Market Segment:
Sport Touring / Adventure Touring Lightweight Motorcycle
Key Competitors:
Suzuki V-Strom 650, Honda CB500X (later models), Yamaha Tracer 700 (later models).
Versatility:
Designed as a versatile platform capable of commuting, touring, and light off-road use.
Engine Basis:
Utilizes a detuned version of the ER-6f/ER-6n engine, known for its reliability and smooth power delivery.
Primary Audience:
Mechanical technicians and experienced motorcycle owners for maintenance and repair.
Engine:
Engine overhaul, top end, bottom end, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system, intake and exhaust systems, ignition system, starting system, charging system.
Transmission:
Clutch, gearbox, drive chain, shift mechanism.
Chassis:
Frame, suspension (front forks, rear shock absorber), steering system, wheels, tires, braking system (front and rear discs, calipers, master cylinders, lines).
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting system, instrument panel, battery, starter motor, alternator, sensors, ECUs, diagnostic codes.
Bodywork:
Fairings, body panels, seat, fuel tank, fasteners, accessories.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacement, spark plug replacement, chain adjustment, brake fluid replacement, coolant replacement, valve clearance checks and adjustments.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, fault finding charts, symptom-based troubleshooting.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major components, including engine rebuilds, suspension overhauls, brake system repairs, electrical component replacement.
Specifications:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical values, performance data.
Depth:
Comprehensive, suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY mechanics. Covers from basic maintenance to full engine and chassis teardowns and rebuilds.
Engine Layout:
649cc Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, DOHC, parallel-twin
Bore X Stroke:
83.0 x 60.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
11.3:1
Horsepower Rating:
Approximately 64 hp @ 8,000 rpm (claimed)
Torque Rating:
Approximately 44 lb-ft @ 7,000 rpm (claimed)
Fuel Delivery:
Fuel Injection (DFI) with dual 38mm throttle bodies
Ignition System:
Digital CDI with Electronic Advance
Cooling Type:
Liquid-cooled
Lubrication System:
Forced lubrication, wet sump
Instrument Cluster:
Digital LCD instrument cluster with analog tachometer. Includes speedometer, odometer, trip meters, fuel gauge, clock, engine temperature, gear position indicator, and neutral indicator.
ABS:
Optional ABS system, described in detail for service and maintenance within the manual.
Diagnostic Ports:
Diagnostic connectors and procedures for reading error codes are detailed.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 6,000 km (3,700 miles) or 6 months (refer to manual for exact intervals and oil type).
Valve Clearance Interval:
Every 24,000 km (15,000 miles) or 24 months.
Chain Maintenance:
Lubricate and adjust every 1,000 km (600 miles) or after riding in wet conditions.
Engine Oil Capacity:
3.0 L (3.2 US qt) without filter change; 3.2 L (3.4 US qt) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
Kawasaki Coolant 50/50 (or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with demineralized water).
Stalling At Low Rpm:
Some owners reported occasional stalling or rough idling at very low RPM, often resolvable through ECU remapping or adjustments to idle speed. Covered in the manual's troubleshooting section.
Suspension Compliance:
While generally competent, the stock suspension can be a point of improvement for aggressive riding or heavier loads, with the manual detailing adjustment procedures.
Engine Vibration:
As a parallel-twin, some vibration is inherent. The manual provides torque specs for engine mounts to ensure proper damping.
Kawasaki Legacy:
Kawasaki has a long-standing reputation for producing reliable and performance-oriented motorcycles across various segments.
Versys Introduction:
The Versys line was introduced to provide a versatile, sporty, and practical motorcycle experience, bridging the gap between sportbikes and adventure bikes.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
2010-2011:
This generation (often referred to as the 'first generation' or 'B-model' Versys) received minor updates for these years, building on the initial 2007-2009 model.
