Here's why the 2019 Kawasaki Versys 650 LT is a SURPRISING Adventure Bike Under $10,000

[@alandrewtanchuan93]

You, my good sir, do a magnificent review of motorcycles. You explain the features and specs thoroughly, as well as the pros and cons. Kudos!

[@alandrewtanchuan93]

Also, ride safe always.

[@MrLou8888]

I agree.

[@DukeOfDC]

You just made my day! Thank you so much for the kind words and support. Ride safe as well!

[@johnnyperdue363]

Al Andrew Tanchuan, i totally agree, i don’t recall ever commenting on a review but this was on point! I bought a leftover 2016 earlier this year (2019) for a little under $6,000 OTD and I love it! I downsized from a 1500 cc. Much more fun to me.

[@valaudae1809]

Johnny Perdue Less is sometimes more. 👍🏻

[@trekkydelirium-vroom5821]

Kawasaki should do a new version of this bike : Versys-X 650 Adventure with tubeless spoked wheels, a skid plate, a lower seat in option, traction control, a 19 inches front wheel, 40% trail tires... that could be an awesome adventure bike.

[@carlosandleon]

definitely not a lower seat height, I hate it when manufacturers pander to the dwarves. If you want an offroad adv, put up with the seat height.

[@luishcoreia]

That’s the KLR

[@fatsharks]

Kawasaki Versys 650 is in a class of its own. It's an incredibly capable bike that is also great value. Upside down forks, manually adjustable rear suspension, Nissin brakes, 21 liter fuel tank, ample room and comfort for touring with a passenger AND tons of luggage... It really is loaded with awesome features and even though it's getting seriously outdated now, it still doesn't really have any competition. I only wish that they updated it for 2020; less weight, more power, modern LCD dash, improved looks & aerodynamics while keeping the big gas tank. Can't go wrong with this bike; it's a true do-it-all, tour the world with your woman/friend kind of amazing bike. Makes overpriced and oversized faux adventure sport touring bikes like Ducati Multistrada 950, KTM 790 Adventure, and the BMWs look ridiculous! Of course, at least on paper those bikes are "superior", but in the real world, Versys 650 does everything those bikes can do and maybe even more WITH bulletproof reliability while costing almost 50% less.

[@enyelator1239]

The Versys 650 is incredibly reliable. I got my 2015 new and have put 53,000 miles in 4 years on it. I change the oil every 4000 miles and do valve clearance every 25,000 miles. I’m getting the new ZX-6r in six months and keeping my Versys for another 100,000 miles at least.

[@brothermanv]

@@enyelator1239 Awesome! Have you had any maintenance issues with your Versys? I'm lookin at this or a Suzuki Strom Trooper for my first bike

[@shreksexy6879]

Agreed! Great bike we just want a updated version & still at an affordable cost. C'MON KAWASAKI!!!

[@FlIckme23]

Out of interest did yours average about 55mpg ? That's the one downside of this bike. 55 isn't great for a 650 imo. I do like it though

[@badapple65]

I ordered “The Booster Plug” from Finland for my 2019 Kaw Vulcan s, same engine. It mostly eliminates the engine braking at low speeds. Before installing it I had to feather the clutch non stop in & out of the friction zone at slow speeds such as in a parking lot. It not only would kill my hand it made slow maneuvering unpleasant. Love it now. Was about $140 with shipping (received in 3-4 days. They make them for about every bike to improve on what could be better

[@ciscosong110]

My one is a 2016 and I ride it right through winter great bike. Very light handling and economical.

[@Mr67Stanger]

Absolutely the best bang for your buck. I had a 2017 which I loved. Unfortunately I was hit and fell, and my riding days are over, but I miss this bike. It is extremely versatile, reliable and confortable. I had the LT version and added the factory Gear indicator and USB Charger on each plug. I also added engine guards. I miss my bike.

[@mickeypopa]

:(

[@CCShad]

Good job, enjoyed your review of this bike. I own a 2016 Versys put 20,000 kms on it, mostly back road touring, some longer trips thrown in. I typically do 400-500 kms on day trips. I went through 2 sets of Bridgestone Battlax T30 T31 Evo tires. I thought they were pretty good tires until I put on a set of Avon Trailriders OMG 😮 new bike...better on and off road. I couldn’t believe the difference in handling. Just did a 550km trip mostly paved roads with about 150km of fire roads. Handled like a champ. The Avon tires were a game changer. I don’t hesitate hitting gravel or dirt roads anymore. This is what I describe as an “on-road” adventure motorcycle. No good for rough single track but everything else it handles no problem.

[@firesail6707]

I should have looked at the Avons. I just put TKC70's on and they were a big improvement too. They do whine on the highway; yours?

[@CCShad]

Firesail - They are somewhat louder than the road tires, but only slightly. Not really noticeable after riding for a bit. What surprised me is the road handling is way better. The bike doesn’t react at all to road cracks... so smooth, cornering feels tighter. The Bridgestones would tip in to a corner too easily and would wander and follow the road cracks etc. The Avons are much more confidence inspiring on and off road

[@kleitosaliagas5668]

I have those same tires on the same bike and I agree that they are amazing on and (light) off road. Also, I've done over 12k kilometres on them and they are still in great shape. Highly recomend.

[@words2liveby639]

I just bought one last year and I'm love it and the most important thing it's for tall guys. I'm 6'5 and I love riding it hopefully this summer I could plan a trip to see how it rides cost to cost

[@TheCaretaker555]

I own a 2016 Versys 650 GT its my third Versys i use it just for touring/camping its the best out of the three i have owned for solo its just perfect smooth and plenty of cruising power for one with gear just brilliant and thanks for an honest review i subbed......

[@dasonic04]

Can u describe more what is the best from the other 2 model? Thanks in advance sir

[@wickedleeloopy2115]

It feels more compact & lighter than a vstrom. Bit more sporty. I like it. It's a sports touring bike...90% 10% adventure.

[@scottstawicki9344]

Being the owner of a 2018 Versys going on 3500 miles your spot on with the “buzzy” hi frequency vibrations at 5000 and up rpm. I commute almost 30 mile one way and let me say I cannot feel my fingers by the time I reach my destination. Another huge annoyance with the Versys is the sudden power fall-off when you let off the throttle. The bike virtually nose dives. And when your cruising at any speed and approaching a curve expecting to throttle back and coast into the curve, the sudden fall off is startling. Knowing this condition exists the rider must gently ease the throttle back.

[@hamerplayer1229]

Switch to synthetic and start red lining the bike a bit. It will settle down

[@firesail6707]

Think about dropping a few teeth from the rear sprocket. It smoothed out the throttle immensely.

[@kalimarus]

Have your throttle body’s synced as well, if they’re out it’ll vibrate a bunch. I’ve got just under 20k miles on mine in the first year.

[@elitetileandstone]

I enjoyed your review of the Versey 650. In all fairness, the Versey isn't marketed as an off road vehicle, hence the lack of off road abs and a 19 or 21 inch spoke wheels. Standing position also is not optional for off road riding. Personally I have added Motowerks Anti Vibration bar risers and foot peg lowering blocks, to my 2014. It does fine on dirt roads, but it's not going to compete with an Africa Twin or a 700 Tenere, off road. I just found your channel and subbed, Stay safe!

[@vageliskoios1062]

Just i bought the 2017 model..The green one..Very beautiful bike,excellent handling,good torgue,enough power,good brakes..overall one of the best vfm..

[@jhooton75]

Great review. I've got about 17,000 miles on my 2016 Versys 650LT, and completely love the bike. As far as engine vibration, I agree with you that it's pretty bad around 5,000 RPMs but it's as smooth as butter above 5,500.

[@buckeyebeliever3397]

Subscribed! I love this kinds of straight to the point review that pops off all the important stats!

[@tommeytommey2742]

The stock exhaust sounds better than expensive aftermarket exhausts imho. Great review man, liked and subscribed!

[@MotoHikes]

Just bought one of these. Can't wait to be able to ride it properly once i've passed my test in a month!

[@johnnygross4415]

I'm riding my 14 in mexico, havi g a blast. Gravel roads are ok. 2 brothers pipe a must for me

[@sgtshak2806]

Your comment at around 15:00 is why I got rid of my '13 Versys. It was so vibey it made it an uncomfortable ride. I was hoping you were going to say that this was addressed in the newer model. Thanks for that honest review. Too bad there is such a price step up to the 1000 version.

[@DukeOfDC]

I’m glad I was able to convey an issue that an owner like yourself has experienced even with my limited time on the bike. Certainly a shame that the price jump is so high

[@KRColson]

Have to say I agree 100% with Al. I love your down to earth, HONEST opinion on this bike. I am still up in the air somewhat but getting closer due to your review. Thank you so much for this.

[@andrewl5095]

My new favourite motorcycle review channel. Cheers from Calgary 🇨🇦

[@DukeOfDC]

My new favorite subscriber! Thanks!

[@johna6968]

A very good thorough review. I like your style. Surprised you didn't mention its main competitor though the vstrom, which does address the items mentioned here.

[@DukeOfDC]

Thank you! Sounds like I need to take the V strom out ASAP and compare.

[@derekinbritishcolumbia1449]

Forget the money "left over" when comparing to more expensive bikes. This bike makes a decent ride affordable for those of us who don't want to be in debt paying off overpriced toys. I rode a used Versys 650 for a few years. Loved it and would likely buy one again if getting another bike.

[@George196207]

Have a Versys 650 thought I had a sports bike that can be road for hours without pain ! :)

[@kalimarus]

It’s definitely not a dirt road ADV bike, it’s a comfy sport tourer that keeps sport bike handling. The geometry of the bike is very close to a supersport with legroom and comfort. It’s skittish on gravel and has 17” wheels for sport/touring tires. The hand guards are just to block the wind, your in the wrong place if your whacking branches with them. This bike shines in it’s reliability, 250+ typical range, comfort, and it genuinely is one of the best handling bikes out there on a twisty road, far better than any 19” wheel ADV bike. If you want to do anything on dirt this is not the bike you’re looking for.

[@kalimarus]

Ravit Shrivastav I’d look at the Versys 300 or the 19” version of the CB500x if you also want good road manors and are primarily looking for a gravel road bike. If you want to venture off further and sacrifice the road manors a DR650 or the 400 or one of the 250cc dual sports. If you just want to get down a dirt road at a mellow pace the V650 will do fine. Some guys modify them significantly and they work if that’s what your into as well. The upcoming Tenere 700 will also be a great option at about the same price next year.

[@petervenkman69]

I love my 2019 Verys 650 - mine is in the GT configuration, which is broadly the same as the one shown, but with top box (with seatback for pillion), 12v socket, fog lights, and tank protector. And inner bags for all 3 boxes.

[@johnnygross4415]

What did you pay for it?

[@oldtimer3824]

Sadly, GT configuration not available in USA.

[@mikerider58]

Great detailed review 👌 although those 20mph roads would have been better suited for reviewing skate boards.

[@alexanderweaver4838]

I'm going to have to test drive one of these...it seems to be the perfect size for my 5'7" frame and my age which is 73. I watched your 2019 Yamaha FJR ride out of Fredericksburg, VA (I live in Richmond), but I think that bike is a little too heavy for me at 650lbs. Great smooth power and gearing but at almost 10 grand more than the Versys, it's more than I want to spend. I love the black with green trim which would compliment my Jeep which I have set up for overland camping. The Versys with the touring package plus a tank bag would suit my needs. Thanks for the review...and the ride :)

[@PriestsandParamedics]

Great review! I'm born and raised in Austin and I love New Braunfels so much. I have a 2011 Kawaski Versys 650, it's my first motorcycle, and I love it! I threw a slip-on muffler on it and it sounds awesome but I do miss the sound of the intake on the engine. Definitely gonna subscribe!

[@DukeOfDC]

Thanks for subscribing!

[@brianbee8542]

Hey Kevin. I also bought a slip on but it was way off .wasn't even close to fitting. What exhaust did you buy?

[@PriestsandParamedics]

@@brianbee8542 That's weird. I bought the Two Brothers Racing slip-on muffler. You have to take the old muffler off and slip the new one on. Probably took me an hour or so of work. Totally worth it!

[@KeepitUpright]

I have the 2015 version. Use it for touring and commuting and ticks all the boxes for me. I got the Tourer and added the bits to suit me. Had it four years from new, can't fault it.

[@bfbryfield]

Bought a 2016 lt in 2018 for under 6K, been a great bike. Over 6' you will probably want to change the windscreen I put a taller one, also running 80/20 tires, it eats up dirt roads with ease. Up in Maine with the limited season, I don't see why anyone spends big $$ on bikes.. this easily holds gear for a long weekend trip etc.

[@garmit61]

Useful info there. I see loads of reviewers putting down the versys because it has a 17 inch front wheel. I’ve always thought if you put a hybrid tyre on that wouldn’t matter for the sort of off tarmac riding most of us do, I love that this bike doesn’t have pointless rider modes and engine mappings. If you can disable abs too that would be perfect.

[@Badhagis]

I'm 6'2" and 190, and it fits me very well. If you're taller, you'll be happy in this saddle.

[@buckeyebeliever3397]

Thanks! I’m 6’3” and got a Sportster for my first bike... it just doesn’t fit tall guys

[@thedriver7132]

Greetings, from Pittsburgh, PA. I am just under 6' 4" tall and weigh 200 pounds. I am considering looking at this model as my possible first bike, once I get lessons and take the safety course (once they are available again). I would only be riding on pavement. City streets, and some highways when I get more experienced. 55, 65, and 70mph is the top speed limit around my way. This might just be the bike for me. I want upright position and not too heavy.

[@mjmorizio]

Great review, bro. Had the Ninja 650. Nice motor. This Versys is something I might consider one day. Enjoying a modded FZ09 for the time being. Thanks for the review!

[@Unknown-tn2ip]

Would this bike be good for long drives and highway rides? What about a mountain drive with lots of inclines and turns?

[@tlevans62]

Evan Williams yep, that’s how I ride my bike, it’s good for just about everything. I’ve taken it touring for days, and on twisty mountain roads and trails.

[@alexp6409]

Hey, you got New Braunfels right! I rode one of these at a Kawasaki demo event last week. Great bike!

[@R3CO249]

I have the 19 GT Versys 650. it's been up to 120 but the front end wobbles a lot. The wind screen is poor. Very poor if you are over 5'10" It is a great bike though. far more nimble than it looks

[@josippero]

Hi DukeOfDc Great review. I am a beginner planning to buy this Versys. Seems like excellent choice for a 190 cm tall guy who wants to go on longer routes with suitcases one day. But my friend told me that 68 hp will soon become boring and not enough powerful for me especially when riding with another person and suitcases and in situations where I might need extra power to avoid accident.I really like this bike and don't have money for 1000 cc model. Do you agree with my friend?

[@oldtimer3824]

Josip also a tall rider. Versys 650 is excellent or Africa Twin is also good for tall riders. In USA, leftover new 2017 African twins are $9000, about same as Versys.

[@words2liveby639]

I have this bike🏍 and it's the best ride very easy to travel on. Attention tall guys this is the ride for you I'm 6'5 very comfortable 🧘‍♂️

[@JanitorJay83]

That is one damn fine looking bike. Also, I love the third-person view for the pre-ride segment, instead of the helmet cam. Thanks for yet another awesome video!

[@DukeOfDC]

It grew on my so much over the course of the test ride

[@disekjoumoer]

Grip Puppies for the vibrations. I've got the 2009 Versys which has no rubber dampers on the engine mounts and vibrates so much I can't ride it without the neoprene grip puppies. But with them it's a dream. How many bikes in that price class have adjustable suspension and forks? Mine has a huge amount of miles on it and is lumpy as hell but damn do I love it.

[@Robert8455]

As a Kawasaki fan boy, I like what they offer here but not sure I'm crazy enough to buy it. I think I'd save up a little and jump into a Yamaha Tracer GT. Yes another 3 grand on top of this but you get so much except a bunch of weight. The 3 cylinder motor is not something I thought I would like but dang if she doesn't sound good and has a bunch of power.

[@gumballer9]

Good Review Duke! Your progress with quality increases with every new video!

[@Summit_Moto_Utah]

Best walk around I've seen in a long time. Plz wear a shirt/hat from your sponsors during your reviews. Very very well done!

[@rockrick9988]

I own a 2020 version of the kawa versys and i love it. Its my first bike and it defenetly has plenty of power to have "safe" fun with. I am 6ft5, 1m98cm, and fit quite well on it. The windscreen does nothing for me tho.

[@bigal6684]

This is a superb handling, very comfortable road bike with adequate power, light steering, decent brakes and top notch suspension....regardless of price. This bike comes with absolutely no claim of off-road pretensions. This is a tall street bike, not an adventure bike. It is in no way made to go off-road.

[@DukeOfDC]

Yet

[@ANONYMOUSBIKERUSA]

what do you think of this bike as a daily commuter? what are the trunk optons? You think this can do 2 up with ease? for weekend trips?

[@francis105G]

With Alloy Wheels and Street Tires, I would NOT take that bike off road.

[@George196207]

NOT a off road bike, no one at Kawasaki has said it is. He has no clue about this bike or what it actually for. Touring , Adventure is NOT dirt bike ridding ! You can put off road things on it but why would you ? Want dual purpose trail get a KLR not a sport touring adventure bike !

[@basuo8378]

@@George196207 just buy an africa twin if you want an off road and on road beast

[@qislegit.donttrustthemedia6232]

@@basuo8378 How much do those cost?

[@qislegit.donttrustthemedia6232]

How much would it cost to get adequate wheels and tires that would work well for both road/off?

[@sansus80]

@@basuo8378 actually, which AT do you refer to? If you want to go of road, get a KTM 990!

[@maartensint301]

I have been looking at the Kawasaki Vulcan S as my first bike, but now I'm starting to doubt as this Versys 650 seems like a very good substitute with better ergonomics. Good review!

[@RandyB2011]

Please do the Versys X-300!!

[@defaultuser3410]

Very thorough review, thanks!

[@willp2042]

Really like the way you presented, nicely reviewed, subscribed. Highly consider to buy one of this, even I am being an owner of Harley 48 bobber.

[@santauxia]

Very nice review. Nice bike as well, just have one thing I dislike, it's the exhaust under carriage. Would it be possible to have the exhaust pipe up top like other bikes?

[@derekinbritishcolumbia1449]

How I miss my 2007 Versys 650. Engine vibes were not a big issue for me. I would recommend a taller windshield as buffeting on my helmet's visor was annoying when going 110 km's / hr. or more. Very strong bulletproof motor with lots of grunt.

[@alsacs3635]

Good review. Thanks for sharing.

[@DennysPlantBasedJourney]

Guadalupa with a long A sound

[@crumpledpaper8897]

Is this bike still sporty enough to take corners well?

[@chuckfreeman4849]

Yes, I have. 2015 and it’s a blast in the corners.

[@mt09_callum42]

Do you find it clunky when changing gears?

[@johnnygross4415]

Did you like the LT bags? Or put on givi brand. I have givi on my 2024, love them

[@shreksexy6879]

Lt bags are made by givi. They are nice & large to haul your gear on your adventures.

[@jimwilson946]

You made a lot of comments about it's off road capability, but the version you were riding was the road version there is another version with wire wheels and the other bits to make it more off road first the road (that is certainly here in Europe) So maybe you should get your hands on one of those and see what you think.

[@mot0rhe4d40]

I have to say, I agree with you. The best ride performance/safety settings for my bike is between this riders ears. I have had nothing but frustrations, from this push to take the control of the motorcycle/vehicles from the operator. What is next ABS & traction control for kids tricycles? LoL

[@ColGadarby]

These Versys compared to the V Stroms are like Limousines...Silky smooth.

[@Mission_Nugget]

They are on the wish list. Versy hold their value pretty well also! Great video. I like seeing the slight improvements in each video. Keep up the hard work bud. If you are ever in the Houston north area we have a BMW, Indian, Triumph dealership in the Woodlands. Good people work there and I would recommend them highly.

[@DukeOfDC]

I’ve been dying to get on some of the new BMWs and of course triumphs and Indians as well so I’ll take your advice for sure. I believe Rollick would like me to head down to Houston anyway

[@Mission_Nugget]

DukeOfDC if you do, feel free to reach out. Few of the staff at that location ride with us on our group rides. And I will put in my recommendation for ya. They are very open to test rides on all of their bikes. They have a very large collection of used bikes also. If you need a place to stay, I know the good places and of course, the good routes to ride. 👍

[@davisblair7860]

guadaloop aye, that’s how we’ve always said it. family is from west texas now living in north texas. go down a float the river all the time! it’s always somehow 120 degrees outside and the water is still 32.1 degrees

[@doopavision3665]

Outstanding review!

[@JohnDoe-xr5is]

I bought the non-LT version of this bike this past spring. Very high seat height, very high center of gravity made worse by 40lbs of gas up high....so it's a little different than what people would expect. With that high center of gravity and not being able to flat foot, a rider has to be a little careful. I had a little vibration...very little. But after 2000 miles it really smoothed out. I bought this bike because of the upright riding position, but with feet underneath. I wanted to try the new 2019 Honda CB500X..but there weren't any in stores. Too bad for Honda, I do like this bike. It's my second. I had a small cruiser, and it taught me I don't want a cruiser. Even though the Versys is an 'adventure' bike, I use it as a cruiser. I don't go off road at all.

[@johnnyperdue363]

John Doe ,i had a large cruiser and leaned i didn’t like a cruiser as well.

[@firesail6707]

Most 1250 GS's don't go off road either...

[@14moldyhamsandwich]

Funny to hear someone pointing out / complaining about a little vibration from the motor. Working construction and using compactors and demo hammers all day all I can do is laugh. I own this same bike and it is an excellent bike, lot of fun. I love it and it is great for long trips, very comfortable

[@jpeterman9699]

That's awesome

[@jasonpaynerealtor]

I use this bike for my #realtorrides video tours of subdivisions in the San Antonio Tx area. Great bang for the buck get around town bike.

[@14moldyhamsandwich]

i commemted the other day about reviewing this bike. i have the same exact bike , purchased in july. in video sounds like you are short shifting. i am not getting those vibrations. it is very lumpy under 3000 rpm's. the bike is a missle if you want it to be. i would not recommend off road at all. a gravel parking lot , not a problem. and yes , throttle very abrupt. i figured out the sweet spot so as to avoid . this is the 1st motorcycle i have ever owned or driven. having taken msf course in july. i find it to be very comfortable but have never driven anything else so i will shut up for now. great review , be safe !

[@DukeOfDC]

Always happy to hear from owners of the bikes I review!! Glad you enjoyed :)

[@14moldyhamsandwich]

@@DukeOfDC i did enjoy ! you had posed the question in a video asking for people to inquire about reviews. so i did ! i am a subscriber , a big fan. however , i think you are selling the versys short. it is definitely not an adventure bike. africa twin, yes , that is an adventure bike. i find the versys to be very comfortable , it handles great surprisingly for large fuek tank which sits up high. again , almost 0 buzzing. factory setup for suspension is horrible. had mine professionally tuned. handles great. keep up your good work , i love your channel. he safe !!

[@firesail6707]

@@14moldyhamsandwich where do you find a resource to properly set up the suspension?

[@14moldyhamsandwich]

@@firesail6707 where i live in rhode island my dealer is in north kingstown razee motorcycle center a great resource is " dave moss turning " on youtube he will work directly with you online , ask u a lot of questions about your style of bike , your weight , do you do mainly street riding or mix with track days etc he is the reason i went back to my dealer and had a "proper " tuning. my bike is honestly 100% different than the day i purchased. it rode like shit the 1st 2 weeks super bouncy etc check out dave moss tuning it will completely change the way you ride honestly

[@firesail6707]

@@14moldyhamsandwich thank you.

[@jasonpaynerealtor]

I bought this actual bike from Woods this winter. So far I’m really enjoying it. I might upgrade to a BMW 850 or Triumph 900 In two or 3 years.

[@travelinben1966]

Keep the Versys.You'll enjoy unparalleled reliability and inexpensive maintenance,unlike the BMW or Triumph.

[@jasonpaynerealtor]

I really like this bike. Just ready for some bells and whistles. I have a Tiger 900 GT Pro in rout.

[@solomoto3378]

I have this same bike and love it!!

[@mindspinn311]

I own a 2014 Versys, first with ABS, but last year of second gen and not as refined as this third gen. Either way, the Versys 650 is an incredibly underrated and often overlooked bike. But I paid way less than $10k for mine, about half of what a new one costs actually.

[@enyelator1239]

Alex LaJeunesse, truly underrated. I have a 2015 Versys 650 LT which I bought brand new the very first day that Kawasaki delivered them to the US. I paid $8600 for the LT. I have 53,000 miles on my bike and counting.

[@Philth_E]

I have an 09 got it early this year as my first real road bike. 2000 miles, $2900 tax title and plate. I love the thing.

[@mindspinn311]

I don’t ride mine enough! Have a Tiger 800 now and I’m afraid I’m going to need something else to satisfy my itch. Not sure if the Versys will stick around but it’s too good to let go!

[@johnnygross4415]

I kicked 3 teeth off rear and added one to front. Love it. 60mph @ 4500rpm

[@jeppo1185]

I went down to 43 rear as well Jonnie. Just did 4k on mine over Christmas. I found the sweet spot was 120kph. Just sat there all day. Such a great bike.

[@VinceVideo53]

The bike has abs but it can't be turned off for off road? Maybe better to have a no abs version. Gotta give Kawy credit for the stock removable side boxes. That's worth a few hundred dollars. Looking at buying z650 but I like the 476 pounds wet with side boxes on this bike. I might buy this bike if I had another 2000 (or 3000?) over the Z. But the Z with top case and tank bag will probably be what I buy when I finally pull the trigger.

[@Mission_Nugget]

Vance Smith I have a 2018 z650 that I have added side bags and tail bag too. I added a touring wind screen and Corbin seat. I have been all over Texas and Louisiana on it. Taken twisted sisters, 3090 etc. z650 is a fantastic bike. I highly recommend it. Most my buddies in the naked bike group I’m in have the FZ07/09’s. They will be taking a break after an hour or two of riding. I’ll be good riding all day. I’m 5’7” 155lbs. Very comfortable.

[@14moldyhamsandwich]

the cases are $800.00 if purchased separately. i have same bike without the bags and knuckle guards.

[@VinceVideo53]

DoneItWithD thanks for the info. I'm the same size as you. Good to hear it's comfortable. MT07 would be my second choice . Both look like great bikes and both are about as much as I can spend at the moment.

[@russellborn515]

Gotta say, if you're riding terrain where you need to turn off the ABS, this is not the bike you want to be on. With a 17" front wheel, it's just not a serious off-roader. Which is fine, all bikes have strengths and weaknesses. It's a great road bike with some off-pavement capability. Nice looking, too.

[@o-o6355]

So, should I buy one ?

[@vageliskoios1062]

If you want one of the best economical,beautiful all around bikes definetly..

[@CasperJLT707]

Great review!! 15:29 wtf hahaha 😂

[@jcardenaz1982]

who doesnt like some buzzy vibrations to their crotch. some people would pay extra for that.

[@noone1704]

Great video I wish you would sit on the bikes before you ride them rather than explaining how it fits. Why don't any reviewers do that?

[@14moldyhamsandwich]

check out mark pulling reviews on bikes.from the u.k. i have the versys 650 2019 purchased in july. his review led me to this bike. his review completely different. my bike only vibrates if i short shift under 3000 rpms. mark does the reviews on tons of bikes the way you inquired.

[@DukeOfDC]

I can start doing that! Stay tuned for videos I release in a month, once I’m through with everything I’ve already filmed

[@MrLou8888]

Value for money was a point well made. The Kawasaki z 400, ninja 400, and Vulcan S are other good examples. An honest review of the good and meh of the bike.

[@DukeOfDC]

Kawasaki is on the come up!!

[@tuanoful]

I'm thinking about the strom 650 xt Now, why the versys? I'm genuinly curious, how do they stack up against each other.

[@DraganBakema]

Same question here!!!

[@masterspin7796]

Im having a hard time making up my mind...it's the Versys 650 LT or the KTM Super Duke GT...

[@revhead806]

So did the dealer offer a tire that would match its real “adventure / road “ worthiness ? I think you pointed out the bikes pros and cons perfectly. Now all how do we add to the pros and reduce the cons with aftermarket? Gotta be some keyboard searching CEOs out there that can help us all .

[@tritiumglo4699]

Could use some riding modes..... NO. Just bought one because it does not have riding modes and traction control. Walked away from Triumph after 14 years because of the tech. Walked away from a Ducati Multistrada because of the screens and riding modes and tech.... Im glad there is something that still has very little of it. Looking forward to the next 100k on the Versys.

[@enyelator1239]

I own a 2015 Versys 650 Lt. I would not call it an adventure bike. Kawasaki does not call it an adventure bike. I have 53,000 miles on that bike and never been off road. Why would you need traction control or power modes on 68PHP bike? Lol.

[@DronesintheWild]

I agree. This bike has zero off-road pretensions. It is a sport tourer...full stop. The 17-inch wheels (exact same sizes as the Ninja 650 and Z650/900) should make that very clear. Having a Z650 with the same engine, I can concur with the abrupt throttle and massive engine braking though, which I think comes from tuning for current Euro emissions standards.

[@dustinkelley7932]

@@DronesintheWild I've got 5,400 miles on a '18 lt and have done a few days of nothing but offroad with some being 4wd mountain passes on stock street tires. It works offroad if you want it to and are willing to work a bit more.

[@a.m.4331]

@@DronesintheWild I've put about 4k miles on my 2018 versys 650, and I love the strong engine braking. I find myself using my front brake less and less, just shifting down is enough braking power until you need to fully stop.

[@DronesintheWild]

@@a.m.4331 I'm not necessarily criticizing the engine braking for daily riding. I myself use it a lot as well. My brake pads are going to last forever! I will say that it isn't confidence inspiring in twisties since engine braking is effectively rear wheel braking when you don't necessarily want to use rear brake.

[@DronesintheWild]

@@dustinkelley7932 That's great! It really is a great bike, but I can take a whole variety of bikes off-road that aren't designed or optimized for it.

[@johnnygross4415]

We ignore speed signs in mexico, center lane drive too

[@easternwind4435]

You can find nice 2015 3ed gen Versys for 4.5K € ever so often

[@j.d.herman8373]

the throttle on my 2018 was so damn snappy, i replaced it with a throttle tamer and now its so much better

[@RealJayPowell]

The best thing to do is have the ECU re-flashed...solves the TERRIBLE throttle response and helps out the low RPM handling. sites.google.com/site/shoodabenengineering/home/versys-650-ecu-flash

[@trailblazeratv6306]

Hard to go wrong with a Versys

[@gerbilbill]

How about editing the video to show your helmet fitting in the panniers?

[@eddsramm1]

Great video. Thank you

[@njminer]

Kind of disappointing since the real comparison, the Suzuki V-Strom XT Touring, wasn't even mentioned. Then there's the Yamaha Tenere which might be hard to compare since the luggage version isn't priced out but still deserves a shout out if you're going to mention KTM and BMW.

[@michals1108]

Ride mods cost another 500$ and switchable ABS ? maybe but this is purely street oriented bike maybe some light gravel. I only done 2k miles so far and my biggest NO is throttle , it is too jerky in off throttle to on throttle moments. Overall great bike.

[@johnnygross4415]

Any owners that have the bags, do you like them? Looks like the open to 1/2 kinda goofy

[@chuckfreeman4849]

I have the factory panniers, they’re awesome. Nuff said.

[@Brobore]

Is there any way I can buy motorcycles online and get it shipped? My area has a VERY small amount of bikes to choose from. So I wouldn’t be able to get this bike without going to a different state

[@DukeOfDC]

If you contact Woods Cycle Country (linked in description) I’m sure they would be willing to work out a shipping fee with you!

[@Brobore]

DukeOfDC I’ll check it out, thanks for the quick response and help!

[@SuperNictastic]

I wish I was taller. 5' 7". I would love one of these but will probably get the Vulcan instead. Damn genetics.

[@TheJinxed]

different lowering kits are available

[@smoberdeen]

I wish people would stop mentioning adventure when discussing the Versus 650 LT. LT = Light Touring. KTM 650 is an Adventure bike. I have the 2023 Versus LT ABS with traction control.

[@johncarlson8029]

How it was please,but the suspension and out of the box injection i like. Carburetors will always be the best but you have to be a dinosaur to be able to clean and tune them. I have the knowledge but don't bounce anymore. I wish i had the option to pick my happy medium.🏍

[@timothynguyen286]

Dang Im digging the styling of this bike.

[@tukskies4764]

2 hours south in Alice Texas

[@battsonbikes1919]

Video starts after all adverts at 1:10 ;)

[@DukeOfDC]

Batts on Bikes the adverts are going going gone!!!! Stay tuned 😉

[@aeror115]

Cool Video mate! I’m a Kawasaki head but the new 700 tenere got me ! But before I put some money down I like to wait for some new 2020 surprises 🤙 Cheers and ride safe

[@carsandcrypto1463]

Tenere 700 much better bike!

[@Toki1908]

Interesting choice of word, Fantastic.

[@DukeOfDC]

Who said Fantastic? ;)