Segment:
Middleweight sport-touring motorcycle, known for versatility and practical performance.
Target Audience:
Riders seeking a capable and comfortable machine for commuting, touring, and spirited riding, often favored by those who appreciate value and reliability.
Competitors:
Yamaha Tracer 700, Suzuki V-Strom 650, Honda NC750X, BMW F750GS (competitors within the broader sport-touring and adventure-lite categories).
Design Philosophy:
Combines sportbike handling with upright ergonomics and touring-friendly features, a practical adaptation of the Ninja 650 platform.
Unique Selling Points:
Long-travel suspension for enhanced comfort and light off-road capability, adjustable windscreen, comfortable seating position, parallel-twin engine flexibility.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine teardown, assembly, valve clearance adjustment, piston/cylinder inspection, crankshaft and connecting rod service, camshaft timing, lubrication system.
Fuel System:
Fuel injection system, throttle body service, fuel pump operation, fuel pressure testing, injector cleaning and testing, emissions control (PAIRS system, evaporative emissions).
Cooling System:
Radiator service, coolant types and capacities, thermostat operation, fan control, water pump inspection and replacement.
Ignition System:
Ignition coil testing, spark plug specifications, ignition timing verification.
Transmission Drivetrain:
Clutch inspection and adjustment, gearbox teardown and reassembly, shift drum and fork inspection, final drive inspection (chain and sprockets).
Brakes:
Brake fluid specifications and replacement, caliper service, master cylinder inspection, brake line routing and inspection, ABS system (if equipped).
Suspension:
Front fork service (oil change, seal replacement, spring inspection), rear shock absorber inspection and adjustment, linkage system service.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery maintenance, starter motor operation, charging system (stator, regulator/rectifier), lighting system, horn, instrument panel diagnostics.
Chassis Frame:
Frame inspection for damage, steering head bearing service, swingarm inspection and lubrication.
Bodywork Trim:
Fairing removal and installation, seat mounting, fender and tail section service.
Preventative Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance items, fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake fluid), filter replacements, chain lubrication and adjustment.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts for common running issues, electrical faults, and starting problems.
Repair And Rebuild:
Step-by-step instructions for component disassembly, repair, and reassembly, including engine internals, gearbox, and suspension.
Torque Specifications:
Detailed torque values for all critical fasteners and components.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific service procedures.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic adjustments to full engine and transmission overhauls, including electrical diagnostics.
Engine Type:
Liquid-cooled, four-stroke, DOHC, parallel-twin
Bore X Stroke:
83.0 x 60.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.6:1
Valve Train:
DOHC, 8 valves
Horsepower:
Approx. 72 hp @ 8,500 rpm (claimed)
Torque:
Approx. 46 lb-ft @ 7,000 rpm (claimed)
Fuel Delivery:
Digital Fuel Injection with dual 38mm Keihin throttle bodies
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, 91 octane or higher recommended
Fuel Tank Capacity:
19 liters (5.0 US gal)
Crash Safety Ratings:
N/A (Motorcycles are not rated by organizations like NHTSA or Euro NCAP in the same way cars are, but ABS is a significant safety feature).
Anti Lock Braking System:
Available (optional on some models), enhances braking control and prevents wheel lock-up.
Lighting:
Halogen headlights for good illumination, LED taillight.
Chassis Design:
Trellis frame provides rigidity and good rider feedback.
Ergonomics:
Upright riding position reduces fatigue on longer journeys.
Instrument Panel:
Digital speedometer, bar-style tachometer, odometer, trip meters, fuel gauge, clock, coolant temperature gauge, gear position indicator (on later models of this generation).
ABS System:
Optional Bosch ABS system.
Charging Port:
No integrated USB or 12V charging port from the factory; aftermarket options available.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 6,000 km (3,700 miles) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Oil Filter Replacement:
At every oil change.
Chain Adjustment Lubrication:
Every 1,000 km (600 miles) or after washing/riding in rain.
Valve Clearance Check:
Every 12,000 km (7,500 miles) or 12 months.
Air Filter Cleaning:
Every 6,000 km (3,700 miles), replace as needed.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 10W-40, API SG or SH, JASO MA or MA2 certified motorcycle oil.
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:
Permanent type antifreeze coolant (e.g., Kawasaki's KLF-COOLANT or equivalent ethylene glycol-based).
Common Wear Items:
Chain and sprockets, brake pads, tires, clutch plates (depending on usage).
Potential Electrical:
Occasional reports of stator or regulator/rectifier issues on some Kawasaki models of this era; regular voltage checks are advisable.
Suspension Wear:
Fork seals can degrade over time, especially with aggressive riding or exposure to elements.
Kawasaki Legacy:
Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd. is a Japanese conglomerate with a long history in motorcycle manufacturing, known for performance and innovation across various sectors.
First Generation:
The Versys 650 was introduced in 2007, based on the Ninja 650R platform, featuring a distinctive styling and longer suspension travel.
Second Generation 2010:
The 2010 model received significant updates, including revised styling, a larger fuel tank, improved suspension, and updated instrumentation. This generation is covered by this manual.
Later Updates:
Subsequent updates in 2015 brought further refinements, including a more modern aesthetic, LED lighting, and improved engine tuning.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily manufactured in Thailand for global markets.
Segment Popularity:
Consistently praised in reviews for its all-around capability, value for money, and suitability for both new and experienced riders.
Motorcycle Press Reviews:
Often cited for its comfort, usable powerband, and practicality, making it a strong contender in its class.
