2021 Versys 650L

Compact Parallel-Twin Engine

Tuning of the 649 cm³ Parallel Twin engine focused on achieving a throttle response that balanced a powerful feeling and a quick-revving character.

To optimise performance for everyday riding, care was taken to maximise low-mid range torque.

ABS Comes Standard

Dual ø300 mm petal discs are gripped by new twin-piston calipers. The design of the new calipers contributes to the bike’s sportier image, while new brake pad material offers a stronger initial bite when the brakes are first applied.

The front brake master cylinder features a lever ratio that contributes to both increased controllability and increased overall brake force. Large rear disc measures ø250 mm.

Wind Protection & Airflow

A large adjustable windscreen helps reduce wind noise and helmet buffeting, creating a serene space behind which to enjoy high-speed riding.

The cowling design helps direct airflow away and around the rider. Range of adjustability is 60 mm, accommodating a large variety of rider sizes. Conveniently, the screen height can be adjusted without tools (by simply loosening two knobs at the front of the screen).

Natural Riding Position

The slim design makes it easier for riders to reach the ground with their feet. A short-style tank positions the rider closer to the front. The seat’s slim design and the knee grip characteristics of the tank afford good freedom of movement. Thick urethane increases and the stepped shape of the two-piece seat provides support for the rider when accelerating.

Long Travel Suspension

Remote rear preload adjuster makes it easy for riders to adjust their suspension setup to suit riding with a passenger and/or with luggage.

The adjuster is conveniently positioned between the seat and rear shock for easy access.

21L Tank

The large volume 21 litre fuel tank coupled with excellent fuel economy translates to an increased cruising range.

The new tank design expands into the side cowls to keep the knee grip slim and to keep the tank height from getting too tall.

Low Vibration

Changing the front engine mounts to rubber mounts instead of rigid mounts (complementing the rubber mounts used for the upper-rear engine mounts) reduces vibration at the handlebar, seat and fuel tank, significantly increasing comfort.

Handlebar is rubber mounted.  The reduced vibration contributes to increased comfort and increased mirror visibility.

Heat Management

Innovative Kawasaki technology, like the radiator fan cover (patented), located behind the radiator directs hot air down and away from the rider, significantly increasing comfort when stuck in heavy traffic.

Redirecting the air also helps keep the tank, frame and other parts that contact the rider cooler, further increasing rider comfort.

Sport Instrumentation

An updated stacked instrument system features an easy-to-read layout.  Analogue-style tachometer uses white LED back lights for excellent visibility at night. The multi-function LCD screen has amber back lighting.

Standard features include: Gear position indicator, fuel gauge, digital speedometer, clock, odometer,dual trip meters, remaining range, average/instant fuel consumption and the Economical Riding Indicator.

Raised tick marks on the tachometer dial face, a bubble lens and elevated instrument frame construction contribute to the instrumentation’s greater legibility as well as a high-quality image.

Sporty Suspension & 17" Wheels

Not all streets in the real world are made of circuit-smooth pavement.  Road imperfections (bumps, potholes) are far from rare, and some streets are not even paved (such as cobblestone, etc).

While the Versys 650L is not designed for off-road use, the long-travel front fork and rear shock were specially selected to cope with any street conditions it may come across, and, along with its 17” wheels, enable aggressive sport riding.

Further, the long-travel suspension provides an added dimension of control: the ability to consciously control the bike’s front-rear weight transfer gives riders an additional riding element to explore.