These were the good ole days! Sean is my all time favorite UA-cam Guy! I have a new 22 Versys, my Dad had a 09 Versys, it was Bike of the Year in 2008. It's awesome!
Dude when you were about to "start the day off like we SHOULD!" I totally thought you were just about to jam out... "WITH A PRAYER" I'm still teary eyed. That was awesome! God bless you bro!!!
I enjoyed your perspective on the 2015 Versys. I own a 2008, and absolutely love it. My favorite bike I have ever owned. If you are a person transitioning to street from riding dirt bikes the Versys is an awesome choice. Not a speed demon, but not boring. Great bike for a new rider. RELIABLE.
I had the first Versys 650. Despite the fact that it was the ugliest bike I’ve ever owned, it was the funnest bike I have ridden in a long time. Commute, tour, track, and hoolaginism-it did it all. While it wasn’t exceptional at anything, it literally could do everything. I have the luxury of owning multiple bikes, so I didn’t have a need to have a do all bike and sold it. If you can only own one bike, this is it. I’d probably go with the 1000 tho.
The first time that I ever saw a Kawasaki Versys, I thought that the styling was WAY TOO crazy. Especially all of the side pieces on the Versys. (They seemed to be over-engineered. Way too fancy and multi-colored). But, as the years have passed, now ALL motorcycles seem to have wild & crazy styling features, so the Versys just fits right in with the rest of them. Now, I own a low mileage 2009 (Generation 1) Versys 650, and I feel like it's a "perfect" motorcycle. I ride it almost every day, especially on days that I don't feel like riding it. I ride it anyways ! Then, it quickly changes my mind and makes me feel better ! BTW my Versys doesn't have any vibration noises. When I first bought my Versys-650, I found them and I fixed them all. (Now, my seat latches on tightly, too). I believe that all Kawasaki Versys 650 motorcycles are a pleasure to ride, (if properly maintained). 💚 Kawasaki 💚
My 2009 Versys-650 is amazingly fun to ride. Lightweight, and very nimble, compared to the Versys-1000. The 650 is not scary fast. It's very easy to ride wheelies on a Versys-650 and set the front end back down on the ground softly. 1000 cc bikes are much heavier and often damage their fork seals from riding wheelies and dropping the front end down, too hard. It's harder to stop a 1000cc bike. Forget about letting ABS control your stops. (Use Progressive Braking) My Versys-650 can do a stoppie, IN THE RAIN, and stop on a dime ! The Versys-650 gets better fuel mileage than the Versys-1000. It even gets better mileage than the X-300 ! Therefore, the Versys-650 is the perfect middle ground, between the Versys-1000 and the X-300. There's so many reasons why I love my Versys-650 that it's hard for me to find a single thing about it, that I don't like.
I have a Versys 650gt and I would have to say it is the closest thing to a "Goldilocks bike" I have ridden. It is great in city, great on windy roads, and comfortable for long rides... with the luggage kit it adds a back rest for the pillion and lots of storage for trips. I live in a smallish city surrounded by incredible countryside, it is a biker's paradise for windy hilly roads, but also where numerous large multi-lane highways converge and of course the in city riding, and the Versys 650 is great for all those conditions.
I work with a guy who rode one of those cross country. From West Virginia to Alaska. I told him he was crazy. He swears it was the best time of his life. Lol
They have a comfortable riding position, but your throttle hand will be hating you after a couple hours at 80+. The Versys is most at home on a twisty back road.
+Lifted_Above I have owned many singles, inline 4 and one V2 HD... right now I'm on a Ninja 300 and have road a couple endurance rides on it . I'm very impressed with it just for the fact that it consumes zero oil and has very good freeway mpg given the fact the 300cc doesn't run very efficiently because of its lack of power , still manages around 52-58 mpg @ 76 mph , re geared taller . I'm guessing the 650 version of this motor is much much better .
Nice video, but all we could hear was the MT07, which sounds much better than the versys with its 270 degree crank. Prayer, great idea never been known to fail. surprised you felt the need to wear any protective gear.
The Versys is easily the best bike at its price point, it is basically a baby Multistrada. I've put 6000mi on my 09 Versys since I bought it in August. It isn't without flaws, the motor on the older ones can be a bit vibey, the motor in general sounds kinda lame (as does pretty much every other parallel twin with a 180 degree crank). The interesting irony is the two main upgrade bikes from the Versys 650 are not Kawasakis, the Yahama FJ-09 (and Tracer 900 when it comes out later this year) and Ducati Multistrada 950 are the closest thing to a direct upgrade. The Versys 1000 is a much larger bike than the 650 and more akin to a smaller Concours than a bigger Versys.
Its Kawasaki color nr1 and many people love it. Also in other colors, its your choice. Total awesome color for me, and people see you easy in traffic (important). Same engine they use on ER6N/ Ninja 650R. 78 HP on those bikes works very well. More than enough, even with a passenger on.
The Versys actually does wheelie that easily at sea level, I have one and it clutches up easy as pie, but won't power wheelie at the elevation I live at (6000ft).
I was riding a 700lb 1700cc triumph thunderbird as my first cruiser after three decades on dirt bikes and two on rockets. I dug the torque, but it wasn’t me. I recently got a 2010 versys for almost nothing with no miles in perfect condition. I haven’t had a bike in a few months and I normally have a couple It weighs half as much and it’s hard to describe. It’s just refreshing to ride. It’s not fast or slow. It’s peppy. It’s light and fun. On dirtbikes you barrel through corners. On a sport bike you throw the bike into a turn. The versys pitches and rolls with no effort. Cops ignore it. Don’t take it to Bonneville, or any track with a long straight,but it would do fine on a small technical track.
I am in no way trying to be offensive here but please keep religion out of youtube. Religion is the reason for about every war in history of mankind. The only thing that has taken more inocent lifes than religion might be hunger. A true God with any love for us at all would not let that happen.
without a fuel gauge i always just kinda measured once how long it takes for me to start spitting and sputtering (150-160 miles on my klr650 depending on a couple factors) then when i'm getting close to there (say, i'm at 140) i flip the petcock and start looking for a gas station so i dont have to spit and sputter. on another topic, i'm starting to get sick of my klr650 after two years, and this seems like the perfect bike to replace it with.
as for the 6 gallon tank, i think your measurement might be off. from dry it takes 6 gallons to spare, but 2 of that 6 is the reserve so you only burn~4 gallons before you need to switch the petcock
@Spitch Grizwald back to the monkeying of the intake and exhaust, the oem exhaust blew out and an fmf exhaust anf jet kit costed about $200 less than an oem exhaust.
Based on Sean’s review of the Kawasaki Vulcan 650s I bought one. (ABS as well) Funny thing is, I was at the multi-brand dealership (I’m a Novice and was looking to get back into bike ownership, sold my last bike in 1985-86?) and was torn between a Suzuki Burgman 650 Executive or the Vulcan 650. Sean’s reviews on both were great. I decided a motorcycle is safer than a Maxi Scooter (In my opinion) because you are part of the bike, legs wrapped around a motorcycle. On a Burgman I felt as though I was sitting on a bar stool which freaked me out at 70+ mph. Felt as though I could bounce off. After watching both of SRK’s reviews I went back to the dealership and purchased the Kaw Vulcan. I appreciate this review channel.
I’m not a fan of that dark windscreen. I have this same bike, minus the top case. I bought a clear Givi windscreen, larger than stock, but I prefer the factory screen and that’s all I use. Added heated grips, which are amazing on cold rides. It’s a great bike, and hard to match for the price. I got my 2015 LT as a new leftover in 2017 for $6500 out the door. Always enjoy your videos. Keep up the good works!
Congrats! I just sold my 2016 I've had since new. Rode it across the country and it never let me down. Handles all the gear/luggage on the highway no problem. Then, once you unload and set up camp, its a blast to hit the twisties. You will enjoy it. Ride safe.
Thanks for the prayer. I just got my new 2021 Versys 650. I tried that tinted windscreen, but it was too much of a distraction. I went with clear Givi screen which is way better than stock. Just added a Leo Vince Evo II exhaust which has an amazing sound. I gotta work on my wheelies as it’s been a few years..
@@K-o-o-p-s ah come on as if motorcycles were any danger to anyone but themselves and slightly dangerous to pedestrians but cars speeding equally much are 120x more dangerous at least.
Amazing bike I want one. I am old and had all the old Kawasaki triples back in high school man those were the wheelie kings in the seventies Nothing could catch them back then. I still love a good wheelie gets the blood moving.. Thanks for the video and the review.
p.s. you hit the nail on the head the bike needs to be fun not just a way to get from point a to point b. I have been real sick this last year and have not been able to ride like I want and damn I miss it. 50 years of riding is hard too forget.
Ha, cool I’m a die hard Kawi fan. I had the 2 stroke triples back in the day. 76’ KH500. KZ650 etc I’ve got a 16’ Versys 650 now, enjoying the heck out of it
+t watson , I think this bike is probably the most well rounded practical street bike money can buy . It's going to be my next long term bike and after owning 27 bikes in my life the Versey 650 hits the nail on the head for someone who just needs a well handling and good bike to ride . When we get older having bikes that can roll on wheelies @ 80 mph and make you over develop certain muscles just to stay riding them just seems dumb 👍
Old? Don't worry about it. I'm 61 and have a 2016 Versys 1000LT. Best bike I have ever had... I sold my Victory Vegas and Victory Cross County before getting it and have not looked back.
+Bob Maynard that’s awesome ! All my intuition is telling me to get that bike also , wish it had cruise control . I really hope Kawi starts looking into the practicality of cruise control on bike designed to put serious miles down including the 650 👍🍻✊️✊️
I have a 2009 Ninja 650 and it was the perfect starter bike for me. It's enough power that you shouldn't get bored with it, but not so much that you'll be getting felony speeding charges just to have fun on it. The only danger is that torque, when you don't know what you're doing, accidental clutch-ups or even throttle-ups definitely can happen.
you aren't missing much, the Kawi 650 sounds like shit. I have a Versys 650, great bike, but I have exactly zero desire to put an aftermarket pipe on it.
Wouldn't it be cool if the Kawasaki 650 engine sounded like that? It's a Yamaha CP2 engine instead. Take that 689 from the Yamaha and plant it into the Versys 650 chassis. Perfect.
Yamaha already did that, it's called the Tracer 700. Though they skimped on the suspension, the Versys still handles better. Also it isn't sold in the US.
Thought this was just another bike review, but when you started it with a bible verse ( well you forgot it) so you started it with a prayer idc how the review is, you have a subscriber for life. Good work man!
My V Strom was a great all around bike. You could poodle around town, strap a backpack on and take a trip, and have fun on a curvy road. It just did what needed to be done and sprinkled in a bit of fun along the way.
Get the versys 1000. The Z900 and Z1000/ versys 1000 engine are largely the same. Only the 1000 has a bigger cylinder bore. Very similar character from both.
@county_bear9509 I had the z1000, beast of an engine but it was to much. Revisiting this post, even the z900 would be a bit much. Maybe just updating it like the competition has around the 750-800cc range (Suzuki and Honda e.g.)
@@mrEz87 agreed. Although I will say the 1000 in the versys is in a lower state of tune than the Z1000 (120 horsepower) Maybe you'd consider the Africa twin? Upright ergos, lightweight for the size, and 100 horsepower from an efficent and compact twin.
This bike is awesome. I took it from WI to Proudhon bay and back without a hiccup. 13k miles in 15 days, very comfy and enough pewee. A bit squirmy in the mud but I had street tires on it.
Mine looked the same except I had the stock windshield, just traded mine in. The Ninja engine is de-tuned for better MPG and better power performance carrying touring load. Mine was also much quieter.......and mine wouldn't raise the front end in second gear, and just barely in first.... that bike has been modified I went on the curves with my brother on his 1200, I wasn't pushing the Versys and he was dragging pegs thru every curve to keep up
I dunno. I have a V1k and sidestand and pipes drag long before the bags get anywhere near the ground. Push to hard on those and the rear wheel will take flight.
Had same engine on my er6n beginning bike and my only complaint was not sounding good. Once I switched to an Ixil exhaust it sounded mean felt like a new bike enjoyed it till it was time to upgrade
First thing to go is that dark windscreen, that is next to impossible to see through in the dark, when you need to see what is in front of you the most.
I had a V-Strom 1000 tuned with a Staintune exhaust. That was a hot rod. Now I'm riding a 2018 Concours 1400 tuned with 2 Bros exhaust. It's a different kind of hot rod, but fun as heck.
Come on guys, really? It’s 2020 and you are not more enlightened then that you still believe in fairytales? With all the science in the world you still believe there is an old man sitting on a cloud letting larvae’s eat the eyes of children, priest’s sexually abuse children, children dying of cancer and all the other sick shit that happens. How can you worship a God that let these things happen? If I died and went to heaven, which I know I wont, I wouldn’t want to enter that sadists domain. Just my two cents, you have a nice day.
I'm looking into it.. I just hate the windscreen lol. I'd take the bags off too. I have a yzf-600r (Thundercat) and I love the upright feel and can still get pretty low on the canyons here in Cali
Thinking about getting one of these, honestly though, I'm wonder if its classified as a adv or a sport bike on steroids haha. Wondering because i am concerned about insurance cost for it... Im a 6ft 2 rider and am wanting to take it 70mph down I 5 for a large trip. Cool bike, please let me know what insurance is in your area or what you think a ball park would be for the price of insurance... Thanks!
Great motorcycle I have a 2017 and I wanted to ask you about the dark windscreen. I have to change my wind shield and I do not know if vision is lost to see through it so dark, or it would be better to commission a lighter shield wind. You are happy with yours, and now that you have it ... would you buy it that dark again? Thank you!
Hi Marty, your eye level should always be above the screen anyway. Screens are for wind deflection not really made to look through. You can tuck in at times when really windy or heavy rain. Colours are just aesthetic and what looks cool with your bike.
While they do come with screens, that one was aftermarket. There are a lot of screen options for it. The standard is clear, and has about a 4" adjustability on it
Sean...can you please have one video when you actually know what model bike you're on? "I think this is a 2009...no 2010, or is it a 2012?" Every video. 🤣🤣🤣
Mine never lifts the front like that. I am ~200lbs, I dont know if that's making the difference. Mines 2019 with no bags. I will say that it cruises at 5-6k rpm doing highway speeds, which isn't the best.
i love the versys and a vulcan s.. i would love to have that versys in my garage bcus i have the vulcan in that same color. i want a touring bike. thats not a bad price either
I've noticed some Versys have a single aluminum(?) swing arm on the right side and a cheap swing arm on the left side and some have the cheap boxed steel one (like my $1000 TBR7) on both sides.
Yo Sean, great channel bro. Watch all the time. I used to hit track days out west and this fine girl used to ride a beamer with the bags like this bike. She kicked a lot of guys asses on various bikes, so I agree, fun to ride and the position lends itself to good maneuverability, and oh yeah, it's practical if you wanna get outta town for a weekend, even off road. Great vids, and appreciate the words of wisdom. Get it!!!!
Had an '09 Versys and loved it...Unfortunately, my house burned down and destroyed it...what a waste!!! If I weren't going to retire later this year I'd buy this one...it's hard not to turn that throttle....
Great review dude! Easy to forget that riding bikes should be fun! You nailed it dude. You can feel your enthusiasm coming thru the screen. Thanks man. I might have to buy one now.
The way to turn off eco is to twist the throttle harder.
Very true..lol
Yeet
Bruh i swear exactly at the same moment when I’ve read this comment he said that in the video!
These were the good ole days! Sean is my all time favorite UA-cam Guy! I have a new 22 Versys, my Dad had a 09 Versys, it was Bike of the Year in 2008. It's awesome!
Dude when you were about to "start the day off like we SHOULD!" I totally thought you were just about to jam out...
"WITH A PRAYER"
I'm still teary eyed. That was awesome! God bless you bro!!!
I enjoyed your perspective on the 2015 Versys. I own a 2008, and absolutely love it. My favorite bike I have ever owned. If you are a person transitioning to street from riding dirt bikes the Versys is an awesome choice. Not a speed demon, but not boring. Great bike for a new rider. RELIABLE.
about to try one out for a first bike tomorrow.
I had the first Versys 650. Despite the fact that it was the ugliest bike I’ve ever owned, it was the funnest bike I have ridden in a long time. Commute, tour, track, and hoolaginism-it did it all. While it wasn’t exceptional at anything, it literally could do everything. I have the luxury of owning multiple bikes, so I didn’t have a need to have a do all bike and sold it. If you can only own one bike, this is it. I’d probably go with the 1000 tho.
The first time that I ever saw a Kawasaki Versys, I thought that the styling was WAY TOO crazy. Especially all of the side pieces on the Versys. (They seemed to be over-engineered. Way too fancy and multi-colored). But, as the years have passed, now ALL motorcycles seem to have wild & crazy styling features, so the Versys just fits right in with the rest of them.
Now, I own a low mileage 2009 (Generation 1) Versys 650, and I feel like it's a "perfect" motorcycle.
I ride it almost every day, especially on days that I don't feel like riding it. I ride it anyways !
Then, it quickly changes my mind and makes me feel better !
BTW my Versys doesn't have any vibration noises. When I first bought my Versys-650, I found them and I fixed them all.
(Now, my seat latches on tightly, too).
I believe that all Kawasaki Versys 650 motorcycles are a pleasure to ride, (if properly maintained).
💚 Kawasaki 💚
My 2009 Versys-650 is amazingly fun to ride. Lightweight, and very nimble, compared to the
Versys-1000. The 650 is not scary fast. It's very easy to ride wheelies on a Versys-650 and set the front end back down on the ground softly.
1000 cc bikes are much heavier and often damage their fork seals from riding wheelies and dropping the front end down, too hard.
It's harder to stop a 1000cc bike.
Forget about letting ABS control your stops.
(Use Progressive Braking)
My Versys-650 can do a stoppie, IN THE RAIN, and stop on a dime !
The Versys-650 gets better fuel mileage than the Versys-1000.
It even gets better mileage than the X-300 !
Therefore, the Versys-650 is the perfect middle ground, between the Versys-1000 and the X-300.
There's so many reasons why I love my Versys-650 that it's hard for me to find a single thing about it, that I don't like.
That windshield is so dark, it looks like it might be a hazard for night time riding !
I have a Versys 650gt and I would have to say it is the closest thing to a "Goldilocks bike" I have ridden. It is great in city, great on windy roads, and comfortable for long rides... with the luggage kit it adds a back rest for the pillion and lots of storage for trips. I live in a smallish city surrounded by incredible countryside, it is a biker's paradise for windy hilly roads, but also where numerous large multi-lane highways converge and of course the in city riding, and the Versys 650 is great for all those conditions.
I work with a guy who rode one of those cross country. From West Virginia to Alaska. I told him he was crazy. He swears it was the best time of his life. Lol
They have a comfortable riding position, but your throttle hand will be hating you after a couple hours at 80+. The Versys is most at home on a twisty back road.
throttle lock.
I did it also
All the way route 66
But i have Versys 650 2009 ))
Chek my Videos )
ua-cam.com/video/NE9hw_QNw1I/v-deo.html
Almost Heaven, WEST VIRGINIA!
Parallel twin! Basically the same as the Ninja 650, tuned a bit different for more mid-range.
The guy doesn't really know what he's got, but he seems to know how to ride.
I agree it's a great bike . The parallel twin 650 is arguably the most practical and efficient motor on the planet 👍...
And in 270° crank config, it's actually interesting. Otherwise 180° is raspy and very vibration prone.
+Lifted_Above I have owned many singles, inline 4 and one V2 HD... right now I'm on a Ninja 300 and have road a couple endurance rides on it . I'm very impressed with it just for the fact that it consumes zero oil and has very good freeway mpg given the fact the 300cc doesn't run very efficiently because of its lack of power , still manages around 52-58 mpg @ 76 mph , re geared taller . I'm guessing the 650 version of this motor is much much better .
Love how you integrate God in your videos. Thank you for your prayer, and verses. I too am a believer. God bless you brother!
Finally the review the bike deserves🔥 best bike I’ve ever owned
Meeeeeeeeeeee too !
Nice video, but all we could hear was the MT07, which sounds much better than the versys with its 270 degree crank. Prayer, great idea never been known to fail. surprised you felt the need to wear any protective gear.
+Rock Ardbiker I almost always hear gear
The Versys is easily the best bike at its price point, it is basically a baby Multistrada. I've put 6000mi on my 09 Versys since I bought it in August. It isn't without flaws, the motor on the older ones can be a bit vibey, the motor in general sounds kinda lame (as does pretty much every other parallel twin with a 180 degree crank). The interesting irony is the two main upgrade bikes from the Versys 650 are not Kawasakis, the Yahama FJ-09 (and Tracer 900 when it comes out later this year) and Ducati Multistrada 950 are the closest thing to a direct upgrade. The Versys 1000 is a much larger bike than the 650 and more akin to a smaller Concours than a bigger Versys.
Got the 650 2018. Love it best decision ever
Would you recommend it over the Z650? I'm looking to get either in the next couple months.
@@saitamathehero7028 Versys is way better than the ninja and z650. It has way better suspension and it is way better for touring.
Does it have any power bro?
@@Matrixas the versys and Ninja and z650 all share the same motor. also the vulcan 650 so plenty of power
@@Matrixas I have a 08 ninja 650r with exhaust and gears and go 0 to 60 in 3.5 secs.
who gets a dark screen.
I have a 2018 Versys 650GT, 5,200 enjoyable miles without missing a beat. A very underrated bike, absolutely love the bike !
get rid of that smoked screen.
Its Kawasaki color nr1 and many people love it. Also in other colors, its your choice. Total awesome color for me, and people see you easy in traffic (important). Same engine they use on ER6N/ Ninja 650R. 78 HP on those bikes works very well. More than enough, even with a passenger on.
It looks cool but it can get dangerous
Tho shall not stack bricks in rear luggage box to enable wheelie's.
The Versys actually does wheelie that easily at sea level, I have one and it clutches up easy as pie, but won't power wheelie at the elevation I live at (6000ft).
Suspension/frame geometry, weight distribution. Same way the FZ-09 is wheelie happy.
Lol
Lol
I was riding a 700lb 1700cc triumph thunderbird as my first cruiser after three decades on dirt bikes and two on rockets. I dug the torque, but it wasn’t me. I recently got a 2010 versys for almost nothing with no miles in perfect condition. I haven’t had a bike in a few months and I normally have a couple It weighs half as much and it’s hard to describe. It’s just refreshing to ride. It’s not fast or slow. It’s peppy. It’s light and fun. On dirtbikes you barrel through corners. On a sport bike you throw the bike into a turn. The versys pitches and rolls with no effort. Cops ignore it. Don’t take it to Bonneville, or any track with a long straight,but it would do fine on a small technical track.
Loved my 09 Versys 650...Now i have a 2016 Versys 1000
do you like the 1000 better?
Lucky you!
Is that screen meant to teach riders how operate under instrument conditions!. Take it off for God sake! Lol.
Your prayer and daily words are an awesome encouragement! Way to be light in the darkness man!!!!! Blessings on you!
Poppa Kaye thanks brother
Master Yoda
Love Satan and think for yourself, LOL
No dude, cut that prayer part out.
I am in no way trying to be offensive here but please keep religion out of youtube. Religion is the reason for about every war in history of mankind. The only thing that has taken more inocent lifes than religion might be hunger. A true God with any love for us at all would not let that happen.
Per Kristian no offense taken. I respect your oppinion
Am I the only one with my ears tuned in to the FZ07 more than anything. Man it sounds good
Transplant that Yamaha CP2 engine into the Versys chassis. Boom! Near perfect tourer.
without a fuel gauge i always just kinda measured once how long it takes for me to start spitting and sputtering (150-160 miles on my klr650 depending on a couple factors) then when i'm getting close to there (say, i'm at 140) i flip the petcock and start looking for a gas station so i dont have to spit and sputter.
on another topic, i'm starting to get sick of my klr650 after two years, and this seems like the perfect bike to replace it with.
as for the 6 gallon tank, i think your measurement might be off. from dry it takes 6 gallons to spare, but 2 of that 6 is the reserve so you only burn~4 gallons before you need to switch the petcock
@Spitch Grizwald back to the monkeying of the intake and exhaust, the oem exhaust blew out and an fmf exhaust anf jet kit costed about $200 less than an oem exhaust.
Based on Sean’s review of the Kawasaki Vulcan 650s I bought one. (ABS as well) Funny thing is, I was at the multi-brand dealership (I’m a Novice and was looking to get back into bike ownership, sold my last bike in 1985-86?) and was torn between a Suzuki Burgman 650 Executive or the Vulcan 650. Sean’s reviews on both were great. I decided a motorcycle is safer than a Maxi Scooter (In my opinion) because you are part of the bike, legs wrapped around a motorcycle. On a Burgman I felt as though I was sitting on a bar stool which freaked me out at 70+ mph. Felt as though I could bounce off. After watching both of SRK’s reviews I went back to the dealership and purchased the Kaw Vulcan. I appreciate this review channel.
I’m not a fan of that dark windscreen. I have this same bike, minus the top case. I bought a clear Givi windscreen, larger than stock, but I prefer the factory screen and that’s all I use. Added heated grips, which are amazing on cold rides.
It’s a great bike, and hard to match for the price. I got my 2015 LT as a new leftover in 2017 for $6500 out the door.
Always enjoy your videos. Keep up the good works!
I like the look of it tbh, that tinted visor is down right dangerous though imo.
Duke of somewhere why?
I just bought a 2021 Verseys
I'm a new rider. I enjoy that thing.
Congrats! I just sold my 2016 I've had since new. Rode it across the country and it never let me down. Handles all the gear/luggage on the highway no problem. Then, once you unload and set up camp, its a blast to hit the twisties. You will enjoy it. Ride safe.
Thanks for the prayer. I just got my new 2021 Versys 650. I tried that tinted windscreen, but it was too much of a distraction. I went with clear Givi screen which is way better than stock. Just added a Leo Vince Evo II exhaust which has an amazing sound. I gotta work on my wheelies as it’s been a few years..
Prays to God to keep motorcycle riders safe and than proceeds to record self and friend popping wheelies and speeding in residential areas. lol
Mr Smith .. ya he should be praying for everyone else on the road...
@@K-o-o-p-s ah come on as if motorcycles were any danger to anyone but themselves and slightly dangerous to pedestrians but cars speeding equally much are 120x more dangerous at least.
As a Christian biker I really appreciate ya'll.
Plant-based Grandpa thank you sir
Do you know that when you pray before a ride and die in a accident, god will suck you right to heaven. True man, it is true.
I actually love the looks of the pre-2015 models!
With those bags and top it is sick!! could use the z900 or 1000 motor though
My 2017 Versys 650 is one of my favorite bikes ever!
Amazing bike I want one. I am old and had all the old Kawasaki triples back in high school man those were the wheelie kings in the seventies Nothing could catch them back then. I still love a good wheelie gets the blood moving.. Thanks for the video and the review.
p.s. you hit the nail on the head the bike needs to be fun not just a way to get from point a to point b. I have been real sick this last year and have not been able to ride like I want and damn I miss it. 50 years of riding is hard too forget.
Ha, cool I’m a die hard Kawi fan. I had the 2 stroke triples back in the day. 76’ KH500. KZ650 etc I’ve got a 16’ Versys 650 now, enjoying the heck out of it
+t watson , I think this bike is probably the most well rounded practical street bike money can buy . It's going to be my next long term bike and after owning 27 bikes in my life the Versey 650 hits the nail on the head for someone who just needs a well handling and good bike to ride . When we get older having bikes that can roll on wheelies @ 80 mph and make you over develop certain muscles just to stay riding them just seems dumb 👍
Old? Don't worry about it. I'm 61 and have a 2016 Versys 1000LT. Best bike I have ever had... I sold my Victory Vegas and Victory Cross County before getting it and have not looked back.
+Bob Maynard that’s awesome ! All my intuition is telling me to get that bike also , wish it had cruise control . I really hope Kawi starts looking into the practicality of cruise control on bike designed to put serious miles down including the 650 👍🍻✊️✊️
I have a 2009 Ninja 650 and it was the perfect starter bike for me. It's enough power that you shouldn't get bored with it, but not so much that you'll be getting felony speeding charges just to have fun on it.
The only danger is that torque, when you don't know what you're doing, accidental clutch-ups or even throttle-ups definitely can happen.
Is it me ? Or is it hard to tell what the 650 sounds like ? Is there an extra mic. on the other bike? I'm old & confused.
you aren't missing much, the Kawi 650 sounds like shit. I have a Versys 650, great bike, but I have exactly zero desire to put an aftermarket pipe on it.
It was just a question... No need for the childish 3rd grade language.
Wouldn't it be cool if the Kawasaki 650 engine sounded like that? It's a Yamaha CP2 engine instead.
Take that 689 from the Yamaha and plant it into the Versys 650 chassis. Perfect.
Yamaha already did that, it's called the Tracer 700. Though they skimped on the suspension, the Versys still handles better. Also it isn't sold in the US.
Thought this was just another bike review, but when you started it with a bible verse ( well you forgot it) so you started it with a prayer idc how the review is, you have a subscriber for life. Good work man!
Love your reviews and your acknowledgement to God.
God is not real
1:35 It is a Parallel Twin - same as the Ninja 650R. I just put 25K on mine and will hit 26K by the end of the week!
I don't know about night riding with that tinted windscreen.
+MrCaptainCrazy good call it would probably too dark for the night
You don’t look through the screen at all when riding. I’ve got a much taller screen than the Puig and it’s never been an issue
Mad blind spot, driver installed..
My V Strom was a great all around bike. You could poodle around town, strap a backpack on and take a trip, and have fun on a curvy road. It just did what needed to be done and sprinkled in a bit of fun along the way.
Of course this bike is awesome, I have a 2016 650 and it is definitely a sleeper.
Love both of those bikes!
And he needs to shift that FZ07! RPM's are screaming! Lol
I like green motorcycles! I remember when you first hopped on Caleb's Dad's 1997 Road King. That bike is so pretty!
I had this bike, I want this bike again because it did it all. This bike with the only change being a z900 motor... pretty much the perfect bike.
Totally what I've been looking for!
Get the versys 1000. The Z900 and Z1000/ versys 1000 engine are largely the same. Only the 1000 has a bigger cylinder bore. Very similar character from both.
@county_bear9509 I had the z1000, beast of an engine but it was to much. Revisiting this post, even the z900 would be a bit much. Maybe just updating it like the competition has around the 750-800cc range (Suzuki and Honda e.g.)
@@mrEz87 agreed. Although I will say the 1000 in the versys is in a lower state of tune than the Z1000 (120 horsepower)
Maybe you'd consider the Africa twin? Upright ergos, lightweight for the size, and 100 horsepower from an efficent and compact twin.
@county_bear9509 great bike but I think I would prefer the Transalp 750!
This bike is awesome. I took it from WI to Proudhon bay and back without a hiccup. 13k miles in 15 days, very comfy and enough pewee. A bit squirmy in the mud but I had street tires on it.
Mine looked the same except I had the stock windshield, just traded mine in.
The Ninja engine is de-tuned for better MPG and better power performance carrying touring load.
Mine was also much quieter.......and mine wouldn't raise the front end in second gear, and just barely in first....
that bike has been modified
I went on the curves with my brother on his 1200, I wasn't pushing the Versys and he was dragging pegs thru every curve to keep up
The best reason to have a windshield is to keep insects from completely making a mess of everything I wear.
Love that bike, but could you put a drive shaft on it , that is all that is missing for a good little touring bike.
If you drag bag without lowsiding, we'll get you a Moto GP contract.
+saddlebag all I have to do is put knee pucks on the bags it would be easy
I dunno. I have a V1k and sidestand and pipes drag long before the bags get anywhere near the ground. Push to hard on those and the rear wheel will take flight.
I dunno. I have the 1000 version and its sidestand and pipe hit the deck long before the bags get anywhere nearby. Great wheelie though!
saddlebag my centerstand drags before anything lol.
Had same engine on my er6n beginning bike and my only complaint was not sounding good. Once I switched to an Ixil exhaust it sounded mean felt like a new bike enjoyed it till it was time to upgrade
think of getting one of this touring bikes!
650 Versys is just a perfect bike for nice trips
I like how you put god in to your videos. Respect for that man. Spread the word!
You prayed! I heard that and subscribed right away! Awesome! God bless your faithfulness! 👏👏👏
Picking my 2016 Versys up this weekend. Cannot wait for it.
First thing to go is that dark windscreen, that is next to impossible to see through in the dark, when you need to see what is in front of you the most.
I had a V-Strom 1000 tuned with a Staintune exhaust. That was a hot rod. Now I'm riding a 2018 Concours 1400 tuned with 2 Bros exhaust. It's a different kind of hot rod, but fun as heck.
Heard the prayer at the beginning, and smashed that subscribe button!
Absolutely man thats exactly why I subscribed i love how this man never forgets the good lord.
Come on guys, really? It’s 2020 and you are not more enlightened then that you still believe in fairytales? With all the science in the world you still believe there is an old man sitting on a cloud letting larvae’s eat the eyes of children, priest’s sexually abuse children, children dying of cancer and all the other sick shit that happens. How can you worship a God that let these things happen? If I died and went to heaven, which I know I wont, I wouldn’t want to enter that sadists domain. Just my two cents, you have a nice day.
What exhaust do you have on it? Doesn’t sound like the stock exhaust.
"Drag Bag!" Love it!
I'm looking into it.. I just hate the windscreen lol. I'd take the bags off too. I have a yzf-600r (Thundercat) and I love the upright feel and can still get pretty low on the canyons here in Cali
Eco mode turns off after 5k rpms well on my Zx14r but all of them turn off as you pass the eco rpm limit to save fuel
Thinking about getting one of these, honestly though, I'm wonder if its classified as a adv or a sport bike on steroids haha. Wondering because i am concerned about insurance cost for it... Im a 6ft 2 rider and am wanting to take it 70mph down I 5 for a large trip. Cool bike, please let me know what insurance is in your area or what you think a ball park would be for the price of insurance... Thanks!
Great vid as usual, really enjoy your work.
you got something heavy in the top case :D
Great motorcycle I have a 2017 and I wanted to ask you about the dark windscreen.
I have to change my wind shield and I do not know if vision is lost to see through it so dark, or it would be better to commission a lighter shield wind.
You are happy with yours, and now that you have it ... would you buy it that dark again?
Thank you!
Hi Marty, your eye level should always be above the screen anyway. Screens are for wind deflection not really made to look through. You can tuck in at times when really windy or heavy rain. Colours are just aesthetic and what looks cool with your bike.
Yes, if it's like my Vulcan S, the "eco" just means you ARE riding economically, not that it's currently configured in an "eco" mode.
Thanks for the info. You are correct
It goes out if you accelerate hard or go over 82mph
Great vid! Always liked the look of that Kaw, but never rode on. What sound system were you using in the vid?
Love my Versys, I got the 2015 model specifically because they updated the looks. Agreed, it was hideous
No way dude. My 2012 is dope
That windscreen looks like an afterthought. Ug-ly.
While they do come with screens, that one was aftermarket. There are a lot of screen options for it. The standard is clear, and has about a 4" adjustability on it
tinted wind screen needs to go, like the sound. What pipe is this?
What’s preference between this and the new v strom 650?
I am considering purchasing a 2017 Versys. I don't like that tinted windscreen at all. It makes no sense whatsoever.
Sean...can you please have one video when you actually know what model bike you're on? "I think this is a 2009...no 2010, or is it a 2012?" Every video. 🤣🤣🤣
While smacking his lips constantly, it grinds my gears...
@@Mrtweet81 then stop watching
Depending on the bike it doesn't really matter what year it is.
I like how the other bikes exhaust overpower the sound level of the Versys. At first, I thought it was the Versys. Great basic bike.
Could you compare it with vulcan s? Same engine block..
Your vids are great. The chaser bike is great. My decision to take the rider safety course is connected to your vids. Thanks!
Mine never lifts the front like that. I am ~200lbs, I dont know if that's making the difference. Mines 2019 with no bags. I will say that it cruises at 5-6k rpm doing highway speeds, which isn't the best.
That is good looking bike, even with the bags. I'd consider it for commuting.
i bought the versys 1000 about 3 weeks ago and have already put over 800 miles on it in West Virginia ! :)
i love the versys and a vulcan s.. i would love to have that versys in my garage bcus i have the vulcan in that same color. i want a touring bike. thats not a bad price either
I've noticed some Versys have a single aluminum(?) swing arm on the right side and a cheap swing arm on the left side and some have the cheap boxed steel one (like my $1000 TBR7) on both sides.
Love your reviews - and want to learn more about this bike - but I never heard it. Poor choice for camera bike.
Video: Versys650
Audio: FZ-07 LOUDASH***
Awesome video man! Is that a stock exhaust?
Yo Sean, great channel bro. Watch all the time. I used to hit track days out west and this fine girl used to ride a beamer with the bags like this bike. She kicked a lot of guys asses on various bikes, so I agree, fun to ride and the position lends itself to good maneuverability, and oh yeah, it's practical if you wanna get outta town for a weekend, even off road. Great vids, and appreciate the words of wisdom. Get it!!!!
Thanks for the prayer brother!
Would my height of 6.4 be ok for this bike ?
I'm six-four and the Versys fits me perfectly. Such a fun bike in the twisties.
25 y/o single male here. Full coverage on a Z400 is twice as much as a Versys 650. Pure insanity
Jesus Christ bless you. Greetings from India..
Had an '09 Versys and loved it...Unfortunately, my house burned down and destroyed it...what a waste!!! If I weren't going to retire later this year I'd buy this one...it's hard not to turn that throttle....
Funny to me that you say you had a hard time keeping the front wheel down, I guess my self control is so much better than I thought. :P
How was the exhaust sound? I agree you have more fun on a mid-range bike, it brings out the hooligan.
What is your thought about no traction control?
Great review dude! Easy to forget that riding bikes should be fun! You nailed it dude. You can feel your enthusiasm coming thru the screen. Thanks man. I might have to buy one now.
Never seen bike like that in person. Awesomeness tho
Would this be good for a beginner Rider?
Always more fun to ride a slow bike fast vs a fast bike slow on the streets.