Versys: Sprockets forum: Grassroots Motorsports Magazine

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June 21, 2009 3:44 p.m. PHeller HalfDork

I've been looking at these for some time, and while it will be at least a year or more before I have money for a motorcycle, much less a modern motorcycle, they seems very interesting.

I love Motards, Dual Sports, and Enduro bikes, but the Versys combines the upright position with the sportbike speed (and sound). The only other bike that has my interest in a DR650 SM convert, but that's nothing really like the Versys.

I haven't been able to find many with serious modifications to them, I was wondering if someone could help me out, or maybe show off some examples of bikes that are very similar to the Versys in style and function.
June 21, 2009 4:14 p.m. Grtechguy SuperDork

the versys, Vstrom, BMW GS, and Buell Ulysees are all very similair

ride them all. my eye is on the BMW series. much smoother

Cheap

Versys = EX650 Ninja setup for offroad = Parallel Twin

Vstrom = SV650/SV1000 = V Twin

expensive

BMW GS = Boxer Engine

Buell = Harley on Steroids.
June 21, 2009 4:28 p.m. CarKid1989 Reader

huh? versys? like dual sport bikes?
June 21, 2009 10:27 p.m. PHeller HalfDork

I've read that the Versys is more like a Ninja than it is a KLR. It needs different tires to be considered anything off-road worthy, and even then the suspension isn't ideal for that type of terrain.

But, considering I wouldn't be doing much off-road riding (all my friends have sport bikes), I'd want it for its on road abilities.
June 23, 2009 4:54 p.m. therex SuperDork

The Versys really isn't an offroad bike, please don't kid yourself. Kawasaki makes a very good offroad bike, but it's not the Versys unless by "Versys" you actually mean "KLR650".
June 23, 2009 7:41 p.m. mistanfo Dork

Or if by offroad, you mean dirt roads.