On 24th December, just before the Christmas evening, Kawasaki India launched the most anticipated motorbikes for this year, 2016 Kawasaki Versys 650 ABS at a price of 6.6 Lakh (ex showroom Delhi). This motorcycle becomes the third 650 in the market from Kawasaki India after Ninja 650, ER-6N. Pitched at Adventure Tourer market, the bike satisfies all the touring needs by adding all accessories.
Specs:
The 649 cc Parallel Twin engine’s tuning is focused on achieving a throttle response that balances a powerful feeling and a quick-revving character. The engine pumps out 69Ps and 64Nm peak power and torque. The free revving motor is paired with 6 speed transmission that takes care of all the torque needs as per different terrain needs. 2016 Kawasaki Versys 650 ABS is very much inspired in terms of design from its elder sibling 2015 Kawasaki Versys 1000.
Design:
Sharp new looks give the Versys 650 a stronger Kawasaki identity, while reflecting the sporty nature of its fun, versatile package. The new upper cowl features a horizontally split design that reinforces the compact and sporty image of the Versys 650. Along with the sporty designed front fender, the aggressive new design contributes to a strong Kawasaki identity.
Suspension:
Long-travel ø41 mm front fork with stiff springs is the key to active control of the bike’s front-rear weight transfer. Separated functions for each tube allow all adjusters to be at the top of the fork for easy adjustment. With these settings, combining both long travel and stiff springs, this yields the benefits of both off-road-style and sport-bike suspension, offering excellent road holding in a wide range of street riding conditions and superb feedback, enabling the aggressive sport riding.
Competition comparison:
2016 Kawasaki competes with Benelli 600 GT and Honda CBR 650. Both the bikes are also categorized as Tourer but features inline 4 layout, whereas Verys 650 is just 2 cylinder motor. Considering the pricing point, Versys 650 is 6.6 Lakh, Honda CBR650f is 7.3 lakh and the cheapest Benelli comes at 5.73 lakh all price ex shooroom Delhi. Though Benelli 600 Gt is the cheapest and most affordable 4 cylinder in touring bike category in India, it lacks the important feature ABS.
2016 Kawasaki Versys 650 ABS features and Specs