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While the 2009 Kawasaki Versys™ may defy attempts to pigeon hole it into a preordained role, the truth is this is a machine that epitomizes versatility. The editors at Motorcyclist magazine may have described this jack-of-all-trades motorcycle best: “The most impressive thing about the Versys is what it can do. That would be just about anything, and for a lot less money than anything else out there. Call it whatever you want. We’re calling it Motorcycle of the Year.”
To create the Versys, Kawasaki engineers turned to the already user-friendly NinjaŽ 650R sportbike. Building upon its 649cc parallel-twin engine, six-spoke superbike-inspired wheels, light steering and neutral handling chassis; they added an adjustable-height windscreen, a longer “gull” shaped swingarm, adjustable, long-travel rear shock, long-travel inverted 41mm forks and provided it with a roomy, comfortable cockpit. The resulting motorcycle is ready to excel at almost any task its rider needs, from gridlock traffic jams, to canyon carving, to long-distance touring.
A major element in the flexibility of the Versys motorcycle is its compact liquid-cooled, fuel-injected, DOHC, 8-valve, 649cc parallel-twin engine. This engine was already lively enough for even the most advanced riders, yet predictable enough to inspire confidence in less-experienced motorcyclists. However, it was modified to deliver its smooth power earlier for brisk off-the-line acceleration with plenty of supple torque for the cut-n-thrust commute environment, while still offering excellent fuel economy.
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