KAWASAKI Versys 650 (2006-2007) Specs, Performance & Photos

The Kawasaki Versys 650 was a middleweight motorcycle that borrowed design elements from dual-sport bikes, standard, adventure tourers, and sport bikes, but that didn't mean it neatly fitted in any of those categories.

The bike was first introduced by Kawasaki in 2007 for the European and Canadian markets and for the United States in 2008, while in 2009, an emission-compliant version was released for the Californian market.

The 2007 Kawasaki Versys was based on the same platform as other Kawasaki 650cc twin-engined motorcycles like the Ninja 650R, which shared the same electronics, engine, wheels, brakes, and main frame. Also, the model featured its own riding position, rear subframe, suspension components, and engine tuning.

The 650cc engine was retuned for more low-end and mid-range torque with different camshafts and fuel injection mapping that caused the peak torque to occur at a lower engine speed and provided better throttle response in the 3,000 to 6,000 rpm range.

As for the power figures, the 2007 Kawasaki Versys had at its core a 649cc four-stroke parallel-twin liquid-cooled engine that delivered an output power of 64 hp with a peak at 8,000 rpm and 61 Nm (45 lb-ft) of torque available at 6,800 rpm.

With a six-speed manual transmission and a dry weight of 181 kg (399 lbs), the Kawasaki Versys reached a top speed of 197 kph (122 mph).