The Kawasaki Versys 650 is one of the most intriguing adventure bikes in recent memory, coming from a company that specialises in hoontastic enthu-cutlet race bikes. The Versys 650 hopes to channel that personality into the ADV segment, and with the 2023 Versys 650, Kawasaki has endowed the bike with a new design, safety and electronic features. Let’s take a look at what’s new.
The new Versys 650 gets an aggressive new design, with a front cowling that evokes its road racers, such as the Ninja series. The family lineage is obvious, and is enhanced by the colour options. The classic Kawasaki Candy Lime Green colour is present, along with a new Metallic Silver. The cowling is shaded by a new windscreen, with four points of adjustability for complete protection in Indian scenarios. The bike rides on new 17-inch cast aluminium wheels. Along with a new LED headlight system, there is also an optional auxiliary LED light set along with optional engine guards, a tank pad and hand covers. Overall, Kawasaki has given prospective owners a lot of features and options to enhance the touring ability of the Versys 650.
The Versys 650 is headlined by a new 4.3-inch full-colour TFT LED instrument meter, that can be customised with coloured UI changes.The meter is also equipped with Bluetooth mobile connectivity as well as the ability to show navigation. The Versys 650 also gets Kawasaki’s specialised traction control system that comes with two modes. This system enhances the safety aspect as well as general rideability of the bike in various riding conditions.
The Versys 650 continues to use the reliable 8-valve 649cc parallel-twin engine that it is so famous for, with its torquey characteristics that bring more of the Kawasaki character to an ADV platform. The engine produces 65bhp and 61Nm of torque. The bike uses adjustable Showa forks at the front and a Showa shock at the back, both with long travel and damping functions at the front. The suspension is fully adjustable as well. The brakes come equipped with linear action ABS as standard and a range of optional genuine accessories from Kawasaki.
The 2023 Kawasaki Versys 650 range starts at a price point of ₹7.36 lakh, with optional accessories both necessary and adding to the cost. The price point brings it right into competition with other middle-weight ADVs such as the Suzuki V-Strom 650 XT and the Triumph Tiger Sport 660, and in true Kawasaki fashion, undercuts them in pricing. Knowing how accomplished its rivals are, the Versys brings with it the virtues of that particular Kawasaki character that is so loved by Indian riders. Let’s see if it works out!