2009 Kawasaki Versys

Summary:

I think there are better choices out there

Faults:

Nothing.

General Comments:

I got this to replace a Buell Ulysses 2008 model, which I sold because the offer was too good to pass up!!

I was very disappointed in the handling and braking on the Versys; the brakes just felt wooden (no feel) and the suspension was not very adjustable; it has adjustments front and rear, but the front forks are only adjustable on one leg; a strange setup.

The motor was tuned more towards the low end, and did not seem to have much on the top end. I thought with the four valves per cylinder head, it would have more.

Maybe it was not as bad as I think, but after riding the Buell, the Versys just did not come close to the handling or the brakes I was used to.

Would you buy another motorcycle from this manufacturer? Don't Know

Review Date: 21st June, 2013

16th Feb 2017, 23:43

You went from a 1200cc sportbike to a dual sport 650, and the 650 had less power?

Of course it did. The Versys was never marketed to compete with sportbikes. The Versys shares the same 650cc engine as the 650 Ninja, with the motor de-tuned. It is made for back roads, not for touring.

2009 Kawasaki Versys

Summary:

Worth every penny!

Faults:

KLE650AF Versys

No defects thus far. The chain lube applied at the 600 and 4000 mile service spattered on the rear wheel rim and chain guard. Messy, but no other issues.

General Comments:

Great handling on the grooved pavement in San Diego. The 2009 DR650SE it replaced was superb on asphalt and fire roads, but would shake terribly on the grooved pavement. I put 70 miles per day on the bike... mostly freeway. The Versys is a very competent freeway bike.

Would you buy another motorcycle from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 7th November, 2009

6th Aug 2012, 03:59

"...chain lube applied at the 600 and 4000 mile service..."

The wording leads one to think the chain might not have been lubed between those mileage figures. Maybe not -- maybe the dealer put way more lube on the chain than the owner had been using.