Sunday, June 2, 2013

Kawasaki Versys 650


Kawasaki Versys 650 ABS (Year 2009)

Introduction

I came across the Versys 650 one day and after reading some reviews from YouTube, I got  a little curious over the performance and capability of the machine. There was a video comparing the Honda Nc700X, Versys 650 and Suzuki Vstrom 650. Search for it on YouTube and see it for yourself. 

Once again I bought this bike blind and on the day of delivery, it was pouring down. As such I didn't manage to take her out for a test ride. While it didn't come in the signature Kawa Green, the orange model which I got, is pretty nice. There is a metallic gloss over it and it shimmers. Nice. 



First Impressions

This machine has had one owner for the past 4 years and I guess he/she took pretty good care of the bike. The paintwork is almost immaculate. There were no visible scars from falls or touring trips. Mileage was also pretty low for a bike this age.  Being twin powered, I was a little hesitant over the power of this 60HP machine. I knew it wasn't going to knock my socks off, but it was 20-odd kgs lighter than my NC700X and I hoped the Versys could make up what the NC700X lacked of. 

The first thing that struck me when I looked at the tank was " this looks like a Bajaj Pulsar 200NS!" The color scheme resembles one. 

The bike is also taller than the NC700X. With my foot on the ground, I realised the left pegs was scraping  my left calf. A little annoying but if you are careful, it should be okay. 

The front headlamp assembly is void of any front beak which I am now accustomed to from my R1150GS and NC700X. Time to find a way to extend it.



Personally, the meter cluster is better than the NC700X. Call me old school but an analogue rev meter is just nicer to me. 


The Versys 650 comes with twin front rotors and ABS. 

One gripe which I have about this was the lack of mainstand. I did a search and could not find any after-market options. 


There are however, many other accessories made for this model. This includes wind shields, hand guards, engine guards, sliders, and rack options. Mine came fully kitted less pannier racks. 

Once  mounted to the saddle, I felt the sportier stance from this bike. It also feels beefier than the NC700X. The shape and size of the fuel tank and handle bars add to this feel. 

Now on with the ride. 

Ride Impression

Before I go into this, I would like to mention that I have a Honda NC700X in my possession and hence the comparison between the two models. It is common knowledge that the Honda is tuned for lower torque and better fuel economy and produces approximately 47HP. The Verysys 650 on the other hand, is marketed as a sporty adventurer bike. The rev counter maxes out at 10.5k compared to 6.25k on the Honda. Output from this parallel twin is rated at 60HP. 


With a different setup, how was the Versys compared to the NC700X? Was it a mad speed rush like the Yamaha FZ6? In short, no. 

It was however, more like a conventional ride. The engine, derived from a detuned ER6N, short shifts and can pull you out of low speeds and you can still ride comfortably on 6th gear at 80kmh. This is handy under local traffic conditions as you need not work the gears that much. 

I did feel some vibrations coming off the fuel tank and foot pegs. Not really annoying but it can out off some riders looking for silky smooth ride. My advice to them, get a road bike like a Fazer 6. 

The bike feels quite planted on the road and can handle local chocker block situations quite well. The tall riding position allows you to handle the bike quite well. Braking is adequate but not fantastic. 

Engine performance is as expected of a parallel design and cannot be compared to an in-line 4 setup. It is nevertheless an easy bike to handle. 

Conclusion

As my hunt for the elusive "perfect bike" goes on, I am glad to note that the Versys is every bit what it is cut out to be. A great almost do all bike for riders seeking their first Class 2 bike. In Singapore, we are usually tempted to try litre sized bikes for its power, but frankly, do we really need all that power for commuting traffic? 

I should also state that the popularity for the Versys is currently over shadowed by the Honda NC700X but it should be seriously considered as the power band is more conventional. Riders upgrading from Class 2A bikes like the Honda Cb400 will not feel that the bike is sluggish. It has enough oomph to take you places, and then some. 

Would I ride this more over the NC700X? Yes.  Why? Get on one and see for yourself. 

PROS

Tall riding position
Pokier engine
Torque is more conventional
Under carriage muffler - Subjective

CONS
Fuel economy poorer than Honda NC700X
Not an in-line 4
Lack of mainstand
Headlamp design not the prettiest