Overview
- The BMW F 650 GS and Kawasaki Versys both have dual disc brakes in the front and a single disc brake in the rear.
- The F 650 GS is a better choice for riders who want a more dirt-oriented bike with longer suspension travel.
- The Kawasaki Versys is more fuel-efficient than the BMW F 650 GS, with an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 50 mpg compared to the F 650 GS’s 45 mpg.
The BMW F 650 GS and Kawasaki Versys are two of the most popular mid-sized adventure motorcycles on the market. Both bikes offer a versatile combination of on- and off-road capabilities, making them ideal for riders who want to explore both the pavement and the dirt. But which bike is right for you? In this blog post, we’ll compare the BMW F 650 GS and Kawasaki Versys side-by-side to help you make an informed decision.
Engine and Performance
The BMW F 650 GS is powered by a 652cc single-cylinder engine that produces 71 horsepower and 52 lb-ft of torque. The Kawasaki Versys is powered by a 649cc parallel-twin engine that produces 69 horsepower and 50 lb-ft of torque.
On paper, the BMW F 650 GS has a slight edge in power and torque. However, in real-world riding conditions, there is not a significant difference in performance between the two bikes. Both bikes have enough power to cruise comfortably on the highway and tackle moderate off-road terrain.
Handling and Suspension
The BMW F 650 GS has a more dirt-oriented suspension than the Kawasaki Versys. The F 650 GS has a 43mm inverted fork with 7.9 inches of travel and a single-sided swingarm with 6.7 inches of travel. The Versys has a 41mm conventional fork with 5.5 inches of travel and a swingarm with 5.9 inches of travel.
The F 650 GS’s longer suspension travel gives it a more plush ride on rough roads and trails. However, the Versys’s shorter suspension travel makes it more nimble and responsive on paved roads.
Braking
The BMW F 650 GS and Kawasaki Versys both have dual disc brakes in the front and a single disc brake in the rear. The F 650 GS has slightly larger brake rotors than the Versys, but both bikes have good braking power.
Features
The BMW F 650 GS and Kawasaki Versys both come with a variety of features, including:
- ABS
- Traction control
- Handguards
- Windscreen
- Adjustable seat height
- Luggage rack
The F 650 GS also comes with a few additional features, such as:
- Heated grips
- Cruise control
- Electronic suspension adjustment
Price
The BMW F 650 GS has a starting price of $9,995. The Kawasaki Versys has a starting price of $8,999.
Which Bike is Right for You?
The BMW F 650 GS and Kawasaki Versys are both excellent mid-sized adventure motorcycles. The F 650 GS is a better choice for riders who want a more dirt-oriented bike with longer suspension travel. The Versys is a better choice for riders who want a more pavement-oriented bike with shorter suspension travel.
Ultimately, the best way to decide which bike is right for you is to test ride both of them. That way, you can get a feel for the handling, performance, and features of each bike and make an informed decision.
What You Need to Learn
Q: Which bike has more power?
A: The BMW F 650 GS has a slight edge in power, with 71 horsepower compared to the Versys’s 69 horsepower.
Q: Which bike has better suspension?
A: The BMW F 650 GS has a more dirt-oriented suspension with longer travel than the Kawasaki Versys.
Q: Which bike is more comfortable on long rides?
A: The BMW F 650 GS has a more plush ride on rough roads and trails, thanks to its longer suspension travel.
Q: Which bike is more affordable?
A: The Kawasaki Versys has a lower starting price than the BMW F 650 GS.
Q: Which bike is more fuel-efficient?
A: The Kawasaki Versys is more fuel-efficient than the BMW F 650 GS, with an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 50 mpg compared to the F 650 GS’s 45 mpg.
