Kawasaki Versis

So Versys comes at the right time, if not at the extreme time. Until recently, Kawasaki offered the KLV 1000, a replica of the Suzuki V-Strom 1000 touring enduro, but this is no longer the case; there was also a big gap in the middle class, 650cc. The old KLE 500, which was otherwise a bestseller of the last decade despite its renewal, has always found it harder to hide its years and follow its competitors.

To be honest, we trust you that already at the presentation of the Kawasaki ER-6n mini-roadster and the ER-6f sports touring, there were rumors about an enduro touring or a kind of supermoto motorcycle. As we saw last fall, the hints were spot on - and here's a bike with the heart of the ER-6n/f at its core, as well as work on an unusual design that is clearly moving forward on the march on Kawasaki. Well, whether people like such a boldly designed mask with lots of light, time will tell. We can only express our subjective opinion in favor of this difference. Why do all motorcycles have to be the same? A little freshness doesn't hurt.

So, the 650cc two-cylinder in-line engine. Cm has been used for the third time, and we dare to say that they may be able to achieve the most success with this model (although the ER-6n does well overseas). Versys lives up to its name well. Once we sat down with the correct high seat, it was clear to us that with the ergonomics designed for a driver of average height, they end up in black. Sitting upright and relaxed, there is nowhere to feel the forced unnatural posture, which is great for the traveler for long journeys. It can also be used for two, as the passenger seat is just as comfortable as the driver's seat. The handlebars and levers are in the right place for a secure grip. We should also praise the adjustable clutch and brake lever. It's a little attention that means a lot, especially for those with slightly shorter fingers.

The placement of simple, well-stocked instruments is also very good, and good rearview mirrors add the finishing touch. The good feelings continue even after Versys starts to move. The grip feeling is good, but what is most impressive is the lightness of the bike itself. This one is extremely undemanding and obedient at the wheel. But lest you think that he is just kind and greedy like a sheep! With a firm throttle, the squirrel cage under the engine emits a sharper throttle and the Versys accelerates at a more lively pace.

Torque and a constant increase in engine power are the reasons why we got so much driving pleasure. Its 64 “horses” is a good dose of power, suitable for both beginners and experienced riders. It's a motorcycle

namely, anything but boring. It easily overcomes ordinary rural roads, and the same can be said about urban traffic jams, but best of all where the road winds in an asphalt snake around the bends.

Here he transforms from a touring enduro into a fun supermoto. With a large 19-liter fuel tank, it is obvious that Kawasaki has taken care of the comfort of the true traveler. Without stopping, you will drive 480 kilometers with the Versys in normal traffic (on a country road, it consumes four and a half liters). We're hoping to bet that most of its drivers stop early to freshen up for a bit, or a dry throat will overtake a dry fuel tank.

In fact, our grievances, if we can even call it that, are very minor. Firstly, the windshield does not protect even more from the wind - for a comfortable ride at speeds above 130 km / h, you will need a wider and higher shield. Others are brakes that can stop the bike more forcefully depending on the pair of discs. And the third is the gearbox. If I could be a little more precise and faster, I would be perfect.

But it is, of course, a bit of a haircut. To demand perfection from a motorcycle worth 6.100 euros is unfair. If finances tolerate it, we highly recommend ABS, which is available at an additional cost, otherwise we have nothing to complain about in this two-wheel setup.

Technical information

engine: 649 cm3, two-cylinder in-line, four-stroke, liquid-cooled, fuel injection diameter 38 mm, el. launch

Drive: 6-speed gearbox, chain

Frame: steel pipe

Suspension: adjustable, 41mm front fork, single rear shock

Tires: before 120/70 R17, rear 160/60 R17

brakes: front 2 spools with a diameter of 300 mm, back 1x diameter of a reel 220 mm

Seat height from ground: 850 mm

Wheelbase: 1415 mm

Weight with full fuel tank: 210 kg

Fuel tank / fuel consumption: 19 l, reserve 3 l / 4 l / 5 km

Test car price: 6100 euro

Contact person: Moto Černe, kd, www.motocerne.com, tel .: [phone]

We praise and reproach

+ versatility

+ engine

+ price

- we missed more decisive brakes

- inaccurate and slightly slow gearbox

- wind protection above 130 km / h

Petr Kavchich

Photo: Aleš Pavletič.

• Basic data

  Test model cost: € 6100 XNUMX

• Technical information

  engine: 649 cm3, two-cylinder in-line, four-stroke, liquid-cooled, fuel injection diameter 38 mm, el. launch

  Frame: steel pipe

  brakes: front 2 spools with a diameter of 300 mm, back 1x diameter of a reel 220 mm

  Suspension: adjustable, 41mm front fork, single rear shock

  Fuel tank: 19 l, reserve 3 l / 4,5 l / 100 km

  Wheelbase: 1415 mm

  Weight: 210 kg