Stepping down from a Triumph Tiger 800, I tested V-Strom and Versys. I finally decided on the Versys because the Kawi was more practical for day-to-day use, and better for highway trips. Plus, you can add a few things to make the Versys even better for highway, like a Givi Airflow windscreen, a more comfy Sargent seat, and a tail case for more luggage. One rap on Versys is it doesn't come with a center stand. I installed one, but it was over $250 and a hassle to install. I also installed a USB power outlet, which comes standard on V-Strom. One main reason for choosing the Versys is that it's more fun to ride in the twisties. For city boys like me, that's important.
I have a Tiger 800 and a Versys 650. The Tiger unfortunately must go, and I plan to keep the Versys if I am able, but if not I may get a V-Strom later... or the newer Versys 🤔
Hi Alex.. I have a versys 2017 model and I considering to sell it and to buy a tiger 800 2013 model.. Can you tell me please some informations about the bike? Is worth to do this step? I use the bike as an every day commuter and fir trips as well.. Not off road.. Thanks in advance
vagelis koios I would say keep the 2017 Versys. The third generation 650 is a fantastic all around bike. I’m still considering selling my 2014 to buy a 2019-20 to get the updates and the integrated luggage. Having the 2019 Tiger 800 I would say if you feel the Tiger is a better choice for you I would get the 2018-19 it’s worth the price. I had a 2012 Tiger 800 and it was good, but not nearly as refined as the final 800. The 2014-2017 was better, but the throttle by wire wasn’t as refined as it is now and the cruise control button layout was not ideal. The 2018-19 had over 100 changes made and it shows. The engine, transmission, and suspension all work exceptionally well, and the ergonomics are definitely more comfortable. I wait to see what issues the new 900 has as I always prefer to buy the final version of a generation that is near perfected, and my 2019 Tiger is that. I am now thinking of keeping it. The engine refinement, smooth fueling, and feature set of the XrT really shine. It just needs the 900 GT Pro’s electronic rear shock and about 20 more horsepower.
@@mindspinn311 thank you for your answer..!! My budget is not so big.. So I can buy tiger 800 till 2014 model.. Versys 2017 actually is a very good bike but I am thinking to buy a bike with triple engine for the first time. I had 1 cylinder bikes, 4 cylinder and 2 cylinders.. Never a triple.. I heard that the triple is an awesome engine.. Maybe I will keep the versys one more year and then I will go for more new model of tiger 800 or 1050..Tiger 900 looks awesome mashine..!!
vagelis koios You will enjoy any Tiger, but you may miss the Versys if you sell it, so that’s what you have to decide. The Tiger isn’t as nimble having a larger front wheel and longer wheelbase than the Versys. But of course the Tiger’s engine and transmission are more refined. If you can get the Tiger Sport 1050 that could be ideal, especially if you won’t ride off-road. Unfortunately that model isn’t sold in North America.
Purely on the basis of ADV credentials, I would go for V-Strom. But then, most of the riders do not have the luxury of having more than one big bikes in his/her garage, and most of us probably want a little bit of everything from a given bike. In that sense Versys makes a better choice for me. This is just a 50 year old rider's perspective.
Coming from a former 2018 versys owner, the versys is a pure sport tourer. There is nothing adv about it. The rake and wheelbase make for extremely sketchy gravel riding. And the suspension is way too stiff for any decent bumps. It's a good bike, but not an adv. My multistrada (which I don't consider an offroad bike) is so much more capable off the tarmac, there is no comparison. And it's just slightly better than the Strom offroad. The strom is by far the better all rounder. It's also more comfy and a bit quicker.
Great review guys! Thanks for posting. 2 points that could be added are (1) the aftermarket for VStrom and (2) the engine longevity for VStrom- they are very long lasting. End result: I’m glad I picked the VStrom 650!
good job, a very comprehensive test, I owned a Versys for ten years and I concur with your findings about it, I bought a BMW but find it too heavy, not when I am riding it but for moving around so I want to go back to lighter bike and both of these bikes are in the running
This is easily the best video I’ve seen on this comparison. You guys rock! I love my Versys for the reasons that it leans more towards being a sport touring than an ADV. Any Adv tour is going to be mostly pavement, where the Versys owns, and is by far more comfortable and an “all day” bike.
Among the two bikes, Versys is definitely my favourite👍👍. Looks sporty and have the Ninja looks too!!! But the V Strom also I like very much. I think I looks more adventurous than the Versys which looks like a sports bike on taller stance. I will go for the Versys since I was so much in love with it, my dream bike but I hope it can get new updates for 2019. Definitely getting this bike when the time has come.
Brilliant video guys. I really like how thorough you guys were in testing both bikes, a lot of people aren't as thorough. I have a 2013 versys 650 and love it, my mate has the 650 v strom.
Yes!! I’ve owned a v Strom for 26,000 miles and since I have a DR 650 I use the V Strom mostly for the highway and I just bought a Kawasaki Versys and like it much better on the highway .
Well done review. You could've covered the maintainance and service costs also. I personally love the Versys, because it has the capability to tour long distances and carve up a mountain road, but still gives you a cushy ride over broken roads. I personally wouldn't take a 200+kg bike on hard trails or river crossings. Kawasaki also has a better dealer and service network I feel.
Coming from someone who owned a 2018 versys and rides long distance.. the seat is horrible, it pitches your pelvis forwards in an awkward position and your legs and butt start aching pretty bad after a couple hours. And it is in no way shape or form an adventure bike. Purely a sport tourer. It's a good bike, but don't get one if you're looking for a long distance adventure bike
As an owner of a Kawasaki Motorcycle, I don't quite agree on better dealer and service network aspect of Kawasaki. In my opinion, Suzuki dealers and Service centers outnumber Kawasaki ones (even though not all the Suzuki sales/service centers may be selling/servicing premium bikes like VStrom)
@@sathishrao7926 even though Suzuki have better presence in India, the higher capacity bikes are not sold and service by all dealers. Even in a city like Bangalore, only 1 or 2 Suzuki premium service centres are available. Consider also the fact that there are more Versys on the road and hence spares availability is higher for the Versys. Also take into account that the service intervals for V-Strom is every 6500kms and from team-bhp site, an owner shared the first service cost at 1000kms is ₹7116. Much higher than the Kawasaki!
Visakh Asok : Note that I too mentioned that “not all the Suzuki sales/service centers may be selling/servicing Premium motorcycles like VStrom”. However in spite of this, their ‘Premium Bike’ sales/service network out numbers Kawasaki’s I guess. For eg., Entire Karnataka has 2 Kawasaki Sales/Service centers (Bangalore and Mangalore). Secondly, Kawasaki is notorious and infamous for Service costs ! My Kawasaki’s first service at 1000 KM cost Rs 6000. Next one is at 3000 KM I guess.. Coming to Kawasaki Spares, they’re not usually stocked at the Service centers. The ‘simple’ spares are ordered from Pune unit (which assembles the Motorcycles from CKD units) which takes about 2 weeks.. The ‘complex’ spares have to be imported from Thailand (which has Kawasaki manufacturing unit) which takes months !
@@sathishrao7926 For premium bikes, the story of spares availability is the same. The service costs of the V-Strom are higher than that of the Kawasaki is what I was trying to point out. If you don't believe me you can refer to the superbike service costs thread in team-bhp.
I had been an avid motorcyclist for 47 years and had owned around 40 bikes when I rode both of these bikes back to back, and then ran as fast as my legs would carry me to buy a V-Strom. That was 5 years ago, and that DL650 ABS Adventure is still in the garage and it is my favorite ‘bike for the money’ of all time.
Walter Smith Thanks.. just so you know, I have neither of these bikes.. Mine is a Kawasaki Vulcan S which is a totally ‘On Road and Non Adventurous’ Motorcycle 😀
@@sathishrao7926 Vulcan S is a NICE bike. I have Vulcan Voyager myself, as well as an older V-Strom. 2011. I considered the Versys but wanted something a little more off road capable. Also, there appears to be a lot more accessories available to make the V-Strom even more capable off-road. Adventure bikes are just plain FUN.
The Versys is better in almost any way, I would buy the Versys - so naturally, the V-strom wins :D I love it! But serious, very good review, talking about the pros and cons, and giving a really good idea of who should buy what. It pretty much confirms the conclusions I have made so far from watching other reviews. If you are going to spend most of your time on the road, and only plan for light offroading and gravel roads, the Versys is the best. If you want to be able to do some more real offroad, or spend a lit of time off tarmac, then its V-strom. I be honest, I think the Versys is most for me.
No doubt, V-Strom is over all better package. Under 10L it is the BEST ADV bike in india. Versys characteristics and looks are more like half-baked ADV bike. Definitely my pick is V-Strom 650 XT even though it cost more than versys.
I've lived a fun life that has led to damaged nerves in my arms. Vibration kicks my ass, so the Chai test was awesome! Thank you soo much for showing that!!
This is actually a very useful video and also fun and well made. You forgot to mention that Kawa has an automatic neutral finder which is very useful, especially in the city. No other big manufacturer uses this system, I don't know why.
Great video. I just bought a new 2020 Versys here in California. I looked at both bikes and the Honda CB500X. I’m happy with my purchase but, I will be upgrading to a 19” front & 50/50 tubeless tires on Black Bike spoke rims and raising the front fender. I may have to shave the seat some as I am a 5’11” long body. I expect some loss of touring comfortabilty for a gain in off-road capability. Your comparison was well done. 👍🏻
Thanks very much for an enjoyable video that really covered so much. I've been wondering about these bikes but I want my wife on the back, so it must be comfortable. You are the first to give the opinion that the V-Strom is more comfortable for a pillion. And you both agreed on that.
How anyone can say a 650 VStrom doesn't handle the twisties with ease is incorrect. I have a '22 Z900 and an RS and can definitely ride my '22 adventure thru any section as quickly as the other two. For a bike with a 61 inch plus wheelbase, this thing is confidence inspiring. Long live "V" Stroms. The new pstrom will do better off road, but will never have as loyal a following.
Good review, both are great do it all reliable adv-touring bikes. Design wise I think the Versys looks better ( subjetive), the engine is a tie for me ( little more sportier the Versys) but the Vstrom has Traction control ( Versys do not) , ABS, easy start, low RPM assist ( Versys do not), and the Dash is way more complete in the Vstrom. So I think the Versys is sportier but the Vstrom is better overall bike.
The Vstorm is the 3rd bike (last purchase) but by the far my favorite; even 2 up is no problem for the 650 engine; the other bikes are different (Indian Springfield Dark Horse and Honda CTX1300)
I've seen quite a bit of Indian bike reviews and to be frank they're all kinda bad, but you guys are properly good. Nice editing, visuals, only problem was it was hard to hear the two talking with the music playing at some points. Otherwise a good video comparing the two, keep up the good work.
There's something wrong with this comparison.. This isn't how a comparo is done. It should have been side to side comparison- looks, specifications, features, ride, handling, engine performance, pricing and accessories. The one they made is more like an argument and utter nonsense!
Nah that Suzuki has frequent intervals of service say at 6500 where as versys has 10000k limit n even the service cost difference for each service is just a couple of hundreds or max a thousand rupees difference ..... And at the end the vstrom is costly to maintain bcz if the service intervals are too short ..... And the parts cost is almost the same for both the bikes .....
Thing about the Versys is, you can add things to make it a better adventure bike (knobby tires), where you can't really do much to a V-Strom to make it a lot better city bike.
@@jimbo92107 not really. The wheelbase and geometry of the versys makes it very skittish and unstable on gravel. You could have full knobbies on the versys and slicks on the strom. And the strom would run circles around it on twisty gravel roads.
@@markmay7821 No just no., Versys with knobby tires is much easier to handle off road for a reason not brought up in this video: Vstrom is 490lb. Versys is 430 lbs. Now you tell me which would sound better in single track?
@@nbcevilduck well I've owned both. And owned a klr before that and have a multistrada now. The multistrada is 500lbs and its soooo much more capable offroad there isn't even a comparison. Weight isn't always the tell all of how a bike handles on gravel or bumpy trails
Your guys are realy cool. I love your review and i will definitively go for for the V Storm because off the bigger front wheel. Its much better off road. Cheers from France ;)
When you compare the running cost of a Benelli versus these two the Benelli is far too expensive and under powered. It's a drag to ride it also the parts unlike the other two are more expensive. The only thing Benelli has going for it is the price point, but if you do your research it isn't worth it to be honest.
@@leoncelestinedave : Can't agree more.. Too little Too late from Benelli.. The only department in which Benelli scores over these bikes is in Looks according to me.
I went versys because that engine is just smooth and is great from tight turns to long haul roads for long trips we have two v Strom and two versys when we go on rides both you can't go wrong but yeah versys all the way
Two bikes with two very different purposes. V-Strom is an Adventure Bike, the Versus is an all street bike. It's like comparing regular potatoes to sweet potatoes.
Really, plates on the front? disgusting. Versys is prettier and more sporty so you can have more fun riding it. V-strom looks more heavy (and not so pretty). I am proud owner of Versys the last 10 years and i still enjoy it so much (about 100.000 klm). last summer i did 2,500 klm in 2 weeks (holidays,Greece) and guess what, NO PROBLEMO! But both of them (i know from my Versys and i think the same with V-strom) are not so good off-road. that's why lately i look closely the new Tenere 700. not the prettiest and the worst, NOT KAWASAKI, but man, you can do anything with this bike.
How many KM do people ride motorcycles on the beach. Useless comparison, so that they are able to give equal marks to both bikes and in conclusion, no clear winner. Why, they need to review bikes in future too.
Guys... I don't want to b a spoil sport but the review looked like it's scripted ... But the enthusiasm u guys put into the work is really appreciated.. kudos
The essence is if it doesn't show its scripted .. like all the other video they did .. It had passion without any lingering methodical script acting .... anyways good worl guys
@@panda909TV my local dealership has a 2016 leftover vstrom650 and a leftover 2015 versys 650 so I'm hoping to get one of them soon. They should cut me a heck of a deal for being that old lol.
I've been agonizing over the choice between a Vstrom and Versys for months now. After watching this video, I"m still agonizing over the two. Great job on the video! Thanks for posting (ok, I'm leaning slightly towards the Vstrom now)
If you plan on going off road at all, the Vstrom is clearly the best choice. The 17" front tire on the versus gives it an advantage in the corners, but is a problem off road. A true ADV needs to be comfortable off road, even though 90% of an adventure trip is on road. Otherwise it's just another street/touring bike. I saw a video of a trip through Mongolia that was easily 70% off road. I have a 650 Vstrom and I like the way it is in the corners. I love my vstrom. ua-cam.com/video/ClbsjX_I08g/v-deo.html
Man, thank God we don't have to install the license plate on the front of the bike here in Europe. It looks horrible.
The Wild One same here in the philippines we almost had the law passed but it was suspended
Same in Australia.
Thank God I don’t have to do that and Trump is president.
My thought was: ' it is an led light bar! Thanks for pointing it out...now I am off to the optometrist 😉
This not the worst of it. We need to have something called a "saree guard"!! Insane
Stepping down from a Triumph Tiger 800, I tested V-Strom and Versys. I finally decided on the Versys because the Kawi was more practical for day-to-day use, and better for highway trips. Plus, you can add a few things to make the Versys even better for highway, like a Givi Airflow windscreen, a more comfy Sargent seat, and a tail case for more luggage.
One rap on Versys is it doesn't come with a center stand. I installed one, but it was over $250 and a hassle to install. I also installed a USB power outlet, which comes standard on V-Strom.
One main reason for choosing the Versys is that it's more fun to ride in the twisties. For city boys like me, that's important.
I have a Tiger 800 and a Versys 650. The Tiger unfortunately must go, and I plan to keep the Versys if I am able, but if not I may get a V-Strom later... or the newer Versys 🤔
Hi Alex.. I have a versys 2017 model and I considering to sell it and to buy a tiger 800 2013 model.. Can you tell me please some informations about the bike? Is worth to do this step? I use the bike as an every day commuter and fir trips as well.. Not off road.. Thanks in advance
vagelis koios I would say keep the 2017 Versys. The third generation 650 is a fantastic all around bike. I’m still considering selling my 2014 to buy a 2019-20 to get the updates and the integrated luggage. Having the 2019 Tiger 800 I would say if you feel the Tiger is a better choice for you I would get the 2018-19 it’s worth the price. I had a 2012 Tiger 800 and it was good, but not nearly as refined as the final 800. The 2014-2017 was better, but the throttle by wire wasn’t as refined as it is now and the cruise control button layout was not ideal. The 2018-19 had over 100 changes made and it shows. The engine, transmission, and suspension all work exceptionally well, and the ergonomics are definitely more comfortable. I wait to see what issues the new 900 has as I always prefer to buy the final version of a generation that is near perfected, and my 2019 Tiger is that. I am now thinking of keeping it. The engine refinement, smooth fueling, and feature set of the XrT really shine. It just needs the 900 GT Pro’s electronic rear shock and about 20 more horsepower.
@@mindspinn311 thank you for your answer..!! My budget is not so big.. So I can buy tiger 800 till 2014 model.. Versys 2017 actually is a very good bike but I am thinking to buy a bike with triple engine for the first time. I had 1 cylinder bikes, 4 cylinder and 2 cylinders.. Never a triple.. I heard that the triple is an awesome engine.. Maybe I will keep the versys one more year and then I will go for more new model of tiger 800 or 1050..Tiger 900 looks awesome mashine..!!
vagelis koios You will enjoy any Tiger, but you may miss the Versys if you sell it, so that’s what you have to decide. The Tiger isn’t as nimble having a larger front wheel and longer wheelbase than the Versys. But of course the Tiger’s engine and transmission are more refined. If you can get the Tiger Sport 1050 that could be ideal, especially if you won’t ride off-road. Unfortunately that model isn’t sold in North America.
Purely on the basis of ADV credentials, I would go for V-Strom. But then, most of the riders do not have the luxury of having more than one big bikes in his/her garage, and most of us probably want a little bit of everything from a given bike. In that sense Versys makes a better choice for me. This is just a 50 year old rider's perspective.
I see video of a premium adventure bike, his cameraman is following him around on a Versys with knobby tires. Just saying... ;-)
Coming from a former 2018 versys owner, the versys is a pure sport tourer. There is nothing adv about it. The rake and wheelbase make for extremely sketchy gravel riding. And the suspension is way too stiff for any decent bumps. It's a good bike, but not an adv. My multistrada (which I don't consider an offroad bike) is so much more capable off the tarmac, there is no comparison. And it's just slightly better than the Strom offroad. The strom is by far the better all rounder. It's also more comfy and a bit quicker.
V-Strom is more comfortable on the road as well.
Great review guys! Thanks for posting. 2 points that could be added are (1) the aftermarket for VStrom and (2) the engine longevity for VStrom- they are very long lasting. End result: I’m glad I picked the VStrom 650!
good job, a very comprehensive test, I owned a Versys for ten years and I concur with your findings about it, I bought a BMW but find it too heavy, not when I am riding it but for moving around so I want to go back to lighter bike and both of these bikes are in the running
I have the best offroader- Activa 3G
Dude it's an all rounder... 😂
Lol
You can't be more accurate.
Yes it is the best off roader. Please keep it OFF our ROADS!
@@adityathakoor4922 lol
Good one bhai
This is easily the best video I’ve seen on this comparison. You guys rock! I love my Versys for the reasons that it leans more towards being a sport touring than an ADV. Any Adv tour is going to be mostly pavement, where the Versys owns, and is by far more comfortable and an “all day” bike.
Among the two bikes, Versys is definitely my favourite👍👍. Looks sporty and have the Ninja looks too!!! But the V Strom also I like very much. I think I looks more adventurous than the Versys which looks like a sports bike on taller stance. I will go for the Versys since I was so much in love with it, my dream bike but I hope it can get new updates for 2019. Definitely getting this bike when the time has come.
This is a personal prefrance, but l take the vstrom any day. It looks better, better comfort, great economy and the engien on that thing is a gem.
Brilliant video guys. I really like how thorough you guys were in testing both bikes, a lot of people aren't as thorough. I have a 2013 versys 650 and love it, my mate has the 650 v strom.
Yes!! I’ve owned a v Strom for 26,000 miles and since I have a DR 650 I use the V Strom mostly for the highway and I just bought a Kawasaki Versys and like it much better on the highway .
Well done review. You could've covered the maintainance and service costs also. I personally love the Versys, because it has the capability to tour long distances and carve up a mountain road, but still gives you a cushy ride over broken roads. I personally wouldn't take a 200+kg bike on hard trails or river crossings. Kawasaki also has a better dealer and service network I feel.
Coming from someone who owned a 2018 versys and rides long distance.. the seat is horrible, it pitches your pelvis forwards in an awkward position and your legs and butt start aching pretty bad after a couple hours. And it is in no way shape or form an adventure bike. Purely a sport tourer. It's a good bike, but don't get one if you're looking for a long distance adventure bike
As an owner of a Kawasaki Motorcycle, I don't quite agree on better dealer and service network aspect of Kawasaki. In my opinion, Suzuki dealers and Service centers outnumber Kawasaki ones (even though not all the Suzuki sales/service centers may be selling/servicing premium bikes like VStrom)
@@sathishrao7926 even though Suzuki have better presence in India, the higher capacity bikes are not sold and service by all dealers. Even in a city like Bangalore, only 1 or 2 Suzuki premium service centres are available. Consider also the fact that there are more Versys on the road and hence spares availability is higher for the Versys. Also take into account that the service intervals for V-Strom is every 6500kms and from team-bhp site, an owner shared the first service cost at 1000kms is ₹7116. Much higher than the Kawasaki!
Visakh Asok : Note that I too mentioned that “not all the Suzuki sales/service centers may be selling/servicing Premium motorcycles like VStrom”. However in spite of this, their ‘Premium Bike’ sales/service network out numbers Kawasaki’s I guess. For eg., Entire Karnataka has 2 Kawasaki Sales/Service centers (Bangalore and Mangalore).
Secondly, Kawasaki is notorious and infamous for Service costs ! My Kawasaki’s first service at 1000 KM cost Rs 6000. Next one is at 3000 KM I guess.. Coming to Kawasaki Spares, they’re not usually stocked at the Service centers. The ‘simple’ spares are ordered from Pune unit (which assembles the Motorcycles from CKD units) which takes about 2 weeks.. The ‘complex’ spares have to be imported from Thailand (which has Kawasaki manufacturing unit) which takes months !
@@sathishrao7926 For premium bikes, the story of spares availability is the same. The service costs of the V-Strom are higher than that of the Kawasaki is what I was trying to point out. If you don't believe me you can refer to the superbike service costs thread in team-bhp.
I had been an avid motorcyclist for 47 years and had owned around 40 bikes when I rode both of these bikes back to back, and then ran as fast as my legs would carry me to buy a V-Strom. That was 5 years ago, and that DL650 ABS Adventure is still in the garage and it is my favorite ‘bike for the money’ of all time.
Versys finally has competition? You do realize that the 650 V-strom has been around since 2004? The Versys didn't come out until 2007.
Walter Smith : This review is centered around India where Vstrom got introduced just recently where as Versys has been around..
@@sathishrao7926 Either way, they are BOTH great bikes, for their respected uses. Happy Cycling!
Walter Smith Thanks.. just so you know, I have neither of these bikes.. Mine is a Kawasaki Vulcan S which is a totally ‘On Road and Non Adventurous’ Motorcycle 😀
@@sathishrao7926 Vulcan S is a NICE bike. I have Vulcan Voyager myself, as well as an older V-Strom. 2011. I considered the Versys but wanted something a little more off road capable. Also, there appears to be a lot more accessories available to make the V-Strom even more capable off-road. Adventure bikes are just plain FUN.
Walter Smith : Good to know.. Enjoy your rides on the bikes !!
Suzuki.vstrom.best comfortable bike .Nice looks.👌👍.
The Versys is better in almost any way, I would buy the Versys - so naturally, the V-strom wins :D I love it!
But serious, very good review, talking about the pros and cons, and giving a really good idea of who should buy what.
It pretty much confirms the conclusions I have made so far from watching other reviews. If you are going to spend most of your time on the road, and only plan for light offroading and gravel roads, the Versys is the best. If you want to be able to do some more real offroad, or spend a lit of time off tarmac, then its V-strom.
I be honest, I think the Versys is most for me.
Please make a video of the service intervals and costs for the 2 bikes. That will help us decide better.
Hi.. when will Mojo ABS model arrive in the market ?
Saying there is a winner and a loser when comparing these two is misleading. They are both amazing bikes, and either will make a excellent choice.
I guess you commented without watching the video
No doubt, V-Strom is over all better package. Under 10L it is the BEST ADV bike in india. Versys characteristics and looks are more like half-baked ADV bike. Definitely my pick is V-Strom 650 XT even though it cost more than versys.
Honda should bring it's Cb 500X to India
They should make a proper off road version with spoked wheels and better suspension. It would serve for the growth of off roading culture in India.
Or Honda could make a CB650X and enter the market fully for a change.
Hands down Suzuki V strom for me...
Great content but music is way too loud when the guys are talking. Please fix in future vids
I've lived a fun life that has led to damaged nerves in my arms. Vibration kicks my ass, so the Chai test was awesome! Thank you soo much for showing that!!
The versys clocks look like the 2014 Sv 650's ironically, and the rest of it looks like a modified Er6n.The V-Strom looks better as an Adventure bike.
one of the best reviews. very detailed.
There is a significant difference in Compression ratio of both bikes. Versys has 10.6.1 v strom is 11.5.1, does it impact on the longevity of engine?
If you changed the tires on the Versys for more off-road treading...then sorry V-strom and it is that easy to do.
This is actually a very useful video and also fun and well made. You forgot to mention that Kawa has an automatic neutral finder which is very useful, especially in the city. No other big manufacturer uses this system, I don't know why.
Agree - Changing directions quickly is definitely not easy in Vstrom
Good onya boys from Sydney Australia loved the term "its a better bad", the main point is you got out of the office for two days had a lot of fun
Great video. I just bought a new 2020 Versys here in California. I looked at both bikes and the Honda CB500X. I’m happy with my purchase but, I will be upgrading to a 19” front & 50/50 tubeless tires on Black Bike spoke rims and raising the front fender. I may have to shave the seat some as I am a 5’11” long body. I expect some loss of touring comfortabilty for a gain in off-road capability. Your comparison was well done. 👍🏻
Thanks very much for an enjoyable video that really covered so much. I've been wondering about these bikes but I want my wife on the back, so it must be comfortable. You are the first to give the opinion that the V-Strom is more comfortable for a pillion. And you both agreed on that.
How anyone can say a 650 VStrom doesn't handle the twisties with ease is incorrect. I have a '22 Z900 and an RS and can definitely ride my '22 adventure thru any section as quickly as the other two. For a bike with a 61 inch plus wheelbase, this thing is confidence inspiring. Long live "V" Stroms. The new pstrom will do better off road, but will never have as loyal a following.
K...now lets wait for the himalayan 650
You wanna buy a first generation RE? Trust me it will be the best off roader. It will be off the roads most of the time. Mostly in service centers!
@@adityathakoor4922 ,😁
Good review, both are great do it all reliable adv-touring bikes.
Design wise I think the Versys looks better ( subjetive), the engine is a tie for me ( little more sportier the Versys) but the Vstrom has Traction control ( Versys do not) , ABS, easy start, low RPM assist ( Versys do not), and the Dash is way more complete in the Vstrom. So I think the Versys is sportier but the Vstrom is better overall bike.
The Vstorm is the 3rd bike (last purchase) but by the far my favorite; even 2 up is no problem for the 650 engine; the other bikes are different (Indian Springfield Dark Horse and Honda CTX1300)
Man the ICON AFTER A LONG TIME SEEN..... BLUE REMINDS ME OF MAHABI RIDES LONG BACK
Good comparison between the two bikes and I enjoyed the banter between you both.
Finally the evening has came,we all been waiting for!
Very interesting comparison. Gave a thumbs up.
Which one is better for a guy 1.90m tall?
A great review 👍🏻 a great compression,the versus is my cake in the cup of both these ADVs..
So glad subtitles are available for this video.
A great comparison of the two bikes. It answered all of my questions. Vstrom is a better rural bike. The Versus a better urban bike.
Thanks guys, very comprehensive comparison!
I've seen quite a bit of Indian bike reviews and to be frank they're all kinda bad, but you guys are properly good. Nice editing, visuals, only problem was it was hard to hear the two talking with the music playing at some points. Otherwise a good video comparing the two, keep up the good work.
U should also follow Sagar Sheldkar, and Autocar India also does good reviews
V-strom any day.
There's something wrong with this comparison..
This isn't how a comparo is done. It should have been side to side comparison- looks, specifications, features, ride, handling, engine performance, pricing and accessories.
The one they made is more like an argument and utter nonsense!
The wait was worth!!
U should have mentioned about the suspension and service expenses.
Definitely Vstorm
why nobody talk about the service and maintenance parts cost because any day Suzuki is cheap on pocket to maintain.
Nah that Suzuki has frequent intervals of service say at 6500 where as versys has 10000k limit n even the service cost difference for each service is just a couple of hundreds or max a thousand rupees difference ..... And at the end the vstrom is costly to maintain bcz if the service intervals are too short ..... And the parts cost is almost the same for both the bikes .....
Cant get a better conclusion....
versys is a sport tourer and vstorm i a adv tourer . cant compare them both.
Thing about the Versys is, you can add things to make it a better adventure bike (knobby tires), where you can't really do much to a V-Strom to make it a lot better city bike.
@@jimbo92107 not really. The wheelbase and geometry of the versys makes it very skittish and unstable on gravel. You could have full knobbies on the versys and slicks on the strom. And the strom would run circles around it on twisty gravel roads.
@@markmay7821 No just no., Versys with knobby tires is much easier to handle off road for a reason not brought up in this video: Vstrom is 490lb. Versys is 430 lbs. Now you tell me which would sound better in single track?
@@nbcevilduck well I've owned both. And owned a klr before that and have a multistrada now. The multistrada is 500lbs and its soooo much more capable offroad there isn't even a comparison. Weight isn't always the tell all of how a bike handles on gravel or bumpy trails
@@nbcevilduck for instance, I can take the same trail in 3rd gear where I had to take it in 1st on the versys, or else it would buck me off the bike
The comparison i were waiting for😍
Your guys are realy cool. I love your review and i will definitively go for for the V Storm because off the bigger front wheel. Its much better off road.
Cheers from France ;)
Hey guys, this is a good review. Very practical considerations every real rider cares about.
What about Switchable ABS, Traction Control, spoked tubeless wheel?
Trk 502x will be good competition to both and the price tag will definitely help, only issue is the lack of service centers and even showrooms
When you compare the running cost of a Benelli versus these two the Benelli is far too expensive and under powered. It's a drag to ride it also the parts unlike the other two are more expensive. The only thing Benelli has going for it is the price point, but if you do your research it isn't worth it to be honest.
@@leoncelestinedave : Can't agree more.. Too little Too late from Benelli.. The only department in which Benelli scores over these bikes is in Looks according to me.
I went versys because that engine is just smooth and is great from tight turns to long haul roads for long trips we have two v Strom and two versys when we go on rides both you can't go wrong but yeah versys all the way
Benelli 502x vs Suzuki Vstorm vs Versys 650
Excellent comparison, got a lot of valuable info. Good job guys!
When's the benelli 502x gonna be reviewed...?😉😉
Don't buy Benelli bro. They will sell and run away
@@honesttalker596 Heard about this issue ..they are poor at after sales
After a few months you will see a new shop/ showroom where the showroom used to be
Honest Talker Benelli is a Chinese company what more do you expect from them!?
@@naveen2454 Italian
V strom looks perfectly adventures and looks better
Maruthi G sali naaaah 2015 Kawasaki 650 Versys 👌
Maruthi G sali i wish the Versys had bigger tires like the v-strom
Adventurous? Yes. Better looking...? 🤣
Put a full exhaust on both bikes, the V-Strom sounds a hundred times better. No 180° parallel twin sounds anything but raspy and harsh.
Exactly: have Delkevic on my 17 vstorm; sounds freaking awesome;
@@cesarr5006 I've heard Arrow slip-ons and they sound great, but full systems obviously bring back the bark and full tone.
V-Storm is much better
Can the Seat be lowered to 790 or 800 mm for the versys?
Touring + off road = vstorm
Touring=versis
The better look of an adv is from the v storm
Till the versis still got looks from the ninja sports bike's
Great video PD and Arun 💯💯💯 look forward to seeing seeing more from you both 🤗💯💯
Two bikes with two very different purposes. V-Strom is an Adventure Bike, the Versus is an all street bike. It's like comparing regular potatoes to sweet potatoes.
Really, plates on the front? disgusting. Versys is prettier and more sporty so you can have more fun riding it. V-strom looks more heavy (and not so pretty). I am proud owner of Versys the last 10 years and i still enjoy it so much (about 100.000 klm). last summer i did 2,500 klm in 2 weeks (holidays,Greece) and guess what, NO PROBLEMO! But both of them (i know from my Versys and i think the same with V-strom) are not so good off-road. that's why lately i look closely the new Tenere 700. not the prettiest and the worst, NOT KAWASAKI, but man, you can do anything with this bike.
@1:20 King of the road behind you😀
a fucking scorpio is King of the road ?? Seriously that was hilarious!!
for taller guy 187cm, which one is better n comfort?
Either really
Versys all the way...its a no brainer :)
We didn't speak about the maintenance cost?
How many KM do people ride motorcycles on the beach. Useless comparison, so that they are able to give equal marks to both bikes and in conclusion, no clear winner. Why, they need to review bikes in future too.
Versys is better on the road and looks much better..
Hey PD which jacket is this? Looks sick AF
Guys... I don't want to b a spoil sport but the review looked like it's scripted ... But the enthusiasm u guys put into the work is really appreciated.. kudos
It is scripted. What is the problem with that?
The essence is if it doesn't show its scripted .. like all the other video they did .. It had passion without any lingering methodical script acting .... anyways good worl guys
0:12 Cellotape sticker on the WebCam covering it 🤣🤣🤣!
#InternetPrivacy
you did not even discuss about luggage ....dont you think thats an important factor for a tourer?
I'll be trading in my Ninja 300 for one of these bikes this summer. Still haven't decided which one lol.
Vstrom for me that wheels is so big deal for spoke tubless
@@panda909TV It does seem like the better choice.
And there's a traction control and more power because its v twin but not as speed like vyrses
@@panda909TV my local dealership has a 2016 leftover vstrom650 and a leftover 2015 versys 650 so I'm hoping to get one of them soon. They should cut me a heck of a deal for being that old lol.
@@daynmitchell7543 Which did you go for in the end, and are you happy with the choice?
Great job guys!
A really fantastic review, you've made my mind up for me👍😎 Verseys for me!
Its a perfect comparison
Nice work
Awesome guys... Thank you
Excellent and Informative!
Good review guys.
As on date the difference in price is much more. Vstrom is 2.4 Lakh more expensive on road than the Versys
I would prefer versys 650 indeed!
I've been agonizing over the choice between a Vstrom and Versys for months now. After watching this video, I"m still agonizing over the two. Great job on the video! Thanks for posting (ok, I'm leaning slightly towards the Vstrom now)
I think to make it fair they should have switched bikes in the video. But good review of individual bikes.
Looking forward for a Versys 1000 review and a proper comparo video of the same...😊
If you plan on going off road at all, the Vstrom is clearly the best choice. The 17" front tire on the versus gives it an advantage in the corners, but is a problem off road. A true ADV needs to be comfortable off road, even though 90% of an adventure trip is on road. Otherwise it's just another street/touring bike. I saw a video of a trip through Mongolia that was easily 70% off road. I have a 650 Vstrom and I like the way it is in the corners. I love my vstrom.
ua-cam.com/video/ClbsjX_I08g/v-deo.html
That was a very helpful video, gentlemen.... thank you. Ride well. :-)
@1:31 the bling wheels looks like bent wheels!
in which year was this video made! that lap gave me a 1990's feel
Very informative content with comedy touches 👍
Suzuki makes perfect bikes but the thing is they are too slow it take ages for them to update there current model.
Versys 650