Kawasaki Versys 650 Vs Suzuki V-Strom 650XT | 650CC Adventure Bike Shootout
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- Опубліковано 27 вер 2024
- A Comprehensive Specs Showdown between the Kawasaki Versys 650 & Suzuki V-Strom 650XT.
Kawasaki’s very popular middleweight tourer that sits among the top in the class, the Versys 650. Up against Suzuki’s very well equipped and capable offering that is challenging it for the throne, the V-strom 650 XT. These are two of the most popular Middleweight Adventure tourer bikes on the market right now and for good reason, designed to be able to tackle mile after mile both on and offroad and cover some real distance.
Hi how’s it going? I’m Kwackajack and welcome to another episode of the Versus series. Today we have Kawasaki and Suzuki going head to head in a direct specs comparison to compare the styling, claimed engine and power specs, exhaust sounds, weight, suspension and brakes, fuel economy, features and price. But before we get into that make sure to leave a like on the video and hit subscribe if you haven’t already to join our great community of moto lovers!
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Both good motorcycles, but a 90° v-twin 650 inherently provides primary balance and, by default, a character that differentiates it from a parallel twin. For me, that character is priceless.
I did think the DL sounded better than the Versys. However, I love the sound of my Africa Twin and that is a parallel twin, so I think it depends on the bike. A DL1000 with aftermarket pipes is a thing of beauty - music to the ears :)
@@actstuntcam AT has 270 crank which gives the power strokes the same spacing as 90 v twin. So it sounds like (and practically is) a v twin.
Just bought a 2021 V-strom 650xt after saving up and watching heaps of reviews and also know a few guys that have either have had or still own V-stroms. Am hooked and love it!
Very good choice, it might not be the prettiest or fastest or the best at actually anything, but there is a reason the vstrom has such a big following. Love my 2015 Vstrom 650
I had a 2009 VStrom 650 and put 45,000 miles on it. Never let me down. Now I have a 2021 model. Can't say fairer than that :-)
I like both and have to confess that the V-Strom is more confortable for both the rider and the passenger considering the original seat, but a custom seat will solve that. The V-Strom is kinda boring on the road, imo... The suspension is amazingly confortable, but the wheel distance and the larger front wheel makes it a heavier bike in the turns, whyle the Versys is very agile and capable of turning almost as a sport bike, which is one of the major reasons I went with it instead of the V-Strom. The wheel distance also affects maneuvers in city traffic, being the versys much easier to ride in traffic. The other major reason I went with the Versys is the price. The Tourer (full) version is cheaper than the stock V-strom.
I'm with my second Versys 650 Tourer.
Dont forget you can completely tune the versys suspension to your ride style. V-strom has a fixed suspension 🥴
Dunno if it changed a lot recently, or its just the market I am in. But I can get the V-strom with the big pacage with all the extras and luggage, for less than the base versys, or the same if I chose the vstrom XT. But price is the main reason I lean more towards V-strom right now. I think they both would be great, but if price was of no concern to me, I would probably chose versys
I can truthfully say, my '22 XT Adventure is one of the most agile bikes in the twisties I've ever ridden.I also have a Z900, Z900RS, SV 650 and HD Low Rider S. I'd like to see a duel up in the mountains between both. The handling of the DL is impeccable. Would put it up against any bike including a versys.
I love my Versys. Over 42,000 miles already
Last month i was in the cross road between the two bikes.. but decided on the vstrom650 and i am happy with it.
I'd go Vstrom - I had the big brother and it was awesome. However, the 650 Wee-strom, sells 4-1 against the big brother. It is value for money, with a bullet-proof engine and handles better than the 1000 everywhere. Great review.
True! I think they are a good size for these kinds of bikes
@@Kwackajack I haven't ridden the Versys. However, the Ninja 650 I rode (I think the second shape/version) was one of the best all-round sports/tourer/commuter bikes I've ever ridden. If the Versys is as good - it will also be excellent.
@No_Name It depends on what you are doing with them. I wouldn't take the 650 WeeStrom for two-up touring. However, riding one-up with limited luggage and doing more-serious off-road I'd definitely prefer the 650 over the 1000. If I was only doing the odd gravel road, I'd still take the 1000.
@No_Name I liked my 1000 - It was adequate 2-up. I can't imagine the 650 would be that good 2-up with 64hp. Plus the 1000 was wayyyy more exciting to ride and I enjoyed harassing sportbikes. Don't get me wrong, I love the 650. I think it is probably one of the most underrated bikes on the market. That is why they are cheap new and expensive second hand. If you think it is enough for 2, then it is enough for 2, for you. I just wouldn't get one for touring - it has no advantages. As a more serious off-roader the 650 makes sense, especially if you are small, weak, and or old (I considered one for that reason, but bought an Africa Twin instead). If I was only doing road and gravel I'd buy the 1000 (as previously stated). It is faster, pulls harder, it is better at track days and they are cheaper. In reference to your statement "...it has the guts to pull and be comfy..." The same is equally true of the 1000 except with more pull and the same comfort.
@No_Name 'Low Ball'? What planet are you living on? I've owned a DL1000 and ridden the DL650 back-to-back with it, so I know EXACTLY what they feel like in comparison to each other. I loved the 650. I've already said as much. How is that 'Low Balling' it?
I've also toured on a couple of 250s, owned two DR650s, which I rode a lot in all kinds of conditions (I sold my last DR650 to buy my Africa Twin). I raced a WR426 around a long circuit. Having said that all of those bikes were pretty shit when riding fast and riding long distances!
As far as 650 twins go, I wrote an article on both the DL650 AND the Ninja 650 when I worked at Kiwi Rider (I said the Ninja was one of the best bikes I'd ever ridden), so I'm familiar with both of those. I also owned and raced a Hyosung GT650. I like 650s. They are great! IS THAT LOWBALLING THOSE BIKES?
If you think small-capacity bikes are the best thing for touring 2-up, fill your boots.
Just ordered my second 650 xt had 2017 great bike brought new 2022 pick it up in couple of weeks happy days
I have owned both and used them for gravel roads and two up road touring. Kawa was the full power version.I would happily own either one again. If you are considering either, I suggest test ride both and decide which one suits you. The Vstrom is a bit more spacious for two people.
which is more fun to ride?
I've owned a 650 for nearly 4 years. Little off road. Mainly roads and occasionally long distance highway. It's a fantastic bike! Going to keep it as long as I can.
Great Review Kwakajack:)
After test riding both bikes, I went with the Versys 650. It just fitted me better and was more comfortable for me.
Rode from Adelaide to Coffs Harbour over xmas and it performed very well. I dropped 3 teeth on the rear, which helped on the highway and I averaged 22.5 km per ltr.
Just an easy bike to live with every day.
That’s not very good highway mileage for a 650. Especially with the longer gearing in the rear. I have a 1000 Vstrom with short gearing (one down in the front) and I get 21 km/l on the highway.
Jay is right, I have a 2nd Gen 2012 Strom 650, it gives me 25-27 km average per lt with stock gearing at 110-120 kph
How is it in city traffic? Daily commute to work maybe, handling around corners and in traffic, low speed torque, weight handling etc.?
One can not go wrong with any of these two. Kawasaki really upped its game for Versys for 2024 model, and overall if youre going for highway trips Versys is the machine to get. Not to mention the price difference makes Versys 650 a no brainer.
I have a 08 Suzuki v-strom 650, and a 16 Kawasaki versys 650. I know they are different generations, but I’ll give my take. I think that the V-strom is better for long rides. It’s smother, less vibrations and the larger wheels make it seem like a better ride. The Kawasaki is great for quick runs around town. I put a 14 tooth front sprocket on the Suzuki (down for the 15 tooth stock), and the Kawasaki stock gearing is still quicker. Overall I think they both are good at different things. The suzuki I like because it’s smooth, and a very good leaner. I’ve actually drug the foot pegs more than once on it. The Kawasaki is quick and great to jump train tracks and speed bumps, but can’t lean turns as well. Hope this helps for anyone who cares… lol
I own a 2013 Vstrom 650 . 47000 kms and building . 2 Recalls with no problems and just a joy to own ....It does everything easily with no specialties to name . A great allrounder and I have grown to love it . 500kms from a tank is not unusual and face it most riding we do is at 80 - 100 kms an hour ....why be uncomfortable on a Sport bike ? Ride a Vstrom 650 and see how big they actually are . I would definitely buy another one
I’m a fan of the Suzuki, I’m a fan of both manufacturers though!! Two big reasons for me is the 90° V twin on the Suzuki just sounds amazing, and it does appear to be a little more off-road capable!👍🏻
I have had a Gen2 650 for 9 years now. In 2018 I rode it 2 up around the world including going all around Australia. 260 mile range, good economy and comfy all day.
Great review. I had a first gen vstrom 650. It was a bit top heavy and I didn’t enjoy riding two up so I sold it and bought my gsxr. I actually really miss it riding on longer trips - I’d happily have another one as a second bike to go off-road and on camping trips with the boys 👍
Love the storm❤️😎 it looks like a big horse 🐎🐎
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I own a Versys650 (non restricted here in Europe). After 2 seasons (can't ride for a few months in the winter because of snow/ice/salt on the streets) the trip counter is at 35.000km.
The only thing that broke twice is the bulp of the headlight - not a real issue as it is replaced in 10 minutes.
Beside that, I haven't had issues at all. And it's a hell of a fun in the twisties - bad for the bank account, as you need new tires permanently :D
I also take her on gravel roads or forestry roads from time to time - works fine if it's not too rough and you don't think you're a dakar racer.
But my little Versys has seen more "offroad" than most BMW GS' or Africa Twins here.
All in all I can't complain and don't regret buying her.
Sure, there are more capable, stronger, prettier or faster bikes out there, but everytime when I'm back in the saddle, I'm just happy with her and don't really need something else :)
I'm sure you can take both mentioned Bikes - the VStrom and the Versys - for an around the world trip. Both would do great!
Great comparison. I have 20,000 miles on my Versys 650, and agree with everything you're saying. About 75% of my riding is a 25 mile commute to work via combination of highway and country roads. The other 25% is a mix of interstate, 2 lane, and dirt and gravel roads. It's done everything I've asked it to do. I don't regret my purchase at all. But I think if I was doing any more off road than what I do, I'd go with something more adventure oriented.
Agree, 30000 trouble free miles on mine, touring all over Europe.
What did you end up doing? I did 30,000mi on a Versys 650. Sold it for a new Africa Twin and did abut 13,000mi on it. Then sold that and back on a new Versys 650. I will explain it all in a few videos I am uploading soon - but clearly you see where I went in that search for the best bike for me. I am curious if you bought an ADV or if you’re still in the Versys.
I tested both 2021s I went with the Vstrom 650xt ….. I love my Strom Purchased May 4 2021
Having owned a 2014 Vstrom 1000, and currently owning a 2017 versys 650, I would say that the versys with the 17 front wheel has more sporty turning on pavement. Also lots of power for a 650. It has no off-road pretensions, and I don’t either. Strom was very stable, it wanted to go straight down the road, also good for some dirt.
Im on my second Vstrom. Had an 04 650 for a few years and really enjoyed it. Rode a Triumph 900 Scrambler for a couple years then recently picked up a 19 Vstrom 650.
How do you find the Strom?
@@Kwackajack I really like it. Good on fuel and has a nice range. The main reason for selling the Triumph and goig back to the V Strom was for the ride quality. The Triumph was really stiff in the back. I have back problems and some of the roads around here are pretty rough. The V Strom rides much better. I have never rode the Versys so I can't compare the two.
Most of the clips are taken from Powerdrift indian and zigwheels india. Happy to see indian channels are impressing the global audience
Love seeing the passion you guys have for those ADV bikes! They have some of the best videos of the bikes out
Kawasaki is no mystery that it is inferior to Suzuki starting with the poor frame in welded iron tubes while on Suzuki we have a magnificent aluminum frame, and then ... the strong piece, the engine ... but do you want to put a cheap 2-cylinder in line with a V-twin.
but let's not joke, you shouldn't have any doubts about the purchase.!
I have been looking at both of these models for two years. You have confirmed my 1st choice, the Kawa 650 for its features & history as a solid bike at a great price. I just wish it was about 50mm lower as my legs are growing shorter I think. 😉
... growing shorter...😁😁
G-dammit, tall people need bikes too, and there really aren't many available! Stop demanding every bike be made for men under 6ft 🥴
@@chadkline4268sooo sorry dude, approx 12% of the general population (US-UK-EU) is over 6ft tall. So there is a bigger mkt for us wee shorties--and women too..Cheers
@@ler3968 thanks for the statistics. But 90-95% of motorcycles are made for men under 6ft. Only about 5% will fit a man over 6ft 2in. It's very difficult to buy a motorcycle if you are 6ft 3in or more, so if a few are tall, please don't take them away from us 👍
@@chadkline4268 you could always ask the agency for the biggest seat version available, which most meddium and bigger bikes have, most of the time, if not then you should make sure that there exist a decent aftermarket version for your bike.
Just got my 2020 Versys- very pleased with my purchase
having owned both, i do want to add that kawasaki's paint finish is more premium. The Vstrom was prone to paint flaking, especially on the beak. I am a bit of a kawasaki simp though, so take my advice with a grain of salt. Both are amazing bikes, I am a motorcycle technician and my boss rides a vstrom 1050 and I've loved it when he lets me take it out. I can't knock either brand, or either model. Can't go wrong with either one.
I have a 2018 Versys 650. (Never been on the Vstrom) The bike is great for my non-off road riding, but it's biggest obstacle is it's high center of gravity combined with it's high seat height. (then add 40lbs of gas up high) The bike can be difficult to handle at parking lot speeds. It wants to tip..fast. But once you're over about 13mph....it's wonderful. Also, I would NEVER take it off road because of the high center of gravity. And I'll also admit, if I get another bike, I'll downsize to the Honda CB500X.
You have written this a number of times on youtube, I guess the Versys is too much for you!
Cb500 x the worst bike i ever had,on highway wobbling like crazy,not enough power like verys
I have both 650, Strom and versys, not much different between performance and handling, but more comfortable and confident with Strom.
sold the v-strom to get the versys. so far so good.
Interesting, what makes it a better bike for you?
Another top video mate.
And as always it's nice to see Australian contents on you tube.
Yep! Can't argue that!
Thanks for mentioning the prices in INR, these two are getting very popular here these days.
I would automatically go Suzuki before any other manufacturer. Nice to know in this market section its the best best too. Thanks for a good video . Please just stop calling it a Kawazaki
The size and placement of the exhaust is much better on the Versys. On the V-Strom fixed panniers are mounted on outside of the exhaust and the bike becomes very wide. Except for a topbox I would only use soft luggage on the V-Strom. Fuel consumption and reliability are better for the V-Strom.
the V-Strom 650 Adventure definitely seems like the better bike but i just can't get over the beak and the stacked headlights, personally I love the design of the Versys 650LT wayyyy more
Rubber mounted frame, less expensive,nicer front end, and no “beak.” Kawasaki👍🏻👍🏻
Here in Ecuador the typical road conditions, even on "paved" roads, mean a bike must be comfortable navigating bumps, potholes, dirt stretches, bulldozed landslides, etc. The Wee is the only reasonable choice for all-country riding, as well as Peru, Colombia, etc.
V-strom all day long best handling Bullitt proof engine
Two years ago, I was at this crossroads junction. So, I test rode both bikes over a route identical to both. Highway tarmac, town concrete road, broken tarmac, dirt road, mixed gravel and potholed tarmac and then, on my return from work, in reverse order.
And doing this after seeing the legions of videos here, there and everywhere praising the V Strom, the result was, for me, extremely disappointing. I had expected the V Strom to perform the way the videos had claimed it would. Unfortunately, it did nothing of the sort. So, what happened?
1. The aerodynamics of the Suzuki windscreen were just terrible, causing a turbulent, buffeting airflow at speeds above 80 kph. Not for the Kawasaki.
1. The front suspension on the Suzuki seemed non-existent. Zero feedback. And strangely for a bike touted as a soft adv, completely non-adjustable. The Kawasaki was leagues ahead with basic preload and compression adjustment.
3. The ground clearance of both bikes is said to be identical. It didn't feel that way on the Suzuki which threatened to impact the lips of even slightly deeper ruts and potholes. Not so the Kawasaki, which has no issues whatsoever.
4. The rear suspension on both bikes is too hard but the placement of the rear strut on the Kawasaki meant that it was easier to replace it with an aftermarket one.
5. Traction control, for me, is dangerous on an adv bike as it makes the rider depend more on electronics to mitigate his errors rather than motivate him to read the terrain, learn from it and ride safely over it. Thankfully, the Kawasaki doesn't have it, though I would have loved a switchable ABS rather than the airways on one currently doing duty on it.
6. In India, the Suzuki was priced about AUD 2400 more than the Kawasaki which is ridiculously high a difference.
In conclusion, the 19 inch front and spoked wheels simply didn't justify the very high price differential nor the other, for me, serious deficiencies, and I bought the Kawasaki.
Of course, to each his own. Peace 🙏🏼
I own a 2018 vstrom 650XT and I had the opposite experience. Tested 3 bikes. Tracer 900GT, Versys 650, V strom 650. Tracer being the most prospective choice and v strom was the least.
The seat on the tracer was a rock so it was out of the question. The Kawasaki felt really cheap compared to the Suzuki and Yamaha and generally felt more sporty than adv probably because the parallel twin the big brother engine to the ninja 250. I am a Kawasaki guy my first bikes were all Kawi's but I got on the VStrom and it was comfy everywhere I sat and it's fuel economy is much better than the versys. The Vstrom sits a little higher than the versys so it was more comfortable as I am over 6 ft tall. Also at the time racks for cases were more sophisticated for the v strom compared to the versys just felt like the quality was better at the time (2018). The tall windshield was nice for me as I am taller slightly raising the stock height of the windshield gives me optimal protection from wind and I do not experience any head buffeting while I am on the highway. The make windshield extenders for the v strom too so even if it was a problem it's nothing $80 cant fix.
I have owned the bike almost 3 years and gone on two big trips and honestly the Vstrom is a beast bike if you are going to tour with it or go off road. Still not had any major or minor failure. Have just done the basic service on the bike and it still runs like the day I rolled it out of the dealership and put it's first km on. I have put over 10000 miles on her now and needless to say I am happy with my decision. I think I purchased the best quality adv/sport bike in its class. Looking to buy a V Strom 1050 in a couple years so I can convert my 650 to off-road.
Glad you like your versys though it really is a nice bike too. Cheers.
Good points made there.
Two years ago I was choosing the substitute for my CB500X. The V-Strom in paper seemed the right bike... I tested the versys and then when to try the V-Strom... When I was heading to th edealer I remember thinking that I was going to buy the Suzuki... 10 minutes in to the test ride of the V-Strom I was only thinking in giving it back and to go back to the Versys dealership to put an order on a Versys. Tech Sheeth are pointless if you don't ride the bikes...
Good straight talking review guys 👌👌👌
Those 0-100 km/h times seem pretty high for both bikes in the unrestricted models. Were those times perhaps meant for the restricted versions?
I agree that the Suzuki is probably the better bike and were it not for its hideous looks, I would probably prefer it over the Kawy. However, I couldn't bear to look at it let alone live with it.
The versys is more Road oriented that's why I chose it. Very good for Europe. Both are very good but the versys is looking better.
The bit people and reviewers tend to miss - the price of parts / the cost of servicing.
I'm a Kwakkerist - but I do have 1 Suzook ... The Green parts are always cheaper, sometimes
by quite a margin.
Depends on were you live. In latin america, green parts are more expensive
We need the Yamaha Tracer 7 here in Canada. That'll eat some share from both the Versys and V-Strom. Coming on Yamaha, the markets is there.
I like both, but for 2012 the style and handling of the Versys was my choice. I still ride it, and it still puts a smile on my face every time I do.
3:47 That's Llanelli beach, about 3 miles from where I live!
Kawasaki should get with the times already and put 21-18 wheels on the Versys and make it a true ADV bike. I’d buy that bike
They are both good looking bikes, though I like the solid rims on the Vstrom. Though both bikes really are nearly ID, in the torque area, I cant believe that the Torque specs for the Kawy (though with a bit more revs) are as high for the In line engine, as they are for the V engine, when the V's are known for their Torque. I think Kawy is fudging a bit. The Suzy has a racier sound, more throaty sound, where the kawy sounds like a two stroke on steroids. Both compete very well, but what kind of price you get, in the long run makes the better deal.
I have both bikes the Suzuki wins hands down with that great V twin engine and 43 mill forks.
Good review. I can't decide, but I do more hwy riding than dirt, so the Kaw gets the edge. I'd like to see an expansion of the V-Strom line, offering 550, 950, and 1250 cc versions. I do like the stubby exhaust under the Kaw better, and the windscreen is easier to adjust. The V has better looks, IMHO. You can't go wrong with either, as they are both great fun and value for the money.
Based on sheer looks alone, the Versys wins by a mile in my book. Will be buying one in approximately 6 months, so I am unabashedly biased.
I'm planning a lap of Oz and I'm doing it on a strom, great comfort range and value
Amazing. What an adventure you will have!
Funny didn't mention the vsteom nose dive when braking
For what I want to the Suzuki is better but I think the Verseys looks amazing apart from the tiny front, unspoked wheel.
I dislike V engines because they seem inherently unbalanced, even if they have primary perfect balance. Engine configuration alone does not affect power and torque output; tuning and effective engine management are far more responsible for the result that actually reaches the rear wheel. When the V is front to back, the rear cylinder is under different operating conditions than the front and wear is not symmetrical. And they are often more difficult to work on. V engines allow for a slimmer bike, but parallel allow greater flexibility in frame design. It's a good strategy for Kawi to make a single engine that is used across many models. It helps in parts availability, cost, and refinement.
V-Strom ✅
What does that 55 hp lams model mean.
LAMS = learner approved motorcycle. Similar to A2 over in other parts of the world, just restricted power models for beginner riders
outstanding review!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Just a specs comparison! But glad you like it. Would love to get my hands on both bikes to make a proper review
@@Kwackajack love the versys ! But for on and off road the vstrom takes it. Such a cool bike!
4:14 What's this "rocking" you keep referring to??
The vstrom is just way better quality and reliability and its worth the extra money. I think who ever has bought a versys hasnt test ridden a vstrom.
better quality? both have some cheap finish in some areas. Reliability for the versys is amazing (i owned one and never had any issues). I test rode the v strom and found it boring on twisty roads. The kawa has better suspension (and also adjustable) shorter wheelbase (so is more agile) and is a terrific city commuter. For only on road use, the kawa is ahead. But if you intend to do gravel roads, Vstrom is the way to go. The versys sucks on gravel roads (but is not sold as a ""true" adventure bike so ther is nothing to complain about.
I am a 66 year old rider, who has been a motorcycle enthusiast since the age of 18. I currently drive a 2013 650 V-Strom and 2001 1200 Suzuki Bandit. My wife drives a 2017 650 Versys. I swap bikes with her regularly, so it gives me the chance to compare them back and forth. Here are some of my opinions:
Well said!
So what was it?
you got purdy good content man .............. subbed !!
Appreciate it!
@@Kwackajack the cool thing about you is you leave it up to the viewer witch bike they like better ............... unlike others (yammy noob) who are trying to push their views on to people watching .............
I can Vouch for The Versys 650L (LAMS) here in Australia since I own one on My restricted License since the beggining on my L's
Its so comfortable and has a good amount power for the restricted version.
On the Highway its awesome and Keeps me going and it still has like 3 to 2 gears left for me to use while going 100Km.
It corners like a dream! the suspension is amazing and adjustable. Its perfect for tall riders too I am 6.3ft and people say I dont look big at all on it. Not to mention that this Bike handles so well on horrible road conditions. I have heaps of confidence while riding.
I have less then 1 year left of my Re license then Ill go for my Unrestricted license so I have a choice of derestricting my Versys 650L or go with a bigger bike? maybe A Versys 1000 or a Vstrom 1000 hahah.
I like the V strom 650 too but I dont go off raod as much but I prefer the sound of its V stwin and I do like how it looks especially in Black.
Is the 650 lams easy to un restrict? I have one also and am thinking of keeping it after I get my full license.
@@sabrinatruant2917 Frim what i have been told its quite easy to de restrict them. I dont know exactly how to do it though will need to do some research.
Definitely a good bike to keep well after your full power license.
Are you going to compare it the the new tracer 7? Or is that even available where you live.
what is this "learner approved" thing? We don't have that in Canada. Is it convertible back to the full powered mode?
It's a restricted power model of the bike. Yea it's convertible back to full powered in most cases. Similar to A2 in other parts of the world
@@Kwackajack Cool. We don't have A2 here either. I assume buying one of these models gives you a break on insurance?
I kind of envy you Aussies, being about to ride a bike 12 months a year. Here, we need a bike for 4 months, a snowmobile for 5 months, and a 4 wheeler for the spring and fall.
A good review video.
Glad you enjoyed it
In 2013 I kept track of the gas mileage (kilometerage for most of the world) on my 09 Versys. For the year it averaged 57mpg. About 7,000 miles. I have an 03 BMW R1200CLC that gets around 46mpg on premium, is slower, doesn’t handle well, doesn’t ride as smoothly. Only thing it does better is carry two people. And it’s a LOT easier to adjust valves. Speaking of valves, the Zook requires removal of two cylinder heads - I don’t know if it, like the Versys, requires camshaft removal to swap shims. I got 292 miles from one tank of gas, but it was near empty. CYCLE WORLD got one to go 0-60 in four seconds flat. That as good as the Z1-903, one of which I put over 100,000 miles on (still have, don’t ride). Maintenance was much easier on that old bike - 20-30 minutes to take out the air cleaner on the Versys, literally 3 seconds on the Z1. AND IT HAS A CENTERSTAND! No need to remove cams to swap shims either. Still, I think the Versys is the best motorcycle, out of many, I’ve owned. If I live long enough I’ll see if I can get 100,000 miles out of it…. (I guess it would be a good idea to sell some of the others in pursuit of that answer.)
What about centrestands? They are essential for this kind of bike.
Bump both up to 700-ish and they would be nearly perfect, IMO.
Versys has much better handling, especially when 2up. It's better looking as well. I sold v-strom after a year.
Restricted- unrestricted does this pertain to the riders license or experience ??
love my 09 Wee strom
My 2017 Vstrom has niggling electrical problems...hated it
There's supposed to be about 14cm difference in wheelbase between the two, was this noticeable when riding?
I rode the versus and the engine seemed very Agricultural, and really turned me off the motorcycle. Am I crazy?
Suzuki vstrom xt 650 👍😍
What does restricted and unrestricted mean?
2 brothers pipe on my versys, works grest
Two great bikes...but the Vstrom has better value and equipment....I go with Suzuki. Here in Mexico the Versys is more expensive than the Vstrom mi
I've had 2 V-Stroms and 1 Versys. Neither is better, they are both excellent bikes. The V-Strom has a bit more room, the Versys has slightly better and sharper handling. Both are pretty meh off-road as they are heavy and have too much vulnerable plastic. Neither is better on dirt roads. Cannot tell any difference between power outputs. Both have excellent gearboxes. Both sound bad with stock pipes.
I think the Versys is a sharper looking bike...which one is better at cruising the freeways @85m.p.h?
I really doubt the Versys is outselling or has outsold the Vstrom.
1:50 nice
After watching the video, I kinda wanna go for a BMW 🤣
How about riding the bikes instead of comparing tech sheets? This is pointless.
I think a lot of people gain value from directly comparing the spec sheets, if I had the opportunity to take both bikes out for a full review I would. But atm I’m doing the best I can with what I have
Suzuki👌
that huge garden grill looks really stupid on the Kawasaki - maybe it's detachable in case you need to put a few steaks on the barbeque? ☺
the versys is a 100% road bike, the vstrom is a adventure bike
Off road always better with large front wheels.
Hey mate do
You want to upgrade to a 650l or zx6r?
I thought I wanted a zx6r… but now I’ve got my eye on something else 😉 wouldn’t be till the end of the year though
I don’t really see the Versys as an adv bike…
It’s a sport bike shamelessly disguised as one.
Having a full licence I wouldn’t be interested in the Kawasaki. Beyond me why they only offer the Lams version.
I'd say to push you toward the larger models
@@Kwackajack That’s pretty corrupt. That VStrom 650 is a pretty big bike. I do the majority of my riding in and around town, the burbs. I’d only get the thousand for touring,open road. Most of the bikes I look at are 500 - 900. Rego costs, insurance really kill the need for something with more power than I can use.
That versys cost 12.500usd in Indonesia 🙃
whay other bikes are there out there comparable to these two?
I went shopping years ago, kinda looking for a V Strom. Ran across a NC700X for a very good price and I've been happy with it. That awesome storage compartment is a deal breaker- so useful. It's more like the Kawasaki.
I'm 5' 10 with 32 inseam, can I flat foot a 650 versys
Same here...
Im just 5'8 you think i can ride versys 650 atleast somehow?
The only minus with the V STROM is the time when it comes to service {valve setting} most owners will have a struggle setting the valves.
Yes but most only pay for that service after 60000miles...this engines are extremely reliable and few need any adjustment before serious miles
Do either have cruise control?
no because they do not have ride by wire throttle