I just purchased my almost new 2017 Kawasaki X300 Versys on Monday of this week. It had 1540 miles on the odometer and looks absolutely brand new! It was delivered to me by the original owner on Tuesday April 13, 2022 which is the first day that I rode my new motorcycle. The previous owner rode it to my state so that he could rest assured that I would register and title his motorcycle before he turned it over to me. First let me say that I am 68 years old. I am 5-10" tall, weigh 269 pounds and I have a 29/30" pants inseam. I looked all over for specifics on whether this motorcycle would be a good fit for me. I knew it was tall with the seat height at 30.9". But would I fit this motorcycle well. I already had a bad experience owning a 2002 BMW R1150GS that was a huge machine, a real monster. That BMW proved much too tall and heavy for me to safely handle so I sold it right away. I replaced that BMW with a 2001 R1200C Pheonix which proved much more manageable with it's seat height of a mere 29.9". But it is a 1200cc machine which means it is VERY heavy! So I bought a little Honda Grom which proved to be so much fun that I thought to myself, "wow, look at what I have been missing." Then I discovered a Blog online where a girl named Noraly is riding her 2022 Honda CRF300L from South America to Alaska. She calls her site "Itchy Boots" where she posts 3 videos per week on average. After watching her great adventures for a couple of months I decided that I must have a motorcycle just like hers. But then I discovered that the Honda CRF300L is nearly impossible to acquire right now unless you are willing to pay $2,000 over MSRP. Yikes. That is when I discovered the 310 BMW and the X300 Kawasaki Versys. I went with the Versys for several reasons. First, it was availability. Next was value and finally after watching many reviews on UA-cam I liked the twin cylinder water cooled engine making 40hp. So I bought one! I have ridden it 60 miles so far. This is what I can report. First, it IS TALL. We lowered the rear shocks to the lowest factory settings and now I can almost flat foot the motorcycle. It actually seems manageable although I almost dropped it going up the ramp into my shop today. Scared me a bit. The motorcycle is whisper quiet. I like this because my Honda Grom snarls like a mad dog with it's aftermarket Vance & Hines pipe. Really it is too loud. But the X300 has a very nice exhaust note. I do not plan to change this. Next, This motorcycle handles beautifully. The ride height seems tall but the bike is so friendly in every situation. I just love my new X300. Finally, this motorcycle is geared very low. Extremely low. But I guess Kawasaki wanted it this way. I go through the gears to find that I am in 5th at 37mph lol. I hit 6th at about 43 mph and that is the last gear. It seems like it should have a 7th & 8th gear lol. The bike redlines at 12,000 rpm. Whoa, that makes it a screaming machine. When you ride 65mph the engine turns 7,500 rpm. This is very alien to me and seems insane. But there is tons more throttle left after that, all the way to 12,000rpm. Amazing! This bike gets 51mpg so the high rpm must be efficient. I researched re-gearing the bike but you cannot alter it very much without disturbing the engine's code(s). For this reason I plan to leave mine all stock. Finally, the seat is very hard, most uncomfortable. I rode 40 miles today and my Fanny wanted off of this torture device. I guess I am spoiled by the Corbin Seat on my BMW R1200C. Finally, my biggest concern was, "will this motorcycle have enough power to haul my fat butt around lol". Yes it does! The low gearing is so powerful that this little Kawasaki doesn't even know that I am onboard. I get the impression that the X300 could carry a circus elephant if one was so inclined. I hope this little report will help others decide to buy a X300 Versys. I sure am happy with mine. So lite and easy to handle. That is where the fun is!!!
Great story and review. I had a Seat Concepts saddle on my X300 which was still a bit hard but an improvement over stock. That low first gear on the X300 is excellent on a trail. Enjoy!
I can relate to pretty much everything you said. I also thought about itchy boots. If she can do something like 28k kilometers in less than a year on a 300, I can probably use it for mostly local runs. I had a KLR that was too tall. Got rid of it. Actually went to get the new s model when I saw the 300. I really wanted what I thought was a unicorn. Small, light bike with twin cylinders, water cooled, low seat, tach, gear position, water temp, and some off-road capability. I had no idea the 300 existed until I walked in to deal on the s model. Although the KLR has twice the cc count, I think it would have been a compromise that the 300 isn’t. Pick it up tomorrow.
Thanks for sharing about all the impressive upgrades made to your Versys: Tall windshield plus windshield extender, hand guards, usb port, auxilary lights and engine guards, upgraded tires.
Nice bike. Can't blame you at all for keeping it and avoiding the not so good deals on other bikes. Btw, one tip about your videos - to me, the music you had was a bit loud, to the point that it was overwhelming your voice. The music then became a distraction. If I were you I'd tone down the volume of the music a bit. Maybe that's just me. Anyhow, enjoy your Versys!
Thanks! Always a struggle with the audio. Maybe someday I'll get better video editing software. I'm using AVS Video Editor. It's easy to use but not so feature rich.
I concur on the music. I actually have some people I like but dont watch anymore cause back ground music way to intense. We get old, guns, construction, bikes.. cant hear as it is!!! LOL But great little video
Hey Q, cool video, but I was hope to see footage of the dealer, the bikes you saw, etc… I totally agree, best to love the one you with. Trying new bikes is exciting but not necessary, the best bike is the one you got and the one that you can easily put miles on. I believe used bikes with little miles means there is something not enjoyable. When a bike is a joy to ride, it will have lots of miles. I think you can still find good deals at dealerships, if you follow some logic and are willing to walk away if it doesn’t make sense. 1. Show up on the last day of the month when they are trying to close deals. 2. Don’t go for popular models, find a bike they will be motivated to move out. 3. Don’t call and ask any questions about price, fees or trade in value. Show up with your price in mind and present to them what you want. 4. Do not trade in your bike, that just opens to many ways on how they could screw you, do not even show up on your bike, drive your car to the dealer and do not reveal you have a possible trade. 5. Do not even mention buying cash, they will raise the price, make them believe you are financing, until you have agreed on a price you like, then say you rather pay cash. 6. Act naive dome and stupid, listen to all their sales pitch, at the end, refuse all 3rd party warranty, etc. 7. Be prepared to be treated like shit, they only smile at you when they screwing you. 8. Going back to the price negotiations, never ask them what their fees are, you opening the door for an up hill battle. Show up, pick your bike, and make a reasonable offer, tell them with confidence the book value for that bike, you willing to pay book value, plus tax, plus $150 tag and with more confidence, tell them you want $4K for your current bike. If they really want to move the bike, they will accept. Be aware of the trends, right now it is the worst time to get an adventure bike of any kind, everyone wants one. When I showed up to get my KLR, they already had sold the adventure model I wanted, they only had 4 KLR in stock,1 used 3 new, all base model. By the time I left the dealer, they were all gone, the last 3 bikes to get prep out were all KLR, so with such a demand, they are having absolutely no issues moving the KLR, no need for any special offer. Now, if you want a super sport bike or a cruiser, you can get any deals you want on those, they are just collecting dust in the show room. In the last month I gotten 3 bikes from Ridenow, the worse dealer to make deals, and I only got screwed on the KLR for obvious reasons. I told them I refuse to pay any kind of fees, they told me the only way was to buy used, luckily they had an use kLR with only 600miles. But I ended up paying new MSRP price plus tax and tag, for a used bike. I was fine with that because I really wanted an off road bike fuel injected, and I got basically a new bike. The used KLR market is crazy, they are going for around $5K, carbureted with a pile of miles. Conclusión, showing up to a dealer, to see what they have, not knowing what you want and how much it is worth, it is a recipe for disaster, you might end up paying a lot of money for a bike that you won’t enjoy. You already have it all covered, the two extremes, a cruiser and an off road bike, anything else you might get will be a repeat of some sort. So, unless you are looking to just collect bikes, even if they overlap, I think you have what you need. Although having an interceptor for cruising around on a classic bike sounds exciting.
Thanks, I definitely have all I need. What I want is different matter! Ha! What would be fun to have would be a mid-sized faired or standard bike like a Royal Enfield Interceptor, a Yamaha MT-07, or a Ninja 650. It would be just for local riding on the pavement, but quicker than the Versys and more agile than the Vaquero. For now, I think I'm going to stick with what I have. Thanks!
@@QuentinsMotoVlog I've got a Versys-X 300 (had it about 3 mos) and a Honda NT700V ... covers similar aspects you describe -- love them both. I really like the low maintenance of the shaft drive on the Honda- especially for short-med trips; It's plenty comfortable for me and my wife, good storage, and reasonable weight (~560lbs) and balanced well. My Versys will carry us both and light enough to take camping (glamping - 5th wheel). It's a great bike that does all the short/adventure type rides I need. I may do some seat work (Terry's ?) ... but still figuring out how much I like it as-is for now ! Enjoyed your video - have a great day !
I bought my X300 brand new in 2017 and have put 11,000+ miles on it so far. My only complaint is the seat. Everything else is excellent. Best modification has been ➡ swapping the 14t front sprocket to a 15t sprocket ⬅. That one tooth improvement makes all the difference in the world in gearing and interstate travel without messing with the computer sensors at all. It allows me to travel at 65mph and still remain in eco mode, but still allows me to cruise up to 75mph and still have power to pass cars if needed. Late this year I will be riding the MABDR on the X300. It already has the bash plate, engine guards and bark busters. I've taken it on fire roads along the Blur Ridge Parkway with no problem. And as a 5'4" woman, the ability to pick up the bike is the best part. It's no light-weight machine, but the center of gravity is low enough that I have been able to pick it up with no problem more than once. The Versys X300 is a great bike! I'm sure you'll be happy with it for years to come! 😊
Today I had to go get me a covid test to show my employer, I had to travel one hour to go get it. The fever and chills are gone, but now I just have a mild cough that lingers. Hopefully all that will clear with time. Since am starting to feel a little better, I decided to ride the KLR. At one point I had to pass a car and I got it up to 75 mph, so it is capable of doing but the single cylinder doesn’t like it. She likes to cruise at 50 mph all day where she feels at home and relaxed. But I had to come home because that 1hr trip made me real tired. The bike is plenty comfy but I was feeling ware out from being sick. This was the second 1hr trip I put on the KLR and I loved it, am in love with this bike, I think she is gorgeous. I can’t wait for me to be back to normal so I can go on longer adventure trips.
it's a combination of Greed, hot market - selling everything the dealers can get and now inflation kicking out butts. 2022 is a year to get screwed. A agree with the Doc' fees, setup fee, prep fee, and all the other fees is just pure greed. It is a good time to already have a motorcycle in the garage and sit this year OUT!
I live in Montana. Been looking for an x300 for 7 months now. I've seen one; the search includes new and used, dealer and private. I've recently expanded to Wyoming and South Dakota, but that's a long trip.
It is a good bike. I started having problems with mine at 10,000 miles. It turned out my rear sprocket somehow became bent. Maybe when a local dealer installed my Mitas tires? I don't know. Because I couldn't figure out the problem, I was due for a new bike, and I wanted more engine power than the X300, I bought a Royal Enfield Interceptor 650. The X300 was more comfortable and I could take it on trails but the RE INT650 is better in many other ways. The engine is much better, it's is much better looking, especially with the chrome gas tank, and INT650 is just as happy as the X300 to sail down a dirt road.
Yeah. Sticking with the VX3. Why not, yours was a great deal and loaded. Can't wait til March to be back on mine up here in the Northeast. They charge these prep fees for used bikes traded in that needed no work probably.
Yeah, it's maddening. I think they're doing it because they think they can. On the one hand I want local dealerships to be around when I want to buy a new bike, so I guess I can't raise too much of a fuss. I'll just vote with my wallet and hang onto my cash.
The problem is used prices are way too high as well. Sometimes a new bike is close enough to take the beating. Either way, it’s not a good time to buy motorcycles.
I agree. I did end up trading the X300 in on a Royal Enfield Int650. I got a very poor trade-in value but I’m very happy with the 650. Looking for an electric motorcycle now but the prices are sky high.
Interesting. What do see as advantages that the GS has over the X-300? The only ones I can think of are looks (in my opinion) USD forks, and the weight. What else?
As one reader says. I do like the looks of the BMW over the Kaw. They both I think are awesome bikes and bang for the buck. It really just came down to the spoked wheels for me.
I struggle with the music volume; my editing software is ok but not the greatest. I'll try to do better! Seriously, I don't like when I'm watching UA-cam and some video starts blaring or I can't hear the commentary.
Thanks for your video, I hear you about those ridiculously mark up fees and low balling offers on trades. Local dealer only offered me $2600 for a BMW 310r with 1600 miles. I wanted to trade for a X300 but I passed on that deal. Their loss. Be safe. Ride safe.
Yeah, it's just a shame. I want dealerships to be there for me. And I don't know the realities of their overhead. It's gotten so that $15,000 for a motorcycle is starting to sound like an economy bike to me. If you watch my later videos you'll see that I continually trade in or sell and buy new bikes. I finally got to where I own a low miles BMW R18 Classic, a Royal Enfield INT650 and a 2022 Harley Pan America. The Beemer and the Harley are both owned by the banks and I pay about $300 a month each. I know not a lot of people can afford that on top of all the other costs of living. But they are an amazing trio of bikes. Thanks for the comment!
The dealership customer service has severely declined over the years. They just tell you to get lost if you don't want to pay all the ridiculous fees, and someone else is waiting to buy the bike.
In the UK at present used prices are sky high - you get a good part ex offer if you are looking to buy new - but there are no new bikes - they are stuck on a ship somewhere.
Keeping my X300 too! Even after buying a Suzuki Vstrom 650XT, I still like to ride both, depending on what I'm doing, where I'm going and the mood I'm in. The X300 really IS a proper ADV bike, just a small displacement one. Jeep trails, mountain passes here (SW Colorado) and even one interstate trip, the Versys X300 us up to the task. Of course it's not a highway passing horse power king, but within it's design parameters, I don't think there is a better bike. Great handling, 68-70 mpg on local gravel county roads (40-45 mph), very reliable, what's not to like. Once you get used to the high revs and power range of the engine, it is a true pleasure. Off road, just ride within the suspension limits and it is a trooper. I'm 6'3" so added 2 inch bar risers and lowered pegs one inch. Added T-Rex brand skid plate and crash bars (highly recommended). Did Givi rack and DIY Pelican case luggage. What a lightweight joy this bike is. Thanks for your vids! -GeezerWheels
It is a great bike. I had a dealer install new tires. They bent the rear sprocket. I could feel the popping and snapping but I couldn't figure out the problem. I finally traded it in, and the dealer eventually figured it out. I would buy another Versys X300.
Planning on riding the remainder of the TAT in Oct. if it works out (Arkansas to N. Carolina). Did most of the western states on a Husaberg FE390 (made street legal or course), but did Durango, CO to Moab Utah on the X300 and also plan to ride the eastern sections on the X300. Again, loved your vids - keep up with whatever you ride in the future.
Dealing right now on a X300. Well, dealing is done. Buying tomorrow. Fees are outrageous. $900 freight. They dropped that to $500. $300 dealer prep. That is something they get paid by the manufacturer to do. $300 freight surcharge. $200 document fee. They dropped the freight to $500 when I balked about the price. Thought that was an odd fee to drop if they were actually charged $900.
Dealer tried lowballing me HARD on my Yamaha Bolt. KBB Moto says 4,130 fair trade in value. They said 2k 😂. Straight up told the guy he’s out of his mind if he thinks I’m happily taking that deal. Somethings got to give with these stealerships. Hopefully things improve in the future, but it’s doubtful.
Yes. It’s just a terrible environment to trade in a motorcycle and there is no give on the trade in or the purchase price. It feels like their is a glut of motorcycles and the dealers won’t do a deal unless they can make thousands. Maybe it’s because the Harley generation is aging out and the young are not interested. Maybe the dealerships are in trouble. For someone like me who thrives on the thrill of a new (to me) bike it is a terrible time. If I’m going to buy I’m looking at private sellers and bikes with up to twenty thousand miles. And sell privately first. I’ve also decided it’s a time to learn how to thoroughly explore and enjoy the bike(s) you have. Hope this changes soon.
Same problem in the Uk. Dealer offers you nothing for a bike that is clearly worth and extra £1500 to them. Got offered £1800 for my 2015 Ninja 300 with 6000miles, immaculate condition. Would have to be very desperate to sell at that price.
I was thinking selling mine (it's a 2018 with 24k miles on) to buy a himalayan or a smaller bike but I started dating a girl that wants to travel with me and I think the versys is the smallest bike that can push us two comfortably in the highway. Guess I'm sticking with mine too.
I have a 2015 mts 1200s, I don't particularly like it. It rides like it has square wheels on low rpm. All the electronic goodies are cool but I'm switching from it as soon as I sell it.
My latest is the Royal Enfield Interceptor 650. I wouldn’t take it down a trail but it goes down a dirt road as well as the X300 and has a much better engine. Just sayin’
It is a cool bike. I always felt great sitting on it. Ultimately I grew tired of the weak engine and I started having issues. Somehow my rear sprocket bent. I have no idea how. One suggestion: KTM’s 390 Adventure or Husqvarna’s Svartpilen 401. Both share the same engine, which is awesome fun. I have the 401 and love it.
Dealers are crooks, period. Car or Bike, it’s all the same. Always buy private and never new. Set up on a used bike? What did they set it up on the kickstand?
Damn guy, that was a STOP SIGN you just blew through when you left your house !!!! No freaking wonder why bikers get turned into a greasy spot on the road when they ride like you !!!!
I was just looking for a new bike and ran into the same issue. $4,900 list price **+$1,500 in fees** I feel lucky and was able to find a 2020 x300 with 4000 miles out the door at $5000 from a triumph dealer.
@@QuentinsMotoVlog I was mind blown. At the end of the riding season where I live and dealers still want you to bend over just for the privilege of buying a bike.
@@QuentinsMotoVlog yeah its probably not a good time to buy from dealers now, everything is increased with inflation, pandemic, supply chain issues...just excuses
I looked at a v300x yesterday. Thinking I will buy it. Thx for great video. I am 45 min from Fayettevillle myself. Any change you would sell your bike to me? I like upgrades (I am looking at stock bike). Jr
Hey Joel, I traded my X300 in on a Royal Enfield INT650. The RE will go down a dirt road as well as the X300. The X300 can tackle trail riding, which the RE can't. After crashing a few times in the dirt I decided trail riding isn't for me, so I went with the greater motor and classic looks of the RE. Both very good bikes. Good luck!
Hey Q! That little utility bar you had going across the inside of the windshield for your cell phone holder!! Where can I find one of those? I would like to do the same setup you had with the thermometer and cell phone on the inside of the windshield on that access bar!? I haven't ridden in a long time! So I am still a little nervous and still getting used to your old versys x300!
You know what? I still have that bar. I would be happy to give it to you if you want to meet. If not, I can tell you it was on the bike when I bought the bike. I believe it is a genuine Kawasaki accessory, so you can likely find it on their website. But if you want it, I'd be happy to give it to you.
@@QuentinsMotoVlog Yesterday evening, after hours and hours and hours trying to find one. I finally found one, so I did order it it should be here in about a week I believe. I love watching your videos and it would be nice to meet up next time I’m in Myrtle Beach area if you’re available! Have a good day Q
I traded it in. Didn’t get a lot for it on the trade in side but I got a fair deal on the purchase side. My recommendation if you’re a beginner is to spend some time on CycleTrader.com and search for similar bikes with similar mileage. That will give you a good idea of fair price. As for quality, I don’t think I’ve ever bought a bad bike, and I’ve bought many, new and used, from dealers and individuals.
@@subitoforzando5816 Yeah, I've bought out of state before. I either go get it in my pickup truck, or fly or catch a ride there, and then ride the bike home. It's a bit more of a gamble but I've never bought a "bad" motorcycle, new or used, dealer or individual. You also have to think about who will service the bike locally.
@@BrianSmith-ql5nj sorry about that. I am a proud amateur. I’m always struggling to improve the quality of the videos I share. Hopefully people get something from them. I’m passionate about motorcycles and only make one when I believe I have something helpful to say. Thanks for your feedback.
Fool’s errand is an errand without a purpose, I love that statement, been there done that.
Thanks!
I just purchased my almost new 2017 Kawasaki X300 Versys on Monday of this week. It had 1540 miles on the odometer and looks absolutely brand new! It was delivered to me by the original owner on Tuesday April 13, 2022 which is the first day that I rode my new motorcycle. The previous owner rode it to my state so that he could rest assured that I would register and title his motorcycle before he turned it over to me. First let me say that I am 68 years old. I am 5-10" tall, weigh 269 pounds and I have a 29/30" pants inseam. I looked all over for specifics on whether this motorcycle would be a good fit for me. I knew it was tall with the seat height at 30.9". But would I fit this motorcycle well. I already had a bad experience owning a 2002 BMW R1150GS that was a huge machine, a real monster. That BMW proved much too tall and heavy for me to safely handle so I sold it right away. I replaced that BMW with a 2001 R1200C Pheonix which proved much more manageable with it's seat height of a mere 29.9". But it is a 1200cc machine which means it is VERY heavy! So I bought a little Honda Grom which proved to be so much fun that I thought to myself, "wow, look at what I have been missing." Then I discovered a Blog online where a girl named Noraly is riding her 2022 Honda CRF300L from South America to Alaska. She calls her site "Itchy Boots" where she posts 3 videos per week on average. After watching her great adventures for a couple of months I decided that I must have a motorcycle just like hers. But then I discovered that the Honda CRF300L is nearly impossible to acquire right now unless you are willing to pay $2,000 over MSRP. Yikes. That is when I discovered the 310 BMW and the X300 Kawasaki Versys. I went with the Versys for several reasons. First, it was availability. Next was value and finally after watching many reviews on UA-cam I liked the twin cylinder water cooled engine making 40hp. So I bought one! I have ridden it 60 miles so far. This is what I can report. First, it IS TALL. We lowered the rear shocks to the lowest factory settings and now I can almost flat foot the motorcycle. It actually seems manageable although I almost dropped it going up the ramp into my shop today. Scared me a bit. The motorcycle is whisper quiet. I like this because my Honda Grom snarls like a mad dog with it's aftermarket Vance & Hines pipe. Really it is too loud. But the X300 has a very nice exhaust note. I do not plan to change this. Next, This motorcycle handles beautifully. The ride height seems tall but the bike is so friendly in every situation. I just love my new X300. Finally, this motorcycle is geared very low. Extremely low. But I guess Kawasaki wanted it this way. I go through the gears to find that I am in 5th at 37mph lol. I hit 6th at about 43 mph and that is the last gear. It seems like it should have a 7th & 8th gear lol. The bike redlines at 12,000 rpm. Whoa, that makes it a screaming machine. When you ride 65mph the engine turns 7,500 rpm. This is very alien to me and seems insane. But there is tons more throttle left after that, all the way to 12,000rpm. Amazing! This bike gets 51mpg so the high rpm must be efficient. I researched re-gearing the bike but you cannot alter it very much without disturbing the engine's code(s). For this reason I plan to leave mine all stock. Finally, the seat is very hard, most uncomfortable. I rode 40 miles today and my Fanny wanted off of this torture device. I guess I am spoiled by the Corbin Seat on my BMW R1200C. Finally, my biggest concern was, "will this motorcycle have enough power to haul my fat butt around lol". Yes it does! The low gearing is so powerful that this little Kawasaki doesn't even know that I am onboard. I get the impression that the X300 could carry a circus elephant if one was so inclined. I hope this little report will help others decide to buy a X300 Versys. I sure am happy with mine. So lite and easy to handle. That is where the fun is!!!
Great story and review. I had a Seat Concepts saddle on my X300 which was still a bit hard but an improvement over stock. That low first gear on the X300 is excellent on a trail. Enjoy!
I can relate to pretty much everything you said. I also thought about itchy boots. If she can do something like 28k kilometers in less than a year on a 300, I can probably use it for mostly local runs. I had a KLR that was too tall. Got rid of it. Actually went to get the new s model when I saw the 300. I really wanted what I thought was a unicorn. Small, light bike with twin cylinders, water cooled, low seat, tach, gear position, water temp, and some off-road capability. I had no idea the 300 existed until I walked in to deal on the s model. Although the KLR has twice the cc count, I think it would have been a compromise that the 300 isn’t. Pick it up tomorrow.
I just found a 2017 with 900miles now 2024 writing this. But cant wait, just what I want to get back into this. thanks for mini review!
Thanks for sharing about all the impressive upgrades made to your Versys: Tall windshield plus windshield extender, hand guards, usb port, auxilary lights and engine guards, upgraded tires.
Nice bike. Can't blame you at all for keeping it and avoiding the not so good deals on other bikes. Btw, one tip about your videos - to me, the music you had was a bit loud, to the point that it was overwhelming your voice. The music then became a distraction. If I were you I'd tone down the volume of the music a bit. Maybe that's just me. Anyhow, enjoy your Versys!
Thanks! Always a struggle with the audio. Maybe someday I'll get better video editing software. I'm using AVS Video Editor. It's easy to use but not so feature rich.
I concur on the music. I actually have some people I like but dont watch anymore cause back ground music way to intense. We get old, guns, construction, bikes.. cant hear as it is!!! LOL But great little video
All dealers screw you on trades. You have to post and sell motorcycles on your own to get anything.
I agree. They offer convenience, they can transfer your license plate and keep you out of the DMV, but the price is never good.
Nice video mate. You made a wise decision to keep it. In this segment it is among the best if not the best choice. You got my like.
I love mine too , such a brillant all arounder. Like you said it's the swiss army knife of motorcycles. 🤩❤️❤️
Blew threw 2 stop signs right off bat! LOL love it. Im looking at a 300 seems to be a sweet little fun 50/50 bike.
Yes, Stop signs are really just suggestions. Thanks!
Hey , great video and you are so cool ! Good background music too ! Thanks .
Thank you!
Hey Q, cool video, but I was hope to see footage of the dealer, the bikes you saw, etc…
I totally agree, best to love the one you with. Trying new bikes is exciting but not necessary, the best bike is the one you got and the one that you can easily put miles on.
I believe used bikes with little miles means there is something not enjoyable. When a bike is a joy to ride, it will have lots of miles.
I think you can still find good deals at dealerships, if you follow some logic and are willing to walk away if it doesn’t make sense.
1. Show up on the last day of the month when they are trying to close deals.
2. Don’t go for popular models, find a bike they will be motivated to move out.
3. Don’t call and ask any questions about price, fees or trade in value. Show up with your price in mind and present to them what you want.
4. Do not trade in your bike, that just opens to many ways on how they could screw you, do not even show up on your bike, drive your car to the dealer and do not reveal you have a possible trade.
5. Do not even mention buying cash, they will raise the price, make them believe you are financing, until you have agreed on a price you like, then say you rather pay cash.
6. Act naive dome and stupid, listen to all their sales pitch, at the end, refuse all 3rd party warranty, etc.
7. Be prepared to be treated like shit, they only smile at you when they screwing you.
8. Going back to the price negotiations, never ask them what their fees are, you opening the door for an up hill battle.
Show up, pick your bike, and make a reasonable offer, tell them with confidence the book value for that bike, you willing to pay book value, plus tax, plus $150 tag and with more confidence, tell them you want $4K for your current bike. If they really want to move the bike, they will accept.
Be aware of the trends, right now it is the worst time to get an adventure bike of any kind, everyone wants one.
When I showed up to get my KLR, they already had sold the adventure model I wanted, they only had 4 KLR in stock,1 used 3 new, all base model.
By the time I left the dealer, they were all gone, the last 3 bikes to get prep out were all KLR, so with such a demand, they are having absolutely no issues moving the KLR, no need for any special offer.
Now, if you want a super sport bike or a cruiser, you can get any deals you want on those, they are just collecting dust in the show room.
In the last month I gotten 3 bikes from Ridenow, the worse dealer to make deals, and I only got screwed on the KLR for obvious reasons.
I told them I refuse to pay any kind of fees, they told me the only way was to buy used, luckily they had an use kLR with only 600miles.
But I ended up paying new MSRP price plus tax and tag, for a used bike.
I was fine with that because I really wanted an off road bike fuel injected, and I got basically a new bike.
The used KLR market is crazy, they are going for around $5K, carbureted with a pile of miles.
Conclusión, showing up to a dealer, to see what they have, not knowing what you want and how much it is worth, it is a recipe for disaster, you might end up paying a lot of money for a bike that you won’t enjoy.
You already have it all covered, the two extremes, a cruiser and an off road bike, anything else you might get will be a repeat of some sort.
So, unless you are looking to just collect bikes, even if they overlap, I think you have what you need.
Although having an interceptor for cruising around on a classic bike sounds exciting.
Thanks, I definitely have all I need. What I want is different matter! Ha! What would be fun to have would be a mid-sized faired or standard bike like a Royal Enfield Interceptor, a Yamaha MT-07, or a Ninja 650. It would be just for local riding on the pavement, but quicker than the Versys and more agile than the Vaquero. For now, I think I'm going to stick with what I have. Thanks!
@@QuentinsMotoVlog I've got a Versys-X 300 (had it about 3 mos) and a Honda NT700V ... covers similar aspects you describe -- love them both. I really like the low maintenance of the shaft drive on the Honda- especially for short-med trips; It's plenty comfortable for me and my wife, good storage, and reasonable weight (~560lbs) and balanced well. My Versys will carry us both and light enough to take camping (glamping - 5th wheel). It's a great bike that does all the short/adventure type rides I need. I may do some seat work (Terry's ?) ... but still figuring out how much I like it as-is for now ! Enjoyed your video - have a great day !
@@JTinGA Thanks!
I bought my X300 brand new in 2017 and have put 11,000+ miles on it so far. My only complaint is the seat. Everything else is excellent. Best modification has been ➡ swapping the 14t front sprocket to a 15t sprocket ⬅. That one tooth improvement makes all the difference in the world in gearing and interstate travel without messing with the computer sensors at all. It allows me to travel at 65mph and still remain in eco mode, but still allows me to cruise up to 75mph and still have power to pass cars if needed.
Late this year I will be riding the MABDR on the X300. It already has the bash plate, engine guards and bark busters. I've taken it on fire roads along the Blur Ridge Parkway with no problem. And as a 5'4" woman, the ability to pick up the bike is the best part. It's no light-weight machine, but the center of gravity is low enough that I have been able to pick it up with no problem more than once.
The Versys X300 is a great bike! I'm sure you'll be happy with it for years to come! 😊
Thanks bud! I hope to do some BDR myself some day. Good luck on your trip.
Today I had to go get me a covid test to show my employer, I had to travel one hour to go get it.
The fever and chills are gone, but now I just have a mild cough that lingers. Hopefully all that will clear with time.
Since am starting to feel a little better, I decided to ride the KLR.
At one point I had to pass a car and I got it up to 75 mph,
so it is capable of doing but the single cylinder doesn’t like it.
She likes to cruise at 50 mph all day where she feels at home and relaxed.
But I had to come home because that 1hr trip made me real tired.
The bike is plenty comfy but I was feeling ware out from being sick.
This was the second 1hr trip I put on the KLR and I loved it, am in love with this bike, I think she is gorgeous.
I can’t wait for me to be back to normal so I can go on longer adventure trips.
Just saw this comment. Hope you're feeling better.
it's a combination of Greed, hot market - selling everything the dealers can get and now inflation kicking out butts. 2022 is a year to get screwed. A agree with the Doc' fees, setup fee, prep fee, and all the other fees is just pure greed.
It is a good time to already have a motorcycle in the garage and sit this year OUT!
Couldn't agree more!
I personally thank those .sshole dealers. You've come to the right decision in the end. Ride on man! Your Kawas are perfect.
I think that too! Those crooks are doing me a favor!
I live in Montana. Been looking for an x300 for 7 months now. I've seen one; the search includes new and used, dealer and private. I've recently expanded to Wyoming and South Dakota, but that's a long trip.
It is a good bike. I started having problems with mine at 10,000 miles. It turned out my rear sprocket somehow became bent. Maybe when a local dealer installed my Mitas tires? I don't know. Because I couldn't figure out the problem, I was due for a new bike, and I wanted more engine power than the X300, I bought a Royal Enfield Interceptor 650. The X300 was more comfortable and I could take it on trails but the RE INT650 is better in many other ways. The engine is much better, it's is much better looking, especially with the chrome gas tank, and INT650 is just as happy as the X300 to sail down a dirt road.
Yeah. Sticking with the VX3. Why not, yours was a great deal and loaded. Can't wait til March to be back on mine up here in the Northeast. They charge these prep fees for used bikes traded in that needed no work probably.
Yeah, it's maddening. I think they're doing it because they think they can. On the one hand I want local dealerships to be around when I want to buy a new bike, so I guess I can't raise too much of a fuss. I'll just vote with my wallet and hang onto my cash.
The problem is used prices are way too high as well. Sometimes a new bike is close enough to take the beating. Either way, it’s not a good time to buy motorcycles.
I agree. I did end up trading the X300 in on a Royal Enfield Int650. I got a very poor trade-in value but I’m very happy with the 650. Looking for an electric motorcycle now but the prices are sky high.
I had a loaded Versys X300, but became wary of the spoked wheels. Spooked. Traded it on the new G310 GS. Both bikes are really quite good.
Interesting. What do see as advantages that the GS has over the X-300? The only ones I can think of are looks (in my opinion) USD forks, and the weight. What else?
Interesting, please compare those two for us, now that you have had both, what do you think of one over the other?
@@moreorlesdone1497 No tubes in the tires on the GS. I would have a Versy's 300 if it didn't have those damn tubed tires.
As one reader says. I do like the looks of the BMW over the Kaw. They both I think are awesome bikes and bang for the buck. It really just came down to the spoked wheels for me.
@@mikefrancais Spoked are superior if off-roading. The tubes are more of a pain in the ass.
Love the one you got.
And the eagle flies with the dove! Yep!
Music is too loud. Kudos on keeping the Versys.
I struggle with the music volume; my editing software is ok but not the greatest. I'll try to do better! Seriously, I don't like when I'm watching UA-cam and some video starts blaring or I can't hear the commentary.
Thanks for your video, I hear you about those ridiculously mark up fees and low balling offers on trades. Local dealer only offered me $2600 for a BMW 310r with 1600 miles. I wanted to trade for a X300 but I passed on that deal. Their loss. Be safe. Ride safe.
Yeah, it's just a shame. I want dealerships to be there for me. And I don't know the realities of their overhead. It's gotten so that $15,000 for a motorcycle is starting to sound like an economy bike to me. If you watch my later videos you'll see that I continually trade in or sell and buy new bikes. I finally got to where I own a low miles BMW R18 Classic, a Royal Enfield INT650 and a 2022 Harley Pan America. The Beemer and the Harley are both owned by the banks and I pay about $300 a month each. I know not a lot of people can afford that on top of all the other costs of living. But they are an amazing trio of bikes. Thanks for the comment!
The dealership customer service has severely declined over the years. They just tell you to get lost if you don't want to pay all the ridiculous fees, and someone else is waiting to buy the bike.
In the UK at present used prices are sky high - you get a good part ex offer if you are looking to buy new - but there are no new bikes - they are stuck on a ship somewhere.
Yeah, it's all pandemic, isn't it? If we wait a few years we might get back to too many bikes in the showrooms and deals magically appearing.
Nah, I'm keeping my 2019 Versys x300 too. Like you I'm going to upgrade with some cool mods.
Yeah, good on you! I've got all the accessories on mine, but she needs some TLC so that's my plan. Thanks!
Keeping my X300 too! Even after buying a Suzuki Vstrom 650XT, I still like to ride both, depending on what I'm doing, where I'm going and the mood I'm in. The X300 really IS a proper ADV bike, just a small displacement one.
Jeep trails, mountain passes here (SW Colorado) and even one interstate trip, the Versys X300 us up to the task.
Of course it's not a highway passing horse power king, but within it's design parameters, I don't think there is a better bike. Great handling, 68-70 mpg on local gravel county roads (40-45 mph), very reliable, what's not to like. Once you get used to the high revs and power range of the engine, it is a true pleasure. Off road, just ride within the suspension limits and it is a trooper. I'm 6'3" so added 2 inch bar risers and lowered pegs one inch. Added T-Rex brand skid plate and crash bars (highly recommended). Did Givi rack and DIY Pelican case luggage. What a lightweight joy this bike is. Thanks for your vids! -GeezerWheels
It is a great bike. I had a dealer install new tires. They bent the rear sprocket. I could feel the popping and snapping but I couldn't figure out the problem. I finally traded it in, and the dealer eventually figured it out. I would buy another Versys X300.
Planning on riding the remainder of the TAT in Oct. if it works out (Arkansas to N. Carolina). Did most of the western states on a Husaberg FE390 (made street legal or course), but did Durango, CO to Moab Utah on the X300 and also plan to ride the eastern sections on the X300. Again, loved your vids - keep up with whatever you ride in the future.
@@GeezerWheels thanks! I’m jealous! 😀
Dealing right now on a X300. Well, dealing is done. Buying tomorrow. Fees are outrageous. $900 freight. They dropped that to $500. $300 dealer prep. That is something they get paid by the manufacturer to do. $300 freight surcharge. $200 document fee. They dropped the freight to $500 when I balked about the price. Thought that was an odd fee to drop if they were actually charged $900.
$200 document fee sounds ridiculous to me also. Dealers around here charge the $90 the State of SC charges them. Sigh...
👍🏻😀
LoL! My new 2023 Versys-X 300 list price $5900, out the door $8300. Crazy!
Yikes! Oh well. It’s a fun bike.
Dealer tried lowballing me HARD on my Yamaha Bolt. KBB Moto says 4,130 fair trade in value. They said 2k 😂. Straight up told the guy he’s out of his mind if he thinks I’m happily taking that deal. Somethings got to give with these stealerships. Hopefully things improve in the future, but it’s doubtful.
Yes. It’s just a terrible environment to trade in a motorcycle and there is no give on the trade in or the purchase price. It feels like their is a glut of motorcycles and the dealers won’t do a deal unless they can make thousands. Maybe it’s because the Harley generation is aging out and the young are not interested. Maybe the dealerships are in trouble. For someone like me who thrives on the thrill of a new (to me) bike it is a terrible time. If I’m going to buy I’m looking at private sellers and bikes with up to twenty thousand miles. And sell privately first. I’ve also decided it’s a time to learn how to thoroughly explore and enjoy the bike(s) you have. Hope this changes soon.
Damn dude, I need you in charge of my finances.
You too ? The dealership sales people here remind me of 70's used car salesmen, rude, condescending and crooked .
It's total BS. Especially applied to used bikes!
Same problem in the Uk. Dealer offers you nothing for a bike that is clearly worth and extra £1500 to them. Got offered £1800 for my 2015 Ninja 300 with 6000miles, immaculate condition. Would have to be very desperate to sell at that price.
I guess it’s like everything else; businesses continue to get better and better at extracting value from customers instead of delivering it.
I was thinking selling mine (it's a 2018 with 24k miles on) to buy a himalayan or a smaller bike but I started dating a girl that wants to travel with me and I think the versys is the smallest bike that can push us two comfortably in the highway. Guess I'm sticking with mine too.
The Versys has more power and less vibration. I think it's just a better bike than the Himalayan.
I have a 2015 mts 1200s, I don't particularly like it. It rides like it has square wheels on low rpm. All the electronic goodies are cool but I'm switching from it as soon as I sell it.
My latest is the Royal Enfield Interceptor 650. I wouldn’t take it down a trail but it goes down a dirt road as well as the X300 and has a much better engine. Just sayin’
This is it gas prices are soaring this bike make sense
It is a cool bike. I always felt great sitting on it. Ultimately I grew tired of the weak engine and I started having issues. Somehow my rear sprocket bent. I have no idea how. One suggestion: KTM’s 390 Adventure or Husqvarna’s Svartpilen 401. Both share the same engine, which is awesome fun. I have the 401 and love it.
Dealers are crooks, period. Car or Bike, it’s all the same. Always buy private and never new.
Set up on a used bike? What did they set it up on the kickstand?
That why I like mine use dealer what price he tells you that’s what you pay no fees .
Damn guy, that was a STOP SIGN you just blew through when you left your house !!!! No freaking wonder why bikers get turned into a greasy spot on the road when they ride like you !!!!
It is my own quiet little neighborhood, visibility is expansive, and there is absolutely NO REASON to stop unless another car is coming!!!
I was just looking for a new bike and ran into the same issue. $4,900 list price **+$1,500 in fees**
I feel lucky and was able to find a 2020 x300 with 4000 miles out the door at $5000 from a triumph dealer.
Yes, and the value of used bikes compared to the cost of new bikes has only gotten worse since I made that video!
@@QuentinsMotoVlog I was mind blown. At the end of the riding season where I live and dealers still want you to bend over just for the privilege of buying a bike.
So this is Q....and=y big updates in DC.
@@allenantonio4389 ?
ohhhh, i see...so just forget about what you see pricewise on cycletrader and just ask the OTD price to see the real one
Yes, thanks, that's what I'm doing now.
@@QuentinsMotoVlog yeah its probably not a good time to buy from dealers now, everything is increased with inflation, pandemic, supply chain issues...just excuses
I looked at a v300x yesterday. Thinking I will buy it. Thx for great video. I am 45 min from Fayettevillle myself. Any change you would sell your bike to me? I like upgrades (I am looking at stock bike). Jr
Hey Joel, I traded my X300 in on a Royal Enfield INT650. The RE will go down a dirt road as well as the X300. The X300 can tackle trail riding, which the RE can't. After crashing a few times in the dirt I decided trail riding isn't for me, so I went with the greater motor and classic looks of the RE. Both very good bikes. Good luck!
Like the W800 but there are a lot of issues with cracking and electrical.
Interesting. Ultimately I traded for the Royal Enfield Interceptor 650, an excellent all-rounder.
Interesting. Ultimately I traded for the Royal Enfield Interceptor 650, an excellent all-rounder.
@@QuentinsMotoVlog Sweet I too have been looking at those. :)
Hey Q! That little utility bar you had going across the inside of the windshield for your cell phone holder!! Where can I find one of those? I would like to do the same setup you had with the thermometer and cell phone on the inside of the windshield on that access bar!? I haven't ridden in a long time! So I am still a little nervous and still getting used to your old versys x300!
You know what? I still have that bar. I would be happy to give it to you if you want to meet. If not, I can tell you it was on the bike when I bought the bike. I believe it is a genuine Kawasaki accessory, so you can likely find it on their website. But if you want it, I'd be happy to give it to you.
@@QuentinsMotoVlog Yesterday evening, after hours and hours and hours trying to find one. I finally found one, so I did order it it should be here in about a week I believe. I love watching your videos and it would be nice to meet up next time I’m in Myrtle Beach area if you’re available! Have a good day Q
@@philipparks8988 sure. Let's meet up. Coffee and a ride is always on my agenda! ;)
Music louder than speach .
Working on it. Thanks!
What did you call the windscreen thing, an extender and madstat?
Madstad. madstad.com/products/kawasaki-versys-x-300-2017
where did you get the center-stand?
It came with the bike. I bought the bike second hand from a dealer in Virginia. Sorry I don’t have more info.
Hello… does the shield extension clamp bother your vision?
It doesn’t. It’s surprising but very quickly you adapt and don’t notice it. Thanks.
@@QuentinsMotoVlog
Thank you for the reply. Ride safe!
Bend over fees..too funny. But so true cant buy anything today its totally out of control..I've paid my last fee..lol.my man q
;)
A bird in the hand is worth 2 in the dealer..love the one your with. Happiness is a state of mind..if you don't mind it doesn't matter..
Same old gouging game they have played for years.
Couldn’t watch all the way through. I couldn’t figure out if I was listening to music or your statement
Which hand guards did you purchase?
On Amazon. They are called: Motorcycle Hand Guards Universal 7/8" 22mm Handle Protector Shield Motorbike Motocross Scooter Windproof Handlebar HandGuards Protection Gear. $12.99
@@QuentinsMotoVlog thanks a million. Looks like a tight fit. I have a 2021. Did you have to adjust or move anything around to get them to fit?
I’d buy that bike for 3500, but I’m a beginner, so I can’t test drive anything to tell if it’s a good deal.
I traded it in. Didn’t get a lot for it on the trade in side but I got a fair deal on the purchase side. My recommendation if you’re a beginner is to spend some time on CycleTrader.com and search for similar bikes with similar mileage. That will give you a good idea of fair price. As for quality, I don’t think I’ve ever bought a bad bike, and I’ve bought many, new and used, from dealers and individuals.
@@QuentinsMotoVlog I look on cycletrader a lot, but my state, Louisiana, don’t have any adventure bikes at all.
@@subitoforzando5816 Yeah, I've bought out of state before. I either go get it in my pickup truck, or fly or catch a ride there, and then ride the bike home. It's a bit more of a gamble but I've never bought a "bad" motorcycle, new or used, dealer or individual. You also have to think about who will service the bike locally.
Turn down the music
yep!
Music too loud!!!
@@BrianSmith-ql5nj sorry about that. I am a proud amateur. I’m always struggling to improve the quality of the videos I share. Hopefully people get something from them. I’m passionate about motorcycles and only make one when I believe I have something helpful to say. Thanks for your feedback.
Don't buy a used bike from a Stealership