The Kawasaki Versys the greatest bike that you never heard of

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Kawasaki knocked it out of the park with the Kawasaki Versys 650! This bike is cheap and does everything great! It can be everything from your first bike to your forever bike! For under $5k you can pick this bike up!
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[@emilmakin1401]

I am 72 and I think my 650 Versys is probably the best bike I have ever owned. Easy on gas and very much fun on mountain roads. The weight is great for an old man too.

[@doulos77]

completely agree

[@D0min0Dancing]

The guy in the Video describes himself as an old man at 33. Well good luck to you at 72. Respect. I liked the Video very much.

[@johnnygross4415]

I agree totally, 74 and been riding mexico for a year

[@spencerphillips350]

How is it for long trips?

[@tiffanyscourt1729]

@@spencerphillips350 Stockholm - Brussels 2x a week just fine. Keep the chain moist and lubricant and have quality oil running trough the system. Smooth and comfy pony all the way. I plan a iba on my 13 yr old marathon boy. Eating those miles , it's my favorite diet.

[@stacymcmahon453]

The quote is from Mark Twain, "It is far better to remain silent and be thought a fool, than to speak and remove all doubt"

[@2Timone7]

It's actually much older than Mark Twain who just kind of flipped it to make a point or attempt to make it his own.Even fools are thought wise if they keep silent, and discerning if they hold their tongues. -Proverbs 17:28

[@tommylyons3765]

Twain is to words, as Norris is to punches. Obviously people threw punches before.... But come on.

[@sunnibird]

@@2Timone7 and the bible lifted a lot of that stuff from India and eastern culture.

[@jimmiegoins2670]

Tommy Lyons lmao hilarious

[@qislegit.donttrustthemedia6232]

@@sunnibird Nothing original exists

[@AlgeriaRiderdz]

I got my 2013 Versys 650 last year. I already did 27k kilometers and took it on road and off road riding with guys in GS 1200 and Africa Twin. We got to the same places and enjoyed the same twisty roads. I love it!

[@intergalacticbasketballdro7186]

The Versyses are awesome !

[@intergalacticbasketballdro7186]

If you don't love Kawasaki's Versys 650, then you've probably never ridden one before. 💚 my 2009 Bought it a just a month ago with only 8,000 kilometers on it. Still only 12,000 kilometers on it ! ! !

[@domagojJugovic]

You can probably dance around them in the twisties.

[@petertspock]

I own a 2009 since new , it's a great bike. Rode it to Sturgis from New Jersey in 2015 with girl on back, passed thousands of Harleys on their trailers.

[@jsj297]

I love my versys 650! I'm 6'1" 250 ish. I ride mountains, interstates, it's a blast on all of them. :)

[@mrvwbug4423]

It is truly at home in the canyons, the Versys loves twisty roads.

[@alexeykiselev129]

Oh, thanks for sharing your height, I'm 6'3" and considering 2014 versys

[@jsj297]

@@alexeykiselev129 yeah, you will literally fit this bike perfectly then, imo. Have fun its a great bike! :)

[@JayBuccola]

The bike has a way of fitting everyone. I'm 5'8 and i could flat foot both feet. The seat is sloped so the longer your legs, the higher the seat. It tosses around like it's 200 lbs lighter.

[@hanksta76]

$6000 with 15,000 miles ..... decent deal?

[@danieldayton3064]

I had to chuckle when you called yourself an "old man" at 33. My goodness, I bought my first motorcycle 12 years before you were born! :-) Love the test ride videos.

[@escott3829]

Yeah . I'm 57, Thinking About Riding Again.. I Got 6 Screws And A Plate In My Neck From An Army Deployment.. Told I Shouldn't Ride, Helmet, Etc.. But I Went Back Into Army.. Wear The ACH On Field Duty..... I Miss My Old Bikes . RD350/400F Honda 400Four.. I Like A Light Flickable Bike.. Heck. I Even Miss My Old 2Stroke Pig GT550... Rode It In The Ruts In The Snow, To Get Off Post In Denver Winters.. I Guess I Earned My First Bike . In 1982 A 2Stroke Suzuki TS400MC.. I Was The Dumbest Kid Ever.. 100mph Knobby Tires.. Couldn't See Speedo For Vibration.. THEN Realized "Hey . That's Barbed Wire Fences On Both Sides Of Road..." VROOOOoooooommm putttttttputttttttputttt

[@petervenkman69]

I love my Versys 650.... wasn't the bike I was looking to get, but I don't regret it at all... it is absolutely ideal for me.... it is great for in city riding, it is great for country windy roads, and it is fine on motorways. Living in a small city (with city traffic issues) surrounded by amazing countryside with twisty hilly roads in the SW of England, this bike is brilliant. Mine is the 2019 model, which doesn't look quite so silly. As for the views of "real adventure riders" - One of my good friends and neighbours is Sam Manicom, who is an adventure travel writer who road his BMW R80-GS on an 8 year journey across 6 continents. He is a fan of the Versys 650. (Sorry for the plug, but Sam really is an excellent writer, and has written 4 books about his travels around the world, and also make frequent presentations at bike shows and dealerships around Britain and the US... so if you have a chance to read his stuff, or see him, it is worth the time, one of the nicest people you will ever meet.)

[@Jmeez69]

Roger Spackman it really is a great bike. I have the Z650 which has the same engine and I gotta say. That parallel twin 650 is exceptionally reliable, and the power is fun and linear!

[@adarngoodjoe4043]

This video is so true. I've got a 2009 Versys 650. It's a great bike. I picked it up for about $2600 with 15k miles and no issues of any kind.

[@4842arendal]

Had a Versys 650, bought a lump of lard called R1200GSA, but now going back to the Versys 650 🙂

[@protectorh9167]

Did it simular only had a ktm 1190 and changed it for versys 650 2023 smoke gold, love it.

[@missk1942]

Oh wow make a video! I am just about to get one but i do want to go off road , just need to be able to go camping so want the freedom to get far rough off road , green lanes gravel , what about bigger Tyers

[@spartanx169x]

@@missk1942 If you are serious about going off road look at the Yamaha Tenere models.

[@mototracksofficial]

Hi Shawn. I'm Danny from South Africa. I love watching your reviews. Always motivational to me. I'll end my day watching one of your reviews and automatically have my word of wisdom for the next day. Love the reviews!

[@Teatimeted]

Genuinely one of the best vids you have ever made. The first four minutes of this vid are supremely well written. Well played.

[@Teatimeted]

2.41+ is pure gold.

[@Teatimeted]

real time bike review reviews. next level.

[@Philth_E]

I have an 09, it is my first road bike. I love the thing!

[@daveg1250]

I had a versys 650 about 7 years ago and I think the styling has improved a lot since then. I currently have a gsx1250, but am thinking of downsizing to a 650 again, mainly for the ease of commuting, city riding etc and am considering a versys 650 or a suzuki vstrom 650.

[@sammy2840]

Sold my GoldWing a couple of years ago. At age 66 got tired of the weight. This might be a fun replacement! Going to check one out!

[@joemann2178]

I had one of these in 2006, went all around New Zealand on it. It was an awesome bike, and I do miss it. Maybe time for another one!

[@littlecsommercorn]

I love the Versys platform. I've got a Versys-X 300. I've put 10,000 miles on it in 7 months. Taken it off road and on a few long trips. However, Kawasaki dealerships don't seem to try very hard to sell them. They're often in the back corner and my salesman was unable to answer my questions about it. It was love at first sight. I sold my pickup and my 84 Goldwing to buy it.

[@battsonbikes1919]

I like wind hitting my face.... that's why i ride motorcycles. You must live in a warm climate, 80% of the time in the UK i don't like wind hitting my face as it is usually accompanied by rain that feels like needles. 😬

[@Mike-hu8yz]

Yup

[@wonderbubble3980]

'09 Versys 650 is my first (street) bike, about 1.5 years and ~20k miles later I'm still riding and still loving it. The windshields and I (even aftermarket) don't get along, but after dropping 2 teeth in the rear I still took it from DFW, TX to a bit east of Roanoke, VA and back with no windshield. If anyone is looking to adventure with it, hit up T Rex Racing. Their crash bars handled a 15-20mph lowside better than my ego did, and their skid plate has eaten at least two curbs now and still trucks on like nothing happened. I have a ton of mods into the bike by now, with a few more to come, but it really is pretty much the best bang for your buck out there - especially if you can only have one bike.

[@donaldsoncole3095]

Versys 300 is my favorite bike for just riding around town , back roads, and short highway runs!!!

[@bhaddock9277]

Hello from Scotland, I have a Ninja 300, what a lot of fun these little bikes are. Raised handlebars an inch and put adjustable foot pegs on my Ninja 300. Would have considered a Versys 300 had they been on sale at the time I bought my Ninja 300. Think the Versys 300 is a great idea

[@right_justly]

The versys 300 is more for offroad adventure stuff than the versys 650!

[@bashelbash4697]

My first bike and it's a great bike. I've met old veteran riders with years in the saddle who go cross country on that bike. I put over 60k in 3 yrs myself. Highly recommend.

[@bigolbear2510]

I watched this video two years ago...had been looking for an affordable bike that can handle the mountain roads where I live. After seeing this vid I began looking at 650's. I found a 2012 Versys 650; the previous owner was a bike mechanic w/his own repair shop. Bike came with lots of upgrades...and brand new tires...11K miles on it. Owner was an older gentleman who did not beat the bike. Paid $5K, I figured a brand new one with all the same accessories added would have been $15K. I feel like I got the deal of a lifetime. Kudos to your video and keep up the good work. Thinking of getting a Versys 1000 S (used) for touring w/my wife. Thinking of jumping on that when we get the house paid off, which would be about 11 months from now. I've seen quite a few 1000 Versys on line at very reasonable prices. Be blessed.

[@BobMcDougall]

I love my 2020 Versys 650. I bought it in Canada and brought it with me when I moved to Germany!

[@andrewbozhozr]

Been riding mine, 2011 model, though Bosnia and Croatia few weeks ago, and there is no better bike I would want. Can do highway, bad roads and fast twisties... And all that with 4-4.5L per 100km.. Just a shy under 400km with a full tank.. Love it!

[@joerosefromohio]

I love my versys and always joke around about how there's only 5 of us owners out there lol

[@Philth_E]

Hello brother!

[@jsj297]

Hi!

[@bhaddock9277]

Yeah, I've seen one, ONE, not TWO of the Cyclops Versys parked discreetly (away from the other bikes). That said I've seen quite a few of the updated twin headlight Versys around town and on the commute to Edinburgh

[@joerosefromohio]

@@bhaddock9277 yea I have the last year of the cyclops version (2014) I've only seen one in my town and another one when I was on a trip. it's crazy how rare they are lol

[@bsimpson639]

Cyclops owner in Ohio

[@free2chasehappy]

"...the girl that you'll eventually marry. She'll spend your all your money, and she'll give you babies!" -- Shawn

[@maylnwood]

No thanks

[@aquamenagerie]

Mayln Wood Right?! Pass....

[@artwebb6939]

Not this child either

[@nolan738]

Ahh, the pros of being gay.

[@BibTheBoulderTheOriginalOne]

He missed off "Then run off with your best mate and your house, and your car, and every pay-check for the next twenty years to pay for the kids, and then rape you of your pension".

[@Buck1954]

Hey old man, I'm twice your age. Ive ridden all of the seating positions and nothing beats the standard number 3 position. I'm glad they came back. The 650's are a great mid-range bike that ARE fun to ride.

[@redfin382]

I bought a 2008 versys 650 with 6k miles for $2500 and I've put over 3k miles on it. I love it.

[@mattstanfield6097]

My 2012 is the one bike I can't seem to bring myself to sell. Around town, on dirt, long trips, even an Iron Butt ride. Skid plate, crashbars, etc and it's a fantastic bike. Inexpensive to operate as well. Bought mine in 2019 for $2300:)

[@Antmanmoto]

Not only have I heard of it but I owned the original to the US 2008 version in red...the one that won Motorcycle of the year that year

[@kee7678]

My buddy bought one today and I told him it's a great bike and one to consider for sure. He'll be doing highway, street and lot's of running down from San Diego to TJ and Baja often. So that's even some gravel rougher roads here and there and this bike is great at the do all type of bike and perfect for him.

[@jamesbronson2774]

Sold my Honda Valkyrie and my Suzuki Bandit 1250 after years of climbing the cc ladder. Bought a Honda crf300l and just found a 2013 versys 650 . Very happy with both bikes and your video helped me decide on the versys.

[@TheodoreStauffer]

I'm 55, own a 2009 Versys with which I can beat 1000cc nakeds in the hairpins here in Switzerland. This bike is one of the very best cornering bikes out there.

[@maxster10]

Mine is also 2009.model. great bike. I just wish that the seat is more comfortable.

[@carlosandleon]

lol eat my dust on the trail loser

[@chatgedmango1987]

Got an 06' versys, and with that bike you can beat some serious ass. Love it.

[@vikasshetty1987]

WAtch my video on versys 650

[@markfletcher3728]

A week ago, i had never heard of it, I now own a KLE650 ;-)

[@andywing2030]

My 9 year old Versys has 29,000 miles when I got it. Still rides just fine, easy to work on, enough power for an older guy of 49 and is not interested in going 100mph anymore. I know I could ride it across Europe tomorrow, or take it to the local shop to buy noodles. At 6’4” I’m limited on what I can ride and not look stupid. Gets a lot of flack does the Versys but does what I need so am happy to trundle around alone.

[@jarosawbareja2456]

I was going to buy a Triumph Street triple or a Suzuki GSR 750, but I got a Versys 2007 in perfect condition. At the beginning, I found it strange and not sporty enough, but after a while I realized that the Versys is laid-back. A very comfortable position, it handles perfectly in corners and is easy to wheelie. The suspension is fully adjustable so that it can be hardened or made very soft and comfortable. The low price, high durability and great fun of driving make me like it very much. In Poland we have excellent winding roads leading through meadows, forests and villages with beautiful views. The Versys is the most enjoyable to drive on such roads

[@pacodawg9879]

Bought my ‘10 for $2500 a little over a year ago, did a 1800 mile tour a month later, it’s a great ride and continues to be so. Lots of love for my Versys.

[@borisostrica]

It hurts me to see how bikes can be cheap. In my country (southeastern Europe in general) used bikes are overpriced. You bought your '10 two years ago. Let's say that's equal to '12 today. $2500?!? More like $5500. Seriously.

[@duderRechthat]

@@borisostrica True, just looked at a '13 model priced at 5000€ here in Germany... condition is nice but for just 1000€ more i can get a bike thats about 8 years younger than this. Doesnt seem worth it

[@chuckkelley5894]

Hi Shaun, I'll be 68 next month but if I don't look in the mirror I'm 18. I love motorcycles and have owned plenty, I have a Can Am RT LTD now due to a cowardly wife and occasional vertigo. After 10,000 plus miles of mountain roads and twisties, it's mind-blowing what these things Can Ams are capable of. A couple of days ago my wife and I spoke to a guy in a parking lot who was getting off his 2013 Versys. He was a big fan of his bike. He said he has a Liter bike as well but that the Versys was his go-to. I think my wife may be leaning a bit more toward adding one to our garage. I'm fairly certain I will require Adult supervision...I go Hooligan on a damn Can-Am!!!

[@caseywallace2240]

My son just got a 2015. Alot of changes on it since that year. He loves it. Great starter bike

[@zbailey636]

I’m a Hoosier who works at one of the worlds largest medical implant manufacturers as a QA tech/CMM programmer. The job itself drives the hell out of me. My gramps instilled in me and my brother the love of helping others as the man would give someone the shirt off his back. He passed a few years ago and I decided I needed a change. Took a CMM programmer job as just before he passed he wanted me to give it a shot. Had no experience but still managed to get the job. I’ve busted my ass learning and trying to better my skills to get in where I am now so I can make a difference in peoples lives. Being a shooter and racing enthusiast, injury is always a possibility. So it really hits home for me to be able to help folks, especially wounded veterans, gain function and mobility back. It’s the coolest thing to be able to see a vet who lost use of a limb be able to function again.

[@StoryoftheYear16]

What does any of that have to do with anything on this video?

[@zbailey636]

StoryoftheYear16 don’t recall exactly, but pretty sure he asked about what drives people in this video. I’ll watch it again after work but I didn’t post it for no reason.

[@markarrowsmith6928]

I am on my 2nd versys because they are great bikes, I can keep up with any adventure bike on the road much to the changrinn of my mate's on bigger bikes😉

[@pomajzsolt4363]

I own a 2018 Versys 650GT and I absolutely love it! :)

[@lrowlands53]

33? I’m twice your age. Stay in your own lane Junior! You’re nothing close to old.

[@carlosandleon]

ok boomer

[@mattcoffee1269]

@@carlosandleon youll be one eventually scrub, if youre lucky

[@Dustin359]

Sean, were you that goofy kid? ;)

[@mrvwbug4423]

The Versys is basically a 650 class Multistrada. A tall, upright, Sport tourer. I have one, I have done multiple 500+ mile days on it, they corner as well as any sportbike if you have good tires on them (so many people cheap out on tires). It isn't fast by sportbike standards, but will do 80+mph all day long, and has enough space to attach bags for touring, though you won't want to do 2-up for long distances, that passenger seat is a little snug.

[@mikelogullo7754]

I would suggest going on the Versys forum and see the conversations about off-roading the bike. I plan on doing light duty off-roading, camping, two up street riding....this bike does it all. I wouldn't take it on any hard core trails, but light duty. it's more than fine. Change the tires, skid plate, Bark Busters, and you're good to go. I have a ZX10RR that won't allow any of what I mentioned. Along with the Versys, it's a keeper too.

[@domagojJugovic]

I had a versys 650 from 2009 to 2021, it is reliable. But, after 7 years there wqs rust in the tank and that rust blocked the fuel pump. Ar the shop they said I should buy new tank and a new fuel pump which is a lot of money. And they said it is normal to happen. I fixed it myself, cleaned tank with acid, and electrolysis with caustic soda, coated with epoxy resistant to fuel. Ckeaned and unblocked the pump, and it works fine after 7 more years. I found a little water at bottom of tank which was the cause of problem, so this can be avoided. PEOPLE PLEASE CHECK WITH A FLASHLIGHT IS THERE A LITTLE WATER AT BOTTOM OF TANK, IF THERE IS DEAL WITH IT IN TIME. Also magnets in starter fell of stator, again shop said buy new starter. No, first thry said that automatic clutch of starter is broken which is bit true, and offered to get the parts to chage it. Again I wen home and started to take everything apart, oil out to remove side cover of big gear whith automatic clutch, and it was fine. Next I took out starter and disassembled it just to find that half magnets were free and causing rumble when starting. It was just glued to stator in factory. I bougt best epoxy I could find that day and glued it back with more glue, evwn on sides of magnet. Starter works with no problems 7 years later. So I say reliable because you should catch water in tank in time and fell of magnets is a easy and cheap fix with a little epoxy glue. All in all very little money but some hours of work, and it is not advanced work. Price of that parts is substantial. I guess all shops are like this so better to check yourself what you can.

[@tylerlaubenthal5563]

My first adv bike! Had hard bags knobby tires and the bad ass two brothers on it. Got great torque and fun to ride. Twisted throttle has loads of parts to make it a sweet adv bike. It was awesome commuter and touring and got 50 miles per gallon.

[@mrvwbug4423]

but lets be honest, yes you can slap knobbies on a Versys 650, take all the preload out of the suspension, and call it an ADV bike, but it still isn't really at home on dirt.

[@AppalachianDroneFlights]

Owned a 2013 Versys since the day the were released. It's the one physical possession that, barring a catastrophic emergency, I will NEVER part with. I love everything about it.

[@KhalidMA]

Thanks Shaun, I am contemplating in choices between Vulcans, xj6 diversion, versys and ninja650, until the Rabbi on a Versy in this video. Well explained. The girl who rode with me on my RD350LC back in1988 gave me 5 kids by the way.. the youngest, a 17 year old boy got a second hand Ninja250R for his first bike. Yes, I old but the ride goes on .... Ameen.

[@frugaldad7382]

When it was released, Motorcyclist magazine voted it motorcycle of the year!

[@CitizenCycle925]

I own a 2015 Versys, it's my favorite bike in my garage. I also have a beard it's my favorite facial accessory.

[@mr.solitude3352]

Ditto on all three counts here too. Hmm! I'm guessing that you're a man of good taste also.

[@doulos77]

me too LOL

[@ptownrat3811]

Yup. Went with my brother so he could ride a Weeeeestrom. Suzuki 650 vstrom. I rode it around the block after he did. We both got one that day. Now my Fat Bob and his GW don't get much love. We ride those things fishing, on group rides, out to lunch, etc... something about a bike that takes minimum effort and returns near max comfort doesn't have to be large displacement.

[@garyhalsey7693]

Hi Sean, I’m with Marty on this one. 33? Your just a youngster, enjoy it dude, getting old is a pain in the ass!! My body is 52 but my brain doesn’t seem to understand that sometimes 😂

[@davmar9923]

I have a 2011 Versys 650 (purchased new in 2013 for about $6K) which now has about 20K miles. I did initially think it would allow me to ride on Jeep trails in the Four Corners area where I live. Within six months a number of unpleasant incidents disabused me of that idea. Nonetheless, it makes a pretty decent street bike. I'm about 5'-9" and the seat height was too high. Fortunately, an aftermarket rear suspension link mod and the adjustment of the front fork allowed lowering the bike about 1.5". I also installed a handlebar extension/vibration isolator. A custom seat modification also improved comfort. A skid plate and frame protection components helped in several zero to low speed drops. I also added a higher Givi windshield and Givi trunk and side panniers, the latter of which I only mount if I need the storage for a trip. A tank bag is always mounted. I fabricated my own custom folding forward foot pegs (which attach to the skid plate hangers) to allow me to stretch my legs when on a highway. Another mod I always add to my bikes is a hydraulic pulse damper for the front brakes, that is the next best thing to ABS and can be added to any bike for a modest cost. My main criticism of the bike is the under-mounted exhaust and muffler, which was in keeping with the "adventure" trim of the design. That design means the motor is higher in the frame than would otherwise be necessary, i.e., higher center of gravity. I don't think it will be my last bike. I would like a two-wheel motorcycle with ABS, ESC, Cruise Control and heated hand grips. So far, the only bikes I've seen with those features have engines and weights that are grossly excessive for any rational sport cruiser. I can't see any useful purpose for a motorcycle with an engine bigger than 1,000cc.

[@petrschejbal3214]

Man, we have heard about it in Europe... Its kinda legend around here. The same story as TDM. Should try that one as well... U gonna love it.

[@neilwiddison6529]

The tdm is a great bike never seemed to take off here in the uk. Abit of a hidden gem.

[@michaelmorley331]

I owned 3 TDM 850s ..a great bike...did 27 track days...a fantastic bike...easy to run fast pace thru mountains...able to out brake EVERYTHING on race track( longish wheelbase helps). The versys seems blood brother..👍🏻💪😄

[@petrschejbal3214]

I have 900 and demn it's fun scraping pads. Versys is lil' smaller lil' more punchy but basicaly same concept. I guess they never heard of it in USA. Enjoy the Ride.

[@johnwillard6198]

I am a 64-year-old I have a 2008 DR 650 black one I have a 2022 Royal Enfield classic 350 in the light blue and I just bought a 2014 green Kawasaki Versys with 5000 miles on it previously I had a 2011 Suzuki V strom 650 and I put 26,000 miles on that sold it for $3,750 then last summer I bought a 2003 Motto guzzi California very low mileage but it was too big for me so I sold it for the same price. That’s how I bought my Kawasaki I’m from Butte MT loved your video. Thanks.

[@chrislove8050]

Just bought a 2008 for my first bike I’m 6’5 280lbs and I’m extremely comfortable on it.

[@2Timone7]

The Versys and the V-Strom are two of the best, most underappreciated bikes ever made. And both are very affordable.BTW, blessing in disguise, SRK turned down my trade-in (due to distance away from your shop, most likely) for that 2002 Goldwing you have for sale. I was very disappointed, but I ended up keeping my V2K and getting a great deal on a very low mileage 2015 Goldwing! Lesson: Things that seem bad are sometimes good!Keep on keepin' on.

[@sab249]

In my area, I see Vstroms get listed under 4k, they sell quickly. The Versys is rare and usually over 5k

[@blipco5]

650 Versys...the Toyota Carolla of bikes. Totally reliable. Does everything good, not great but good.

[@nikossfakianos4203]

That would be Kawasaki KLE 😂

[@blipco5]

nikos sfakianos ...The Toyota Corolla is the KLE of cars. 😂😂

[@voxnarbo]

I got the 2014. First bike. Learned on it. This bike wants to goooooo!

[@JohnDoe-xr5is]

Very happy with my 2018 model. Upright seating, smooth engine/vibrations, comfortable, more power than I'll ever need. 65mph is like gliding on air. Downside: The bike is REALLY top heavy, made worse by the 40lbs of gas up high. Then made even worse by the very high seat height. I'm 5'10" and I can't flat foot. I have to control with my tip toes. Controlling a top heavy bike with your tip toes takes some skill/practice. If you get some lean at

[@SuspensionTruth]

Appreciate your comment, I just bought a '08 Versys 650 that's been well-cared for. I'm 5'10" in boots and can't flat foot either so I'm looking at some seat options plus a lowering kit and kick-stand shortener. My prior and only other bike was a '93 Kawi EX500 I rode for a couple years many moons ago. I could flat foot that and it gave a lot more confidence in stopping and low speed maneuvering. I definitely notice the vibration which reminds me of my old EX500 but less so ;) I could imagine a newer Versys will have more refinement, plus ABS would be pleasant but this motor is all I could ask for, fuel-injected (no carbs, hooray!), and a nice seating position plus storage capacity. I can see some road trips in my future!

[@BMWWolf]

This guy is right on the money. This bike might be one of the best all around bikes on the market.

[@seaninness334]

I've got 20 years on you Sean. People whine about hitting 30 and even 40. Hitting 50, for me was the one. My near vision went to hell, my left knee gave out, digestion issues and then all the weird stuff- hair in your ears, excessive ear wax, etc. It hits you like puberty hits you. No wonder people freak out. Anyway, back to motorcycles... I'm getting back into riding but money is a bit of an issue right now. I've looked at a lot of different bikes (I'm not really comfortable with feet forward cruiser thing... yet- shut up-I'm not that old-hehe) and the Versys 650 is a favorite I keep coming back to. It's also been around for awhile so, like you say, picking up a used one is fairly easy. For a new ride, I like the XSR900 or the FTR1200s but the Versys will do in the meantime.

[@matthew09876543211]

Great video! You compare a lot of bikes to the FZ07, but it would be cool to see an updated video on a newer one. I have a stock 2018 MT07, it would be awesome to see you make a video on it. Let me know if you would be interested in riding it. Keep up the great content!!

[@briandavenport8971]

MaTeeTee I have a 2019 MT 07. It’s awesome

[@steveh1510]

I picked up a 2012 versys 650 with 5,500 miles on it for three grand in mid-may. The bike was not even on my radar but I couldn't resist the deal. It's now late August and I've put over 11,000 miles on the bike. It hasn't missed a beat. And I even take it off road. Does great on gravel roads and even Jeep trails. And I'm only running the tires that came with it which is the Michelin Road 5. That's a Road tire. Going to upgrade to a 70/30 type Tire. And a higher-profile front tire. The bikes amazingly versatile. Great on gas. Great in the twisties and very usable power. I was drooling over and mt 07 and stumbled on this deal. Put it on your potential shopping list if you're in the market or 6:50.

[@aaronberry8137]

With some home work and riding experience under my belt this is the bike i plan on buying as my first bike

[@skinnylittlebitch4470]

I bought one as my first bike, 4 months ago. I love it! Even my HD CVO riding hubby likes riding it.

[@Dragon1165]

Hardly ever see reviews on this bike, thanks for the ride along

[@pllc17]

I own a black 2014 Versys 650. I LOVE that motorcycle :)

[@lazylearner967]

I have a 2010 Versys in black. By far THE best bike in this category for fun riding in town, or quick trips on the freeways. At 80 MPH I am at 6k RPM's, just barely starting to get in the power band. Tons of usable power in this thing! I get 55-60 MPG and that is with a heavy wrist running mid-grade gas. Will have my Versys forever! You are right about bikes being for fun- at least in the USA. I like the look of the stacked headlights, as they are different than every other bike from Japan; stacked is a GOOD thing!

[@aks13v35]

How is it for the seat hight? I am 5.6". Also is the 55-60mpg in city commuting?

[@rocksrisa]

@@aks13v35 the MPG is probably 70-75 depending on traffic and how much you get on the throttle. It is a bit taller bike, I have a 34 inseam and it fit fine. My guess is one would be want a 32 inch inseam to feel safe and comfortable. Best to sit on one.

[@aks13v35]

@@rocksrisa 70-75 is realy good. That's 3.3-4 l/100. If that's real almost the same as the other bike I am looking Honda 700/750x. My inseam is there around 31.

[@scottkisner8737]

You could sell water to a fish. Seriously, I’m impressed by your ability to find the positives in every bike and make me feel like I’ve gotta own it.

[@intergalacticbasketballdro7186]

Or, maybe it's just that he only recommends the best motorcycles ? (and this "is" one of them) ? ?

[@hondaryder3779]

48, Honda xl650v Transalp, u have at least 1 fan in the Netherlands. Keep the video's coming pls.

[@nickg8915]

Literally just rode one of these earlier today. So much fun

[@kashsantos12]

Nice bike, good on fuel 60s mpg, decent tank size 21 litres for a good range 250 miles. 67hp is ok for solo riding. But a 3 year old africa 1000 for the same price as the Versys, has 24 litre tank for over 300 miles, 70s mpg and 94hp. good for over 130 mph. if you remap it with a can job it gains loads of low end grunt and midrange grunt. That lifts mpg close to 80 and 350 miles is possible and makes it much faster. Remember the Honda durability. Well looked after versions can do 100k miles.

[@yashwardhanraut2605]

I am 19 yo been rining 125-200s since 5 years recently also had some back problems while working out looking forward towards small touring bikes for their comfort and ability to store helmet and commuting gear in top box of the bike while at college and/or work

[@George196207]

Yes it can take a skid plate , crash bars ,hand guards , rad guard ,center stand and can do dirt roads with a different set of tires . I would just call it a upright bike, had one since 2014 and love it. Only have the hand guards and Givil bags on mine , not into off road ridding that's for dirt bikes . lol. Worst thing is being short and trying to put your feet down. Bike can outperform my ridding ability and needs.

[@rhaynhillyard9772]

I have a honda cb500s from 1999, and am looking at getting one of these for my long distance riding

[@JamesSmith-op7yc]

I'm hip.I like the motorcycle, I'm 60yrs, live in Michigan and I can't find one in a dealership ever! Where do you live? I should have bought one two years ago.They didn't have a red one! (I like red motorcycles). Cars & Trucks, too. I like H/Ds, Kawasaki's, and Yamaha dirt bikes. I'll keep shopping until "Kawa" paints one red. Just saying, thanks for sharing, J.

[@stuartclubb4302]

Sub 4.0 indicated 0-60 is quite reasonable. Great commuter bike. Though I've heard that the seat is made of pine wood with a thin layer of vinyl for "comfort". :-) Filled in the Survey. Best of luck on new directions.

[@JayShermanFJC]

Had a 16 Versys, seat made you hurt after 20 minutes otherwise great bike.

[@mrvwbug4423]

I have an 09 Versys, the seat is tolerable for a couple hours, I've sat on worse. Still would benefit from an aftermarket seat.

[@marklarner4495]

I had the 300 version, there was plenty of foam, but is was rock hard.

[@mrvwbug4423]

The 650 also has fairly high pegs. Great for not scraping shit (I've never touched down a peg on mine, and my back tires has no strips), your knees start to hate you after about 3 hours or so.

[@pureforce56]

That was the 1st bike I wanted to get, until my eyes beheld the Yamaha FZ07. So I have known about this bike for a long time. Good looking bike.

[@bhaddock9277]

About it being a "good looking bike" mmm, then again if I had one and liked it I'm sure I'd get used to how it looks. That said, I've had "pretty" bikes that I grew to hate, looks aren't everything as they say

[@mrvwbug4423]

Which is kinda funny. The FZ07 has a better motor than the Versys, but the Versys handles a lot better and is better for riding distance.

[@jasongraham3488]

Its 4 now Sean. Ninja, Vulcan, z650, and Versys. I would love a z650 with the Versys suspension (ride height).

[@alexduey7868]

Jason Graham your are correct but the z650 didn’t come until 2017. This versys is a 2013

[@nunyabusiness896]

@@alexduey7868 Actually, you're both wrong, the Z650 was called the ER-6N prior to 2017.

[@alexduey7868]

@@nunyabusiness896 we didn't have one in the states that was just europe so where all right and wrong.

[@nunyabusiness896]

@@alexduey7868 Cycletrader would beg to differ, they have a couple 2009's and a 2010 ER-6N for sale right now. Now, maybe they were imported, maybe they took a break from selling them for the 2012-2016 years, but bottom line it is currently available in the US and, more importantly, they existed, which is the only point I made, making me correct. It's OK, we can't all be right all the time, only I'm allowed to do that.

[@alexduey7868]

@@nunyabusiness896 lol fair enough.

[@richardwaid4718]

Nice review, this is an excellent bike for the person looking for a multi use bike that delivers big fun too. I have a 2016 Versys 1000 and would highly recommend that size bike if you’re looking for the versatility (Versys) of this bike but you’re planning on much two up riding or longer touring. Start at 2015 for used ones (first yr of the new model). The new ones are 15 k loaded, cruise control, heated grips, computer controlled suspension etc. You may find a low mileage 2015 for under 7k. And that’s 80-90% of the 2020 bike.

[@bnolsen]

I was looking to upgrade my commuter bike from 2007 ninja 250 and this bike was on the list. But I couldn't find one to test ride, honda and kawasaki never have demo days here (Colorado), I rode a bunch of suzuki bikes when they had their demo day. Reports of these versys bikes pre 2017 being very buzzy at highway speeds scared me away and I found a barely used 2013 vstrom 650 (default with abs) so I jumped on what I knew. I really like it so far, rpms run low, and the gas mileage is ~60mpg.

[@ModifiedNmax]

😂😂 what? The Versys is the most popular bike in asia. Every middle class has one. Including me.

[@anthonyreynolds1377]

I so love this review, every word is true. I bought this bike as a hack and after 3 years of riding it I can honestly say its my best bike ever owned. It handles great, engine pulls well and it's super comfortable. Brakes are weak but after a while they seem good and won't lock up on you. I used to ride R1s fast but for the twisties I prefer the versys. Never tank slaps, just behaves as you want it to :-)

[@nbcevilduck]

These bikes are actually great for tractoring around off road. Skid plates are available, add some tkc 80's, you're good to go. Might break something if you move too fast, but it'll go anywhere. Look up gen 1 off road versys on google if ya wanna see what I did with mine.

[@robinmaurer2645]

the newer but not the latest version of the 650 versys was my dream bike for so ling

[@sigis72]

I have a 2016 model. I absolutely love the motorcycle and this review is spot on

[@crashtestgenius745]

I’ve got a 2009 and it’s great. Fun, practical, comfortable. Not great looking though 😂 I just a San Francisco to Yosemite to San Francisco day run yesterday on it. Such a good bike.

[@demaarten79]

I'm buying one next week! Thanks for this video.

[@tiernangorduin7975]

So how are you enjoying the bike you bought?

[@demaarten79]

@@tiernangorduin7975 It was a great bike, but I change rather often. So I am driving a bmw Gs1200 adventure for half a year now. Sold the Versys. I am a tal guy. And wind protection is a lot better on the BMW. But the Versys is a great ride.

[@kevindblew6822]

“This bike is your best friend…” Great intro! And on this passenger seat…. Hilarious!!😂

[@skeletor49]

Love the first gen versys I got mine for 2400

[@davemieze9021]

More riding footage please. Maximum riding video PLEASE

[@mr3748]

I have a 2014 650 model (same shape as the one in the video) and they are absolutely worth the money. This model and the previous one might look a bit weird in the beginning, but for me mine now looks like the most beautiful bike I've ever seen😂😂😂 The newer models with the sharp headlights look even better than these older ones. Oh and they are 99% of the time a conversation starter at bike meets.

[@brianmacdonald3292]

Had one. Loved it. Sold it. Moved on. So little time, so many bikes. Simple as that. Get one. You'll enjoy the experience.

[@alexduey7868]

Kawasaki just makes a great parallel twin on all cc ranges they have made. Very durable and sound amazing with exhaust of course

[@TheSocialliberal]

I have a 2011 Versys 650 as my first and current bike. Its everything said here and more. Only issue is the windshield is useless for long rides on the highway, otherwise it's perfect.

[@wickedleeloopy2115]

If you could only have 1 bike to do all your riding... this is the Swiss army knife of bikes . I would choose.

[@116tem]

Nice video man, how tall are you? I am 187cm tall and considering the versys 650, also looked up at the tracer 700 but some people find it a bit cramped

[@lv2bplayn]

I am late this party, only because I am now looking at a showroom condition 2014 with 1700 miles on it but it’s a little tall for me at 5’7”. Seat height is 33 inches. How adjustable is the rear suspension height? Right now its about three notches from the highest setting.

[@JanDeeKat]

That made me chuckle. Good job!

[@edwardkeeter762]

I sat on one of these today at a local dealership. On paper, the Versys 650 checks every single box on my "stuff I want in my next bike" list, and it's extremely comfortable, which is important because I want something for longer rides. The only flaw I can find with it is that it doesn't push my "Damn! I really want to ride that bike!" button. I think that unlike cars, with motorcycles, the passion factor is slightly more important than the function factor. Every time I look at my bike I should be grinning like an idiot. This one doesn't quite do that for me, at least not yet.