Adventure Motorcycles
2018Kawasaki Versys 650 ABS
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The 2018 Kawasaki Versys 650 ABS is a versatile sport-touring middleweight designed for riders seeking comfortable long-distance capability with accessible performance. Its lightweight parallel-twin engine and upright ergonomics make it ideal for both novice and experienced adventurers, while the ABS braking system and substantial fuel capacity enhance everyday reliability and touring range.
- Capacity
- 649.0 ccm
- Engine
- Parallel Twin, four-stroke
- Gearbox
- 6-speed
- Dry weight
- 206.0 kg
- Seat height
- 840 mm
- Power
- 69.0 HP (50.4 kW) @ 8500 RPM
What’s new for the 2018 Kawasaki Versys 650 ABS
vs the 2017| Spec | 2017 | 2018 |
|---|---|---|
| Power | 67.3 HP (49.5 kW) | 69.0 HP (50.4 kW) @ 8500 RPM |
| Torque | — | 64.0 Nm (6.5 kgf-m or 47.2 ft.lbs) @ 7000 RPM |
| Fuel capacity | 18.90 litres (4.99 US gallons) | 21.00 litres (5.55 US gallons) |
| Front suspension | 41mm hydraulic telescopic fork with stepless adjustable rebound and preload | 41mm hydraulic telescopic fork with stepless adjustable rebound and preload / 5.9 in. |
| Rear suspension | Single offset laydown shock with 13-position adjustable rebound damping and adjustable spring preload | Single offset laydown shock with remote adjustable spring preload |
| Front brakes | Double disc. Two-piston calipers. ABS. | Double disc. ABS. Two-piston calipers. |
| Rear brakes | Single disc. Single-piston caliper. ABS. | Single disc. ABS. Single-piston caliper. |
| Compression | 10.6:1 | 10.8:1 |
How it rides
Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested- Best for
- Built as a versatile all-rounder for commuting, backroad carving, and long-distance touring rather than outright speed or serious off-roading.
- Built for
- A practical, easygoing middleweight that favors smooth, predictable handling over aggressive sportiness.
- Not ideal for
- Not the right choice for riders chasing track-day thrills or serious technical off-road adventure riding.
Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.
Will it fit you?
Worked out in your browser - nothing is sent to usRange and running costs
Worked out in your browser - nothing is sent to usBased on the published US (EPA-style) fuel economy estimate and tank size. Real-world figures depend on how and where you ride, and the last litres of a tank are reserve. Prices shown greyed are examples - type your own.
Engine
- Capacity
- 649.0 ccm
- Power
- 69.0 HP (50.4 kW) @ 8500 RPM
- CO2 Emissions
- 100 CO2 g/km
- EPA Certificate No.
- JKAXC.649AAF-006
- EPA Est. Fuel Consumption
- 4.26 L/100km (55.2 US mpg)
- EPA CO Emissions
- 1.3 CO g/km
- Torque
- 64.0 Nm (6.5 kgf-m) @ 7000 RPM
- Engine type
- Parallel Twin, four-stroke
- Power/weight ratio
- 0.3350 HP/kg (dry)
- Bore x stroke
- 83.0 x 60.0 mm
- Compression
- 10.8:1
- Cooling system
- Liquid
- Fuel system
- Injection
- Starting
- Electric
- Ignition
- TCBI with electronic advance
- Aspiration
- Naturally aspirated
- Valves per cylinder
- 4
- Lubrication system
- Forced lubrication, semi-dry sump
Transmission
- Gearbox
- 6-speed
- Transmission type
- Manual
- Final drive
- Chain
- Clutch
- Wet multi-disc
Dimensions & weight
- Wheelbase
- 1415 mm
- Overall length
- 2165 mm
- Overall width
- 841 mm
- Overall height
- 1400 mm
- Seat height
- 840 mm
- Dry weight
- 206.0 kg
- Wet weight
- 216.1 kg
- Fuel capacity
- 21.00 litres
- Ground clearance
- 170 mm
Chassis & suspension
- Frame
- Tubular diamond, high-tensile steel
- Front suspension
- 41mm hydraulic telescopic fork with stepless adjustable rebound and preload / 5.9 in.
- Rear suspension
- Single offset laydown shock with remote adjustable spring preload
- Front wheel travel
- 150 mm
- Rear wheel travel
- 145 mm
- Rake (fork angle)
- 25.0°
- Trail
- 108 mm
Brakes & wheels
- Front brakes
- Double disc. ABS. Two-piston calipers.
- Front brakes diameter
- 300 mm
- Rear brakes
- Single disc. ABS. Single-piston caliper.
- Rear brakes diameter
- 250 mm
- ABS
- Yes
- Front tyre
- 120/70-ZR17
- Rear tyre
- 160/60-ZR17
Other
- Color options
- Metallic Flat Spark Black/Metallic Carbon Gray, Pearl Blizzard White/Metallic Flat Spark Black
- Warranty
- 12
- Comments
- Small windscreen.
- Fuel Tank Material
- Metal
Compiled from manufacturer documentation and user contributions, corrected on an ongoing basis. Spotted something wrong? Tell us.
What changed, year to year
Differences highlighted| Specification | 2015 | 2018 | 2021 | 2024 | 2026 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 649 cc | 649 cc | 649 cc | 649 cc | 649 cc |
| Dry weight | 206 kg | 206 kg | — | — | — |
| Seat height | 846 mm | 840 mm | 840 mm | 840 mm | 840 mm |
| Fuel capacity | 18.9 L | 21 L | 21 L | 21 L | 21 L |
Illustrative - generated automatically by diffing the year records already on file, not a manufacturer-published changelog.
Rider Reviews
Common questions
What is the engine size of the Kawasaki Versys 650 ABS?
The 2018 Kawasaki Versys 650 ABS has a Capacity of 649.0 ccm (39.60 cubic inches).
What engine power does the Kawasaki Versys 650 ABS have?
The 2018 Kawasaki Versys 650 ABS has a Power of 69.0 HP (50.4 kW) @ 8500 RPM.
How many gears does the Kawasaki Versys 650 ABS have?
The 2018 Kawasaki Versys 650 ABS has a Gearbox of 6-speed.
What is the torque of the Kawasaki Versys 650 ABS?
The 2018 Kawasaki Versys 650 ABS has a Torque of 64.0 Nm (6.5 kgf-m or 47.2 ft.lbs) @ 7000 RPM.
How much does the Kawasaki Versys 650 ABS weigh?
The 2018 Kawasaki Versys 650 ABS has a Dry weight of 206.0 kg (454.2 pounds).
Shop this bike
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Similar bikes
Same category, weighted similarity
2017 Kawasaki Versys 650 Special Edition
649 cc · 217 kg · 840 mm
2022 Kawasaki Versys 650 Tourer
649 cc · 217 kg · 845 mm
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698 cc · 222 kg · 830 mm
2018 Suzuki V-Strom 650A
645 cc · 197 kg · 830 mm
2025 Benelli TRK 702X
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2017 Suzuki V-Strom 650A
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The 2018 Kawasaki Versys 650 ABS is a versatile and reliable adventure bike that offers a comfortable riding experience for both daily commuting and long-distance travel. With its powerful 649cc parallel-twin engine and smooth-shifting six-speed transmission, this motorcycle delivers strong acceleration and responsive handling. The ABS feature provides added safety and control, especially in unpredictable road conditions. The adjustable suspension, ergonomic design, and windscreen offer a comfortable riding position and protection from wind and weather. Whether you're navigating city streets or exploring backcountry roads, the Versys 650 ABS delivers a balanced combination of performance, comfort, and versatility.
Overall, the 2018 Kawasaki Versys 650 ABS is a solid choice for riders seeking a dependable and adventure-ready motorcycle. Its capable engine, responsive handling, and enhanced safety features make it well-suited for a variety of riding experiences. With its comfortable ergonomics and adjustable suspension, this bike offers a smooth and enjoyable journey, whether you're riding solo or with a passenger. The ABS system provides added peace of mind, particularly for riders encountering challenging road conditions. If you're in the market for a versatile and reliable adventure bike, the 2018 Versys 650 ABS is worth considering for your next two-wheeled adventure.
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