2016 Kawasaki Versys 1000 | First Ride

[@thealtered7]

I bought a Versys 1000 new in Feb. of 2015. It is one of the best kept secrets of the modern motorcycle industry. A better cruiser than a cruiser with a sporty engine that you can ride all day. I've done 15,500 miles in 14 months. If you are tall enough to feel comfortable then it is the only bike you need. It is very versatile and most importantly really fun.

[@K03021817]

Jeff Keene scale of 1-10 as a person new to road bikes? Biggest I've owned is a classic 175 but it was recently stolen. Looking at this, v strom 1000 and both versions as a 650.

[@EEEBA1]

Jeff Keene Do you still love your Versys? I'm thinking about getting one :)

[@EEEBA1]

Do you still love your Versys. I'm thinking about getting one :)

[@johnnygross4415]

can you put a lowering kit on the 1000?

[@rajb2r]

Does it have cruise control?

[@DantesDestroyer1]

Welcome to the world of liter adventure bikes. They do everything. through town, cross country, dirt, power, everything! I ride a V Strom 1000. switching to an adventure bike was the best decision i've made.

[@blackbird69xxx]

I reading the Vstrom has better low down torque, better brakes and suspension and a bigger front wheel for off road....... im leaning towards the v strom

[@BarryObaminable]

@@blackbird69xxx I had the V 1000 and loved it. I exited the road early to take an turning lane and was surprised by some deep potholes you often see at that location.. I took my butt off the seat and it it just ate the potholes up.

[@pm9238]

I bought this bike after watching your review. You're right, it's freakin AWESOME :) Keep up good work!

[@catcall569]

Congrats

[@SickMetalAddict]

Awesome, how's the speed of it treating you?

[@pm9238]

it's well enough for me. I'm a noob ;) obviously there are better bikes for speed but in real life this platform is just freakin' perfect. So far it's fun, has to be, I'm still paying :) If I need more in the future there's always Multistrada and BMW XR. For now though it's enough..

[@MJT-DA]

Now throw some dual sport tires and go adventuring! XD

[@jimandrews2154]

AND the skid plates underneath if going off road with it. It only has about 5.9" of ground clearance , NOT like a trail bike and also about DOUBLE the weight of one. Dirt and gravel roads are fine with the tires it has UNLESS it's wet then get the other tires if you're going to do a lot of that with this bike.

[@joelacenter]

I rode to the Florida Keys and back with my wife on back (2000 miles) on 2015 1000cc was awesome! Best bike ever!

[@elpulgarcito841]

I've had my versys 1000 for 6 months now and love the power, the comfort and price. I am 5'4" and I had to drop the rear suspension 1.5" to be able to reach the ground, not just tip toed it. Love my bike.

[@Achilles22]

Bought one last year, agree its the best kept secret. Fast safe secure handling comfortable and fun. I swopped in a ZZR 1400 never regretted it.try one!!!

[@HezyTech]

I just love chases first ride. It feels like I'm experiencing all of these bikes without having to get off my chair every Friday! Thanks chase

[@srvmotoman]

This is my dream bike...no seriously! But truth be told, I'm in my 40s and comfort on a bike plays a big role! Great Video Chase!

[@josephandrew8510]

I just traded in an 08 M109 and quad and got one...... LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE... Can't wait to get my pipe.

[@Quagmire88]

Got my 2017 Versys 1000LT a couple months ago and I love this thing. The 2017 dash has been upgraded from the 2015(better fuel gauge, gear indicator, layout...). Super nimble for its size/weight. Its my daily rider and also going to be my long distance 2up tourer.

[@americandude3825]

Just came to say the 2017 is better. Baha

[@gnlman]

Hey Chase, I just found this video today and I've been watching your channel for a while. Last year I picked up a 2017 Versys 1000 with low miles. Mine has a gear indicator. I love this bike. it is heavy but super nimble. Kawasaki is the only current manufacturer with a positive' neutral. You just need to be deliberate in shifting to 2nd gear. It is handy though when stopped to find neutral without tap dancing. I live in your area (Alpharetta GA) I've ridden mine on all of the twisties (GA 60, GA 180, Blood mtn etc.) this bike handles like a dream even riding 2 up. I would not call it a commuter, as much as a sport touring bike.. It does do everything well hence the name Versys. Versatility.....Thanks for the great review. keep two on the ground brother.

[@Perkinswedding]

I’m in Sydney Australia and have this bike and year and colour, I added cruise control and have all panniers. Very easy bike to ride with plenty of power. Great clip.

[@americandude3825]

How did you add cruise control

[@Perkinswedding]

Throttle lock. I don't have the bike now but it locked on easy.

[@KumaKawazaki]

You know what, I love Kawasaki, I love chaseontwowheels videos so I'm gonna slap that like button.

[@chaseontwowheels]

+Big Bear Kawasaki You can slap that like button all you want on my videos man!

[@hitman21315]

+chaseontwowheels Can you do the 650 too that way we can compare them?

[@hitman21315]

Clearly you misunderstood my question. If he reviews the Versys 650. I will make a better informed decision. Also I could careless if the engine was an inline 4 or Twin. Its all about the experience

[@hitman21315]

***** Well why would I be delusional

[@Merkaba954]

I think that makes you a SLAPPER I watch toi much Davie504

[@CaseyHearn]

Thanks for the review. I love my 2015 V1k

[@adrianroberts4287]

Apart from the music at the beginning, great review. Kudos to your highway maintenance organisation - your roads look AWESOME!

[@kevinrli1]

I got the 650 version and i love it. Also my first bike. Rode it 500 Miles from NY to Ohio , it just went and took everything like a champ

[@K03021817]

NYFRides good first bike? Anything you might tell someone considering it for a first bike

[@michaelzpalmer]

Thanks for the video. I love my 2015. I have not had any of the shifting issues you experienced. For a one bike guy like myself it's just about perfect.

[@2009mechanic]

I bought the 2015 Versys 1000 and love it. Fits me perfect 5'11" tall #185. It just wants to go and keep going. It's a mid sized bike at #550 has great performance. Just watch how fast you crack that throttle open so the front wheel stays down , LOL

[@stupefaction1017]

Chase I have to say that I really like your review videos! Your videos are in depth and you definitely like playing with them! You, along with others are helping me decide which Kawasaki I am going to buy. Keep up the good videos man. I'd say you have a subscriber now!

[@Kurkess]

Amazing that you're really confident in turns. I rode a Honda CBF600SA before and this year I bought a 2013 Versys 1000 and the first thing I experienced was the feeling that my turning skills was better. Guess its the bike inspiring confidentiality. Anyway I think I'm one of the only people on the planet that prefer the old model front design (and the exhaust as well). Great review.

[@calcrappie8507]

I prefer full power/traction control setting 2. Bike feels fast without the concern of losing the front wheel. Even in 2 you can feel the front tire lift and traction control engagement take place if you really get on the throttle. I've had no shifting issues on mine at all. Fun bike. Tourer or muscle. The bike does both in fantastic comfort. Getting on and off the tall bike is much easier if you put your left foot on the peg (not the ground) before swinging your right leg on or off the bike.

[@mbonneau79]

It's a positive neutral finder, but it's only supposed to be active when your stopped. Also, traction control 3 is the most restrictive and reduces the throttle response as well. At least it does on my 636 - low power mode and TC on 3 and she's a kitten, learned to ride on it.

[@wavytone7teen403]

i have a playlist of all the music you play during these intros, thanks bro

[@dougkapounek9024]

Traction, I believe 1. Dry 2. Gravel / Loose 3 Wet . I own this bike in Orange and believe me SWEET ! ! ! I am 5.11 and the only issue was buffeting at highway speed. Simple solved with a PUIG aftermarket windshield. Now my ride is Sweeter than Sweet ! ! !

[@ALLDAYANTHONY]

Hello From Idaho! Awesome video man. I have yet to ride a "commuter" style bike, but I have a feeling I will be pleasantly surprised

[@epicman23478]

I came here for the cinematic shots, great job as always Chase!

[@godnondedju2708]

I love that this and the FJ-09 and similar "adventure" bikes can have storage cases attached to them and still look good.

[@MrHippie809]

God Nondedju Which bike has more torque, fj-09 or 1000,thx.?

[@shaneweightman]

On the basis of your review phoned up the Kawasaki dealership today and ordered a new one never even seen one yet in the flesh ,,,cheers Shane uk

[@CubanRider]

That's the beauty of these types of bikes, how versatile they are. I love my BMW S1000XR which you could say compete with the Versys 1000.

[@darylcadman2863]

@ Cuban..... Yes but the BMW has way more hp

[@gnarshread]

I had a 1st gen 650 versys. With some suspension work, exhaust, and some other fun bits it was a kick ass bike. I even did tack days on it! I can only Imagine the 1000 being better.

[@demgangster]

Didn't know a bike like this could be this awesome :D

[@chriss2623]

You have to get the gear indicator installed on the round thing bellow the dash, the other is for a 12v socket, other extras are things like the top box, fog lights etc... Look it up fully loaded, it's beautiful

[@thomasgeleijnse4588]

Man... That Kawasaki is such a nice bike!!

[@andyfairchild2383]

Great review buddy! You pretty much summed up the Versys. I run a 2013 model and absolutely love it. It's super comfortable, fast enough to have a lot of fun and great for distance riding. A couple of times a year I do a 400 mile round trip in a day with no problems. But it's still fun when you want to hit the twisty stuff.

[@meepmeepimajeep]

Awesome as usual dude! great shots and awesome review! Thanx to your reviews and a few test rides i am coming closer to my very own first bike!

[@fatmanvlogerm7148]

I think I really love this bike now

[@darkninja67]

was waiting for you to review this one. thanks for the video chase

[@331245]

I have a 2017. There is no issue with the gearing or neutral. Shift it like a big boy Chase. And the 17 even has a gear indicator.

[@simenlufc1914]

You are my favorite youtuber man... all the sick content is just amazing! Ride safe bro! :)

[@matthewjones3395]

This review was the deal clincher - i bought one of these a few months ago - and i love it. Not the best weather here for riding looking forward to getting this out on the road more in the spring.

[@EEEBA1]

Matthew Jones Do you still love your Versys? I'm thinking about getting one. Thank you and good luck

[@dapster]

Dude this may be my future motorcycle. This is just what I need for my back.

[@joelborden3242]

I've owned a Versys 1000 for nearly a year. The weight disappears as soon as it starts moving. It's a great bike and extremely comfortable to ride. This bike eats up miles. The power is linear and fun. I haven't experienced any problems with neutral or the transmission in general. The best part is when I wear my shorty helmet and look like a cop. Get lots of notice from drivers who might not otherwise see a motorcycle.

[@xontheweb2376]

I rode this bike for a week here in the UK while my zx14 was in the shop. Loved it so much I was riding everywhere, getting up at 5 on the weekend to hit a 300 miler. Great video and I completely share your views. can only hope the future versions will have a gear reader but the 2017 model doesn't it seems. Amazing get bike for the money and so comfy with great engine it's a real winner. Will I get rid of my amazing zx14 for this? In 18 months most likely. But will have to retest ride the new Africa Twin that is very different. You guys have some lovely tarmac in the States. Successive British governments have pretty much abdicated their duties towards road users and turned us into cash cows like everywhere else in Europe.

[@NicePantsLance]

"You're not gonna be revving this bike" REDLINES AT 10,000RPM

[@googleuser2082]

Brilliant bike! Thanks for the review. I'm very close to buying this bike in July. I want a cumfy bike with decent power that handles well that I can do long journeys that can also handle luggage, tent, camping equipment etc. This pretty much ticks all the boxes

[@EEEBA1]

Google User Did you get the Versys?

[@codtide]

I have a Versys. I had issues with shifting too. I adjusted the sifter to my liking and all is good now. The bike is a highway cruiser. I usually ride in full power, traction control in "2". "3" is for really wet roads.

[@ToddMcMahon352]

+codtide Yeah, when I first got mine, I rode in "Low" mode and setting "2". I was jumping from a KLR650 to basically a ninja 1k, which was a bit intimidating. "Low" mode is like riding a 750cc and traction control on "2" prevented me from accidentally yanking a wheelie off the line. Now I'm on "Full" and "1". Awesome bike!

[@W4ffl3Games]

This is one good looking bike. I would like to get into the Touring Bikes in the future when I get more comfortable riding, and seeing these mean looking ones makes the choice of which to get a little harder!

[@OswaldoLafee]

thanks for the video. As always great job. Cruise control is the one thing along with the gear indicator that the bike is missing, in my opinion. When I bought my Tiger Explorer ABS 2014 those two things made the difference.

[@patsfan1152]

I think ill be getting this bike after winter is over

[@whatsgood2513]

you gotta ride the Kawasaki h2 !!!!!!!

[@JunoW712]

+XypherGhost but H2 is

[@cameronk6621]

+joey batch lol i was thinking the same thing

[@207KalashBoy]

+joey batch I was thinking the new Suzuki Hayabusa.

[@joshfinley1613]

+Wicked Willis already did

[@207KalashBoy]

Josh Finley Well shit. Looks like i need to go back a bit then. Yeah do the H2 then do a track day with the H2r

[@vpRider]

Always enjoy your reviews on bikes man, keep em up!

[@DanielFreakinAwesome2]

Chase is always on point with the music

[@MeatPopsicl]

Chase, I love your videos. But man, you gotta do more research on these bikes before you start talking about them. Know the category - this is called an Adventure Touring bike, btw. Know the specs and how to change the modes, in advance. Maybe make a checklist of stuff to talk about: Engine character, brakes, ergonomics, suspension, etc. That would help keep the reviews consistent and give you more points of reference. This is just my two cents. You're doing what a lot of us wish we could, so good on ya. Keep up the vids!

[@andressaenz4562]

Thank you very much, please keep doing these great reviews. Can you please tell me something about the heat generated from the engine that makes unconfortable these kind of bikes during a traffic jam or while you are on a traffic light in red, even driving at low speed. The heat over the legs is terrible. Which one produces less heat under those conditions, the 650 or the 1000?

[@zamriahmad4760]

You are great man on this bike

[@AnthonysWestTexasRides]

First rides are the Bomb!

[@ninjamonkey555555555]

awsome :D love it :) my next bike for sure :) rocking the ER6N now, enjoying every moment of it

[@ghostontwowheels]

Let's give this video a bump! I sat on the 2022 Versys 1000 today. It didn't feel any heavier than my 650! Sorry, Chase, I think the Versys is edging out the Tracer in the Path to Upgrade! #GhostRider #GotThePresentToday

[@jasonmitchell1111]

THANK YOU CHASE! I've been considering one of these. thank you for this review.

[@Ani_Bro]

Chase. Thats a superb review buddy. Love watching all your reviews just like the others do. I wish you would do a review on Ninja 1000. I'm looking forward in owning one. Your review could help me decide faster and better. Cheers keep up the good job..!!!

[@calcrappie8507]

Stock rubber is Bridgestone Battlax T30's on 17 inch wheels. Very happy with the bike after 3 months.

[@AnthonysWestTexasRides]

Full Power Scotty!!!!!

[@keithyyz3049]

Good review. I was enthused by your comentry. Nice job!

[@Ueki1996]

chase, can you do a video on how to ride in heavy traffic? appreciate your vlogs! they are interesting and fun to watch... keep it up!

[@ComradeBenjamin]

Love mountain motorsports in Lithia springs i go there all the time

[@prndownload]

The thing with it going in to neutral is called "rider error".

[@ToddMcMahon352]

+prndownload I hit it every now and then downshifting from 2nd to 1st on my '15 Versys 1K. Going to 1st, you just have to be more demanding about it than with any other downshift. It's never popped into N going over a bump though. I'm guessing his toe was resting on it. She can be shifted without using the clutch. Just roll off throttle and a light pressure in either direction on the shift and she goes right in like butter.

[@MrPepper312]

Correct

[@bh2005]

Actuallly it's bad clutch lever regulation

[@MrHockeysnipeshow]

Chase! Your reviews are great! If you can, do the 675r!

[@Mike-hu8yz]

Great bike. New ones are amazing but getting expensive.

[@RoyClaessen]

pretty good looking bike!

[@Stribiepg]

you should do a ducati multistrada 1200 s first ride !!!!!! if you enjoyed the versys i think you are going to love muti!!!!!!

[@cpt-tank5071]

hey Chase just a quick question. I enjoy your videos alot, great content. my favorite motorcycle is, and has been, the Yamaha R6. what is your favorite?

[@NOAHrwm]

I really like the first ride series.

[@DashingBrunnetteVlogs]

i would actually own this for road trips! :D i like it

[@ndvsss1]

Have the 2009 650 Versys and man I love it. Tons of fun.

[@GrauW0lf]

+TechFanMan 2011 versys LE650 here, i would take my bike to bed if i could :-) Youre driving the mk1 or one of the early mk2´s?

[@ndvsss1]

The mk1.

[@StevenGuest]

love to see you do these bikes ...HONDA CB1000......CB1100 ......VRF1200F.....

[@OtisENGINEuity]

wide flat bars do help you throw a bike through corners. If you look at flat track bikes or old TT bikes from the 60s and 70s you will see bikes with wide flat bars. It gives you a lot more leverage.

[@kylehsings]

Dude, just watched your FJ 09 and this review. Very cool. You make me laugh!

[@rento1973]

Just a great video Chase.

[@bryanroberts]

Great review as always. I really hope you get to try the yamaha fjr 1300 es. Seating position similiar to this bike, removable hard cases, and plenty of fun in mountains or on highway.

[@lionhart2728]

Ok now do the H2 Kawasaki 2015

[@luuk341]

+benyi bez you cant test ride an H2R. Track bike only and dealers don't carry it I dont think

[@Mediarahan003]

+luuk341 actually you can stock them. Only pretty huge shops are gonna have them.

[@luuk341]

+Mediarahan I stand corrected :)I thought they were only on custom order.

[@DebrajRakshitIMDeb]

Each time I see your video you remind me Road Rash old days :)

[@grantmorris6222]

Hey chase!!! I ride the 2012 650 KLE Versys. Love it but would really like the 1000 version.

[@Eliebassix]

Chase! Greeting from lebanon mate! Im a big fan of yours and i absolutely love your content! Would be amazeballs if u could try out the new 2016 ninja zx10-r! Keep 'em coming mate and ride safe👍🏼

[@CPUspeed]

Great review. Like your opinion of different types of bikes. Its an adventure bike but more for the street. I really like that color, it matched the engine, damn why did I get a vstrom.

[@gcarraig]

Edging into my sixth season on a Mark 1 650 V, and I really hadn't been considering the 1000 as an upgrade. I have been looking at the FJ-09 and a few others, but this video is gonna make me do a re-think. I had been worried about the 1000's flickability, esp compared to its nimble little brother. Welllllll... maybe that was misplaced.

[@mattman8822]

Chase your videos rock man!

[@UnknownProdrive]

Great review vid Chase as ever. Kawasaki North America could do a lot worse marketing wise, than give you the opportunity to do a bigger review coast to coast. It seems to me with your audience that your the man to do it. Have they seen your channel? Keep us posted and ride safe brother. Keep up the good work.

[@UnknownProdrive]

By the way if you need me to contact Kawasaki for you, I can but there would be a fee!

[@benjyyates5373]

I enjoyed this video. I watched this before I bought one of these and I was worried about the engine getting in the way of my rear braking or with it popping out of gear when going over bumps but haven't experienced either thank goodness.

[@WarDogTheAwesome]

Kawasaki has such cool dashes... On all of their bikes

[@Stclairm1]

I test rode the Versys 1000 a couple months ago, but chose the Ninja 1000 over it. I thought it was too tall and just didn't have the feel that the Ninja gave me. I love my Ninja and highly recommend it to anyone who really likes sportbikes, but leaning so far forward. And they sell them dirty cheap.

[@MotoDynasty702]

Really dig your first rides man. Helped me decide on my bike when i bought it. Hopefully you get the s1000rr or H2 to first ride. Reactons im sure will be priceless. Appreciate the vids man. Gave you a shout out on my channel. That neutral issue was weird to see. Did the dealer give any insight on why the bike does that? Going over that hill and it popped into neutral......makes me think it could be a major safety issue. Thoughts?

[@exbuds]

@chaseontwowheels ,I really really like your videos man. Especially the Ducati Diavel :DD

[@josemhs1213]

Dude theres so many bikes i would want you to ride but then that list would go on for everr

[@egobreaker6450]

Have you thought about trying the Ktm Superduke 1290r for a first ride? Great video as usual man! Keep it up

[@chaseontwowheels]

+Ego Breaker I'm trying to man. I am a little worried because I don't want to like it too much.

[@exothermal.sprocket]

2017 Versys 1000 now gets a gear-indicator incorporated in the display. 2017 Versys 650 does as well.

[@Larsen_Racing]

hay chase i am a big fan of what u do and i was wondering if u could test ride the new 2016 cbr600rr and just tell us if its a big change other than the 2014 thank u.

[@mentalplayground]

This is my next bike! Thank You :)

[@richarnot7288]

So any chance of seeing a review on the cbr 650f anytime soon? Side note: the whole first ride series is fantastic, keep up the good work.

[@13LXX]

You really need to do a MT-07 tracer when it comes out, I really like your reviewing style; just down to earth, down to business.. suits me.

[@Kabar8315]

Hey Chase, how about the 650 version...I know the 1000 is all the rage, but it would be interesting to compare the two different dispositions. Let us viewers know what you think. Most of the time, dealers only have the 650 version in stock. But, your 1000 review was top notch! Keep us in the loop! Ride safe!