Adventure Motorcycles
2021Kawasaki Versys 650
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The 2021 Kawasaki Versys 650 is a versatile middleweight sport-tourer designed for riders seeking a balanced blend of performance, comfort, and practicality. Powered by a 649cc parallel-twin engine producing 69 horsepower, it excels at long-distance touring while remaining agile enough for spirited riding. Known for its upright seating position, generous ground clearance, and capable handling, the Versys suits adventurous riders who want one bike for multiple riding styles.
- Capacity
- 649.0 ccm
- Engine
- Parallel Twin, four-stroke
- Gearbox
- 6-speed
- Dry weight
- 216.1 kg
- Seat height
- 840 mm
- Power
- 69.0 HP (50.4 kW) @ 8500 RPM
What’s new for the 2021 Kawasaki Versys 650
vs the 2020| Spec | 2020 | 2021 |
|---|---|---|
| Front brakes | Double disc. ABS. Two-piston calipers. | Double disc. ABS. Two-piston calipers. Petal-style discs. |
| Rear brakes | Single disc. ABS. Single-piston caliper. | Single disc. ABS. Single-piston caliper. Petal-style disc. |
How it rides
Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested- Best for
- Designed as a versatile road-biased adventure-tourer for commuting, everyday riding, and long-distance touring rather than outright performance or off-road exploration.
- Built for
- A practical, easygoing twin-cylinder machine that favors smooth torque, comfort, and stability over aggressive sportiness.
- Not ideal for
- Not the right choice for riders seeking serious off-road capability or track-focused performance.
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 usEngine
- Capacity
- 649.0 ccm
- Power
- 69.0 HP (50.4 kW) @ 8500 RPM
- Torque
- 64.0 Nm (6.5 kgf-m) @ 7000 RPM
- Engine type
- Parallel Twin, four-stroke
- Power/weight ratio
- 0.3193 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
- Valves per cylinder
- 4
- Lubrication system
- Forced lubrication, semi-dry sump
Transmission
- Gearbox
- 6-speed
- Transmission type
- Manual
- Final drive
- Chain
- Clutch
- Wet multi-plate
Dimensions & weight
- Wheelbase
- 1415 mm
- Overall length
- 2165 mm
- Overall width
- 841 mm
- Overall height
- 1400 mm
- Seat height
- 840 mm
- Dry weight
- 216.1 kg
- Wet weight
- 217.0 kg
- Fuel capacity
- 21.00 litres
- Ground clearance
- 170 mm
Chassis & suspension
- Frame
- Double pipe diamond frame constructed from 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. Petal-style discs.
- Front brakes diameter
- 300 mm
- Rear brakes
- Single disc. ABS. Single-piston caliper. Petal-style disc.
- Rear brakes diameter
- 250 mm
- ABS
- Yes
- Front tyre
- 120/70-ZR17
- Rear tyre
- 160/60-ZR17
Other
- Color options
- Metallic Moondust Gray/Metallic Spark Black
- Warranty
- 24
- Comments
- Windscreen. Economical Riding Indicator.
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 | 2012 | 2016 | 2020 | 2021 | 2023 | 2027 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 649 cc | 649 cc | 649 cc | 649 cc | 649 cc | 649 cc |
| Dry weight | 206 kg | 214 kg | 216 kg | 216 kg | 201 kg | 201 kg |
| Seat height | 846 mm | 846 mm | 840 mm | 840 mm | 845 mm | 845 mm |
| Fuel capacity | 18.9 L | 21 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?
The 2021 Kawasaki Versys 650 has a Capacity of 649.0 ccm (39.60 cubic inches).
What engine power does the Kawasaki Versys 650 have?
The 2021 Kawasaki Versys 650 has a Power of 69.0 HP (50.4 kW) @ 8500 RPM.
How many gears does the Kawasaki Versys 650 have?
The 2021 Kawasaki Versys 650 has a Gearbox of 6-speed.
What is the torque of the Kawasaki Versys 650?
The 2021 Kawasaki Versys 650 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 weigh?
The 2021 Kawasaki Versys 650 has a Dry weight of 216.1 kg (476.4 pounds).
Shop this bike
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The 2021 Kawasaki Versys 650 is a versatile and reliable adventure bike that combines sporty performance with all-day touring comfort. With a 649cc parallel-twin engine, it offers plenty of power for highway cruising and off-road excursions. The bike's upright riding position and adjustable suspension make it well-suited for long rides, while its nimble handling and lightweight design provide confidence-inspiring maneuverability in various riding conditions. The Versys 650 also comes equipped with advanced features such as ABS brakes, traction control, and a sleek digital display panel, ensuring a safe and modern riding experience.
Overall, the 2021 Kawasaki Versys 650 is a top choice for riders seeking a well-rounded adventure bike that can handle both daily commutes and weekend getaways. Its combination of performance, comfort, and advanced technology make it a standout in the mid-range motorcycle market. Whether you're a seasoned rider or new to the adventure touring scene, the Versys 650 offers a winning combination of value and capability that's hard to beat. Riders can confidently take on any road or trail with this reliable and versatile machine.
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