Essential Information
- The Z650 is a more agile and sporty bike, while the Versys 650 is more stable and comfortable on long rides.
- The Z650 has a more upright riding position, while the Versys 650 has a more relaxed riding position.
- The Z650 has a more aggressive and sporty appearance, while the Versys 650 has a more utilitarian and practical appearance.
The Kawasaki Z650 and Versys 650 are two of the most popular motorcycles in their respective categories. The Z650 is a naked streetfighter, while the Versys 650 is an adventure tourer. Both bikes share the same engine and chassis, but they have different bodywork, suspension, and features. In this guide, we will compare the Kawasaki Z650 and Versys 650 to help you decide which bike is right for you.
Engine and Performance
The Kawasaki Z650 and Versys 650 are powered by the same 649cc parallel-twin engine. This engine produces 67 horsepower and 47 lb-ft of torque. Both bikes have a six-speed transmission and a chain final drive.
In terms of performance, the Z650 is slightly quicker than the Versys 650. The Z650 has a top speed of 135 mph, while the Versys 650 has a top speed of 125 mph. The Z650 also has a slightly better acceleration time than the Versys 650.
Handling and Suspension
The Kawasaki Z650 and Versys 650 have different handling characteristics. The Z650 is a more agile and sporty bike, while the Versys 650 is more stable and comfortable on long rides.
The Z650 has a shorter wheelbase and a steeper rake angle than the Versys 650. This gives the Z650 quicker steering and better cornering ability. The Versys 650 has a longer wheelbase and a more relaxed rake angle. This gives the Versys 650 more stability at high speeds and on rough roads.
The Z650 has a non-adjustable suspension, while the Versys 650 has an adjustable suspension. This allows you to tailor the Versys 650’s suspension to your riding style and preferences.
Comfort and Ergonomics
The Kawasaki Z650 and Versys 650 have different riding positions. The Z650 has a more upright riding position, while the Versys 650 has a more relaxed riding position.
The Z650’s seat is higher and narrower than the Versys 650’s seat. This gives the Z650 a more sporty riding position. The Versys 650’s seat is lower and wider than the Z650’s seat. This gives the Versys 650 a more comfortable riding position.
The Z650 has a shorter reach to the handlebars than the Versys 650. This makes the Z650 easier to ride for shorter riders. The Versys 650 has a longer reach to the handlebars than the Z650. This makes the Versys 650 more comfortable to ride for taller riders.
Features
The Kawasaki Z650 and Versys 650 have different features. The Z650 has a more aggressive and sporty appearance, while the Versys 650 has a more utilitarian and practical appearance.
The Z650 has a single headlight, while the Versys 650 has a dual headlight. The Z650 has a digital instrument cluster, while the Versys 650 has an analog instrument cluster. The Z650 has a shorter exhaust system than the Versys 650. This gives the Z650 a more aggressive sound.
The Versys 650 has a larger fuel tank than the Z650. This gives the Versys 650 a longer range. The Versys 650 also has a more comfortable seat than the Z650. The Versys 650 has a larger windscreen than the Z650. This gives the Versys 650 more wind protection.
Price
The Kawasaki Z650 has a lower price than the Versys 650. The Z650 starts at $7,999, while the Versys 650 starts at $8,999.
Which Bike is Right for You?
The Kawasaki Z650 is a good choice for riders who want a sporty and agile bike. The Z650 is also a good choice for riders who are on a budget.
The Kawasaki Versys 650 is a good choice for riders who want a comfortable and practical bike. The Versys 650 is also a good choice for riders who plan on doing a lot of long-distance riding.
The Verdict
The Kawasaki Z650 and Versys 650 are both excellent motorcycles. The Z650 is a good choice for riders who want a sporty and agile bike. The Versys 650 is a good choice for riders who want a comfortable and practical bike. Ultimately, the best bike for you depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Alternatives to the Kawasaki Z650 and Versys 650
If you are considering the Kawasaki Z650 or Versys 650, you may also want to consider the following motorcycles:
- Honda CB650R
- Suzuki SV650
- Yamaha MT-07
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q: What is the difference between the Kawasaki Z650 and Versys 650?
A: The Kawasaki Z650 is a naked streetfighter, while the Versys 650 is an adventure tourer. The Z650 has a more aggressive and sporty appearance, while the Versys 650 has a more utilitarian and practical appearance. The Z650 is also slightly quicker and more agile than the Versys 650.
Q: Which bike is better for commuting?
A: Both the Kawasaki Z650 and Versys 650 are good choices for commuting. The Z650 is more agile and sporty, while the Versys 650 is more comfortable and practical. Ultimately, the best bike for commuting depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Q: Which bike is better for long-distance riding?
A: The Kawasaki Versys 650 is a better choice for long-distance riding than the Z650. The Versys 650 has a more comfortable seat, a larger fuel tank, and a larger windscreen. The Versys 650 also has a more relaxed riding position, which is better for long rides.
