Kawasaki Versys 1000 2012 vs. Kawasaki Versys 650 2020

The Kawasaki Versys 1000 model year 2012 and the Kawasaki Versys 650 model year 2020 are both enduro motorcycles from Kawasaki, but they have several differences in terms of their technical specifications and strengths.

In terms of engine and drive train, the Versys 1000 2012 has an in-line, 4-cylinder engine with a displacement of 1043ccm. It produces 118 HP of power and 102 Nm of torque. On the other hand, the Versys 650 2020 has an in-line, 2-cylinder engine with a displacement of 649ccm. It produces 69 HP of power and 64 Nm of torque. The Versys 1000 2012 has a more powerful engine compared to the Versys 650 2020.

Both motorcycles have electric starters and chain transmissions. However, the Versys 1000 2012 has a slightly larger bore of 77 mm and stroke of 56 mm, while the Versys 650 2020 has a larger bore of 83 mm and stroke of 60 mm. This indicates that the Versys 650 2020 has a longer stroke, which may affect its performance and power delivery.

Kawasaki Versys 1000 2012

In terms of suspension, both motorcycles have upside-down telescopic forks at the front. However, the Versys 1000 2012 offers more adjustment options with compression, preload, and rebound adjustments, while the Versys 650 2020 only has rebound adjustment. This means that the Versys 1000 2012 allows for more fine-tuning of the suspension to suit different riding conditions.

Both motorcycles have double disk brakes at the front and 17-inch wheels. The Versys 1000 2012 has a front tire diameter of 17 inches and a rear tire width of 180 mm, while the Versys 650 2020 has a front tire diameter of 17 inches and a rear tire width of 160 mm. This indicates that the Versys 1000 2012 has wider tires, which may provide better stability and grip.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the Versys 1000 2012 has a longer wheelbase of 1520 mm compared to the Versys 650 2020 with a wheelbase of 1415 mm. The seat height of the Versys 1000 2012 is slightly higher at 845 mm compared to the Versys 650 2020 with a seat height of 840 mm. The kerb weight of the Versys 1000 2012 is higher at 239 kg compared to the Versys 650 2020 with a kerb weight of 216 kg. This means that the Versys 1000 2012 is slightly larger and heavier than the Versys 650 2020.

Both motorcycles have a fuel tank capacity of 21 liters, providing a decent range for long rides.

Kawasaki Versys 650 2020

In terms of strengths, the Versys 1000 2012 is praised for its silky running powerplant, sporty and comfortable chassis, efficient wind protection, and cushioned seat. On the other hand, the Versys 650 2020 is praised for its great travel comfort, pleasant and comfortable chassis, easy-to-use nature, seating position ready for touring, and agile and light-footed handling.

However, both motorcycles also have their weaknesses. The Versys 1000 2012 has been criticized for its slight tipping in curves, which may take some getting used to, and its arguable design. On the other hand, the Versys 650 2020 has been criticized for vibrations in the footpegs, response behavior during the transition from pushing and load operation, the inability to deactivate ABS, and its somewhat high weight.

Overall, the Kawasaki Versys 1000 2012 and the Kawasaki Versys 650 2020 are both capable enduro motorcycles with their own set of strengths and weaknesses. The Versys 1000 2012 offers more power and adjustability, while the Versys 650 2020 provides great comfort and maneuverability.