Kawasaki Versys 650 2015 vs. Kawasaki Versys 1000 2015

Kawasaki Versys 650 2015

Kawasaki Versys 650 2015

Kawasaki Versys 1000 2015

Kawasaki Versys 1000 2015

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Overview - Kawasaki Versys 650 2015 vs Kawasaki Versys 1000 2015

The Kawasaki Versys 650 and the Kawasaki Versys 1000, both from the 2015 model year, are both enduro motorcycles with similar features but also some notable differences.

In terms of engine specifications, the Versys 650 is equipped with a 649cc in-line twin engine, producing 69 horsepower and 64 Nm of torque. On the other hand, the Versys 1000 boasts a larger 1043cc in-line four-cylinder engine, delivering a more powerful 120 horsepower and 102 Nm of torque. This makes the Versys 1000 significantly more powerful and capable of higher speeds.

Both models feature an electric starter and a chain transmission. However, the Versys 650 has a 2-cylinder engine, while the Versys 1000 has a 4-cylinder engine. This difference in cylinder configuration contributes to the Versys 1000's higher power output.

Kawasaki Versys 650 2015

Kawasaki Versys 650 2015

In terms of suspension, both models are equipped with upside-down telescopic forks at the front. However, the Versys 1000 offers more adjustability with compression, preload, and rebound adjustments, while the Versys 650 only has rebound adjustment. This allows for more precise tuning of the suspension on the Versys 1000.

The chassis of the Versys 650 is made of steel, while the Versys 1000 features an aluminum frame. The aluminum frame on the Versys 1000 provides a lighter and more rigid structure, contributing to better handling and stability.

Both models have double disc brakes at the front, providing effective stopping power. However, the Versys 650 requires more hand force to operate the brakes compared to the Versys 1000. This may be a consideration for riders who prefer a lighter brake feel.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the Versys 650 has a wheelbase of 1415mm and a seat height of 840mm, while the Versys 1000 has a longer wheelbase of 1520mm but the same seat height. The Versys 1000 also has a slightly wider rear tire at 180mm compared to the 160mm on the Versys 650. Both models have a fuel tank capacity of 21 liters.

Kawasaki Versys 1000 2015

Kawasaki Versys 1000 2015

In terms of strengths, the Versys 650 offers a lively engine, comfortable seating position, effective adjustable windshield, comfortable chassis, and a sporty look. On the other hand, the Versys 1000 boasts a sporty look, comfortable seating position, powerful and cultivated in-line four-cylinder engine, adjustable windshield, stable chassis, well-controlled braking system, clever range of accessories, and a comparatively low price.

In terms of weaknesses, the Versys 650 lacks a gear indicator as a standard feature and may sway a little in fast bends. The brakes on the Versys 650 also require more hand force. The Versys 1000, on the other hand, has a windshield that can only be adjusted when stationary and also lacks a gear indicator as a standard feature.

Overall, the Kawasaki Versys 650 and the Kawasaki Versys 1000 are both capable enduro motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The Versys 650 is a more affordable option with a lively engine and comfortable seating position, while the Versys 1000 offers more power, a sportier look, and a range of additional features.

Technical Specifications Kawasaki Versys 650 2015 compared to Kawasaki Versys 1000 2015

Kawasaki Versys 650 2015
Kawasaki Versys 1000 2015

Engine and Drive Train

Engine typeEngine typeIn lineEngine typeIn line
BoreBore83 mmBore77 mm
StrokeStroke60 mmStroke56 mm
Engine powerEngine power69 HPEngine power120 HP
Rpm at Max. PowerRpm at Max. Power8,500 rpmRpm at Max. Power9,000 rpm
TorqueTorque64 NmTorque102 Nm
Rpm at TorqueRpm at Torque7,000 rpmRpm at Torque7,500 rpm
Compression RatioCompression Ratio10.8 Compression Ratio10.3
StarterStarterElectricStarterElectric
Clutch TypeClutch TypeMultiplate in oil-bathClutch TypeMultiplate in oil-bath
IgnitionIgnitionDigitalIgnitionDigital
TransmissionTransmissionChainTransmissionChain
Number of gearsNumber of gears6Number of gears6
CylindersCylinders2Cylinders4
StrokesStrokes4-StrokeStrokes4-Stroke
CoolingCoolingliquidCoolingliquid
DisplacementDisplacement649 ccmDisplacement1,043 ccm

Suspension Front

Front suspensionFront suspensionUpside-Down telescopic forkFront suspensionUpside-Down telescopic fork
AdjustmentAdjustmentReboundAdjustmentCompression, Preload, Rebound

Suspension Rear

AdjustmentAdjustmentReboundAdjustmentCompression, Preload, Rebound

Chassis

FrameFrameSteelFrameAluminium

Brakes Front

TypeTypeDouble diskTypeDouble disk
PistonPistonDouble pistonPistonFour pistons
Shock mountShock mountSemi-SchwimmsattelShock mountSemi-Schwimmsattel
TechnologyTechnologyPetalTechnologyradial, Petal

Brakes Rear

TypeTypeDiscTypeDisc
PistonPistonSingle pistonPistonSingle piston
Shock mountShock mountFloating caliperShock mountFixed caliper

Dimensions and Weights

Front tyre widthFront tyre width120 mmFront tyre width120 mm
Front tyre heightFront tyre height70 %Front tyre height70 %
Front tyre diameterFront tyre diameter17 inchFront tyre diameter17 inch
Rear tyre widthRear tyre width160 mmRear tyre width180 mm
Rear tyre heightRear tyre height60 %Rear tyre height55 %
Rear tyre diameterRear tyre diameter17 inchRear tyre diameter17 inch
LengthLength2,165 mmLength2,240 mm
WidthWidth840 mmWidth895 mm
HeightHeight1,400 mmHeight1,400 mm
WheelbaseWheelbase1,415 mmWheelbase1,520 mm
Seat HeightSeat Height840 mmSeat Height840 mm
Kerb Weight (with ABS)Kerb Weight (with ABS)216 kgKerb Weight (with ABS)250 kg
Fuel Tank CapacityFuel Tank Capacity21 lFuel Tank Capacity21 l
License compliancyLicense compliancyALicense compliancyA

Pros and Cons in comparison

Pros and Cons in comparison

Kawasaki Versys 650 2015

Kawasaki Versys 650 2015

The new Versys 650 is truly more than just a revamped old lady - in addition to the contemporary look, the engine, chassis and equipment list have also been revised. It remains true to its sporty line, the 5 hp more benefit the mid-range for increased sovereignty - however, even the predecessor was a wonderfully lively fun machine. Instead, comfort is increased enormously by clever solutions such as the larger and now height-adjustable windshield. Finally, the optional features are also up to date: nice and roomy panniers, heated grips, LED fog lights, frame guard, gear indicator and a 12 V socket.

Lively engine

comfortable seating position

effective, adjustable windshield

comfortable chassis

sporty look

Gear indicator costs extra

sways a little in fast bends

brake needs a lot of hand force

Kawasaki Versys 1000 2015

Kawasaki Versys 1000 2015

The new Kawasaki Versys 1000 is not a completely new model - even if it looks like one from the design point of view. The look has been cleverly adapted to the current aggressive Kawasaki line with two pointed headlights and many edges at the front. Technically, on the other hand, it has been cautiously upgraded - but quite sensibly. Two additional horsepower boost the output to 120 hp, which is excellent to ride thanks to the wonderful in-line four-cylinder characteristics. The chassis corresponds to the sporty demands of a Kawasaki, but the ergonomics and comfortable seating position allow for long journeys - just like a big enduro. With useful accessories such as a pannier set, top case, heated grips and additional headlights, the Versys 1000 becomes a serious long-distance tourer - the comparatively low base price makes these gimmicks quite affordable.

Sporty look

comfortable seating position

powerful and cultivated in-line four-cylinder engine

adjustable windshield

stable chassis

well-controlled braking system

clever range of accessories

comparatively low price.

Windshield only adjustable when stationary

gear indicator costs extra

Price Comparison Avarage Market Price Kawasaki Versys 650 vs Kawasaki Versys 1000

There are a few key differences between a Kawasaki Versys 650 2015 and a Kawasaki Versys 1000 2015. In terms of price, the actual average price of a Kawasaki Versys 1000 2015 is about 33% higher. Compared to Kawasaki Versys 1000 2015 there are less Kawasaki Versys 650 2015 bikes available on the 1000PS.de Marketplace, specifically 4 compared to 6. It takes less time to sell a Kawasaki Versys 650 with 85 days compared to 86 days for a Kawasaki Versys 1000. Since model year 2007 1000PS.de editors have written 39 reviews for the Kawasaki Versys 650 and 19 reviews for the Kawasaki Versys 1000 since model year 2012. The first review for the Kawasaki Versys 650 was published on 25/07/2006 and now has more than 3,900 views. This compares to more than 8,400 views for the first review on Kawasaki Versys 1000 published on 07/11/2011.

Price Kawasaki Versys 650

Model year
Current average market prices

Price Kawasaki Versys 1000

Model year
Current average market prices

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