What To Know
- The adventure motorcycle segment is booming, and two of the most popular models on the market are the Benelli TRK 702 and the Kawasaki Versys 650.
- The Benelli TRK 702 comes with a steel trellis frame and a 50mm inverted fork up front and a monoshock in the rear.
- The Benelli TRK 702 is a better choice for riders who prioritize power, torque, and value, while the Kawasaki Versys 650 is a better option for riders who prefer refinement, comfort, and features.
The adventure motorcycle segment is booming, and two of the most popular models on the market are the Benelli TRK 702 and the Kawasaki Versys 650. Both bikes offer a great blend of performance, comfort, and affordability, but which one is the right choice for you? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll pit the Benelli TRK 702 against the Kawasaki Versys 650 to help you make an informed decision.
Engine and Performance
The Benelli TRK 702 is powered by a 693cc parallel-twin engine that produces 75 horsepower and 67 lb-ft of torque. The Kawasaki Versys 650, on the other hand, features a 649cc parallel-twin engine that generates 69 horsepower and 47 lb-ft of torque.
While the Benelli has a slight edge in terms of power and torque, the Kawasaki’s engine is known for its smoothness and refinement. Both bikes offer a good balance of performance and fuel efficiency, making them suitable for both highway cruising and off-road adventures.
Handling and Suspension
The Benelli TRK 702 comes with a steel trellis frame and a 50mm inverted fork up front and a monoshock in the rear. The Kawasaki Versys 650 also has a steel trellis frame, but it uses a 41mm conventional fork and a single-sided swingarm with a monoshock.
The Benelli’s suspension is slightly firmer than the Kawasaki’s, providing a more planted feel on the road. However, the Kawasaki’s suspension is more forgiving on rough terrain, offering a more comfortable ride off-road. Both bikes offer adjustable suspension settings, allowing you to tailor the handling to your preferences.
Braking and Safety
The Benelli TRK 702 features dual 320mm front discs with four-piston calipers and a single 260mm rear disc with a two-piston caliper. The Kawasaki Versys 650 has dual 300mm front discs with two-piston calipers and a single 250mm rear disc with a single-piston caliper.
Both bikes offer good braking performance, but the Benelli’s brakes provide a bit more feel and feedback. The Kawasaki Versys 650 comes standard with ABS, while the Benelli TRK 702 only offers ABS as an option.
Comfort and Ergonomics
The Benelli TRK 702 has a comfortable, upright riding position with a wide, padded seat and a spacious cockpit. The Kawasaki Versys 650 also has a comfortable riding position, but its seat is slightly narrower and the cockpit is a bit more compact.
Both bikes offer adjustable handlebars and footpegs, allowing you to customize the ergonomics to suit your height and riding style. The Benelli TRK 702 gets the edge in terms of comfort, especially for taller riders.
Features and Technology
The Benelli TRK 702 comes with a basic instrument cluster that includes a speedometer, tachometer, odometer, and fuel gauge. The Kawasaki Versys 650 has a more advanced instrument cluster that includes a digital speedometer, tachometer, gear indicator, and fuel gauge.
The Kawasaki Versys 650 also offers a wider range of features and technology, including cruise control, heated grips, and a 12-volt power outlet. The Benelli TRK 702 only offers cruise control as an option.
Price and Value
The Benelli TRK 702 starts at $7,999, while the Kawasaki Versys 650 starts at $8,399. Both bikes offer a good value for the money, but the Benelli TRK 702 is slightly more affordable.
Which Bike is Right for You?
The Benelli TRK 702 is a great choice for riders who want a comfortable, affordable adventure bike with plenty of power and torque. The Kawasaki Versys 650 is a better option for riders who prefer a more refined engine, smoother suspension, and a wider range of features and technology.
Ultimately, the best way to decide which bike is right for you is to test ride both of them. This will give you a chance to experience their handling, performance, and comfort firsthand.
Verdict
The Benelli TRK 702 and the Kawasaki Versys 650 are both excellent adventure motorcycles that offer a great balance of performance, comfort, and affordability. The Benelli TRK 702 is a better choice for riders who prioritize power, torque, and value, while the Kawasaki Versys 650 is a better option for riders who prefer refinement, comfort, and features.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q: Which bike has more power?
A: The Benelli TRK 702 has slightly more power than the Kawasaki Versys 650.
Q: Which bike has a more comfortable suspension?
A: The Kawasaki Versys 650 has a more comfortable suspension than the Benelli TRK 702.
Q: Which bike has a wider range of features?
A: The Kawasaki Versys 650 has a wider range of features than the Benelli TRK 702.
Q: Which bike is more affordable?
A: The Benelli TRK 702 is slightly more affordable than the Kawasaki Versys 650.
Q: Which bike is better for off-road riding?
A: Both bikes are capable of off-road riding, but the Kawasaki Versys 650 has a slight edge due to its more forgiving suspension.
