The Kawasaki Versys is a rare exception to the old adage, “jack of all trades, master of none.” This motorcycle’s relaxed riding position makes it ideal for daily commuting, while a Ninja-like sporting spirit lets it tackle serpentine roads with the competence of a hard-core sportbike. Its efficient 649cc parallel-twin engine and overall layout also make short work out of covering long distances. Versys really is a jack of all trades, and it truly masters the art of being a great motorcycle!
Complementing the engine is a well-matched chassis. Long-travel (just shy of 6.0 in. at both ends), preload- and rebound-damping adjustable suspension yields a plush ride that soaks up rough urban-road imperfections easily. It does, however, place the rider’s butt 33.2 in. off the ground for a commanding view but a bit of a reach to the tarmac.
Suspension duties are handled by a Showa rear shock with two-stage damping, along with an adjustable, 41mm inverted fork. These long-travel suspension components combine with the longer swingarm allow for comfort while commenting, but firmer suspension when the pace increases.
Long-travel, high-tech suspension is critical to the Versys’ multi-role mission. A Showa rear shock with two-stage damping firms up progressively as the wheel moves through its stroke, providing an initially plush ride that firms to near-sportbike levels as suspension loads escalate. The bike’s short, compact engine makes it possible to use a longer than average gull-wing swingarm to reduce throttle-induced suspension movement and excellent handling. An adjustable, long-travel 41mm tapered-tube inverted fork soaks up bumps big and small, and like the rear end, firms up nicely as the pace increases.
Handling is sporty, with a wide bar and upright seating that provide lots of leverage, allowing the rider to pitch the Versys around like a big supermoto bike. The twin 300mm, two-piston front brakes have good feel and power when you want to “whoa it down” (as former World Superbike Champion Scott Russell likes to say).
The ABS system is new, and the 2014 Versys ABS now comes with dual 300mm petal rotors in the front and a 220mm rear one, all three taken from the Ninja series.
Add in the sleek stacked headlight and the unique, modern bodywork for a sweet all-rounder which can serve you in more ways than you thought possible. The 2014 Kawasaki Versys ABS comes in Candy Lime Green, with a price tag reading a very affordable $7,999 (€6,020).
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