Kawasaki Versys 650 2020 vs. Kawasaki Versys 1000 S 2021

Kawasaki Versys 650 2020

Kawasaki Versys 650 2020

Kawasaki Versys 1000 S 2021

Kawasaki Versys 1000 S 2021

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Overview - Kawasaki Versys 650 2020 vs Kawasaki Versys 1000 S 2021

The Kawasaki Versys 650 2020 and the Kawasaki Versys 1000 S 2021 are both enduro motorcycles that offer a comfortable riding experience and versatile capabilities. However, there are several notable differences between the two models.

In terms of the engine, the Versys 650 2020 features a 2-cylinder in-line engine with a displacement of 649cc, producing 69 horsepower and 64 Nm of torque. On the other hand, the Versys 1000 S 2021 boasts a more powerful 4-cylinder in-line engine with a displacement of 1043cc, delivering 120 horsepower and 102 Nm of torque. This makes the Versys 1000 S 2021 more suitable for riders who crave higher performance and power.

Both models come with an electric starter and a chain transmission system. They also feature upside-down telescopic forks for the front suspension, providing a smooth and controlled ride. However, the Versys 1000 S 2021 offers more adjustability options for the front suspension, including compression, preload, and rebound adjustments, allowing riders to fine-tune their riding experience.

Kawasaki Versys 650 2020

Kawasaki Versys 650 2020

In terms of the chassis, the Versys 650 2020 utilizes a steel frame, while the Versys 1000 S 2021 features an aluminum frame. The aluminum frame offers a lighter and more rigid construction, contributing to improved handling and maneuverability.

When it comes to braking, both models are equipped with double disk brakes at the front. The Versys 1000 S 2021 features a well-controllable braking system, providing riders with confidence and safety on the road.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the Versys 1000 S 2021 has a longer wheelbase of 1520mm compared to the 1415mm wheelbase of the Versys 650 2020. This longer wheelbase contributes to better stability and handling at higher speeds. Both models have a seat height of 840mm, offering a comfortable riding position for most riders.

Kawasaki Versys 1000 S 2021

Kawasaki Versys 1000 S 2021

In terms of weaknesses, the Versys 650 2020 has reported vibrations in the footpegs, which may cause discomfort during long rides. Additionally, the ABS cannot be deactivated, limiting the control options for riders. The weight of the Versys 650 2020 is also slightly higher at 216kg compared to the 257kg weight of the Versys 1000 S 2021.

On the other hand, the Versys 1000 S 2021 has a windshield that is not adjustable with one hand, which may be inconvenient for riders who frequently need to adjust the windshield while riding.

In conclusion, the Kawasaki Versys 650 2020 and the Kawasaki Versys 1000 S 2021 are both capable enduro motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The Versys 650 2020 offers a more lightweight and agile riding experience, while the Versys 1000 S 2021 provides more power and a full electronics package. Riders should consider their specific needs and preferences to determine which model suits them best.

Technical Specifications Kawasaki Versys 650 2020 compared to Kawasaki Versys 1000 S 2021

Kawasaki Versys 650 2020
Kawasaki Versys 1000 S 2021

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 mmWidth950 mm
HeightHeight1,400 mmHeight1,530 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)257 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 2020

Kawasaki Versys 650 2020

The 2019 model year Kawasaki Versys presented itself as a comfortable, stable yet lively touring machine. The motorbike is versatile and offers high utility value. It is a fully-fledged touring machine that is a pleasure to ride on extended tours. The bike offers a terrific price/performance ratio.

Great travel comfort

pleasant and comfortable chassis

easy to use

seating position ready for touring

agile and light-footed handling.

Vibrations in the footpegs

response behaviour during transition from pushing and load operation

ABS cannot be deactivated

weight somewhat high

Kawasaki Versys 1000 S 2021

Kawasaki Versys 1000 S 2021

The supposedly less well-equipped Versys 1000 S merely dispenses with the electronically adjustable chassis of the SE - and thus offers almost the same performance as the top model. This means that the S also has all the comfort features on board that make a long journey not only bearable, but really enjoyable. You don't necessarily feel the few kilos less than the SE, but the S is also an ideal companion on long tours when comfort and uncomplicated handling are paramount.

Very comfortable seating position

cultivated in-line four-cylinder engine

full electronics package

adjustable windshield

well controllable braking system

distinctive look

Windshield not adjustable with one hand

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

There are a few key differences between a Kawasaki Versys 650 2020 and a Kawasaki Versys 1000 S 2021. In terms of price, the actual average price of a Kawasaki Versys 1000 S 2021 is about 87% higher. Compared to Kawasaki Versys 1000 S 2021 there are more Kawasaki Versys 650 2020 bikes available on the 1000PS.de Marketplace, specifically 11 compared to 8. It takes less time to sell a Kawasaki Versys 1000 S with 93 days compared to 137 days for the Kawasaki Versys 650. Since model year 2007 1000PS.de editors have written 39 reviews for the Kawasaki Versys 650 and 5 reviews for the Kawasaki Versys 1000 S since model year 2021. The first review for the Kawasaki Versys 650 was published on 7/25/2006 and now has more than 3,900 views. This compares to more than 49,600 views for the first review on Kawasaki Versys 1000 S published on 11/4/2020.

Price Kawasaki Versys 650

Model year
Current average market prices

Price Kawasaki Versys 1000 S

Model year
Current average market prices

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