Five Things I LOVE About My Kawasaki Versys 650: A One-Sided Kawasaki Versys Review

Here's the thing: I LOVE my Kawasaki Versys. I feel like it's the absolute right motorcycle for me. In this one-sided Kawasaki Versys review video, I share five things I really love about this motorcycle. The Versys is incredibly comfortable, especially the riding position, it accelerates well and is nimble so on-road motorcycle performance is surprisingly good for such an upright bike, it has fantastic aesthetics (the Kawasaki Versys looks cool, for sure), it has great features like ABS, adjustable suspension, and and an analog tachometer, and best of all the Kawasaki Versys is insanely fun to ride and very, very versatile.
If you're considering picking up a Versys for yourself, this glowing Versys review will probably seal the deal. Whether you're looking at a Versys 650 or a Versys 1000, these five reasons to love the bike apply.
For the other side of the coin, check out the Five Things I HATE about my Kawasaki Versys video here: • Five Things I HATE Abo...
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2016 Kawasaki Versys LT
2016 Honda CRF250L
2018 Honda Grom ABS

[@DorkintheRoad]

Thank you to the 300 people who have rightly pointed out that the Versys is a Parallel Twin and not a V-Twin as I mistakenly said in the video. I do know that. I just misspoke.

[@ColGadarby]

I have ridden a Versys 1000 a fair bit and loved it (Also loved the Z1000SX - which I don't think you have in the US) . But logic tells me the 650 would be better for local commuting one up. Just wondering if I would feel underwhelmed by the drop in horsepower.

[@sebbwebbo7557]

@@ColGadarby the z1000sx was always called ninja1000sx in the us just 4 your info :)

[@fin_jan]

Make it 301 😉

[@truthoverall3893]

Love my 2016 Versys 650... bought the kqr bags, and top case with back pad for my lady, and it performs flawlessly, even with both of us on it. I was a little concerned, coming off a big VTX 1300 cruiser, that it wouldn't be able to eat up the big freeway miles down here in Texas, but those concerns have definitely been put to rest. It is a big difference going from a big cruiser to this... the fun factor has increased big time. I have only owned it for about 4 months now, but don't see myself ever getting rid of it. It's perfect for me, and what I was looking for.

[@AlgeriaRiderdz]

I have 2013 KLE650, I bought it 2nd hand and immediately fell in love with it. I ride it everyday for commuting, highway and on cities. I went on long road trips with guys in bigger bikes (GS 1200, Yamaha Super Tenere 1200) but my Kawasaki didn't feel small or incapable. Last month I went in trip to the heart of the Algeria desert (5730kms) riding 750 kms per day on pavement and off road and she didn't let me down. She always put big smile on my face. I love her.

[@flyrc88]

I’ve had mine since 2009 30000km Been the best all around bike I’ve riden. I have a Harley Ducati and the Versys.... I ride the Versys 90% of the time. It was designed in Italy for the European market before it came to Canada then the USA . Got bags and it does two up riding well. Cruises at 130-140km/hr two up....no problem. Went to thicker oil and it shifts much smoother and the clutch hooks up much better. Best bang for the buck Versys 650!!!

[@DorkintheRoad]

It's a great bike for sure.

[@johnnygross4415]

I've been riding here on mexico last 5 months, rode down from Bend,Oregon. Great riding here, we don't need no stinking rules. Great fun. Yammi sound like I'm ready for more horsepower

[@sisyphusdw7]

First off, great videos about a great bike! I have a 2016 Versys 650 LT, also orange. I'm a Giants fan. I ride it as a touring bike. It's the perfect bike for my moto aspirations: Get there safely, quickly, with a big smile in style... I don't have a stable of motorcycles, but I do have a few bicycles. Since I've pedalled a bicycle across 11 western states, I'm planning to reprise those rides with 6 gears instead of 22. I agree with the 5 things you love and I am not as annoyed with the 5 things you "hate". I don't narrate the video I take nor do I use a bluetooth device so the noise/buffeting from the windscreen isn't an issue that earplugs/helmet don't solve for me. Could be that I don't know any better because of hearing loss and I'm a numbskull (that's another story)... When I place my DrySpec bags on the rear SW-Motech luggage rack, throwing my 34 inch inseam over the hard cases and bags is something of a challenge. Standing on the peg then throwing the leg is a breeze. Likewise when dismounting. Of course, you've got to trust the side stand and the ground under it. As for lubing the chain, it's a little unnerving lifting the bike onto the rear stand solo, but I've figured out how to position myself while levering the stand and holding the bike upright... Until I fail... Mirrors seem fine to me, perhaps because I sit a little taller on the bike? The downward seat angle isn't a problem either, especially when I have the bags on the rear rack. They're a nice backrest. It is a top heavy bike. When loaded with bags it is tippy. I've dropped it twice, scuffing the shift side case. It's a battle scar of freedom, I suppose, if stupidity is a synonym for freedom. My riding buddy just got a VStrom (to add to his Triumph T-120 and Honda Hawk in his garage). He loves it as his touring bike. With all due respect to Mormons, I love my one wife, she satisfies me completely. I can't imagine trying to keep 3 wives happy... Hope to see you on the road sometime. I'm only one state south... Keep up the entertaining videos!

[@petertspock]

I bought my 2009 Versys new and love it . I have 4 other bikes but just can't sell it, too much fun. Added side and top cases and rode it to Sturgis South Dakota from New Jersey with passenger and many other trips.

[@doulos77]

Such a great bike! Own 08 version and STILL can't bring myself to sell it or trade it in though ive bought 2 bikes since.

[@allegory7638]

I just got a 2021 LT. Wow what a fun bike, love it. I like: The analogue tach, The abs The mpg display The easy on/off hard cases The powerband of the engine

[@nazirkazi2588]

Yes, I think tachs should always be analogue

[@TheCaretaker555]

great review mate i have had three versys so far currently riding the 2016 GT version .....its brilliant for solo camping/touring , great video thanks for the honest review

[@DorkintheRoad]

It's a great bike. Glad you enjoyed the video!

[@My17A]

I have a 2018 SE (Green One). Love it. For the price point you are getting a lot of bike. Best bike I have ever had. Love the handling and comfort. I am 6’1” 195 lbs and it fits me perfect. Power is just right but I do wish it had just a bit more torque. Anything below 3000 RPM and it starts to bog a bit in any gear, but that is the only minor negative I can say about it. Love the Attack Helicopter look. It must have one of the best fuel ranges of any bike ever made which makes it great for long range touring. I did a 5000 km trip to Nova Scotia last summer and several other slightly shorter ones. Going out east again next month. The bike loves to eat the Kms. It is more stable on the road than my FJ09 was.

[@DorkintheRoad]

Attack helicopter look! So true! It's such a great bike. Super underrated in my opinion.

[@doulos77]

absolutely one of the most underrated bikes

[@victorkdobby9573]

Bought a brand new candy green 2018 Versys 650 & love riding it in Sarawak, East Malaysia. So far have clocked in 38k kms on the odo & slowly progressing. Fantastic bike, relatively cheap to maintain & l have no height issues despite being 5' 6" tall. Only problems is Kawasaki should have thrown in a centre stand for easy maintenance. Just my two cents, fellas.

[@nazirkazi2588]

I bought a paddock stand for £30 and it's very handy for maintenance, and you're right it's annoying when you need it but otherwise the absence doesn't bother me most of the time.

[@nathan4200]

I dont plan on getting one, but for sure will always agree with 5. As long as you the rider have fun on it, then it might as well be the best bike in the world haha

[@DorkintheRoad]

I enjoy it for sure. Thanks for watching.

[@PatriotNC1]

I bought a 2019 Versys 650 several months ago. I'm still breaking it in. But so far I'm very impressed with the bike. Good power, all that I'll need. Good handling and I especially like the brakes. My last bike had terrible brakes, so it's nice to finally be able to stop better. I think you get quite a lot of great looks and features for a good price. Definitely a keeper. Great video, hope to see more on this bike.

[@DorkintheRoad]

I love mine too. It's a great bike.

[@jt23502]

​@@DorkintheRoadhow long did you keep it?

[@techguyMD]

Picked up a 2019 Versys 1000 SE+ LT jus over a month ago... already have over 1200 miles on it. Love it. Comfort Power Safety (ABS and traction control) Electronic suspension Throttle by wire cruise control

[@scorpio1710]

Love my 2009 Versys 650. Agree with all your points. Dad bikes rock!

[@Wildirishmanbiker]

I had a CB 500x and went to a versys myself a year ago. Went from KY to AZ with no issues. Love this bike too! Keep on keepin om

[@giftedplanksify]

All around beautiful bike Dork!! I was an Oregonian before I was forced to come back to California!! Really miss Ashland!

[@firesail6707]

Somehow I missed this episode. As you said, it is just a fun bike; the luggage options are endless and easy to take on and off. The features are great. I added a tooth to the front sprocket for more relaxed freeway riding and, for me, it made the gear ratios more natural. Loving it even more now.

[@Land-Shark]

My ZX-14R got stolen this week, so I'm needing to look into a new bike, and I've decided to not get another sport bike. So I've been eyeballing the 2020 Versys 650 LT as my next bike, but will be adding a top case for my camera gear. I watched your other video about your Hates and the remedies, and am glad the fixes aren't costly. I had tons of fun on my old Ninja 300 ABS, so I know I'll be happy with the 650, as it's far more useful for my curent riding needs, and my license will be much safer if I avoid sport bikes this time. I appreciated hearing from a local about how their Versys 650 ownership experience was, so, thank you! :)

[@DorkintheRoad]

Man I'm sorry to hear about your bike being stolen. That is really terrible. The Versys is a fantastic bike, though. Definitely give one a test ride if you get a chance.

[@tommeytommey2742]

I love the larger windscreen!

[@charliesmith2285]

I researched and purchased a 2014 model today. I feel EXACTLY the way you feel about the bike. I've owned a lot of motorcycles. Big and small. This bike is a good all around bike. Very fun.

[@jpscombordi267]

I love mine. 2017 bought it new. I still have it. Absolute gold.

[@nickw22689]

5 things I love about my Suzuki Bandit 600S: -Kind of a rare bike in the US -Perfect blend of modern-sporty, and classic looks -COMFORT. I can ride it for over an hour with no problems -Inexpensive on the used market -Manageable power delivery for a newer rider like myself, but won't let you down when you need to zoom zoom

[@DorkintheRoad]

Sounds like a great bike.

[@brad_wilson]

2018 Versys 650 LT is my first road bike ever, just bought it about a month ago. Agree (so far) with your analysis about how it's much better and much more fun than the typical haters give it credit for. Sub'd. :)

[@DorkintheRoad]

I assume most of the haters have never ridden one. I've met very few people who have that didn't end up liking the bike.

[@phatroguedragon]

There will always be haters. I think the Versys 650 is a 'best kept secret' kinda thing.

[@phatroguedragon]

5 things I love about the Kawasaki Versys 650....Comfort, Power, Tank size, Wind Visor, Handling

[@DorkintheRoad]

You like the stock screen? I had a real hard time with it. Totally agree with your other 4 points, though.

[@intergalacticbasketballdro7186]

5 things that I 💚 about my 2009 Versys ; #5 Easy Adjustable Suspension I'm 6'2" tall, so I have my suspension adjusted to full height. #4 The Color ! My bike is "Candy Lime Green". It was a shade lighter on the 1st Generation Versys, than the Gen 2 & Gen 3 models. ( I 💚 it ) #3 Low Miles ! You can find these awesome motorcycles everywhere for sale. Usually, with low mileage ! #2 Low Price ! I only paid $3,700 for mine, like new, w/ 5,050 miles on it ! It came with an MRA tinted windscreen, Musarri exhaust, a Car Horn, Brake Light Module, and brand new Dunlop Sport Max Tires ! What could be better than that ? #1 Riding

[@mikerider58]

You stole it @ that price, well done for pulling the trigger on a great deal. Ride carefully.

[@shreksexy6879]

Parked it and looked at it 4 times before I went in the store...lol. Dork your funny.

[@DorkintheRoad]

You don't do that?

[@kiprandom7208]

I test rode this bike at the ims and I am selling my sporster. This 650 just fits me better

[@intergalacticbasketballdro7186]

5 THINGS that I love about my (1ST GEN) 2009 Kawasaki Versys 650 ; #1 The ENGINE; smooth power delivery. Good low end torque. #2 The COMFORT; Soft Wide Seat, Stock Bar Risers, and Smooth Traveling Suspension. #3 The ROAD HANDLING ; 17" Wheels & Tires give the Versys 650 a major street advantage, over the Suzuki V-Strom, and the BMW F650GS. #4 The LUGGAGE OPTIONS ; Make the Versys 650 a more useful vehicle in town, and touring. #5 The VERSATILITY ! The Versys 650 is a great all around motorcycle that can be outfitted with a wide variety of mods to better accommodate you during street or off road use.

[@NoShadowOfDoubt1]

I never thought I would buy one ... but I did buy a used 2013 ... which I find it looks better than 2015 and up ... but for sure different fun and comfort compared to my 2016 S1000rr... ...planning to put a lot more miles on it

[@borkarms]

Wow.....what a nice video...From a true Proud owner.... Mentioned the exact features which I was looking for... Fun, Comfort, optimum power,presence.will also check the part 2 of video, but just enjoyed watching this....

[@DorkintheRoad]

It's an amazing machine

[@detch5307]

Nice review. 5 great points. I rode the bike for a week in Europe and loved it. Go Beavs!

[@gusberte4304]

Agree 100% I have an old Versys 650 2009 but the same things aply to it. Overall the fun part. Cheers!

[@tritiumglo4699]

One of the biggest pros, is the lack of nonsense tech. No riding modes traction control etc.

[@michaelkoncal7622]

The 2009 solid mounted engine Versus I ride knumbs the hands and tippy toe stop lights plus an ugly head lamp is still my best ride I ever owned. I am now 64 years of age.

[@DorkintheRoad]

It's a great machine

[@shanep.9442]

The generation 3's started in 2015..I have one. Great bike!

[@DorkintheRoad]

I totally agree!

[@husker68]

great review! I am enjoying my 2015 all white Versys 650 as well!

[@DorkintheRoad]

It's a fantastic bike!

[@nazirkazi2588]

Versys owner here, love my Versys. Nothing more to say.

[@swojchwat]

This is the sign this has to be my second machine. This video was posted in my birthsday ;) and the same day ive published video about my first and current motorcycle - suzuki gn 125 ;). My friend suggests yamaha fz 650 but versys looks more friendly to me.

[@RoadDogSteve]

I love the punch at 5000 to 8000 rpms on mine...Open it up at 6000 rpms will surprise... It's sweet zone up to 10000 rpms.... No others match it...

[@DorkintheRoad]

Agreed.

[@_sacredseven_]

Looks like such a handsome trusty steed. Quite the capable war horse.

[@dongorsegner4607]

I rode a friends, aside from the seat that absolutely sucks, I found the bike nice to ride.

[@jeriksson7686]

I see the Versys 650 as a supermotard with touring capability! Love riding twisty roads and tour on mine ✌️

[@theahmadridhuan]

Greetings here from Malaysia. I have the same orange matte Versys too and always enjoy myself riding it, short or long rides. Though the ABS is not standard here so have to be careful not to pull the brake too hard in emergency situations. Anyway, safe riding always.

[@victorkdobby9573]

Just love my 2017 Versys 650. I'm from Kuching, Sarawak and am looking forward to riding "Umang" from the southern tip (Sarawak) of Borneo to the island's northern most tip (Sabah). A great bike indeed. Cheers fellas.

[@DorkintheRoad]

I love that orange color. Glad you're enjoying your bike!

[@DorkintheRoad]

Have a great ride!

[@placeuniquenamehere]

Love my 2015 Versys 650. But like many, I hated the seat and had to change it out. Plus get an aftermarket windshield because the stock one is garbage. Another thing, I installed a Booster Plug to fix the struggle the engine has at low rpms. Now it is a lot easier to go at slower speed without it feeling like it wants to die on slow turns or just slow moving forward in traffic.

[@DorkintheRoad]

Smart mods. I bet that makes a big difference. I know the aftermarket screen was huge for me.

[@placeuniquenamehere]

@@DorkintheRoad Oh yeah, the booster plug was a must. It was like night and day. I guess it has to do with emissions now a days. Most motorcycles run lean and that is what causes those issues at low RPMs.

[@robognian2747]

Hi there-I too have a 2015 and know what you mean on the low RPM. Have been thinking of an ECU flash - is that the same as the Booster plug you mention?

[@placeuniquenamehere]

@@robognian2747 ECU flash will reprogram your computer, which most avoid due to warranties. The booster plug is a simple add on that will do the reading with its own computer and send that signal that basically overrides the readings of the ECU. No dyno... no paying some guy to reprogram it.

[@mainstreammoto4856]

I love my V-Strom but I have to agree with you, the Versys is one sexy machine! Probably the best looking bike I've ever seen but that's just my opinion. I rode one that belonged to a friend of mine and feel the same as you. I'm gonna go watch your 5 things you hate about it cause I'm curious now...

[@DorkintheRoad]

Best looking bike ever, eh? That's quite a compliment. I think V-Stroms are pretty badass, too.

[@wolfysaurusrex8180]

Hey man! New rider here and I notice you ride around where I do! If you see a guy on a KTM RC 390, it's probably me! I'm looking to start doing motovlogging as well soon.

[@DorkintheRoad]

Hey there! Oregon riders FTW. I'll keep an eye out for you. Good luck with your motovlogs!

[@flyingfish173]

I've read a lot of reviews on the Versys and for one up touring New England it sound like a good choice. If anyone knows other wise please drop a comment. Good review!

[@EdSure1967]

Regards from Panama. Thank you very much for your reviews. I am looking at a 2016 Versys 650, bright orange to buy. I used to ride a Suzuki Boulevard C90, but roads in my country are a mess, for cruisers and it's time to change to a more comfortable sporty (not naked) and versatile bike. I loved my C90, but it wasn't good for heavy traffic since it does not have a liquid radiator and it tended to heat up like hell. Overall it is a great bike, but I know a bike like the Versys will be a good decision and change. Take care on the road, buddy!

[@aruekca18det]

Hola, la compraste siempre?

[@DonnyDeluxe21]

Great video! Thank you for the seat-mod video btw. It increased the comfort of the stock seat allot!!!

[@DonnyDeluxe21]

And I think you also showed me how to install the USB socket. Man... thank you again!

[@unclebadger597]

Sir! I never knew you owned one of these! The wife is looking at the 300 for her first REAL bike. Upgrade from her China crate bike 🏍️💨

[@Evolcanova]

Thanks for the review! So these positive things still applies for the new versys 650 2023?

[@shoakman]

Versys x650 (like the x300) would be sublime

[@mcurranb]

or a versys x400... That ninja 400 motor is FANTASTIC

[@DorkintheRoad]

That would be a sweet bike.

[@leosedf]

This 650 can go all over europe just fine with it's side cases. My next bike btw.

[@DorkintheRoad]

It's a great choice!

[@Dropbaud]

I'm surprised you didn't mention the Slipper clutch built into the 650. If your up shifting or down shifting, you don't need to touch your clutch, just the throttle.

[@ianhamilton1872]

Great review DITR,enjoyed both the positive and negative aspects. Can you flat foot this bike and is it easy to move around without power? Thanks in advance.

[@DorkintheRoad]

I can't flat foot it but my inseam is only 30 inches. It's not like super easy to move around because it's a little top heavy but it's not too bad once you get used to it

[@vsimileac]

I've tried recently Vstrom 1000. I like the Versys more: it's fun riding and really versatile. My thing I love is: I can ride in the city for commute, highway even it's boring and secondary roads and twisties. All day. Non-stop.And next day. And next...

[@DorkintheRoad]

It's a great all around bike. Just enough power to be fun but without the extra weight or width of the 1000.

[@vsimileac]

Dork in the Road I didn’t find Vstrom 1000 heavy. Honestly Versys 650 is more top heavy that biggest Vstrom from my point of view. Because of the 19 inch front wheel you need to push it more in a curb but nothing more. I just didn’t find it impressive. No joy. For me. My buddy loves it. I’m staying this season with my 650. Will try new 1000, must more comfortable on highway and still fun enough.

[@AllTheNamesAreGone]

Did he say v twin?? Also. The versys engine is tuned differently to the ninja so it's not like a tall ninja.

[@DorkintheRoad]

I misspoke. It's a parallel twin.

[@matteouccellani9657]

Great video 👊

[@Ozark221]

I'm wondering: Did you consider any of the CB(R)650 siblings? How much sportiness do you think the Versys lacks compared to your F, if any? I have a 500X and was planning on going more sporty, but your Versys videos are ringing true with everything I love about my X. The improvements you mention take care of everything I dislike about it too, namely highway travel. I'd like to use my bike for 400 mile highway trips, as well as aggressive twisties.

[@DorkintheRoad]

Significant sportiness upgrade from the 500 in my experience

[@MikeChamplin]

Currently on a Vulcan Vaquero but it's just too big (not having fun anymore)....torn between moving on to the Versys 650 or the 1000. You've ridden both - what are your opinions about why you chose the 650 over the 1000? Thanks

[@rajavidhun]

I got the exact same orange 16 model, love it :)

[@prat8529]

I’ve owned 2 of the older generations..... toured Spain.... great bikes

[@sudeepm8096]

Appreciate if you could tell me why one should choose Versys over V Strom other than price tag. By the way loved your genuine review, really felt you are in love with your bike!!! Cheers!

[@doulos77]

i am a fan of both but they are two different platforms. the versys is not an adventure bike. its a ninja with an upright sitting position. thus, the versys handles much better on the street. VStrom is somewhat of an adventure bike. the big front wheel on vstrom made it feel much less agile. i know this is an odd observation but the front wheel also felt so far away from me that i never felt "one' with the bike, especially at higher speeds. just my opinion.

[@sudeepm8096]

@@doulos77 thanks a lot for your response, appreciate it

[@ljoelmchanley3676]

Goldwings are crazy-nimble. Used to be a guy on the Dragon that was quicker thru the twisties than most all of the sportbike wanna-be's

[@jimbo92107]

Versys 650 is a V-twin?? Huh, I thought it was a just a twin. I love mine, but it's really not just a taller Ninja. Doesn't wind out anywhere near as high revs. The engine is detuned for gas mileage and modest revs at highway speeds. The top speed isn't in the same ballpark as a Ninja, but it's got more torque in the mid revs, just in case you are loaded up with luggage. Best thing is that it really does strike a nice balance between a commuter bike and a sports tourer. Plus, it has one essential property: It will get from 80 to 100 fairly quickly, so you can dash away from a cluster situation on the freeway. I loves my 2015 Versys.

[@DorkintheRoad]

It's a parallel twin. I'm an idiot and always say it wrong.

[@exothermal.sprocket]

Meh. There's been only 5 different configurations of parallel twins over the years that I personally know about, so it's not surprising there can be confusion. 180º, 360º, 270º, 285º, and 315º firing intervals, all producing a very different character and sound and feel. I always though Kawasaki should have configured it 270º similarly to a lot of other parallel twins on the market. Better sound, a more sensational feel. Put the MT-07 engine into the Versys 650, and we have an even better bike.

[@patgenier1965]

Good stuff. I agree. I picked up a 21 Versus 650 last month. I ve put 1947Km since June 15 on it. I want to ask you about the windsheild. What is it?How is it? Thanks.

[@franklowry4852]

I really like my 2017 Versys 650 LT. Have you considered adding an after market center stand for chain maintenance? I haven't yet. I did install an additional tail lights and brake light because the trunk bag makes the under seat stock lights hard to see from tail vehicles. I like the Kawasaki Fog Lights.

[@neilfitzpatrick5549]

Dude you are meant to hold on with your knees on the tank. I do it on a sports bike and it makes your legs real strong. Even with an upright you should still be holding on with your knees. Sorry to tell you it's not your bike that's flawed lol, I just picked up a 2009 with 12,000 miles for $3500 which I'm going to use for doordash. She's perfect for the task :)

[@danielventura3469]

I love that bike (Versys 650)

[@DorkintheRoad]

Me too!

[@ricksilver7398]

Will it cruse interstate speed all day long on a 500-mile trip, and do they all come with a slipper clutch, gear indicator, and electrical ports. I'm not sure about the confusion of the difference between the versy, LT, touring

[@davidhill90034]

Good review, thanks.

[@johnnygross4415]

You mention testing FJ 09, I've got the versys, thinking about up to FJ09, good ttade?

[@DorkintheRoad]

I preferred the Versys, but I'd say ride one and see how it feels to you. It's definitely a bit quicker than the Versys.

[@markJones-yz6ke]

Thinking of p/x my z1000sx for one!I do 150 miles without stopping & can't walk after riding the z!is the versys capable of that? (I'm 6ft2ins200lbs)what's it like on fuel??

[@willymariani6010]

Hi Dork, what do you think about Kawasaki Versys 650 as the first bike? Consider it's so hard for me to start with a small engine... i'm 1.90m x 113kg and live in mountain TY Will

[@DorkintheRoad]

I actually made a whole video about that ;) kzbin.info/www/bejne/fpexdYKprqaoisk

[@daveh682]

Just bought mine in sublimity 650 LT with side bags $8500 bucks 2021 we ride those roads all the time around Jefferson etc. very happy I ordered the top case mount so I can lock up the helmet will be adding heated grips here before winter also. My cousin has the KTM1290 super duke GT, ya can't keep up with him sometimes but who cares I'm lovin the Versys! We rode down to the beach the other day via Hebo, nice curvy road, one lane bridges etc.

[@andrewshumate6104]

What is the windshield you have on your Versys in this video? How tall and would you recommend it?

[@DorkintheRoad]

It's the Givi. This one: bit.ly/3eRt9cc I like it a lot for filming but just know it blocks all the airflow so it can get warm behind it on a hot day.

[@Burlehmangus]

Funnily enough, the versys 650 actually has a better tune than the ninja 650/cruiser 650….and puts out about 5 more hp despite being the exact same motor. Weird that the gave the ADV the better tune over the sport bike lol

[@Frog_the_man]

I'm looking into my first bike and i'm considering either the klr 650 or versys 650. I want something I can use as a touring commuter with a little off road capability what would you guys consider.

[@firesail6707]

You may have already settled the question. Both are tall to get used to (at a stop) for a new rider. I would go for the Versys over the KLR for any touring aspirations. The big single will beat you up on the highway relative to the Versys.

[@Keldren.]

If it's performance not reliability how can u trust it enough to drive it cross country?? I really wanna get one but I REALLY need reliability..

[@ProMrXXX]

Bro. Happy if you could give some advice. I’m now riding mt07, but Id like to own an adventure bike like yours. Should I go for versys 650 or mt09 tracer?

[@DorkintheRoad]

It's a pretty personal decision, honestly. I'd say ride both and see what feels right. You can't go wrong with either of those bikes. I rode the FJ-09 and didn't love it as much as the Versys, myself.

[@phnx4life]

Are there any differences in the fun-ride between the 650cc and the base model 1000cc?

[@DorkintheRoad]

I personally find the 650 a lot more fun to ride.

[@MathieuTechMoto]

Haha 7:17 you said Vtwin XD I have a dl650 2012 and i must admit that i have the versys 650 in the eye since a long time, just waiting for good deal, oh, and for all the 3 gens, i like the gen 2 look better

[@bradleyflagge3450]

Would you add Motowerks highway pegs adapters for more comfort on long distance rides?

[@DorkintheRoad]

I know a lot of people have. I can definitely see the appeal, but I haven't tried them myself yet.

[@exothermal.sprocket]

Versys 650: the last bastion of engine capacity-to-fuel capacity ratios. What 650cc twin out there has a 5.50 gallon tank? These days 1-liter 150 hp bikes are nearing only 3 gallons.

[@DorkintheRoad]

It is nice to know you could ride all day and barely have to stop for gas.

[@exothermal.sprocket]

@@DorkintheRoad Peace of mind for sure. Just explore, just ride, hardly a thought about fuel.

[@phatroguedragon]

When I ride my bike to work, I can go 2 days before refilling. That'd be about 120 miles over those 2 days. Great gas mileage.

[@exothermal.sprocket]

@@phatroguedragon They could do better. Longer stroke, smaller throttle bodies, smaller valves, less valve timing overlap. But then you'd just buy a MT-07 or XSR700. :) Really wish Yamaha would import the Tracer 700.

[@dacuzzi]

What front suspension settings do you use? I am struggling with it a bit. Feels a bit nervous to me.

[@superblastpressurewashing.7256]

can I get a link for the windshield you have. great video, I just bought a 2019 650 and love it.

[@DorkintheRoad]

amzn.to/3bBRiEM

[@superblastpressurewashing.7256]

@@DorkintheRoad Thanks for the info but it does not fit a 2019 Versys. ride safe man.

[@davelounsbury4830]

@@superblastpressurewashing.7256 Supposedly, the Givi D4122ST is meant for the Versys '17 - '19 (and probably '20). Don't quote me on it, but you might want to look into that model of windscreen.

[@superblastpressurewashing.7256]

@@davelounsbury4830 very cool my friend I just ordered it, thank you so much. I'll do a video of it when it get's here, thanks again.

[@JonnyFuriouss]

Hey Dork, could you link the mods you've done to protect the rear suspension from the road grimes coming from the rear wheel? Tnx so much.

[@DorkintheRoad]

I didn't have anything along those lines on the bike.

[@lewi594]

Ninja had a baby with a basketball player 😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@LindenMikus]

I'm looking to get a setup for phone mount/charging. Do you like the one you are using? any recommendation ? thank you

[@DorkintheRoad]

I love my quad lock. It's a great option

[@mr.shannon6137]

You ever consider vstrom 650 instead of the Versys? If so what was your opinion of it, and why did you go with the versys? Hopefully next spring will buy a new versys 650 LT. The vstrom lookes a little bit beefier and more capable. I hate the way it looks, cant stand that cartoon beek in front. So if all goes right will be getting a versys.

[@firesail6707]

I'm sure the V-Strom is great too. I think you will have a great time if you pick up the Versys in the spring. I've had more fun and adventure in a year than I had in many years on my previous Beemer sport tourer.

[@m-faccin]

Have you tried to make a all day trip or weekend trip with a passenger? How is it?

[@Burden82]

it has abs. what new bike doesnt have abs?

[@MrMakto]

Im 6'4" 320lbs, was considering this for a starter bike. Would you consider this good for a first bike?

[@joecamel6835]

Usually no but for a 6'4" guy, yes .

[@kevinair7648]

Whats the bike like for passenger. Can they get on ok .cheers council kev uk

[@gabrielheredia1898]

Do you recommend this bike as a beginner bike?

[@alsaigba]

How do you find it compared to the v strom 650?

[@Caleblafountain]

I'm considering a 2009 model for sale near you actually. Your thoughts? Keep in mind I'm a new rider.

[@DorkintheRoad]

I actually have a whole video on whether the Versys is a good first bike if you want my full thoughts but basically I think it's a little tall and unwieldy for a new rider, depending on your height, but if you are aware of that and careful until you get used to it, it could be a first bike that you're happy with for a long time.

[@firesail6707]

@@DorkintheRoad Good comment. I'm a veteran rider and over 6 feet. I have had a couple of zero-mph issues due to the height and top weight. As you said, no issue once underway. It is a winner.

[@ItsMe-zr7jb]

Ear buds at 85mph work great

[@kapdroidmoto]

Ninja have a baby with a basketball player 🤣. Great review though 👍🏼

[@DorkintheRoad]

Thank you!