2022 Kawasaki Versys 650 Road Test: Review In Images

Let’s see if it’s still one of the best mid-displacement ADVs out there

Kawasaki launched the 2022 Versys 650 in June this year. The bikemaker gave its mid-displacement ADV a new fairing, revised LED headlights, adjustable windscreen as well as a new TFT instrument console. So how do these updates add up in the real world? We rode the bike extensively to find out. So here’s what we liked and what we didn’t about it, via a seat of detailed images:

The 2022 Kawasaki Versys 650 is easily distinguishable from the pre-facelift model, thanks to its revised fascia. These sharper, Versys 1000-derived headlights give the bike a butch appearance. And to complement the new fascia, Kawasaki has given the new Versys 650 a sharper engine cowl as well.

Powering the 2022 Kawasaki Versys 650 is the same 649cc, liquid-cooled, parallel twin motor still churning out 66PS and 61Nm. Although not new, this engine has two strong key highlights - ease of use and performance. The strong low-end torque delivery combined with the light clutch and smooth gearbox make city commutes a joy. Even the liquid-cooling was fantastic as we didn’t really encounter any engine heat.

Once out on the open highways, the Versys 650 can hold triple digits without breaking a sweat, making it a wonderful tourer. Furthermore, its 17kmpl real-world fuel efficiency score coupled with the 21-litre fuel tank means the bike has a real-world range of more than 300km. 

The older Versys 650 had little to boast of in terms of modern features or electronics, except for ABS. Now, Team Green has given the 2022 model of the ADV a TFT instrument console with a 2-stage traction control system along with the option to switch it off completely. While it isn’t the most clean traction control system, it wasn’t very intrusive or crude as well. Given that our shoot took place on wet roads, the TC system was a helpful friend and something many first-time big bike owners will appreciate. 

The Versys doesn’t give you any sort of confidence traversing over small trails. Blame the 17-inch wheels and road-focused Dunlop tyres. The long-travel suspension and traction control system can get you through some tricky spots but the Versys is a bike that is best enjoyed on tarmac.

With no changes to the underpinnings, the Versys 650 continues to be a fun and easy handling bike for an ADV. But, the tyres are just  decent in the dry. They fail to inspire any confidence when the roads get slippery. So a tyre upgrade is something we’d definitely recommend. 

Braking duties are handled by dual 300mm discs up front and a single 250mm disc at the rear along with the added safety net of dual-channel ABS. While we found the stopping power adequate, the dual-channel ABS can be a bit too intrusive on wet surfaces. 

Even with a premium of Rs 21,000, the Kawasaki Versys 650, which retails for Rs 7,36,000 (ex-showroom Delhi), undercuts its rivals, the Triumph Tiger Sport 660 (Rs 8,95,000) and Suzuki V-Strom 650XT (Rs 8,88,030) by a massive margin, making a compelling case for itself. 

Our only concern with the bike is its clinical approach and the fact that it lacks an exciting edge. The fact that service and spare parts costs for the Japanese brand are very high as well, doesn’t help.