Kawasaki Versys 650
Script error: No such module "Unsubst". Template:Infobox Motorcycle The Kawasaki Versys 650 (codenamed KLE650) is a middleweight motorcycle. It borrows design elements from dual-sport bikes, standards, adventure tourers and sport bikes; sharing characteristics of all, but not neatly fitting into any of those categories.[1] The name Versys is a portmanteau of the words versatile and system.[2] It was introduced by Kawasaki to the European and Canadian markets as a 2007 model and to the US market in 2008.[3] A California emissions compliant version was released in 2009.[4][5] In 2010 new styling was applied to the headlight and fairings and several functional changes made including enlarged mirrors and improved rubber engine mounts.[6] In 2015, a new model was introduced with a new fairing style that abandoned the older, stacked headlights for the more conventional twin headlight style commonly found on sportbikes.[7]
Technical details
The Versys is based on the same platform as Kawasaki's other 650cc twin motorcycles, the Ninja 650R and the ER-6n. It shares the same electronics, engine, wheels, brakes and main frame as its siblings. Where it differs is in riding position, rear sub frame, suspension components, and engine tuning.[8]
The Versys' 650 cc liquid cooled, four-stroke, parallel-twin engine has been retuned for more bottom-end and mid-range torque. This is achieved with different camshafts and fuel injection mapping. These changes cause peak torque to occur at a lower engine speed and provide better throttle response in the 3,000 to 6,000 rpm range. In addition a balance tube has been added between the exhaust headers to smooth out power delivery. Power is Script error: No such module "convert". at 8,500 rpm, compared with the Ninja's Script error: No such module "convert". at 8,000 rpm.[9] Torque is Script error: No such module "convert"., compared with the Ninja's Script error: No such module "convert"..[9] Improving the engine's low and mid range response comes at the expense of a slight reduction in peak power however. A similar approach was recently deployed by Honda with their CBF1000 model. The engine uses a 180 degree crankshaft. This in turn requires an uneven firing interval (180 degrees, 540 degrees) which gives the engine note a distinctive "throbbing" sound at idle.[8]
The suspension has greater vertical travel and more adjustability than the suspension on the Versys 650 siblings. On the front thicker/stiffer 41 mm inverted telescopic forks are externally adjustable for preload and rebound damping. The right fork leg carries a damping cartridge while both legs contain springs. The rear shock absorber is adjustable for rebound damping. Suspension preload is adjustable in the rear via a screw collar on the shock. 2015+ models have an external adjuster. The rear shock/spring is directly connected, without linkages, to a non symmetrical, gull wing, aluminium swing arm instead of the more basic steel swing arm used on the Ninja and ER-6.[8]
Local variants
In Australia, the Learner Approved Motorcycle Scheme (LAMS) is in place for riders on a restricted licence during the first period after passing their motorbike test. For this market the Versys 650L is manufactured and sold with output power restrictions put into place using a custom programme on the ECU and a screw installed near the throttle wheel on the right-side of the bike which prevents it from fully rotating. The specifications for the Australian LAMS and non-LAMS variants for the 2017 model year are below, but the different RPM measurements should also be noted:[10][11]
| Model | KLE650 (KLE650FHF) | KLE650L (KLE650FHFW) |
|---|---|---|
| Power | 51 kW @ 8,500 rpm | 41.3 kW @ 8,000 rpm |
| Torque | 64 N.m @ 7,000 | 55 n.m @ 5,500 rpm |
In addition to the above differences, Australia marketed Versys 650 and 650L are sold with a fuel capacity of 21 L and have a kerb mass of 216 kg (wet) for both the 650L and 650.
2022 update
In 2022 it received a color TFT display, Bluetooth, LED lighting, a 2-level traction control system, and a manually adjustable windshield.[12]
The Tourer Plus was released at a price of Template:FXConvert in Thailand.[13] In Germany, the Versys 650 starts at Template:FXConvert.[14]
Reception
The Versys was reviewed by motorcycling media and received the following notable reactions.
- 2008 Motorcycle of the Year award by Motorcyclist magazine[15]
- 2008 Best in Class "Allrounder class" award by Motor Cycle News[16]
- 2015 Comparison Winner: Kawasaki Versys 650 LT vs. Suzuki V-Strom 650XT by Motorcyclist magazine[17]
References
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External links
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