Kawasaki Versys 650 2022 vs. Suzuki V-Strom 650 XT 2023

Kawasaki Versys 650 2022

Kawasaki Versys 650 2022

Suzuki V-Strom 650 XT 2023

Suzuki V-Strom 650 XT 2023

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Overview - Kawasaki Versys 650 2022 vs Suzuki V-Strom 650 XT 2023

The Kawasaki Versys 650 2022 and the Suzuki V-Strom 650 XT 2023 are both popular choices in the enduro motorcycle segment. While they have some similarities in terms of engine type, transmission, and advanced rider assistance systems, there are notable differences in their specifications and features.

Starting with the engine, the Kawasaki Versys 650 2022 features an inline 2-cylinder engine with a displacement of 649cc, producing 67 horsepower and 61 Nm of torque. On the other hand, the Suzuki V-Strom 650 XT 2023 has a V-twin 2-cylinder engine with a displacement of 645cc, delivering slightly higher power at 71 horsepower and 62 Nm of torque. Both bikes have electric starters and chain transmissions.

In terms of suspension, the Kawasaki Versys 650 2022 is equipped with an upside-down telescopic fork with a diameter of 41mm at the front, providing a travel of 150mm. The rear suspension features a monoshock with a travel of 145mm. The Suzuki V-Strom 650 XT 2023, on the other hand, has a telescopic fork with a larger diameter of 43mm at the front, offering the same travel distance of 150mm. The rear suspension also features a monoshock but with a longer travel of 159mm. Both bikes have preload adjustment for suspension tuning.

Kawasaki Versys 650 2022

Kawasaki Versys 650 2022

When it comes to the chassis, the Kawasaki Versys 650 2022 features a steel frame with a rake of 65 degrees and a trail of 108mm. The Suzuki V-Strom 650 XT 2023, on the other hand, has an aluminum frame with a slightly smaller rake of 64.2 degrees and a trail of 110mm. These differences in chassis design may affect the handling characteristics of the bikes.

In terms of braking, both bikes are equipped with double disc brakes at the front. The Kawasaki Versys 650 2022 does not provide specific details about the size of the front discs, while the Suzuki V-Strom 650 XT 2023 does not specify the type of front disc brakes. Both bikes come with ABS and traction control as part of their advanced rider assistance systems.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the Kawasaki Versys 650 2022 has a front tire diameter of 17 inches and a rear tire width of 160mm, while the Suzuki V-Strom 650 XT 2023 has a larger front tire diameter of 19 inches and a slightly narrower rear tire width of 150mm. Both bikes have a rear tire diameter of 17 inches. The wheelbase of the Kawasaki Versys 650 2022 is 1415mm, while the Suzuki V-Strom 650 XT 2023 has a longer wheelbase of 1560mm. The seat height of the Kawasaki Versys 650 2022 is 845mm, while the Suzuki V-Strom 650 XT 2023 offers a lower seat height of 815mm. The kerb weight of the Kawasaki Versys 650 2022 is 219kg, slightly heavier than the 216kg kerb weight of the Suzuki V-Strom 650 XT 2023. Both bikes have fuel tank capacities of 20-21 liters.

Suzuki V-Strom 650 XT 2023

Suzuki V-Strom 650 XT 2023

In terms of strengths, the Kawasaki Versys 650 2022 offers agile handling, an adjustable chassis, and an accessible engine. It also received an electronics update for 2022, making it more advanced in terms of technology. The comfortable seating position and low fuel consumption contribute to its suitability for long journeys. The Suzuki V-Strom 650 XT 2023, on the other hand, is praised for its simplicity and proven technology, offering a good price/performance ratio.

However, the Kawasaki Versys 650 2022 does have some weaknesses. The engine may struggle with the weight of the bike, affecting its performance. The windshield can only be adjusted with two hands, which may be inconvenient for some riders. Additionally, the bike does not come with cruise control, which could be a desirable feature for long-distance riding. As for the Suzuki V-Strom 650 XT 2023, its weaknesses include a design and equipment that may be considered outdated by some riders and limited off-road capability.

In conclusion, both the Kawasaki Versys 650 2022 and the Suzuki V-Strom 650 XT 2023 have their own strengths and weaknesses. The Kawasaki Versys 650 2022 offers a more advanced and comfortable riding experience, while the Suzuki V-Strom 650 XT 2023 provides simplicity and proven technology at a more affordable price. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.

Technical Specifications Kawasaki Versys 650 2022 compared to Suzuki V-Strom 650 XT 2023

Kawasaki Versys 650 2022
Suzuki V-Strom 650 XT 2023

Engine and Drive Train

Engine typeEngine typeIn lineEngine typeV
BoreBore83 mmBore81 mm
StrokeStroke60 mmStroke62.6 mm
Engine powerEngine power67 HPEngine power71 HP
Rpm at Max. PowerRpm at Max. Power8,500 rpmRpm at Max. Power8,800 rpm
TorqueTorque61 NmTorque62 Nm
Rpm at TorqueRpm at Torque7,000 rpmRpm at Torque6,300 rpm
Compression RatioCompression Ratio10.8 Compression Ratio11.2
StarterStarterElectricStarterElectric
Clutch TypeClutch TypeMultiplate in oil-bathClutch TypeMultiplate in oil-bath
TransmissionTransmissionChainTransmissionChain
Number of gearsNumber of gears6Number of gears6
CylindersCylinders2Cylinders2
StrokesStrokes4-StrokeStrokes4-Stroke
CoolingCoolingliquidCoolingliquid
DisplacementDisplacement649 ccmDisplacement645 ccm

Suspension Front

Front suspensionFront suspensionUpside-Down telescopic forkFront suspensionTelescopic fork
DiameterDiameter41 mmDiameter43 mm
TravelTravel150 mmTravel150 mm
AdjustmentAdjustmentPreload, ReboundAdjustmentPreload

Suspension Rear

Shock absorberShock absorberMonoshockShock absorberMonoshock
TravelTravel145 mmTravel159 mm
AdjustmentAdjustmentPreloadAdjustmentPreload

Chassis

FrameFrameSteelFrameAluminium
RakeRake65 degreeRake64.2 degree
TrailTrail108 mmTrail110 mm

Brakes Front

TypeTypeDouble diskTypeDouble disk
DiameterDiameter300 mmDiameter310 mm
PistonPistonDouble pistonPistonDouble piston
Shock mountShock mountSemi-SchwimmsattelShock mountFloating caliper

Brakes Rear

TypeTypeDiscTypeDisc
DiameterDiameter250 mmDiameter260 mm
PistonPistonSingle pistonPistonSingle piston

Assistance Systems

Advanced Rider Assistance SystemsAdvanced Rider Assistance SystemsABS, Traction controlAdvanced Rider Assistance SystemsABS, Traction control

Dimensions and Weights

Front tyre widthFront tyre width120 mmFront tyre width110 mm
Front tyre heightFront tyre height70 %Front tyre height80 %
Front tyre diameterFront tyre diameter17 inchFront tyre diameter19 inch
Rear tyre widthRear tyre width160 mmRear tyre width150 mm
Rear tyre heightRear tyre height60 %Rear tyre height70 %
Rear tyre diameterRear tyre diameter17 inchRear tyre diameter17 inch
LengthLength2,165 mmLength2,275 mm
WidthWidth840 mmWidth910 mm
HeightHeight1,420 mmHeight1,484 mm
WheelbaseWheelbase1,415 mmWheelbase1,560 mm
Seat HeightSeat Height845 mmSeat Height815 mm
Kerb Weight (with ABS)Kerb Weight (with ABS)219 kgKerb Weight (with ABS)216 kg
Fuel Tank CapacityFuel Tank Capacity21 lFuel Tank Capacity20 l
License compliancyLicense compliancyALicense compliancyA

Pros and Cons in comparison

Pros and Cons in comparison

Kawasaki Versys 650 2022

Kawasaki Versys 650 2022

Relaxed touring with plenty of comfort and enough potential for cornering fun - the Versys 650 is and remains a good choice among mid-range sport tourers. Although you will reach the top of the pass faster on the competition, you will enjoy getting back on the Kawa every time, which welcomes the rider with a high level of comfort and extensive equipment. If you enjoy touring and can get by with a little less power, the Versys 650 is a good choice!

Agile handling

Adjustable chassis

Accessible engine

Electronics update for 2022

Comfortable seating position

Absolutely suitable for long journeys

Low consumption, high range

Engine struggles with weight

Windshield only adjustable with two hands

No cruise control available

Suzuki V-Strom 650 XT 2023

Suzuki V-Strom 650 XT 2023

The V-Strom 650 XT may be getting on a bit, but it's still a good bike. Especially if you don't need a colour display and don't intend to leave the paved road. The 650 is an easy motorbike to ride and is hardly ever out of its depth. What's more, this model has already proven itself a zillion times over, which underlines its durability and longevity.

Simple, uncomplicated bike

proven technology

good price/performance ratio

Design and equipment are a bit outdated

very limited off-road capability

Price Comparison Avarage Market Price Kawasaki Versys 650 vs Suzuki V-Strom 650 XT

There are a few key differences between a Kawasaki Versys 650 2022 and a Suzuki V-Strom 650 XT 2023. In terms of price, the actual average prices of both motorbikes are almost the same. Compared to Suzuki V-Strom 650 XT 2023 there are less Kawasaki Versys 650 2022 bikes available on the 1000PS.de Marketplace, specifically 22 compared to 73. It takes less time to sell a Kawasaki Versys 650 with 178 days compared to 189 days for a Suzuki V-Strom 650 XT. Since model year 2007 1000PS.de editors have written 39 reviews for the Kawasaki Versys 650 and 11 reviews for the Suzuki V-Strom 650 XT since model year 2015. 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 45,700 views for the first review on Suzuki V-Strom 650 XT published on 09/04/2015.

Price Kawasaki Versys 650

Model year
Current average market prices

Price Suzuki V-Strom 650 XT

Model year
Current average market prices

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