BMW F 850 GS 2018 vs. Kawasaki Versys 650 2016

BMW F 850 GS 2018

BMW F 850 GS 2018

Kawasaki Versys 650 2016

Kawasaki Versys 650 2016

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Overview - BMW F 850 GS 2018 vs Kawasaki Versys 650 2016

The BMW F 850 GS 2018 and the Kawasaki Versys 650 2016 are both popular enduro motorcycles that offer a range of features and capabilities. While they have some similarities, there are also notable differences between the two models.

Starting with the engine and drive train, the BMW F 850 GS 2018 is equipped with an in-line, 2-cylinder engine with a displacement of 853ccm. It has a bore of 84mm and a stroke of 77mm, delivering a powerful engine output of 95 HP and a torque of 92 Nm. The Kawasaki Versys 650 2016 also features an in-line, 2-cylinder engine, but with a slightly smaller displacement of 649ccm. It has a bore of 83mm and a stroke of 60mm, resulting in an engine power of 69 HP and a torque of 64 Nm. In terms of engine performance, the BMW F 850 GS 2018 has a clear advantage with its higher power and torque figures.

Both motorcycles feature an electric starter and a chain transmission system, providing ease of use and efficient power transfer. They also have upside-down telescopic forks for the front suspension, ensuring a smooth and controlled ride. However, the BMW F 850 GS 2018 offers additional suspension adjustments for preload and rebound on the rear suspension, allowing for more personalized tuning.

BMW F 850 GS 2018

BMW F 850 GS 2018

In terms of chassis, both motorcycles have a steel frame, providing strength and stability. The BMW F 850 GS 2018 has a steel frame, while the Kawasaki Versys 650 2016 has a steel frame as well. Both models feature double disk brakes on the front, ensuring reliable stopping power. However, the BMW F 850 GS 2018 has a larger front tire diameter of 21 inches compared to the 17-inch front tire diameter of the Kawasaki Versys 650 2016. The rear tire width is also slightly wider on the Kawasaki Versys 650 2016, measuring 160mm compared to the 150mm on the BMW F 850 GS 2018.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the BMW F 850 GS 2018 has a longer wheelbase of 1593mm compared to the 1415mm of the Kawasaki Versys 650 2016. The seat height is also higher on the BMW F 850 GS 2018, measuring 860mm compared to the 840mm of the Kawasaki Versys 650 2016. However, the Kawasaki Versys 650 2016 has a larger fuel tank capacity of 21 liters compared to the 15 liters of the BMW F 850 GS 2018. In terms of weight, the BMW F 850 GS 2018 is slightly heavier with a kerb weight (with ABS) of 229kg, while the Kawasaki Versys 650 2016 weighs 216kg.

Kawasaki Versys 650 2016

Kawasaki Versys 650 2016

In terms of strengths, the BMW F 850 GS 2018 offers a superior engine performance, adequate braking system, very good seating position, easy handling, and an extensive range of accessories. It also has riding modes, traction control, and off-road capabilities, making it a versatile choice for various riding conditions. On the other hand, the Kawasaki Versys 650 2016 has adjustable brake and clutch levers, a wide range of use, a larger fuel tank capacity of 21 liters, and a sporty look.

However, both motorcycles have some weaknesses. The BMW F 850 GS 2018 has a disc that is positioned too low, which may affect its performance in certain situations. Additionally, some riders may find that the sound of the BMW F 850 GS 2018 could be better. The Kawasaki Versys 650 2016, on the other hand, has narrow handlebars, which may not provide the desired level of comfort for some riders. It is also somewhat sluggish in bends, and the high seat may be a disadvantage for shorter riders.

In conclusion, the BMW F 850 GS 2018 and the Kawasaki Versys 650 2016 are both capable enduro motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The BMW F 850 GS 2018 offers a more powerful engine, better suspension adjustments, and a slightly larger front tire diameter. On the other hand, the Kawasaki Versys 650 2016 has adjustable levers, a larger fuel tank capacity, and a sporty look. Ultimately, the choice between the two models will depend on the rider's preferences and intended use.

Technical Specifications BMW F 850 GS 2018 compared to Kawasaki Versys 650 2016

BMW F 850 GS 2018
Kawasaki Versys 650 2016

Engine and Drive Train

Engine typeEngine typeIn lineEngine typeIn line
BoreBore84 mmBore83 mm
StrokeStroke77 mmStroke60 mm
Engine powerEngine power95 HPEngine power69 HP
Rpm at Max. PowerRpm at Max. Power8,250 rpmRpm at Max. Power8,500 rpm
TorqueTorque92 NmTorque64 Nm
Rpm at TorqueRpm at Torque6,250 rpmRpm at Torque7,000 rpm
Compression RatioCompression Ratio12.7 Compression Ratio10.8
StarterStarterElectricStarterElectric
Clutch TypeClutch TypeMultiplate in oil-bathClutch TypeMultiplate in oil-bath
TransmissionTransmissionChainTransmissionChain
Number of gearsNumber of gears6Number of gears6
CylindersCylinders2Cylinders2
StrokesStrokes4-StrokeStrokes4-Stroke
CoolingCoolingliquidCoolingliquid
DisplacementDisplacement853 ccmDisplacement649 ccm

Suspension Front

Front suspensionFront suspensionUpside-Down telescopic forkFront suspensionUpside-Down telescopic fork

Suspension Rear

AdjustmentAdjustmentPreload, ReboundAdjustmentRebound

Chassis

FrameFrameSteelFrameSteel

Brakes Front

TypeTypeDouble diskTypeDouble disk
PistonPistonDouble pistonPistonDouble piston
Shock mountShock mountFloating caliperShock mountSemi-Schwimmsattel

Brakes Rear

TypeTypeDiscTypeDisc
PistonPistonSingle pistonPistonSingle piston
Shock mountShock mountFloating caliperShock mountFloating caliper

Dimensions and Weights

Front tyre widthFront tyre width90 mmFront tyre width120 mm
Front tyre heightFront tyre height90 %Front tyre height70 %
Front tyre diameterFront tyre diameter21 inchFront tyre diameter17 inch
Rear tyre widthRear tyre width150 mmRear tyre width160 mm
Rear tyre heightRear tyre height70 %Rear tyre height60 %
Rear tyre diameterRear tyre diameter17 inchRear tyre diameter17 inch
LengthLength2,305 mmLength2,165 mm
WidthWidth922 mmWidth840 mm
WheelbaseWheelbase1,593 mmWheelbase1,415 mm
Seat HeightSeat Height860 mmSeat Height840 mm
Kerb Weight (with ABS)Kerb Weight (with ABS)229 kgKerb Weight (with ABS)216 kg
Fuel Tank CapacityFuel Tank Capacity15 lFuel Tank Capacity21 l
License compliancyLicense compliancyALicense compliancyA

Pros and Cons in comparison

Pros and Cons in comparison

BMW F 850 GS 2018

BMW F 850 GS 2018

You might not see it at first glance on the new BMW F 850 GS, but it really is a completely new design. Both the steel chassis and the drivetrain have been changed, the engine enlarged to 853 cubic capacity and designed to be even more powerful with the 90-degree crankpin offset. As a result, the new F 850 GS presents itself more sovereign than excited and is convincing both on the road and off-road. The very special thing about the BMW is the ability to tailor it exactly to your personal needs thanks to the extensive range of accessories - there is actually no feature currently available that you can't get on your F 850 GS. However, this also drives up the price.

superior engine

adequate braking system

very good seating position

easy handling

extensive range of accessories

riding modes

traction control

off-road capable

Disc too low

sound could be better

Kawasaki Versys 650 2016

Kawasaki Versys 650 2016

When it was first introduced, the Versys 650 was a refreshing, modern concept that combined lots of fun with a lively in-line two-cylinder engine, high everyday utility and a wide range of uses. In the meantime, it has a few years under its belt and, after the visual update, which is very successful, it also deserves a technical overhaul. While the tank should not shrink, a lower seat height would be desirable.

Adjustable brake and clutch levers

wide range of use

21 litre tank

sporty look

Narrow handlebars

somewhat sluggish in bends

high seat

Price Comparison Avarage Market Price BMW F 850 GS vs Kawasaki Versys 650

There are a few key differences between a BMW F 850 GS 2018 and a Kawasaki Versys 650 2016. In terms of price, the actual average price of a BMW F 850 GS 2018 is about 75% higher. Compared to Kawasaki Versys 650 2016 there are less BMW F 850 GS 2018 bikes available on the 1000PS.de Marketplace, specifically 5 compared to 10. It takes less time to sell a Kawasaki Versys 650 with 101 days compared to 112 days for the BMW F 850 GS. Since model year 2018 1000PS.de editors have written 31 reviews for the BMW F 850 GS and 39 reviews for the Kawasaki Versys 650 since model year 2007. The first review for the BMW F 850 GS was published on 21/11/2017 and now has more than 69,800 views. This compares to more than 3,900 views for the first review on Kawasaki Versys 650 published on 25/07/2006.

Price BMW F 850 GS

Model year
Current average market prices

Price Kawasaki Versys 650

Model year
Current average market prices

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