I own this exact bike and, while I can't disagree with a lot of the criticisms, I can say that I don't spend my days riding every other bike out there. I spent $6500 on a motorcycle and got something that is great for commuting, can tour and is a lot more fun to spend time on the road with than a car. I have hard cases that fit a full-face helmet on each side, are key matched and a top case that can hold a weekend's worth of stuff. I have heated grips, adjustable wind protection and 250+ miles of range with an adjustable suspension. If you are a moto-journo who rides everything, everywhere, I can see why this wouldn't blow your hair back. If, however, you are a regular person who has other priorities in their life than whatever it is these gate-keeping, condescending blowhards have, maybe the top of the bell curve for a reasonable price with excellent reliability is exactly what you'd want. Have fun and stay safe on your ride fellas, maybe someday I'll be as cool as you.
Totally. I own one, too. Not everyone has to be Evel Knievel or have 150hp pack of firecrackers between our legs. I sold my DRZ400S (jetted, pipe, etc) that I usually roaded for something I could ride more than two hours and hear myself think. Goes a lot faster than my DRZ, for sure! My riding is not that “technical,” as I like a bit more of a zen thing, but hey, something not mentioned is that this bike can can be pushed and it’s pretty fun to push a bike that will honor you with decent acceleration when you crank it and deliver good cornering… basically a bike you can wind out and it not kill you. As a mix of features and capabilities, there is harmony there and it serves it role well. Oh, and I’ve had kids “wow” at my Versys while parked next to a Ninja, so there! :-)
100%... I can't afford to have a garage full of bikes for every occasion. Instead I bought a cheap, reliable (in my opinion) good looking bike, that is comfortable, has plenty of good looking easy to connect/ disconnect storage, plenty of comfort for long rides, agile enough for good twisties & around town, enough space & power for my wife to ride along... I love this bike, it does everything I ask of it, short of going off road.
“Gate-keeping, condescending blowhards”. I wish I’d said that. Your comment is spot on. I don’t own a Versys, but I’m really done listening to these guys.
I own the same exact bike. I bought it new in 2015 and have put almost 80,000 miles on it so far. It’s incredibly dependable. I ride it to work almost every day. I also own a 2021 Kawasaki zx14r. Each bike is built for a purpose. I love my Versys and I’m going to ride it to the ground. It’s the best $8600 I’ve ever spent.
Pfft what do you know riding every day and 80k !? I'd rather listen to someone who rides their big liter sport bike for half an hour once a year while shiting themselves...... (Obviously joking - I like you)
@@georgel3657 lol. When my Versys dies in maybe 5 to 10 more years, I’m buying another one. Since i live in Miami, I ride year round and only use my car when it rains. 50mpg’s on regular gas is great right now.
It is great for people who only ride for fun and/or can afford a bike for every situation... for most of the world, that is not the case, and I would argue that the Versys ticks more "must have" boxes than most bikes for most people.
@@vebez5993 Where do you live? The reason I ask is that I live in the UK, the older people I know who ride, do drive cars, but that is only when the weather is really bad, or they have to move something big, or they have to take the kids somewhere (so purely practical constraints). Younger people I know who ride, just ride bikes. I have a number of friends from India, and all of them have ridden motorcycles before moving to the UK. I suppose my issue with Yammie and Spike's approach is that they are concerned about their needs and wants, not that of other riders... and so while they have an amusing meme channel, I would suggest that their reviews are lacking as they don't take other people into consideration, and I would suggest that is something they need to work on if they want to be taken seriously.
@@petervenkman69 Probably America. Until the past 2 years, cars have been cheaper than bikes. The roads are large enough and everywhere has enough parking that there's no convenience advantage to motorcycles. Maybe if you live in a college dorm parking is easier, maybe. Winters are cold enough in most of the country that it is either unsafe or impossible to ride a motorcycle. There are 0 practical reasons to own a motorcycle instead of a car in America, they only exist for fun or leisure. In California, filtering through traffic could allow you to commute much faster. But as a dedicated Midwesterner, California is not America.
@@rightwingsafetysquad9872 That's pretty much what I figured to be honest, while here my parking is free, I can filter, snow is very rare (haven't had it at all for 3 years), bikes can be cheaper, petrol is cheaper. Basically if you are single or a couple who needs a 2nd vehicle, I would argue a bike should be seriously considered.
So to get this straight... You don't like it because it comes with lockable waterproof hard bags, it's comfortable to commute on daily, handles well in turns, quicker than all of the traffic around you while getting 45+ mpg, has a huge tank that allows 250 mile fill-ups, and is as reliable as they come? So it's practical and that makes it suck? Sounds like you're the kind of "riders" that use your bikes as toys. Those of us that commute daily regardless of weather and put 12k plus miles on the clock every year know the true value of the Versys. But hey, I bet your friends think you're cool. Thought this might be the video that brought me back to the channel, but nope. You should probably take some lessons from real moto-journalists like Zack Courts and Ari Henning.
I think he’s just saying it’s not a “great” bike. When there’s so much better competition it’s still good but is it competing? And yes yammie views bikes as toys, it’s just a different perspective that you get mad at when he doesn’t think your bike is that great. I daily commute on my motorcycle but I know most people don’t do that and are not going to have the same perspective of motorcycles as just transportation. It’s a bike that makes sense to you and I and it’s still fun but lacks a bit of umphh. I think they need a different engine in a few of their bikes to change that.
@@vebez5993 I wouldn't disagree about the different engines. When it comes to how they evaluate bikes, I think they really need to go on record to state that they view bikes as an occasional vehicle rather than as a daily rider. There is nothing wrong with that perspective, except a lot of people actually have practical uses for a bike, and therefore while the memes on the channel might be fun, the reviews are fairly meaningless for those people. The problem is Yammie tries to be funny and a serious bike channel at the same time. It is possible to do that Ryan F9 pulls it off. The trick is to understand riders and their needs. Now I think that Yammie felt he was broadening his horizons when he brought Spike on as Spike is a Harley dude.. and yes, actually that did help a bit... but not much, that just meant that you have 2 people with different biases. To be a "propper" motorcycle reviewer you need to be concerned with the needs of other people, not just your personal desires.
@@petervenkman69 sure I agree with you but you have to admit it’s just a boring bike, lacking of character. For anyone that’s an enthusiast it’s not going to be a fun bike. But if you just daily it to get places then sure do that. It’s like driving a mini van you don’t drive it cause it’s fun you do it because it makes sense for your needs. Although I think there’s a lot better options.
Have you seen the other bikes Kawasaki makes? Compared to its brethren it's ugly as sin. It's like a Maxima and a Juke, you wouldn't believe they were both made by Nissan.
@@johnkluge3421 I mean ktms are ugly too, you're absolutely right but so is this thing. And I'm a Kawasaki simp, I've bought nothing but Kawasaki for all my years riding and I love them to death but this one just isn't where the bread is buttered
I even think the 1st and 2nd gen look great (though admittedly I own the former.) I've seriously considered a KTM for my second bike, but cannot get over that headlight. So gross.
I don’t understand these guys. I own a 2019 Versey 650 and I absolutely love it. I came from riding a CBR 1000 and a Yamaha R1. And this bike has more than enough power for you to have fun while also getting 50 miles to the gallon and being very comfortable to ride. Bought this for 7700 brand new. No complaints and it’s the best motorcycle I’ve ever owned. These dudes don’t know what they’re talking about
Lets put it this way... Its 5k bike that you dont like cause it doesnt feel like 30k bike... it has 70hp but it doesnt give you hardon like 150hp. Its comfortable bike but not as sporty as you want it to be... And its not screaming like hell.... oh btw, its unkillable lawnmower engine that will outlast most of the super expensive screaming ones👍
Agreed. Spite picked a Harley Davidson Pan American which comes with a sticker above $20,000 and then dunked on the versys 650 because it was so much worse at 5K. If I was to get a bike that is the same price as the versus 650 they test rode but is better in every way which they supposedly give the impression is easy to do, which bike would that be? They never tell you
Just like they did with the Vulcan S. Spite just can't admit that the Vulcan S will dust up on everything in the Harley lineup except for the V-Rod and Livewire for $8k.
The mt07 engine is also super fun and reliable. Kawasaki needs to create a better/more fun engine. I think his point is that it’s just a average bike, it’s not super fun or special in anyway, and lacking character. It’s still a motorcycle at the end of the day so it’s still fun and it’s not a bad bike at all but it’s definitely not the best bike. If you have one that awesome don’t listen to anyone else, but if you’re looking for motorcycle around that price there is a lot better options.
Its interesting reading the comments because my feeling is that they actually loved this motorcycle. I am a totally biased Versys owner but I've ridden a lot of motorcycles over 30yrs for reference and I still think it is a good bike 👍.
Totally disagree with most of the negative things they say. I literally saw it and said: MAN, this the bike I want! It's more than enough power than most people know what to do with, great (adjustable) suspension and all day comfort. The intake note is lovely, exhaust is not impressive, but if that's really important for you to have a load bike, you're probably over compensating for something!
I own a 2020, trust me you don't want a different exhaust if you are using it for long trips, it will pierce your head. It's one of the best road oriented tourers you can get.
Yeah, this review sold me. The Honda Civic sport hatch of motorcycles is what I want. Just a bit sporty, looks ok but mostly comfortable and reliable. Jack of all trades? Yes please.
This is the bike I own and I absolutely love it. I can imagine thinking it’s boring if I’ve ridden every liter bike out there, turbocharged busas, and basically every flagship motorcycle like these guys have. I guess having access to such premium motorcycles all the time is a double edged sword.
Have you done and exhaust, intake and tune on it? I have owned a few bikes, mostly dual sports, I have yet to own a bike that wasn't a blast to ride. My Honda C70 (still have) or my Honda 230L was just just as fun as my custom built Honda XR250, 2 KTM 625SXC's, my KTM 450EXC (still own) or my new Harley Softail.
I bought my 2016 Versys 650 without even testriding it. It just ticked all the boxes for travelling and commuting. And track days? It’s all about the rider. I’ve chased some much faster bikes around. This bike is not bad - it’s the suv of the bike world. It’s nothing special in any category, but it can do very good in most of the categories.
What is funny about that to me is the guy they rented the bike from is also a Moto journalist. Ari rides super bikes like the H2 or Ducati V4, and all the latest and greatest bikes in the world. He holds several track records and is one of the best riders in the world. Yet this is his personal bike that he "dailies", and loves it. This is the bike he chooses to use when he just wants to go out and have fun. That is a testament to how great of a bike it is. Yammi and Spite have just built a brand out of dunking on the Kawi 650 line up (Vulcan S, Ninja 650, Z650, Versys 650, Z650RS).
What this review fails to acknowledge is how remarkable an achievement it is to be a little above average at everything. That's incredible. It lived up to its name as a versatile system. It's practical and very much not recreational in its riding dynamics. Motorcyles are romantic objects, usually. I get it; you want a motorcycle that knows what it is, and excels at that, at the expense of other things, because those specialized motorcycles are what give us amazing riding experiences most easily (particularly guys who are spoiled with a variety of more expensive machines very regularly). You guys are reviewing that versys on the wrong terms. It is not an uncompromising, specialized tool. I get it that someone who is used to riding amazing machines, doing the thing that they're best at, for a day at a time, isn't going to be impressed by the versys over the course of a one day review. But most people can only afford one motorcycle, and they have to live with it for a few years. The fact that a versys owner isn't held back from dipping a toe into any kind of riding experience is really something. You can try anything on the versys and you're not gonna have a terrible time. And if you're not used to a wide swath of expensive bikes, and the versys is all you know, you're going to LOVE it. Being average at everything is great. Instead of comparing the versys to the performance leader in every type of riding you can do with it, grade it more holistically; what bike can do a little bit of everything better than the versys?
Love the vids guys but Im starting to think riding the best of the best so often that your loosing touch with what it's all about. Sometimes just being on two wheels and taking in the scenery is just as good as going fast. Also beginners and intermediate riders would probably build a whole lot more confidence on this rather than a BMW 1250.
One of the best motorcycles of the 20+ I've owned. That engine is way more exciting than they are willing to give it credit for, the intake roar when you open it up in the right gear is really nice. Comfortable all day touring, great bags. Heated grips are a $100 aftermarket install. Faster and more fun in the twisties than the average bike. I only sold mine because the KLX in the garage gave me a bit too much taste for dirt so it's stable mate is now a 850GSA. If I didn't need the knobbies the Versys would have been a real long relationship, it just does everything well enough. But to each his own and if you're comparing it to a 1250cc adventure bike or a turbo Busa then I guess it's just not exciting enough.
Another words... It's for mature people that don't go 80mph around blind corners in a 40mph zone, that enjoy the scenery and nimbleness of a bike on twisty roads. like along California's coast.
I did everything on a versys. Rode it at CoTA, Put knobbies on it, used it as a woods bike, used it for commuting. Lowered the gearing when the power started feeling predictable. Got a heavy duty skid plate when the off road riding kept ripping off the muffler. Raised the front fender to a dirtbike fender because the tire hugging fender would get broken off or stopped the bike from mud clogging in it. I learned alot about how and why everything was configured on a motorcycle because I could keep adjusting this strong little versatile machine more into what I wanted. There is limits, so I did replace it, but it wasn't possible with a single bike. I replaced with a street legal Honda XR650R Dirtbike and a Triumph Street Triple 675 Daytona. In my view it was the only way to replace all the Versys offered. I still miss it. Now, The experienced motorcyclist in me knows that the excitement a 675 triumph motor would add to Versys 650 frame would be a near perfect motorcycle- better than the triumph 675 it would borrow the motor from. At any rate, anyone who ever bought a klr650 has no right saying anything about a Versys. Not only do you look like a dork, your bike is also turd that weighs more with half the hp.
Planning to ride from Yosemite, Area 51 in ghe Nevada Sierras on some gravel and dirt roads, and some loops above the Grand Canyon North Rim. Lost some strength due to health issues. What’s your opinion on this bike for handling that sort of offroading? I figure it can handle the highways berween there and back to the Midwest fine.
Rode it once. Bought one the next day. Conceded 90hp coming from my beamer 1600. Never regretted it one second. And still riding with the beamer club. Even on dirt, sand and through forests she holds her own. I’m really, really happy with this bike!
No need to hate the Versys. It's very similar to the V-strom. It's very reliabe and with the right farkles it can do some off road work. The motor is way better than the KLR650 thumper. It is also way more fun to ride than a Harley. Ohhhhhhhhhhh!
@@MrKillervincent I guess the other angle a VStrom has over the Versys is that it can be, or at least look, a bit more adventure, esp if go for XT version spoked wheels, throw on a real skidplate on. Also, as you say, the V twin (or L twin) gives the VStrom 'something' but I hear that is going to be replaced by parallel twin. So that might be a risk to the brand - can it still be a V if no V.....- will it suffer Versysitis in engine terms??
@@eamonnmurphy5039 VStrom has no chance keeping up w/ the Versys on the backroad. It may be a better interstate bike, and can do some off-road, but if you're gonna carve corners, not close.
I love my 2021 Versys 650. Yesterday two guys in a heavy-duty lifted Chevy pickup truck pulled beside me at a light, rolled down the window, and said .... NICE BIKE Man!
Grew up on dirt bikes and then sport bikes in my college days. Went 20 years without a motorcycle. The Versys 650 was the perfect bike to get back into the game. Now that the skills and experience has come back its time to step up to something with a more power, handling, features…Ducati supersport 950 maybe. No regrets buying the Versys!
While the Multistrada is a great bike, I’m looking to go back to my sport bike roots. But given I’m a couple decades past my 20s nor do I need 200HP …Supersport 950S or RS 660 seem to be my best options.
Bought a Versys 650 to get back into riding and it's an amazing bike over 20,000 miles in two years and I don't use it to commute just for fun and cruising. I've taken it on multiple 3000+ mile trips, did 760 miles in one day. I ride it more often than my ZX-6R it's just playful and fun.
To each his own, but i love riding my Versys 650. I do at least 10k a year on it... And I like a bike that i can ride to the limit and still master, not one of the hundreds of massively overpowered bikes that 95% of riders buy to look cool but need to come with tons of electronics in order to just stay alive ... And I ride with ear plugs, so about the sound: 🤷🏼♂️
I've owned my Versys 650 for 3 years and it is by far the best bike I've ever owned. Comfortable with good wind protection and storage for long rides, good gas mileage, reliable, can carve twisties no problem all for under 6k. I don't mind the engine sound, like the way it looks and can get down on it in a way that it is plenty peppy and fun. Not a drop of buyers remorse with my Versys and will never sell it.
I saw that thumbnail and my first thought was “Ari you serious? You guys have got to be Henning me with this. It’s a Versys 650, not some major Revzilla machine!”
I had a first gen versys, I was doing unspeakable things. Scraping peg/foot on a regular basis. I'm not sure how I didn't die, but I did ride it like a moto gp bike
I am on my third versys MK1,MK2 now a MK3 Grand Tourer I go all over europe its done almost 18,000 miles its never broke down starts first time every time , its comfy and for a single guy on tour its more than enough fitted a Center stand ,heated grips, MRA screen front and rear huggers rad guard GPS mount and more its a great bike i will be getting the MK4 next year :)
Full disclaimer: I have a '18 Versys and love it. Here's the thing I think they miss: Kawi made it this way on purpose. On my ride into work There's a few traffic circles, 24 miles of interstate, and then two rail crossings that make nice little wheelie bumps. You can ride comfortably standing up (like a supermoto!?), over obstacles or through gravel or crappy pavement. This is one half hour of my day, each way, that is way more fun on a Versys than I could ever have on a liter sport bike or naked especially when you factor in the interstate stretch where the Versys is superb. If you approach it like a bland, boring, bike that's probably how you're going to ride it.
@@NeoTunedOfficial can recommend that for commuting. With the automatic transmission, the thickest of traffic is relaxing to drive through, and the fuel to fun ratio is okay enough. Especially compared to other commuting options, it is about the best, only beat by electric motorbikes, probably. So many people treat motorbikes as they must must must be toys only and must not have a practical transportation use. Most of these guys ride it only on the sunny weekends, tho. I like the bike that doesn't push itself in the foreground of the ride experience. Like yam here enjoys the road and the scenery, not the bike. The bike is a tool, and some see that as heresy.
@@es-br8ck I agree. Most Americans have motorcycles as a side vehicle and I think most subs do too. I guess I shouldn't make assumptions though. Anyways, for those of us that use their bike as primary transportation the more boring bikes that get poor reviews often make the best daily riders and gain a cult following. Like the Honda Pacific Coast. I was using my boring FZ6 since I bought it new in 2007 and still love it. I've also used some scooters in that time and am currently riding a mini moto most days until I narrow down on my next daily. Reserving the FZ6 for touring mostly. I do have to agree that if your getting a bike just for fun then go for the one that inspires you even if it's less practical, unless your just learning 😉.
2 wheels beats a car unless there's ice on the road, for me. When there's ice on the road, still the case but I have to switch to my bicycle which has Nokian W240 carbide studded tires. Gets around better than a car on ice.
I love my 2015 Versys. 53K miles on it. I have other bikes but always end up on the Versys. Ride it in the Santa Cruz and San Mateo mountains with no issues. I also ride it in San Francisco, pretty much daily. Also gets great gas mileage - minimum 50 mpg, but as high as 70 mpg. Yes, really.
My thought is, if you can’t have fun on almost any bike (short of it just being the wrong ergonomics for you or something) then you’re doing something wrong, or approaching motorcycles in a way that needs a reset. I have tons of fun on my Z400, and I did on my CB500F. Weekend rides with guys on every type of bike, weeknight rides to unwind after work, touring all over Ontario including 2500km trips. Loved every kilometre of it. *edit* I should add, I’m not tall and weigh about 160 lbs, so my Z may be not enough for some, but nobody should need 200hp to have fun on the road.
This bike seems to get a lotta hate. I have a 2021 and love it for my work commute. Reliable, fun, and great MPG. I installed a Leo Vince exhaust to make it sound better, Corbin seat, and bigger windscreen. I worry a lot more about loving the ride versus trying to present a certain cool factor to the world.
I've been commuting in LA traffic with one for a couple years now. It's the perfect commuter. Also have fun taking it out in the Twisties like Little Tujunga canyon
I got a versys 650 for my first real road bike I think its great. It takes me from home to work and back again. Plus it has way more power than the crf250l I started on. I personally think that it is a good bike for less experience riders and it will help them learn before they move to anything bigger
That is not just any Versys 650, that is THE Versys 650. And I gotta say, it looks much better than the one he and his buddy took around the race track
But clearly, THAT owner wouldn't choose such a "boring, souless" bike to travel all over with, right? Its not like HE'S tried tons of different motorcycles in his lifetime, but STILL chose a Versys 650 as one of his personal bikes.....hmmmm......
I've got one of these and love it! For those of us w/out big budgets, it's a good bike for the daily and fun in the twisties w/out giving you a backache after an hr. Two Bros exhaust gives me a way better sound than stock, btw.
Plus you can get a Versys 650 + a KLR 650 + a huge pile of brand new ATGATT gear for the price of the Pan America. That's a lot of fun to be had for the bucks. in my area, you can get your choice of dozens of brand new outgoing year Versys 650 LTs for around $6500. That's what I always do. Especially since for years at a time, the only difference between model years is the color.
I Had a Ducati scrambler Icon, really fun and the engine ( despite the countless fake neutrals ) was much faster than the Versys 650 but I have to tell you ( and it's personal of course ) I changed it for a Versys 650 2021 and I never felt happier. the Bike is a lot more fun than what they make it look like in the video, I change the front sprocket for an extra tooth and the bike is perfect for easy long rides but also for curving twisties because it allows you to play more with second and third gear: if ridden on the sweet spot 3500 to 8000 rpm the engine is actually very responsive It's not the engine of the century but if you use it well it can be loooooads of fun: I annoy (overtake) a lot of guys on naked bikes in the twisties that cannot believe how agile this bike can be, I never see him pushing the gears in the video, he's riding it like a grandpa. Needles to say that you cannot compare it to a 1 liter but it's a much better bike than one can think of.
I re-entered street riding after a long absence on a new 2007 Versys. It was absolutely PERFECT for that mission. Totally controllable, comfortable, free of nasty surprises, very competent. A fantastic platform to work on ME. Today, I ride an MT-10, so yeah. Not sure I'd go back. BUT that Versys is super great for lots of people. And no wheelies the bike decides it wants to do of its own accord. Bonus for beginners. :-)
Oh, but it will do great wheelies when desired! Clutch up second gear, or 1st power wheelies (a careless person could do those accidentally for sure though, imho)
I really don’t what there is to goof on with this bike. Not sure I can say the same about the reviewers. ahem. It’s a great beginner/ do anything/ do everything/ easy to live with/ commuter/ tourer bike. Nice job Kawasaki.
Our garage is kinda funny. We currently have a Versys 650 sitting beside a $30k Ultra Limited. I ride a bike to work every day, and for about a year I drove the Versys. I always described it as "fine", it's utilitarian. My wife drives it most days now. We've had a lot of bikes that range in types and styles. Everything from a Grom, to a Shadow, to a Tenere 700, Ninja 300, Sportster 1200, and a z650... And the Versys has been one of the best for commuting and one of the worst for fun. It's reliable and easy to maintain, but it lacks character. The strongest compliment I can give it is that, short of a large full touring bike, the Versys is the best for year round riding in all weather.
Got one new for $6100. It was a 2015 still on the floor in 2017. Loved it. The handling, size, seat height, mpg, gas tank size, adjustable shocks. Great. But underpowered for my 250 pounds. It also sounds iconic with a two brothers full exhaust. Other countries use these for their police departments and motorcycle tours. Bulletproof bikes. They also have a following for ADV after swapping the tires.
I have a Versys 650 2009, I bought it used and yes it is not a wonderful bike but I love it, it is a trustworthy bike, It does everything just fine, it is easy to ride and gave me lot of fun in any road.
Always have disagreed with using boring as a negative light on some bikes. Where boring can honestly be switched with beginner friendly or easier to control. Boring can also be a better commuter or travel bike where something more jerky would be better for the track or short trips.
Only saying this because thinking of my younger self or people who are more impressionable. Seeing videos likes these where bikes are described as boring make steer newer and less experienced riders to buy a bike they can't handle due to certain videos. Nothing against you guys and I still watch every video. Just food for thought ✌️
@@ahunterohio Also that "boring" usually mean stable and safe. A grom with 69 horses would be exciting, but probably not too fun in highway traffic where you are fighting for your life.
Man i love my 2012 Versys! It's my daily commuter, it's great on gas, it's low maintenance and it's never let me down. You guys sound like a couple of spoiled rich kids. I don't ride 20k motorcycles, but all the extras that you talk about can be added aftermarket so don't complain about that crap. I love riding, guess it don't matter what I ride as long as I'm riding somewhere.
I own a 2017 LT version and love it, I have owned ZZR1400, ZRX1200, GPZ900R, GPZ750R and a few others, but the Versys is plenty for me, you can definitely have fun
I have the 2008 versys 650. My last and first bike was an 83 cb1000 (2 shifters...). Ever since I've upgraded I've been pushing that bike to it's limits. Maybe it's because of my lack of context, but I know that my versys is the perfect bike for me. And not just for it's "mellow" qualities
I ride the Versys 650 3rd gen daily to work 5 days a week, 1 hour per day. I personally agree with yammie on a lot of stuff about the bike. The versys is a truly a versatile bike that i have ever owned. I have friends who rode a versys from Malaysia to India and back (11,200KM) It never broken down once.. other BMW GS went together with them had to cut it short and return back home..
My wife bought a 2018 V650 new. After a variety of farkles, she still never got to like it. It did suffer from some fairly serious throttle snatch that an ECU only partly cured (and made it faster and smoother, thanks Shoodaben Engineering). She sold it in favor of the Ninja version, more to her style. She has two of them, older and new. I rode her '18 some and never fell in love, either. Not that it wasn't exceptionally functional, but it didn't really grab me at the time. But at the 2021 EMS outdoor bike show the Kawasaki rep insisted I try the demo V650 and so I did. For some reason, it was far nicer in the engine bay than my wife's '18, smoother and non-snatchy (old guy raised on carburetors- throttle snatch is just not acceptable). It bears mention that maybe the Versys 650's best feature is the suspension, which is rather upscale from this bike's price point. The ride is really, really nice, and well-controlled. The hard parts are a big improvement over the Ninja, Z, and Vulcan versions. A V-Strom 650 has a better engine and is a bit faster, but the Versys is superior in almost every other way, including build quality. (I own one myself.)
so ive had bikes stolen off my parking lot before, and a versys 300 replaced my old 75 kz400. i kid you not when i would hear lawnmowers turn on when i was working overnights it would wake me out of a dead sleep, and i would have to check it, becuase i was constantly thinking some ones stealing by bike. had to upgrade the exhaust on my versys then it was good to go haha.
Let's put it this way... It is affordable bike, that is reliable, decently quick, capable and comfortable... And has more personality than most riders on the road.
Finally, some Versys, dare I say, love? Haha! I own the 2011-2014 version which I would argue is the best looking version. I have some farkles for rural country riding, bash plate, engine guards, grip warmers, honestly it has that budget GS look. Great bike, fun on twisty's, and capable on gravel roads with some 80/20 spec rubber. Is it the ultimate "one" bike, no, but will it make you smile, yes. Perhaps the best beginner bike that you can keep for more than a year and still enjoy.
Honestly I've settled on a two bike solution, versys 650 as my tourer/everyday bike and something for pure fun. Having a bike that's comfortable, super easy to maintain, handles well in twisties AND can do 250 miles to a tank is useful. But i still want an rs660 or a supermoto for the fun factor.
Only speaking for my own tastes I think it looks great, and as far as the sound who cares. It's a parallel twin. None of them sound good regardless of the configuration. The quieter the exhaust system, the better. Just 69 hp you say? Out of 650cc's that's nothing to complain about. I had one of the early 750 Hondas (a 1974 that I bought new) and if my memory serves they were 67 hp which was plenty then and probably still is. If you're riding high powered bikes all the time, of course it might feel a bit underwhelming, but for the average rider I think it would probably rate a lot better than a 5 out of 10. Just my opinion, and still a great video. Would love to see you do something similar with the V-Strom 650. ;)
What? Parallel twin that sounds good: Yamaha Cp2 , Hondas 1100, basically all twin triumph's....hell even the 650 by royal Enfield sounds awesome... Not true..they can sound better than any inline 4 imho.
@@eQui253 I guess different strokes for different folks but I started out on a 500 BSA Royal Star that belonged to my dad, bought a 500 Triumph Tiger 100 of my own, then a 750 Matchless, followed by a 450 Honda (best of the bunch by a long way so far) followed that with my 750 Honda, and then a new CB1100F in '83. To my ears the 4 cylinders sounded a thousand times better.
The MT-07, 890 Duke, Bonneville, and others sound significantly better than the abysmal flat plane in the Kawi. The Versys is a good bike. But the engine just sucks. The Yamaha engine is punchier and more responsive while having practically the same displacement and output.
Yeah I literally couldn't give less of a shit what my bike sounds like once I'm on it. I like the sound of a revving bike with a nice exhaust note in theory, but then I imagine having to listen to it all the damn time or ride through a quiet neighborhood and can't get my head around wanting that.
Yes, Yammie you were. I have 11 horses in my stable and a Versys 650 is one of them. I do all my Iron Butts on it. If I could keep only one it would be the Versys 650. If you ever find yourself in St. Louis hit me up. You can ride any one of them.
These guys have never felt the pain of a road trip with a Yamaha XS650 Special....a lot of complaints about a great motorcycle. All their complaining sold me on getting one of these LOL.
Please stop pushing the fallacy that a street bike is "high mileage" at 20-30K miles. The only thing high mileage about a street bike at 30k miles is that motorcyclists just tend to not ride very much and tend to not put on miles like a car. This gives people the false impression that bike miles of 30k are equal to a car at like 175k as far as wear an tear so they think a bike at 30+ K miles is worn out and worth half as the same bike that has just 10k miles or so, or less! Bikes are just like cars and can easily last 100-200k miles the same as a car as long as maintenance is kept up.
My first bike was a first gen Versys 650 and I loved it, like many others here in Germany. The 2. and 3. gen can't keep up but the first handled like a supermoto, i basically destroyed the whole pegs while killing the small curvy roads of the black forest
ARI'S BIKE! I love my Versys! (1st Gen, though) I shopped used bikes, looked at, sat on them forever. In contast to many, apparently, I fell in love with its quirky looks immediately, and bought as a first bike especially for universal-ness of it...my only disappointment really has been engine note. Knew you wouldn't hate it. Wish Spite had ridden it, he was just nonstop hating!
I wasn’t expecting you guys to sing praise on the bike, but I am glad to see you guys at least rode one. Thank you. I can take the criticisms knowing you’ve at least ridden it. Personally, I have a ‘21 LT - and for the riding I do in my area, I really do enjoy the overall nature of the bike. *And I have to admit, even at almost 40 and on a Versys 650 - I still have my squid moments where speed limits are suggestions, and getting on the side of the tire with the feelers barely off pavement happen semi regularly.
As a daily rider, or office commuter to me it’s perfect. Upright seating, panniers for storage. Travel where I do as a daily would be awesome. I own a 2015 fjr for my long distance touring and hard riding. Keeping the Versys in the contention as a daily rider
Just bought a 2008 as my first bike and i couldn’t be happier. I’m 6’5 260 and I’m really comfortable and I took off the bags and it’s literally a more upright ninja 650.
As a owner of the GT650 I'm gonna go with the royal enfield. The bike is like a blank slate when it comes to customization and upgrades. It's up to you to fit it with everything you want cause that's what café is about
Can't really compare. The Enfield has far more presence and character. 270° crank gives the engine a beautiful throaty sound unlike this bike's sewing machine quality. Steel brake lines, slipper clutch, ABS standard, Bosch FI, etc.
@@rudolphpyatt4833 they will certainly not judging by 4 years worth of Discord shitposting. That said, I was glad to see that it's at least liquid cooled.
I bought a 2021 last year. Choice between a Triumph Tiger and this. Truthfully, a no brainer once one looks at reliability and future service needs and costs. The #1 thing that sold me on this type of bike is the fact it sits like a dirt bike. With history on dirt bikes I feel I have more control over this bike than I do a bike that looks like I’m ducking for cover or one that looks like I’m in a recliner reaching to tie my shoe. I ride with 2 guys that own Dukes. After a 100 mile day ride, guess who’s standing up wiggling their butts… not me. Not once. They have way more power but can’t use it really when cops are around so my bike amazingly keeps up with them. ‘Nuff said.
I have a 2019 650 LT. I absolutely love it. I came from riding a Honda CBR 1000. Then a Honda CBR 600. I owned a Yamaha r6 and I ended up going to this bike. And I will tell you I absolutely love it. It does everything above average. And 43 years old and no longer want to ride the sport bikes, but this thing has plenty of grunt in the corners and plenty of lean to have a great time in the canyons. I don’t think it looks dorky at all. I think it’s an amazing looking bike. I got it in black and that beautiful Kawasaki green. I guess just just what they like. But I absolutely love this bike. It’s super comfortable to go on long rides and sporty enough to have a great time in the canyons.couldn’t ask for more
So let me get this straight: All your criticisms very much go like, "The engine sucks, but...it doesn't for what it is meant to do"; "The looks suck, but...they don't, not realy"; "The handling sucks, but...they are great for those that it is designed for"; "The presence sucks...compared to a bike you cannot even get in America"; "It is cheap, but....rather inexpensive, and actually quite loaded"; "It sounds like a lawnmower, but...so do all other twins, and by the way, it is an indestructible lawnmower", etc., etc..... Did I miss something else? You know, I drive a Honda minivan (Two in fact), and I have friends who give me shit because they drive the likes of Honda Type R, etc., but I noticed every time we go out of town on a trip, I'm the one who is driving them. And not because of space, but for any trip over four hours? Yeah. I also had for years a Porsche, which I absolutely loved to drive...occasionally, given that I had to change the battery once a year because I didn't drive it all that often. But whenever I did drive it, I loved it for what it was and what it did. And I remember one time "racing" a guy in a Corvette on a long, slightly twisty highway, doing 120, until I noticed behind us a first generation Chrysler minivan, with the fake wood on the side, keeping right up with us. Yeah, that is what is called, "PERSPECTIVE". I do understand how fun is to beat up on the small kid in the school yard, but maybe you should grow tha' fuck up, and do your jobs, which just in case you keep forgetting, it is to give encouragement to people who don't ride, help those who do want to ride, and steer those who do ride - not on your own uninformed prejudices, but on what the gear is designed for, how well it executes its design, and who would benefit from it. Or maybe I'm wrong and you actually do think that everyone who doesn't ride a "turbo busa" should be looked down upon.
I got one as a first bike here in the UK. Use it to commute, it’s restricted to A2 (47bhp) so it’s ‘lack’ of power isn’t an issue. It handles very well and won’t wrap me around a lamppost if I get heavy handed with the clutch/brakes or throttle… I do wish it sounded better but all my friends who don’t care about cars or bikes think it sounds great sooo 🤷♂️. Love yammie content and so great to have so much content being uploaded. Keep it up you legends
Back when there was still an endurance road-race series called Moto-ST, Gary Nixon and Jay Springsteen raced the Versys 650, not the Ninja 650, probably due to it having the adjustable suspension. I've never bought a Versys 650, but I've always found it to be an interesting bike. Then again, I've also used a pocket protector unironically. My daughter has a Versys X-300 and I think it's a fabulous little bike. It's good enough for the freeway and great for dirt roads. Power and weight aside, I wonder how the two Versys models compare.
I had a 2017 versys 300 and it was one of my vavorite bikes and sooo fun, then i got a 2011 versys 650... i hated it it was super boring and slow and the powerband was the worst
I've been riding a 2018 Triumph T120 for 3 years and it's been absolutely flawless, but up here in New England a naked bike has its limitations. My new bike will have a windscreen and panniers and many a few bells and whistles, and the Versys is high up on my list. My only worry is whether or not I'll be happy going from 1200 CC down to almost half. My local dealer has a demo day coming up, so I guess I'll find out.
I have a 2018. I know it's nerdy, but as a tall person, I wanted a bike I didn't look ridiculous on. It's my first bike, so I wasn't trying to break the bank.
I'm tall but not super tall, and it wouldn't be my first bike, but the versys 650 is a sweet spot bike for me. Comfortable and practical enough to tour on, light enough and powerful enough to have fun on. Seriously underrated imo
Pick up my 2015 vs that had 15k miles on it in mint condition for 2500$ couldnt be happier with a bike. Side note came with factory exhaust uninstalled has a slip on exhaust sounds super nice compared to vs with factory exhaust. Extremely fun and comfortable bike.
Here in the UK, the ER-6f/ Ninja 650 has always been proclaimed as a bike that is way more than the sum of it's parts, and generally lives up to that reputation. The Versys kind of tags onto that hype when actually it is just a premium commuter bike; simple, comfy, practical, reliable and quick enough to have fun on the ride home. I use two-wheels for my daily commute and general running-around and so bikes like that are great; they do a fabulous job a being the "second car" alternative, but the Versys (And V-Strom 650) will never set the world alight. I think of the Versys as the ancestor of the old ER5, a dumpy old parallel twin 500cc bike that was THE training school bike and the budget commuter choice for decades because they are basically un-killable, and we do need a few bikes like that in the world. At least this gen Versys is better than the old stacked headlight model which was genuinely awful to look at.
I own the 2008 650 Versys. Bought it used for a song. Would rank it higher but only slightly over the V-Storm which I have owned. So much more reliable than the HD Road Glide I used to own. As powerful as the 1100 GL gold wing I used to own. And the upright sitting position is very comfortable for me at 250 6’4”.
I've been riding my 2009 versys 650 for 5 years now. I use it as a short distance daily commuter. I use it for medium-long distance travel. I use it on bad roads. I use it on good roads. I drive it in all weather. I have a custom exhaust which makes it sound amazing. I have fun every time I ride it. My only complaint is how badly the frame rusts.
Thank you for reviewing the Versys 650. I was looking at it for my beginner bike. I would plan on moving on past it in a couple of years after I get some experience riding motorcycles.
Sounds to me like its a perfect bike to learn on. It's a lot of bike for the money, and has a low barrier to entry. Lower skill levels will get a huge thrill out of it, higher skill levels will probably want something more powerful but still come back to this as a daily driver.
As an owner of a 2018 650 who got it as a first bike, I can say it is and was pretty exciting despite its reputation. Maybe because it is also my first bike. It is an easy bike to learn on for bigger people, and the price is right.
I think personally the versys 1000 makes more sense i test rode both these bikes and while the 650 has it's shine in certain small aspects the 1000 versys has the true Versys magic
I tested both on Kawasaki Green days (testing day where you can borrow a bike for small fee for one hour) and I have to say Versys 1000 is a dad bike. I felt Im not old enough for that shit. I own 2007 Versys 650 and newer model is basically the same maybe bit more muffled by newer Euro emision norms. On the other hand, Z 900 was such a blast Im now considering switching to naked from the V650 :D
@@thilo7546 Z900 RS is kinda a dream bike of mine, but it cost 1/3 more than regular Z900. I know the target customer is not necesarily the same for those but w/e. So, maybe I'll buy used one in few years :D
Get yourself 10% off over at Ridge.com/yammienoob by using the code "YAMMIENOOB"
Rent a bike in your area (no versys 650's pls): www.twistedroad.com
Lol at bike stuff. All while here I am with a shitty 125cc Chinese scooter thats back in the garage for the 6th time this month.
I wouldn't rent one iv got one.
Exactly as you guys say. Does everything you need but nothing more. I was glad to see you finally test ride one.
As a commuter bike, it's a 10
What's the seat height? And is it adjustable? I'm only 5'6" Thanks!
@@FormerMPSGT Make sure to sit on one before buying it. Get the lower aftermarket seat. Height doesn't matter, it's your inseam that matters.
I own this exact bike and, while I can't disagree with a lot of the criticisms, I can say that I don't spend my days riding every other bike out there. I spent $6500 on a motorcycle and got something that is great for commuting, can tour and is a lot more fun to spend time on the road with than a car. I have hard cases that fit a full-face helmet on each side, are key matched and a top case that can hold a weekend's worth of stuff. I have heated grips, adjustable wind protection and 250+ miles of range with an adjustable suspension. If you are a moto-journo who rides everything, everywhere, I can see why this wouldn't blow your hair back. If, however, you are a regular person who has other priorities in their life than whatever it is these gate-keeping, condescending blowhards have, maybe the top of the bell curve for a reasonable price with excellent reliability is exactly what you'd want. Have fun and stay safe on your ride fellas, maybe someday I'll be as cool as you.
Totally. I own one, too. Not everyone has to be Evel Knievel or have 150hp pack of firecrackers between our legs. I sold my DRZ400S (jetted, pipe, etc) that I usually roaded for something I could ride more than two hours and hear myself think. Goes a lot faster than my DRZ, for sure! My riding is not that “technical,” as I like a bit more of a zen thing, but hey, something not mentioned is that this bike can can be pushed and it’s pretty fun to push a bike that will honor you with decent acceleration when you crank it and deliver good cornering… basically a bike you can wind out and it not kill you. As a mix of features and capabilities, there is harmony there and it serves it role well.
Oh, and I’ve had kids “wow” at my Versys while parked next to a Ninja, so there! :-)
100%... I can't afford to have a garage full of bikes for every occasion. Instead I bought a cheap, reliable (in my opinion) good looking bike, that is comfortable, has plenty of good looking easy to connect/ disconnect storage, plenty of comfort for long rides, agile enough for good twisties & around town, enough space & power for my wife to ride along... I love this bike, it does everything I ask of it, short of going off road.
They never tried to push it into curves lol
“Gate-keeping, condescending blowhards”. I wish I’d said that. Your comment is spot on. I don’t own a Versys, but I’m really done listening to these guys.
At 13:30 he says “with heated grips and cruise control I think this would be a sweet little motorcycle”. Did you watch the video?
I own the same exact bike. I bought it new in 2015 and have put almost 80,000 miles on it so far. It’s incredibly dependable. I ride it to work almost every day. I also own a 2021 Kawasaki zx14r. Each bike is built for a purpose. I love my Versys and I’m going to ride it to the ground. It’s the best $8600 I’ve ever spent.
Pfft what do you know riding every day and 80k !? I'd rather listen to someone who rides their big liter sport bike for half an hour once a year while shiting themselves......
(Obviously joking - I like you)
@@georgel3657 lol. When my Versys dies in maybe 5 to 10 more years, I’m buying another one.
Since i live in Miami, I ride year round and only use my car when it rains. 50mpg’s on regular gas is great right now.
How does this compare to the ZX-14 I'm about to buy one and also own a ZX-14 just afraid it's going to be too slow to be enjoyable
Please respond
😂
You guys definitely have different ideas about riding that many of out here in this world have.
It is great for people who only ride for fun and/or can afford a bike for every situation... for most of the world, that is not the case, and I would argue that the Versys ticks more "must have" boxes than most bikes for most people.
@@petervenkman69 agree it’s just about perspective. Everyone I know that has a motorcycle has a car so their motorcycle is their weekend toy.
@@vebez5993 Where do you live? The reason I ask is that I live in the UK, the older people I know who ride, do drive cars, but that is only when the weather is really bad, or they have to move something big, or they have to take the kids somewhere (so purely practical constraints). Younger people I know who ride, just ride bikes.
I have a number of friends from India, and all of them have ridden motorcycles before moving to the UK.
I suppose my issue with Yammie and Spike's approach is that they are concerned about their needs and wants, not that of other riders... and so while they have an amusing meme channel, I would suggest that their reviews are lacking as they don't take other people into consideration, and I would suggest that is something they need to work on if they want to be taken seriously.
@@petervenkman69 Probably America. Until the past 2 years, cars have been cheaper than bikes. The roads are large enough and everywhere has enough parking that there's no convenience advantage to motorcycles. Maybe if you live in a college dorm parking is easier, maybe. Winters are cold enough in most of the country that it is either unsafe or impossible to ride a motorcycle.
There are 0 practical reasons to own a motorcycle instead of a car in America, they only exist for fun or leisure.
In California, filtering through traffic could allow you to commute much faster. But as a dedicated Midwesterner, California is not America.
@@rightwingsafetysquad9872 That's pretty much what I figured to be honest, while here my parking is free, I can filter, snow is very rare (haven't had it at all for 3 years), bikes can be cheaper, petrol is cheaper. Basically if you are single or a couple who needs a 2nd vehicle, I would argue a bike should be seriously considered.
So to get this straight... You don't like it because it comes with lockable waterproof hard bags, it's comfortable to commute on daily, handles well in turns, quicker than all of the traffic around you while getting 45+ mpg, has a huge tank that allows 250 mile fill-ups, and is as reliable as they come? So it's practical and that makes it suck? Sounds like you're the kind of "riders" that use your bikes as toys. Those of us that commute daily regardless of weather and put 12k plus miles on the clock every year know the true value of the Versys. But hey, I bet your friends think you're cool. Thought this might be the video that brought me back to the channel, but nope. You should probably take some lessons from real moto-journalists like Zack Courts and Ari Henning.
Oh dear, methinks the irony missed you
I think you hit the nail on the head.
I think he’s just saying it’s not a “great” bike. When there’s so much better competition it’s still good but is it competing? And yes yammie views bikes as toys, it’s just a different perspective that you get mad at when he doesn’t think your bike is that great. I daily commute on my motorcycle but I know most people don’t do that and are not going to have the same perspective of motorcycles as just transportation. It’s a bike that makes sense to you and I and it’s still fun but lacks a bit of umphh. I think they need a different engine in a few of their bikes to change that.
@@vebez5993 I wouldn't disagree about the different engines.
When it comes to how they evaluate bikes, I think they really need to go on record to state that they view bikes as an occasional vehicle rather than as a daily rider. There is nothing wrong with that perspective, except a lot of people actually have practical uses for a bike, and therefore while the memes on the channel might be fun, the reviews are fairly meaningless for those people. The problem is Yammie tries to be funny and a serious bike channel at the same time. It is possible to do that Ryan F9 pulls it off. The trick is to understand riders and their needs. Now I think that Yammie felt he was broadening his horizons when he brought Spike on as Spike is a Harley dude.. and yes, actually that did help a bit... but not much, that just meant that you have 2 people with different biases. To be a "propper" motorcycle reviewer you need to be concerned with the needs of other people, not just your personal desires.
@@petervenkman69 sure I agree with you but you have to admit it’s just a boring bike, lacking of character. For anyone that’s an enthusiast it’s not going to be a fun bike. But if you just daily it to get places then sure do that. It’s like driving a mini van you don’t drive it cause it’s fun you do it because it makes sense for your needs. Although I think there’s a lot better options.
I don’t see why it is nerdy or even ugly. It is a nice looking bike. Looks a lot better that a KTM. I don’t get why anyone would not like this bike
Have you seen the other bikes Kawasaki makes? Compared to its brethren it's ugly as sin. It's like a Maxima and a Juke, you wouldn't believe they were both made by Nissan.
@@RudeXII it is not ugly period. KTMs are ugly. This bike looks fine for a modern bike
Sorry John. It's an ugly little thing. So's the KTM. Probably both tons of fun to cruise around on though.
@@johnkluge3421 I mean ktms are ugly too, you're absolutely right but so is this thing. And I'm a Kawasaki simp, I've bought nothing but Kawasaki for all my years riding and I love them to death but this one just isn't where the bread is buttered
I even think the 1st and 2nd gen look great (though admittedly I own the former.) I've seriously considered a KTM for my second bike, but cannot get over that headlight. So gross.
I don’t understand these guys. I own a 2019 Versey 650 and I absolutely love it. I came from riding a CBR 1000 and a Yamaha R1. And this bike has more than enough power for you to have fun while also getting 50 miles to the gallon and being very comfortable to ride. Bought this for 7700 brand new. No complaints and it’s the best motorcycle I’ve ever owned. These dudes don’t know what they’re talking about
Riding that bike enabled you to look at the scenery.
That is what its for.
Worry free riding.
Lets put it this way... Its 5k bike that you dont like cause it doesnt feel like 30k bike... it has 70hp but it doesnt give you hardon like 150hp. Its comfortable bike but not as sporty as you want it to be... And its not screaming like hell.... oh btw, its unkillable lawnmower engine that will outlast most of the super expensive screaming ones👍
Agreed. Spite picked a Harley Davidson Pan American which comes with a sticker above $20,000 and then dunked on the versys 650 because it was so much worse at 5K.
If I was to get a bike that is the same price as the versus 650 they test rode but is better in every way which they supposedly give the impression is easy to do, which bike would that be?
They never tell you
Just like they did with the Vulcan S. Spite just can't admit that the Vulcan S will dust up on everything in the Harley lineup except for the V-Rod and Livewire for $8k.
Just needs a VTwin and it’ll be fixed
The mt07 engine is also super fun and reliable. Kawasaki needs to create a better/more fun engine. I think his point is that it’s just a average bike, it’s not super fun or special in anyway, and lacking character. It’s still a motorcycle at the end of the day so it’s still fun and it’s not a bad bike at all but it’s definitely not the best bike.
If you have one that awesome don’t listen to anyone else, but if you’re looking for motorcycle around that price there is a lot better options.
And that model is $8,000 not 5k. You can get a lot of awesome bikes for 8k
Its interesting reading the comments because my feeling is that they actually loved this motorcycle. I am a totally biased Versys owner but I've ridden a lot of motorcycles over 30yrs for reference and I still think it is a good bike 👍.
Totally disagree with most of the negative things they say. I literally saw it and said: MAN, this the bike I want! It's more than enough power than most people know what to do with, great (adjustable) suspension and all day comfort. The intake note is lovely, exhaust is not impressive, but if that's really important for you to have a load bike, you're probably over compensating for something!
I own a 2020, trust me you don't want a different exhaust if you are using it for long trips, it will pierce your head. It's one of the best road oriented tourers you can get.
Yeah, this review sold me. The Honda Civic sport hatch of motorcycles is what I want. Just a bit sporty, looks ok but mostly comfortable and reliable. Jack of all trades? Yes please.
This is the bike I own and I absolutely love it. I can imagine thinking it’s boring if I’ve ridden every liter bike out there, turbocharged busas, and basically every flagship motorcycle like these guys have. I guess having access to such premium motorcycles all the time is a double edged sword.
Have you done and exhaust, intake and tune on it? I have owned a few bikes, mostly dual sports, I have yet to own a bike that wasn't a blast to ride. My Honda C70 (still have) or my Honda 230L was just just as fun as my custom built Honda XR250, 2 KTM 625SXC's, my KTM 450EXC (still own) or my new Harley Softail.
I also worked at dealerships and owned a dismantling company and rode tons of bikes, all were fun.
@@michaelconran5252 Honestly I haven't made a single modification to it, bone stock (mine is a 2019).
I bought my 2016 Versys 650 without even testriding it. It just ticked all the boxes for travelling and commuting. And track days? It’s all about the rider. I’ve chased some much faster bikes around. This bike is not bad - it’s the suv of the bike world. It’s nothing special in any category, but it can do very good in most of the categories.
What is funny about that to me is the guy they rented the bike from is also a Moto journalist. Ari rides super bikes like the H2 or Ducati V4, and all the latest and greatest bikes in the world. He holds several track records and is one of the best riders in the world. Yet this is his personal bike that he "dailies", and loves it. This is the bike he chooses to use when he just wants to go out and have fun.
That is a testament to how great of a bike it is. Yammi and Spite have just built a brand out of dunking on the Kawi 650 line up (Vulcan S, Ninja 650, Z650, Versys 650, Z650RS).
What this review fails to acknowledge is how remarkable an achievement it is to be a little above average at everything. That's incredible. It lived up to its name as a versatile system. It's practical and very much not recreational in its riding dynamics. Motorcyles are romantic objects, usually. I get it; you want a motorcycle that knows what it is, and excels at that, at the expense of other things, because those specialized motorcycles are what give us amazing riding experiences most easily (particularly guys who are spoiled with a variety of more expensive machines very regularly). You guys are reviewing that versys on the wrong terms. It is not an uncompromising, specialized tool.
I get it that someone who is used to riding amazing machines, doing the thing that they're best at, for a day at a time, isn't going to be impressed by the versys over the course of a one day review. But most people can only afford one motorcycle, and they have to live with it for a few years. The fact that a versys owner isn't held back from dipping a toe into any kind of riding experience is really something. You can try anything on the versys and you're not gonna have a terrible time. And if you're not used to a wide swath of expensive bikes, and the versys is all you know, you're going to LOVE it. Being average at everything is great. Instead of comparing the versys to the performance leader in every type of riding you can do with it, grade it more holistically; what bike can do a little bit of everything better than the versys?
I know buddy i bought a Samsung s20 Fe, which is basically versys of smartphones. It's okay to be good enough and not break a bank.
Love the vids guys but Im starting to think riding the best of the best so often that your loosing touch with what it's all about. Sometimes just being on two wheels and taking in the scenery is just as good as going fast. Also beginners and intermediate riders would probably build a whole lot more confidence on this rather than a BMW 1250.
Good call.
One of the best motorcycles of the 20+ I've owned. That engine is way more exciting than they are willing to give it credit for, the intake roar when you open it up in the right gear is really nice. Comfortable all day touring, great bags. Heated grips are a $100 aftermarket install. Faster and more fun in the twisties than the average bike. I only sold mine because the KLX in the garage gave me a bit too much taste for dirt so it's stable mate is now a 850GSA. If I didn't need the knobbies the Versys would have been a real long relationship, it just does everything well enough.
But to each his own and if you're comparing it to a 1250cc adventure bike or a turbo Busa then I guess it's just not exciting enough.
I fully agree. It's just not cool lmao.
Another words... It's for mature people that don't go 80mph around blind corners in a 40mph zone, that enjoy the scenery and nimbleness of a bike on twisty roads. like along California's coast.
What a perfect summary from an adult riding enthusiast!
I did everything on a versys. Rode it at CoTA, Put knobbies on it, used it as a woods bike, used it for commuting. Lowered the gearing when the power started feeling predictable. Got a heavy duty skid plate when the off road riding kept ripping off the muffler. Raised the front fender to a dirtbike fender because the tire hugging fender would get broken off or stopped the bike from mud clogging in it. I learned alot about how and why everything was configured on a motorcycle because I could keep adjusting this strong little versatile machine more into what I wanted.
There is limits, so I did replace it, but it wasn't possible with a single bike. I replaced with a street legal Honda XR650R Dirtbike and a Triumph Street Triple 675 Daytona. In my view it was the only way to replace all the Versys offered. I still miss it.
Now, The experienced motorcyclist in me knows that the excitement a 675 triumph motor would add to Versys 650 frame would be a near perfect motorcycle- better than the triumph 675 it would borrow the motor from.
At any rate, anyone who ever bought a klr650 has no right saying anything about a Versys. Not only do you look like a dork, your bike is also turd that weighs more with half the hp.
Planning to ride from Yosemite, Area 51 in ghe Nevada Sierras on some gravel and dirt roads, and some loops above the Grand Canyon North Rim. Lost some strength due to health issues. What’s your opinion on this bike for handling that sort of offroading? I figure it can handle the highways berween there and back to the Midwest fine.
Sounds like what you really want is a Triumph Tiger
Rode it once. Bought one the next day. Conceded 90hp coming from my beamer 1600. Never regretted it one second. And still riding with the beamer club. Even on dirt, sand and through forests she holds her own. I’m really, really happy with this bike!
That is one fine looking chain looks like the owner is the type of guy to use the shop manual 😉
It's the kinda guy we wanna pick up a bike from....just not that one LOL
*Insert Captain America "I understood that reference" meme*
I UNDERSTOOD THAT REFERENCE
Any reason they just didn't say Ari's name? Weirdly cheeky about it
No need to hate the Versys. It's very similar to the V-strom. It's very reliabe and with the right farkles it can do some off road work. The motor is way better than the KLR650 thumper. It is also way more fun to ride than a Harley. Ohhhhhhhhhhh!
The V strom has a Vtwin and can can sound throaty with a system 😂
@@MrKillervincent I guess the other angle a VStrom has over the Versys is that it can be, or at least look, a bit more adventure, esp if go for XT version spoked wheels, throw on a real skidplate on. Also, as you say, the V twin (or L twin) gives the VStrom 'something' but I hear that is going to be replaced by parallel twin. So that might be a risk to the brand - can it still be a V if no V.....- will it suffer Versysitis in engine terms??
@@eamonnmurphy5039 VStrom has no chance keeping up w/ the Versys on the backroad. It may be a better interstate bike, and can do some off-road, but if you're gonna carve corners, not close.
@@filoIII That's just bullshit. I've ridden both and the Strom just inspires much more confidence, has more just as much power and is plainly more fun
@@An0niem4 I said NOTHING about power, so, Nope.
I love my 2021 Versys 650. Yesterday two guys in a heavy-duty lifted Chevy pickup truck pulled beside me at a light, rolled down the window, and said .... NICE BIKE Man!
Just saw your "punch line", down below....nice delay.....ha
Grew up on dirt bikes and then sport bikes in my college days. Went 20 years without a motorcycle. The Versys 650 was the perfect bike to get back into the game. Now that the skills and experience has come back its time to step up to something with a more power, handling, features…Ducati supersport 950 maybe. No regrets buying the Versys!
Multistrada V2 that's the answer
While the Multistrada is a great bike, I’m looking to go back to my sport bike roots. But given I’m a couple decades past my 20s nor do I need 200HP …Supersport 950S or RS 660 seem to be my best options.
Focus on the naked market unless you're gonna track it constantly
In Canada insurance will make you pay dearly for all that HP $$
I’ve got a Ducati 1199s I might sell
Bought a Versys 650 to get back into riding and it's an amazing bike over 20,000 miles in two years and I don't use it to commute just for fun and cruising. I've taken it on multiple 3000+ mile trips, did 760 miles in one day. I ride it more often than my ZX-6R it's just playful and fun.
To each his own, but i love riding my Versys 650. I do at least 10k a year on it... And I like a bike that i can ride to the limit and still master, not one of the hundreds of massively overpowered bikes that 95% of riders buy to look cool but need to come with tons of electronics in order to just stay alive ...
And I ride with ear plugs, so about the sound: 🤷🏼♂️
8:46 "It doesn't look horrendously ugly...." said the observer, riding a Pan American! 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
I've owned my Versys 650 for 3 years and it is by far the best bike I've ever owned. Comfortable with good wind protection and storage for long rides, good gas mileage, reliable, can carve twisties no problem all for under 6k. I don't mind the engine sound, like the way it looks and can get down on it in a way that it is plenty peppy and fun. Not a drop of buyers remorse with my Versys and will never sell it.
Ever owned a Tracer 700, Vstrom 650, NC750X?
I saw that thumbnail and my first thought was “Ari you serious? You guys have got to be Henning me with this. It’s a Versys 650, not some major Revzilla machine!”
I had a first gen versys, I was doing unspeakable things. Scraping peg/foot on a regular basis. I'm not sure how I didn't die, but I did ride it like a moto gp bike
this comment made my day
Same lmao i also ran from the cops on my versys 650 but it didnt work out cuz it was too slow
I think the first generation looked a good bike if a bit strange looking and used to get a lot of praise in the uk press
I do it on my first gen!
im on my second first gen in the 6 digits kilometers, loving it every day, medicre offroad, track days, street shenanigans...
I am on my third versys MK1,MK2 now a MK3 Grand Tourer I go all over europe its done almost 18,000 miles its never broke down starts first time every time , its comfy and for a single guy on tour its more than enough fitted a Center stand ,heated grips, MRA screen front and rear huggers rad guard GPS mount and more its a great bike i will be getting the MK4 next year :)
Full disclaimer: I have a '18 Versys and love it. Here's the thing I think they miss: Kawi made it this way on purpose. On my ride into work There's a few traffic circles, 24 miles of interstate, and then two rail crossings that make nice little wheelie bumps. You can ride comfortably standing up (like a supermoto!?), over obstacles or through gravel or crappy pavement. This is one half hour of my day, each way, that is way more fun on a Versys than I could ever have on a liter sport bike or naked especially when you factor in the interstate stretch where the Versys is superb. If you approach it like a bland, boring, bike that's probably how you're going to ride it.
Considering the price of gas now, not a bad commuting vehicle. Beats a car.
Its made me consider getting an nc700 for that lol
@@NeoTunedOfficial can recommend that for commuting. With the automatic transmission, the thickest of traffic is relaxing to drive through, and the fuel to fun ratio is okay enough. Especially compared to other commuting options, it is about the best, only beat by electric motorbikes, probably.
So many people treat motorbikes as they must must must be toys only and must not have a practical transportation use. Most of these guys ride it only on the sunny weekends, tho.
I like the bike that doesn't push itself in the foreground of the ride experience. Like yam here enjoys the road and the scenery, not the bike. The bike is a tool, and some see that as heresy.
@@es-br8ck I agree. Most Americans have motorcycles as a side vehicle and I think most subs do too. I guess I shouldn't make assumptions though. Anyways, for those of us that use their bike as primary transportation the more boring bikes that get poor reviews often make the best daily riders and gain a cult following. Like the Honda Pacific Coast. I was using my boring FZ6 since I bought it new in 2007 and still love it. I've also used some scooters in that time and am currently riding a mini moto most days until I narrow down on my next daily. Reserving the FZ6 for touring mostly.
I do have to agree that if your getting a bike just for fun then go for the one that inspires you even if it's less practical, unless your just learning 😉.
Motorbikes are used as commuter for a whole lot of people,they are not only available in the west you know.
2 wheels beats a car unless there's ice on the road, for me. When there's ice on the road, still the case but I have to switch to my bicycle which has Nokian W240 carbide studded tires. Gets around better than a car on ice.
I love my 2015 Versys. 53K miles on it. I have other bikes but always end up on the Versys. Ride it in the Santa Cruz and San Mateo mountains with no issues. I also ride it in San Francisco, pretty much daily. Also gets great gas mileage - minimum 50 mpg, but as high as 70 mpg. Yes, really.
Good beginner bike for someone in their 30s?
@@beatleman27 Yes. I bought it as my first bike after decades of not riding.
I had a Versys 650 a decade ago. For me, I thought the simple easy to work on two cylinder engine and out of the way exhaust were works of art.
My thought is, if you can’t have fun on almost any bike (short of it just being the wrong ergonomics for you or something) then you’re doing something wrong, or approaching motorcycles in a way that needs a reset.
I have tons of fun on my Z400, and I did on my CB500F. Weekend rides with guys on every type of bike, weeknight rides to unwind after work, touring all over Ontario including 2500km trips. Loved every kilometre of it.
*edit* I should add, I’m not tall and weigh about 160 lbs, so my Z may be not enough for some, but nobody should need 200hp to have fun on the road.
This bike seems to get a lotta hate. I have a 2021 and love it for my work commute. Reliable, fun, and great MPG. I installed a Leo Vince exhaust to make it sound better, Corbin seat, and bigger windscreen. I worry a lot more about loving the ride versus trying to present a certain cool factor to the world.
What fuel consumption are you getting?
I've been commuting in LA traffic with one for a couple years now. It's the perfect commuter. Also have fun taking it out in the Twisties like Little Tujunga canyon
I love my versys. I'm so glad you actually got on one and gave it a spin.
I have one and I like it. Nice riding position, enough power for me, decent sized tank, fun in the corners.
It's so funny that my brother got this, I got the cbr500r, and buddy got the rebel 250. We ripping up all y'all's favorites 😂
I got a versys 650 for my first real road bike I think its great. It takes me from home to work and back again. Plus it has way more power than the crf250l I started on. I personally think that it is a good bike for less experience riders and it will help them learn before they move to anything bigger
2 nerds criticise a bike for being nerdy 🤷♂️
Yep😂
That is not just any Versys 650, that is THE Versys 650. And I gotta say, it looks much better than the one he and his buddy took around the race track
But clearly, THAT owner wouldn't choose such a "boring, souless" bike to travel all over with, right? Its not like HE'S tried tons of different motorcycles in his lifetime, but STILL chose a Versys 650 as one of his personal bikes.....hmmmm......
I've got one of these and love it! For those of us w/out big budgets, it's a good bike for the daily and fun in the twisties w/out giving you a backache after an hr. Two Bros exhaust gives me a way better sound than stock, btw.
damn, Two Bros exhaust
Akrapovič exhaust.
Plus you can get a Versys 650 + a KLR 650 + a huge pile of brand new ATGATT gear for the price of the Pan America. That's a lot of fun to be had for the bucks. in my area, you can get your choice of dozens of brand new outgoing year Versys 650 LTs for around $6500. That's what I always do. Especially since for years at a time, the only difference between model years is the color.
I Had a Ducati scrambler Icon, really fun and the engine ( despite the countless fake neutrals ) was much faster than the Versys 650 but I have to tell you ( and it's personal of course ) I changed it for a Versys 650 2021 and I never felt happier.
the Bike is a lot more fun than what they make it look like in the video, I change the front sprocket for an extra tooth and the bike is perfect for easy long rides but also for curving twisties because it allows you to play more with second and third gear: if ridden on the sweet spot 3500 to 8000 rpm the engine is actually very responsive
It's not the engine of the century but if you use it well it can be loooooads of fun: I annoy (overtake) a lot of guys on naked bikes in the twisties that cannot believe how agile this bike can be,
I never see him pushing the gears in the video, he's riding it like a grandpa.
Needles to say that you cannot compare it to a 1 liter but it's a much better bike than one can think of.
I re-entered street riding after a long absence on a new 2007 Versys. It was absolutely PERFECT for that mission. Totally controllable, comfortable, free of nasty surprises, very competent. A fantastic platform to work on ME. Today, I ride an MT-10, so yeah. Not sure I'd go back. BUT that Versys is super great for lots of people. And no wheelies the bike decides it wants to do of its own accord. Bonus for beginners. :-)
Oh, but it will do great wheelies when desired! Clutch up second gear, or 1st power wheelies (a careless person could do those accidentally for sure though, imho)
@@TravisTerrell I really loved that Versys. I could hardly have picked a better re-entry bike.
Versys 650 WILL bring up the front tire when romping on it.
I really don’t what there is to goof on with this bike. Not sure I can say the same about the reviewers. ahem. It’s a great beginner/ do anything/ do everything/ easy to live with/ commuter/ tourer bike. Nice job Kawasaki.
Our garage is kinda funny. We currently have a Versys 650 sitting beside a $30k Ultra Limited. I ride a bike to work every day, and for about a year I drove the Versys. I always described it as "fine", it's utilitarian. My wife drives it most days now.
We've had a lot of bikes that range in types and styles. Everything from a Grom, to a Shadow, to a Tenere 700, Ninja 300, Sportster 1200, and a z650... And the Versys has been one of the best for commuting and one of the worst for fun. It's reliable and easy to maintain, but it lacks character. The strongest compliment I can give it is that, short of a large full touring bike, the Versys is the best for year round riding in all weather.
Got one new for $6100. It was a 2015 still on the floor in 2017.
Loved it. The handling, size, seat height, mpg, gas tank size, adjustable shocks. Great. But underpowered for my 250 pounds. It also sounds iconic with a two brothers full exhaust.
Other countries use these for their police departments and motorcycle tours. Bulletproof bikes. They also have a following for ADV after swapping the tires.
Damn, thats a good price!
Meanwhile at a Dealership near me they have a 2013 model sitting around and they want 5000€ for it... Inflation i guess!?
@@duderRechthat that’s a horrible price for a 2013 hahah.
I have a Versys 650 2009, I bought it used and yes it is not a wonderful bike but I love it, it is a trustworthy bike, It does everything just fine, it is easy to ride and gave me lot of fun in any road.
That's 30 min i'll never get back.
Always have disagreed with using boring as a negative light on some bikes. Where boring can honestly be switched with beginner friendly or easier to control. Boring can also be a better commuter or travel bike where something more jerky would be better for the track or short trips.
Only saying this because thinking of my younger self or people who are more impressionable. Seeing videos likes these where bikes are described as boring make steer newer and less experienced riders to buy a bike they can't handle due to certain videos. Nothing against you guys and I still watch every video. Just food for thought ✌️
@@ahunterohio Also that "boring" usually mean stable and safe. A grom with 69 horses would be exciting, but probably not too fun in highway traffic where you are fighting for your life.
Man i love my 2012 Versys! It's my daily commuter, it's great on gas, it's low maintenance and it's never let me down. You guys sound like a couple of spoiled rich kids. I don't ride 20k motorcycles, but all the extras that you talk about can be added aftermarket so don't complain about that crap. I love riding, guess it don't matter what I ride as long as I'm riding somewhere.
I own a 2017 LT version and love it, I have owned ZZR1400, ZRX1200, GPZ900R, GPZ750R and a few others, but the Versys is plenty for me, you can definitely have fun
Having suffered your 'review' I reached the conclusion it wasnt about the bike but more about yourselfs and your opinions.
this guy is horrible waiting for the day a semi truck smears his whole body on the ground into a red mist
I have the 2008 versys 650. My last and first bike was an 83 cb1000 (2 shifters...). Ever since I've upgraded I've been pushing that bike to it's limits. Maybe it's because of my lack of context, but I know that my versys is the perfect bike for me. And not just for it's "mellow" qualities
I ride the Versys 650 3rd gen daily to work 5 days a week, 1 hour per day.
I personally agree with yammie on a lot of stuff about the bike.
The versys is a truly a versatile bike that i have ever owned.
I have friends who rode a versys from Malaysia to India and back (11,200KM)
It never broken down once.. other BMW GS went together with them had to cut it short and return back home..
My wife bought a 2018 V650 new. After a variety of farkles, she still never got to like it.
It did suffer from some fairly serious throttle snatch that an ECU only partly cured (and made it faster and smoother, thanks Shoodaben Engineering).
She sold it in favor of the Ninja version, more to her style. She has two of them, older and new.
I rode her '18 some and never fell in love, either. Not that it wasn't exceptionally functional, but it didn't really grab me at the time.
But at the 2021 EMS outdoor bike show the Kawasaki rep insisted I try the demo V650 and so I did.
For some reason, it was far nicer in the engine bay than my wife's '18, smoother and non-snatchy (old guy raised on carburetors- throttle snatch is just not acceptable).
It bears mention that maybe the Versys 650's best feature is the suspension, which is rather upscale from this bike's price point. The ride is really, really nice, and well-controlled. The hard parts are a big improvement over the Ninja, Z, and Vulcan versions.
A V-Strom 650 has a better engine and is a bit faster, but the Versys is superior in almost every other way, including build quality. (I own one myself.)
so ive had bikes stolen off my parking lot before, and a versys 300 replaced my old 75 kz400. i kid you not when i would hear lawnmowers turn on when i was working overnights it would wake me out of a dead sleep, and i would have to check it, becuase i was constantly thinking some ones stealing by bike. had to upgrade the exhaust on my versys then it was good to go haha.
Let's put it this way... It is affordable bike, that is reliable, decently quick, capable and comfortable... And has more personality than most riders on the road.
I'd take it over a Harley any day
Finally, some Versys, dare I say, love? Haha! I own the 2011-2014 version which I would argue is the best looking version. I have some farkles for rural country riding, bash plate, engine guards, grip warmers, honestly it has that budget GS look. Great bike, fun on twisty's, and capable on gravel roads with some 80/20 spec rubber. Is it the ultimate "one" bike, no, but will it make you smile, yes. Perhaps the best beginner bike that you can keep for more than a year and still enjoy.
Versys and Tracer. Cant wait to get my hands on one in the near future. Or an mt7..
That’s definitely the best looking model. The new one looks too much like a dorky Ninja and the first gen is one of the ugliest bikes in existence.
Honestly I've settled on a two bike solution, versys 650 as my tourer/everyday bike and something for pure fun.
Having a bike that's comfortable, super easy to maintain, handles well in twisties AND can do 250 miles to a tank is useful.
But i still want an rs660 or a supermoto for the fun factor.
Same boat brother! Finally get the representation we deserve
Going on one year of riding and this was what I chose for my starter bike, can’t complain!
Only speaking for my own tastes I think it looks great, and as far as the sound who cares. It's a parallel twin. None of them sound good regardless of the configuration. The quieter the exhaust system, the better.
Just 69 hp you say? Out of 650cc's that's nothing to complain about. I had one of the early 750 Hondas (a 1974 that I bought new) and if my memory serves they were 67 hp which was plenty then and probably still is. If you're riding high powered bikes all the time, of course it might feel a bit underwhelming, but for the average rider I think it would probably rate a lot better than a 5 out of 10. Just my opinion, and still a great video. Would love to see you do something similar with the V-Strom 650. ;)
What? Parallel twin that sounds good:
Yamaha Cp2 , Hondas 1100, basically all twin triumph's....hell even the 650 by royal Enfield sounds awesome...
Not true..they can sound better than any inline 4 imho.
@@eQui253 I guess different strokes for different folks but I started out on a 500 BSA Royal Star that belonged to my dad, bought a 500 Triumph Tiger 100 of my own, then a 750 Matchless, followed by a 450 Honda (best of the bunch by a long way so far) followed that with my 750 Honda, and then a new CB1100F in '83.
To my ears the 4 cylinders sounded a thousand times better.
The MT-07, 890 Duke, Bonneville, and others sound significantly better than the abysmal flat plane in the Kawi.
The Versys is a good bike. But the engine just sucks. The Yamaha engine is punchier and more responsive while having practically the same displacement and output.
@@sethglenn9022 agree 100%
Yeah I literally couldn't give less of a shit what my bike sounds like once I'm on it. I like the sound of a revving bike with a nice exhaust note in theory, but then I imagine having to listen to it all the damn time or ride through a quiet neighborhood and can't get my head around wanting that.
Yes, Yammie you were. I have 11 horses in my stable and a Versys 650 is one of them. I do all my Iron Butts on it. If I could keep only one it would be the Versys 650.
If you ever find yourself in St. Louis hit me up. You can ride any one of them.
What are the other 10?
@@kingkire1556
2005 Drifter 1500
2007 Vulcan VN 2000
2007 Victory Vegas 8-Ball
2008 Vulcan 1600 Meanstreak
2017 Z900
2018 KLR
2019 W800 Cafe
2019 ZX1400r
2020 Ninja 400
2020 Vulcan Voyager
@@christopherwallendorff1484 That's awesome. You kinda got a Kawasaki showroom of your own 👍🏼
These guys have never felt the pain of a road trip with a Yamaha XS650 Special....a lot of complaints about a great motorcycle. All their complaining sold me on getting one of these LOL.
Exactly , I have a 250 for around town .
Please stop pushing the fallacy that a street bike is "high mileage" at 20-30K miles. The only thing high mileage about a street bike at 30k miles is that motorcyclists just tend to not ride very much and tend to not put on miles like a car. This gives people the false impression that bike miles of 30k are equal to a car at like 175k as far as wear an tear so they think a bike at 30+ K miles is worn out and worth half as the same bike that has just 10k miles or so, or less! Bikes are just like cars and can easily last 100-200k miles the same as a car as long as maintenance is kept up.
When Yammie Noob say's the bike is the nerdiest it's gotta be cool , strip down version with a Zard exhaust sweet !
My first bike was a first gen Versys 650 and I loved it, like many others here in Germany. The 2. and 3. gen can't keep up but the first handled like a supermoto, i basically destroyed the whole pegs while killing the small curvy roads of the black forest
I love them. Affordable, comfortable, fuel efficient, reliable, plenty of storage and just an all around mile muncher
ARI'S BIKE! I love my Versys! (1st Gen, though)
I shopped used bikes, looked at, sat on them forever. In contast to many, apparently, I fell in love with its quirky looks immediately, and bought as a first bike especially for universal-ness of it...my only disappointment really has been engine note. Knew you wouldn't hate it. Wish Spite had ridden it, he was just nonstop hating!
that is some neat, well-taken cared of
2015 Versys
I wasn’t expecting you guys to sing praise on the bike, but I am glad to see you guys at least rode one. Thank you. I can take the criticisms knowing you’ve at least ridden it.
Personally, I have a ‘21 LT - and for the riding I do in my area, I really do enjoy the overall nature of the bike.
*And I have to admit, even at almost 40 and on a Versys 650 - I still have my squid moments where speed limits are suggestions, and getting on the side of the tire with the feelers barely off pavement happen semi regularly.
As a daily rider, or office commuter to me it’s perfect. Upright seating, panniers for storage. Travel where I do as a daily would be awesome. I own a 2015 fjr for my long distance touring and hard riding. Keeping the Versys in the contention as a daily rider
I wear a high viz. vest every time I ride. ever since I’ve never gotten pulled over. You do the math.
Just bought a 2008 as my first bike and i couldn’t be happier. I’m 6’5 260 and I’m really comfortable and I took off the bags and it’s literally a more upright ninja 650.
The interesting question: Which “were we wrong” bike do you like best, the Versys or the Royal Enfield GT?
As a owner of the GT650 I'm gonna go with the royal enfield. The bike is like a blank slate when it comes to customization and upgrades. It's up to you to fit it with everything you want cause that's what café is about
Can't really compare. The Enfield has far more presence and character. 270° crank gives the engine a beautiful throaty sound unlike this bike's sewing machine quality. Steel brake lines, slipper clutch, ABS standard, Bosch FI, etc.
@@BruceLeeKills1 , I agree with you. But will Yam and Spite?
@@rudolphpyatt4833 they will certainly not judging by 4 years worth of Discord shitposting. That said, I was glad to see that it's at least liquid cooled.
@@BruceLeeKills1 just wish it was a little faster. Slower 0-60 than my little nissan versa lol
As a current Versys 650 owner and it being my beginner bike, I have been excitedly waiting for this video.
I bought a 2021 last year. Choice between a Triumph Tiger and this. Truthfully, a no brainer once one looks at reliability and future service needs and costs. The #1 thing that sold me on this type of bike is the fact it sits like a dirt bike. With history on dirt bikes I feel I have more control over this bike than I do a bike that looks like I’m ducking for cover or one that looks like I’m in a recliner reaching to tie my shoe. I ride with 2 guys that own Dukes. After a 100 mile day ride, guess who’s standing up wiggling their butts… not me. Not once. They have way more power but can’t use it really when cops are around so my bike amazingly keeps up with them. ‘Nuff said.
Awesome review, love the beige core, unironically rapidly climbing the list for my next bike purchase, thanks for the video
My first and current street bike and it just offers everything I need except I wouldn’t mind a little more power.
I have a 2019 650 LT. I absolutely love it. I came from riding a Honda CBR 1000. Then a Honda CBR 600. I owned a Yamaha r6 and I ended up going to this bike. And I will tell you I absolutely love it. It does everything above average. And 43 years old and no longer want to ride the sport bikes, but this thing has plenty of grunt in the corners and plenty of lean to have a great time in the canyons. I don’t think it looks dorky at all. I think it’s an amazing looking bike. I got it in black and that beautiful Kawasaki green. I guess just just what they like. But I absolutely love this bike. It’s super comfortable to go on long rides and sporty enough to have a great time in the canyons.couldn’t ask for more
So let me get this straight: All your criticisms very much go like, "The engine sucks, but...it doesn't for what it is meant to do"; "The looks suck, but...they don't, not realy"; "The handling sucks, but...they are great for those that it is designed for"; "The presence sucks...compared to a bike you cannot even get in America"; "It is cheap, but....rather inexpensive, and actually quite loaded"; "It sounds like a lawnmower, but...so do all other twins, and by the way, it is an indestructible lawnmower", etc., etc.....
Did I miss something else?
You know, I drive a Honda minivan (Two in fact), and I have friends who give me shit because they drive the likes of Honda Type R, etc., but I noticed every time we go out of town on a trip, I'm the one who is driving them. And not because of space, but for any trip over four hours? Yeah. I also had for years a Porsche, which I absolutely loved to drive...occasionally, given that I had to change the battery once a year because I didn't drive it all that often. But whenever I did drive it, I loved it for what it was and what it did. And I remember one time "racing" a guy in a Corvette on a long, slightly twisty highway, doing 120, until I noticed behind us a first generation Chrysler minivan, with the fake wood on the side, keeping right up with us. Yeah, that is what is called, "PERSPECTIVE".
I do understand how fun is to beat up on the small kid in the school yard, but maybe you should grow tha' fuck up, and do your jobs, which just in case you keep forgetting, it is to give encouragement to people who don't ride, help those who do want to ride, and steer those who do ride - not on your own uninformed prejudices, but on what the gear is designed for, how well it executes its design, and who would benefit from it.
Or maybe I'm wrong and you actually do think that everyone who doesn't ride a "turbo busa" should be looked down upon.
AGREED. That about sums it up. Cheers
Spot on brother. I have owned 200+ bikes of all makes and sizes and I love my Versys 650, it's a Swiss army knife of motorcycle.
Yam and Spite are immature and overconfident in their riding ability and knowledge of motorcycles and the culture of motorcycling.
I got one as a first bike here in the UK. Use it to commute, it’s restricted to A2 (47bhp) so it’s ‘lack’ of power isn’t an issue. It handles very well and won’t wrap me around a lamppost if I get heavy handed with the clutch/brakes or throttle… I do wish it sounded better but all my friends who don’t care about cars or bikes think it sounds great sooo 🤷♂️. Love yammie content and so great to have so much content being uploaded. Keep it up you legends
Back when there was still an endurance road-race series called Moto-ST, Gary Nixon and Jay Springsteen raced the Versys 650, not the Ninja 650, probably due to it having the adjustable suspension. I've never bought a Versys 650, but I've always found it to be an interesting bike. Then again, I've also used a pocket protector unironically. My daughter has a Versys X-300 and I think it's a fabulous little bike. It's good enough for the freeway and great for dirt roads. Power and weight aside, I wonder how the two Versys models compare.
I had a 2017 versys 300 and it was one of my vavorite bikes and sooo fun, then i got a 2011 versys 650... i hated it it was super boring and slow and the powerband was the worst
I've been riding a 2018 Triumph T120 for 3 years and it's been absolutely flawless, but up here in New England a naked bike has its limitations.
My new bike will have a windscreen and panniers and many a few bells and whistles, and the Versys is high up on my list.
My only worry is whether or not I'll be happy going from 1200 CC down to almost half.
My local dealer has a demo day coming up, so I guess I'll find out.
We need a “were we wrong?” Tier list.
2:22 Throws the neon vest away but keeps the jeans tucked into his boots.
I have a 2018. I know it's nerdy, but as a tall person, I wanted a bike I didn't look ridiculous on. It's my first bike, so I wasn't trying to break the bank.
I'm tall but not super tall, and it wouldn't be my first bike, but the versys 650 is a sweet spot bike for me. Comfortable and practical enough to tour on, light enough and powerful enough to have fun on. Seriously underrated imo
Pick up my 2015 vs that had 15k miles on it in mint condition for 2500$ couldnt be happier with a bike. Side note came with factory exhaust uninstalled has a slip on exhaust sounds super nice compared to vs with factory exhaust. Extremely fun and comfortable bike.
Here in the UK, the ER-6f/ Ninja 650 has always been proclaimed as a bike that is way more than the sum of it's parts, and generally lives up to that reputation.
The Versys kind of tags onto that hype when actually it is just a premium commuter bike; simple, comfy, practical, reliable and quick enough to have fun on the ride home. I use two-wheels for my daily commute and general running-around and so bikes like that are great; they do a fabulous job a being the "second car" alternative, but the Versys (And V-Strom 650) will never set the world alight.
I think of the Versys as the ancestor of the old ER5, a dumpy old parallel twin 500cc bike that was THE training school bike and the budget commuter choice for decades because they are basically un-killable, and we do need a few bikes like that in the world.
At least this gen Versys is better than the old stacked headlight model which was genuinely awful to look at.
I own the 2008 650 Versys. Bought it used for a song. Would rank it higher but only slightly over the V-Storm which I have owned. So much more reliable than the HD Road Glide I used to own. As powerful as the 1100 GL gold wing I used to own. And the upright sitting position is very comfortable for me at 250 6’4”.
I've been riding motorcycles for 49 years and disagree.
Tell your mom that I said, hi. She's a solid 5 out of 10.
I've been riding my 2009 versys 650 for 5 years now. I use it as a short distance daily commuter. I use it for medium-long distance travel. I use it on bad roads. I use it on good roads. I drive it in all weather. I have a custom exhaust which makes it sound amazing. I have fun every time I ride it. My only complaint is how badly the frame rusts.
I think it would be a great bike for a new rider to learn with or for someone returning to riding.
Thank you for reviewing the Versys 650. I was looking at it for my beginner bike. I would plan on moving on past it in a couple of years after I get some experience riding motorcycles.
how did that go
It's underrated for sure, I would enjoy a long trip on it. Pick ya weapon Team Green Approved
Sounds to me like its a perfect bike to learn on. It's a lot of bike for the money, and has a low barrier to entry. Lower skill levels will get a huge thrill out of it, higher skill levels will probably want something more powerful but still come back to this as a daily driver.
Well if you want more engine there is always the Versys 1000
As an owner of a 2018 650 who got it as a first bike, I can say it is and was pretty exciting despite its reputation. Maybe because it is also my first bike. It is an easy bike to learn on for bigger people, and the price is right.
I think personally the versys 1000 makes more sense i test rode both these bikes and while the 650 has it's shine in certain small aspects the 1000 versys has the true Versys magic
yeah, and also costs twice as much 😅
I tested both on Kawasaki Green days (testing day where you can borrow a bike for small fee for one hour) and I have to say Versys 1000 is a dad bike. I felt Im not old enough for that shit. I own 2007 Versys 650 and newer model is basically the same maybe bit more muffled by newer Euro emision norms. On the other hand, Z 900 was such a blast Im now considering switching to naked from the V650 :D
@@jirimaca5456 the z900rs is even nicer imo, would definitely be a bike I would be interested in buying if I had the budget.
@@thilo7546 Z900 RS is kinda a dream bike of mine, but it cost 1/3 more than regular Z900. I know the target customer is not necesarily the same for those but w/e. So, maybe I'll buy used one in few years :D
I have a ninja 1000 and that motor is a peach
10/10 for price and value
Cannot believe Ari Henning actually let this happen :D !!