sprockets to achieve your better gas mileage results.

[@williamfrisch3706]

This bike doesn't need regearing ,it will pull a wheelie easy enough. Don't be ham- fisted with it. Use a little finesse and it's a great bike

[@dandavidson9030]

Excellent review. I have always thought that this is better for street. I had a V Strom. It wasn't that great on the highway.

[@intergalacticbasketballdro7186]

The real punisher headlight are on the (2007 - 2009) 1st Generation Versys 650. The (2010 -2014) 2nd Generation Versys has a narrower double stacked headlight set.

[@vincentbaca790]

I'm 6 foot 5 inch on height, and this seems the perfect bike for me...thanx for the info....

[@whitneyestate1402]

If you have purchased a Versys - congratulations you made a good choice. I’m 6’4” w/31” inseam. Bought a mint 2020 abs. Previous owner (who must’ve been tall too) installed Puig touring windscreen and lowered the foot pegs. And it has a Sargent seat. It is a very comfortable, agile and easy to ride long distances. Highly recommend you test drive one.

[@keilow885]

Remember guys ride fast take chances lol

[@johncarlson1877]

It is a street bike and was designed as such. And it excels at being a street bike. As far as versitality no pun intended it is 2nd to none.

[@repetitivemotion]

The VStrom has a 19” front wheel, not a 21 inch wheel

[@bilalchaudhary8268]

Great review. Thanks.

[@BMRTV]

Ride it like a sport bike - it'll respond. Loves to be throw around and wound out between corners :)

[@kyotosal]

Great review, thank you.

[@Merc399]

would a DRZ400sm front fork and tripple clamp fit in the Versys front end? I want to replace those front forks with something offroad worthy then the bike would be PERFECT for my needs. keep the 17 inch front end i take supermotos on hardcore offroading all the time. you just wheelie over obstacles

[@johnkerr4699]

Terrific review. I watched it because my friend is lending me his for a week of touring in northeast Thailand. I expect is will be well suited to the twisties in the mountains.

[@leuismariano9802]

great review for a great bike

[@francisdirnhofer4423]

Well put together review 👌

[@repetitivemotion]

The VStrom 1000 is THE inexpensive Adv bike. The v-twin engine is light and torquey. I take it to 70 mph on the gravel and 110 on the tarmac

[@theyoutubeguy1]

When i pass my A2 next year I'm gonna get a restricted one of these. 2020 model if they will make it.

[@Somchai007]

You are in Australia? Im looking at one of these also. MT07 Tracer seems similar. I'll have to research the 2020. Also looking at a duke 390, different type of bike again but fun and cheap..

[@Mybwain]

@@Somchai007 I think he's Welsh, so no.

[@josk5389]

It´s also great at Autobahn speed. 150kmh with the cases handles still good. Without the cases it is still stable at 180 kmh. Not to mention how great it is on twisted country roads. Only thing i disliked is the Dunlop D22 and the windscreen. Put some Conti Road Attack 3 on it and it gets a lot more agile. Put on a Givi Airflow and you can hear the motor, instead the turbulances from the windscreen.

[@ricksilver7398]

I have been interested in a versy 650, but I hear the factory tires have a hard time gripping the asphalt. Have you any knowledge of this or do you recommend getting rid of the tires?

[@ClevelandMoto]

I can lean it over super-far on the stock rubber, and if you can keep up with McElfresh, your tires are up-to-snuff.

[@okinawanah3463]

the concours has a 1352cc engine from the ZX14 you mean the 1043cc Ninja 1000 bike

[@papatorr3669]

How do you like this Versys 650 compared to the Moto Guzzi VII that you liked so much? Having asked that, I have the opportunity to buy a Guzzi Breva 750 pretty cheap. How does the Breva stack up to the VII?

[@ClevelandMoto]

They're totally different bikes. That said, I like the Versys 650 WAY better. Breva 750 is pretty old, so be careful for dried up seals and stuff.

[@claytonlh]

Have you ever been a salesman? Cause you sold me on this bike.

[@ryneprince7113]

Great video

[@davidis7]

Great review.

[@George196207]

Fully dirt road capable with different tires and rad guard ,fender extender and skid plate . Off-road ? Get the KLR if off road is your thing.

[@jeffhudspeth6397]

The Versys 1000 does not have a Concours motor.

[@telocity]

nice review, but I think I'd rather have a Honda NC750 DCT for daily rider or long distance ride.

[@victorkdobby9573]

I bought a Versys 650 (2017) as my first bike and love every moment riding it. Rode from South of Borneo (Kuching, Sarawak) to North of Borneo (Kudat, Sabah) and back covering about 3,000km two weeks back. Looking forward to my third trip to Sabah in July. The only problem with the Versys 650 is that it doesn't come with a double stand. Cheers fellas.

[@ClevelandMoto]

Yes, the versys 650 is one of my absolute favorite bikes ever. It seems to do everything very well. Aftermarket center stands are readily available, I have one on mine.

[@victorkdobby9573]

@@ClevelandMoto Any problem such as the double stand hitting the silencer or exhaust? Thanks for sharing.

[@sourpower1228]

Will this be comfy 5ft7

[@topshelf6623]

Don't agree on the 21 inch "instability" theory.. Africa Twin runs clean and smooth at 100mph

[@ClevelandMoto]

I typed "KLR650 front wheel wobble" into google and got 615,000 results...click on this one to get started: advrider.com/f/threads/front-wheel-wobble-on-klr-650-looking-for-insight.1239664/

[@okinawanah3463]

this guy needs more subs than Yammie Noob, too bad the majority demographics of KZbin viewers are 5 year old Roblox kids

[@ClevelandMoto]

yeah, well, i'm not working the clickbait and product placement angle. YammieNoob is pretty great tho' I definitely learn from his stuff.

[@ShortArmStrongArm]

5 or 6 states? I could make it to California in 5 states or less.

[@brapbrapvroomvroom3802]

Very nice all rounder bike..it has little bit of everything for the average practical rider..anybody saying its boring is just being an asshole and stupid,.any rider thinking that its all about speed is a newby..with its pricetag and versatility this bike is unbeatable..

[@ncgsc]

Your comment is spot-on

[@thessie]

Great review! ... What's with the furry scooter in the background?

[@jamesmcintyre8421]

They are a Vespa and Paggio dealer

[@Mybwain]

I think the CF moto 650 similar version represents better value than the Kawasaki but I'm not sure on reliability. I think they are identical in all but name.

[@carlosandleon]

CF moto copied Kawasakis Engine 1 to 1. But I don't like to buy anything Chinese

[@Mybwain]

@@carlosandleon lol, you must not like to buy much. China make everything for many businesses.

[@carlosandleon]

@@Mybwain I avoid as much as I can, naturally you cannot avoid all of it. But China has already taken some of my Country's territory 8 years ago so I don't want to give them the satisfaction of taking in some tax revenue from me. It's personal.

[@johnnygross4415]

I struggle to get 45 mpg with my 2014 versys, 2 brothers pipe

[@algesbrek5695]

I get 60 imp gal.with my 650 v-strom

[@cocoloco65482]

@@zm678 You're thinking Vjay Strong!! 🤣🤣🤣

[@johnnygross4415]

Update, Speedo way slow, getting 12,to 13 per liter

[@phnx4life]

2015? I want to see the 2019. Come on bro let's go!!

[@Merc399]

17 inch front wheels work great offroad! ITs called a Supermoto! SUPER MOTO. you know, the category of bikes that functionally superior and more fun than every other category of bikes? i still find myself really really really liking the versys 650 if i can just make a couple mods to it to make it offroad ready and you could literally grab them all off a broken down DRZ:: spoked wheels and a larger diameter inverted fork set

[@yetti423]

good salesman, do you have god in your inventory?

[@ClevelandMoto]

He's in the back working on bikes.

[@Mrfloydbryant]

The versys 1000 does not have a Concours engine and is nothing like the Concours!

[@ClevelandMoto]

ridermagazine.com/2015/01/19/2015-kawasaki-versys-1000-lt-first-ride-review/

[@filoIII]

Old look is better.

[@ClevelandMoto]

I agree, it's more ADV authentic. The newer style looks too much like a sportbike.

[@rockmanbg]

Watch Versysman's videos, that will show the truth about Versys un off-road. Far away of this appreciation. It's cool review, but is not complete.

[@evvignes]

Nice commercial.

[@taylormahan1744]

Had vstrom 1000. Top heavy pig. Undependable, unreliable, lousy brakes. Never again.

[@dirtbike9003]

Same engine as a concours?? Lost all credibility. Butt kissing at it’s worse.

[@roadwarrior8560]

lose the flat cap

[@johnkerr4699]

I like the Andy Cap cap