As the last of the 650 platform, Kawasaki has significantly revamped the Versys 650 for 2022. In addition to the popular mid-range Allroad being given the looks of the Versys 1000, Kawasaki has also applied traction control.
The sales figures show that Kawasaki has a considerable sales stunner with the Versys 650. That is, from the moment the ‘alien’ headlight was dumped in the trash in 2016. Since then, the Versys 650 has become the most popular and best-selling Dual Purpose motorcycle in its class.
That ‘Dual Purpose’ actually hits the nail on the head, unlike some models in this segment, Kawasaki does not pretend to have any off-road ambitions with the bike, so that the term ‘Allroad’ would be completely wrong.
Now Kawasaki had already adapted the engine to Euro 5 without mentioning this, but for 2022 they have gone a big step further in Akisha with the 649cc parallel twin, which also serves the Z650, Z650RS, Ninja 650 and Vulcan S now for the first time with adjustable traction control.
The KTRC has 2 positions and can also be switched off. Mode 1 supports the sporty driving experience and Mode 2 ensures maximum traction in all conditions. As usual, a 35kW version is available for A2 driving license holders.
The versatility of the new Versys is reflected in the bicycle part. The compact engine block makes it possible to make the frame compact and light. Long suspension travel, 17″ wheels and the short wheelbase deliver great handling, even when the road surface leaves something to be desired.
At the front is an adjustable Showa SFF ø41mm upside-down fork with separate spring functions, while at the rear is a horizontal shock absorber with separate spring preload adjuster. By means of a rotary knob, the rear suspension can be adjusted easily and without tools to the rider’s preference or the amount of luggage.
The modern design is unmistakably Kawasaki with, among other things, full LED lighting. The “gills” in the upper side fairing deflect the wind away from the rider, together with the new 4-way adjustable windshield (over a range of 80mm) this should have provided better wind protection and comfort over longer distances.
Behind the new top fairing there is now the well-known 4.3″ TFT color display that Kawasaki has rolled out on almost all models in recent years. This multifunctional screen clearly shows the speed, rpm, gear, fuel level, trip meters, temperature, voltage and much more.
An integrated Bluetooth chip enables the rider to connect to the motorcycle via the Rideology app. All kinds of vehicle information, trip logs and the maintenance schedule can be viewed remotely via the app. Also interesting to mention is that Kawasaki has now -finally- provided both a 12V and a USB connection on the inside of the fairing.
The new Versys 650 will be available at the Kawasaki dealer in the showroom at the end of February in the colors Metallic Spark Black/Metallic Flat Spark Black, Metallic Phantom Silver/Metallic Flat Spark Black/Metallic Spark Black and Candy Lime Green/Metallic Flat Spark Black/Metallic Spark black.
Prices will be announced later. Like its predecessor, the 2022 Versys 650 will also be available with the well-known luxury Touring packages including monokey integrated side cases.
– Thanks for information from Motorfreaks.