Kawasaki Versys 650 Vs Suzuki V-Strom 650XT | 650CC Adventure Bike Shootout 

Both good motorcycles, but a 90° v-twin 650 inherently provides primary balance and, by default, a character that differentiates it from a parallel twin. For me, that character is priceless.

I had a 2009 VStrom 650 and put 45,000 miles on it. Never let me down. Now I have a 2021 model. Can't say fairer than that :-)

I like both and have to confess that the V-Strom is more confortable for both the rider and the passenger considering the original seat, but a custom seat will solve that. The V-Strom is kinda boring on the road, imo... The suspension is amazingly confortable, but the wheel distance and the larger front wheel makes it a heavier bike in the turns, whyle the Versys is very agile and capable of turning almost as a sport bike, which is one of the major reasons I went with it instead of the V-Strom. The wheel distance also affects maneuvers in city traffic, being the versys much easier to ride in traffic. The other major reason I went with the Versys is the price. The Tourer (full) version is cheaper than the stock V-strom. I'm with my second Versys 650 Tourer.

Great comparison. I have 20,000 miles on my Versys 650, and agree with everything you're saying. About 75% of my riding is a 25 mile commute to work via combination of highway and country roads. The other 25% is a mix of interstate, 2 lane, and dirt and gravel roads. It's done everything I've asked it to do. I don't regret my purchase at all. But I think if I was doing any more off road than what I do, I'd go with something more adventure oriented.

I'll have my 2015 V-Strom 650 XT paid off in a couple months. Hit 69k miles last week. Love it. Can't wait to hit 100k. :D

I bought v-strom 650xt 2019 and it fits all my needs.A strong reason (beside cheap,reliable,good allround bike) is that it is the biggest bike of its category (adv touring 650-900cc) and i do lot of tours with my wife and it has a lot of space...maybe i need to go for a better saddle in the future.Highly recommend this bike!

Just bought a 2021 V-strom 650xt after saving up and watching heaps of reviews and also know a few guys that have either have had or still own V-stroms. Am hooked and love it!

Last month i was in the cross road between the two bikes.. but decided on the vstrom650 and i am happy with it.

Just ordered my second 650 xt had 2017 great bike brought new 2022 pick it up in couple of weeks happy days

I love my Versys. Over 42,000 miles already

I went with the 2020 Vstrom 650xt adventure. Very, very happy with it.

V Strom has been my choice......l m so happy with it!

People... lovers of motorcycles, no doubt both bikes are very good and they face any road! Important thing is not about brand, but the friends you have to ride bike together.

Great review. I had a first gen vstrom 650. It was a bit top heavy and I didn’t enjoy riding two up so I sold it and bought my gsxr. I actually really miss it riding on longer trips - I’d happily have another one as a second bike to go off-road and on camping trips with the boys 👍

Another top video mate. And as always it's nice to see Australian contents on you tube.

I've owned a 650 for nearly 4 years. Little off road. Mainly roads and occasionally long distance highway. It's a fantastic bike! Going to keep it as long as I can.

I opt for the Kawasaki for the rubber mounted frame.That does mitigate vibration alot.I think the Kawasaki is also more aesthetically appealing with only a hint of a beak.You really can't go wrong with either one which is a great thing.Excellent job comparing and contrasting these two bikes.Thank you.👍👍

I have owned both and used them for gravel roads and two up road touring. Kawa was the full power version.I would happily own either one again. If you are considering either, I suggest test ride both and decide which one suits you. The Vstrom is a bit more spacious for two people.

Great Review Kwakajack:) After test riding both bikes, I went with the Versys 650. It just fitted me better and was more comfortable for me. Rode from Adelaide to Coffs Harbour over xmas and it performed very well. I dropped 3 teeth on the rear, which helped on the highway and I averaged 22.5 km per ltr. Just an easy bike to live with every day.

Just got my 2020 Versys- very pleased with my purchase

I'd go Vstrom - I had the big brother and it was awesome. However, the 650 Wee-strom, sells 4-1 against the big brother. It is value for money, with a bullet-proof engine and handles better than the 1000 everywhere. Great review.

I’m a fan of the Suzuki, I’m a fan of both manufacturers though!! Two big reasons for me is the 90° V twin on the Suzuki just sounds amazing, and it does appear to be a little more off-road capable!👍🏻

I like the vstrom better - it's much longer than the versys, and that ability to stretch out on a long ride is wonderful.

I own a 2013 Vstrom 650 . 47000 kms and building . 2 Recalls with no problems and just a joy to own ....It does everything easily with no specialties to name . A great allrounder and I have grown to love it . 500kms from a tank is not unusual and face it most riding we do is at 80 - 100 kms an hour ....why be uncomfortable on a Sport bike ? Ride a Vstrom 650 and see how big they actually are . I would definitely buy another one

Out of about all the bikes I owned; Moto Guzzi v7 special, Honda ctx1300, Yamaha Roadliner, Kawasaki z900rs, Honda vtx1300, Honda monkey, Indian Springfield dark horse, and now the v storm 650 (2017) my favorite by far; enough power for 2 up, light, maneuvers, taller seating, the feel of the engine, just offroad possibilities, wired wheels and tubeless tires. About to pull a deal on a Triumph 800 xta but top heavy feel. You won't be disappointed with the 650: I think that's my favorite platform; the 650's engine, you can drive them hard yet you won't be going extremely fast

I have had a Gen2 650 for 9 years now. In 2018 I rode it 2 up around the world including going all around Australia. 260 mile range, good economy and comfy all day.

Thanks for mentioning the prices in INR, these two are getting very popular here these days.

Good straight talking review guys 👌👌👌

I had the v-strom. A great do it all bike. The versys is probably great too.

In 2017, I seen both the Versys and the Vstrom side by side in the local showroom. I preferred the look of the V strom to the Versys. I then spoke to the lead mechanic and warranty manager and both said if they had to chose, they'd go Vstrom. I've had the DL for four glorious years and have no complaints, except for a funky seat cover, which I replaced. This bike is superb. I've had bigger and faster, yet this bike always puts a smile on my face. Try one , you'll love it.

Love the storm❤️😎 it looks like a big horse 🐎🐎

Yep! Can't argue that!

I used to own a Vstrom 2013 model. Being from a back ground on dirt bikes I was surprised how poor the suspension was. I upgraded it with stiffer springs and a damper kit. It was better , but one ride on a Tiger XCX and I was sold.

I tested both 2021s I went with the Vstrom 650xt ….. I love my Strom Purchased May 4 2021

I have a 08 Suzuki v-strom 650, and a 16 Kawasaki versys 650. I know they are different generations, but I’ll give my take. I think that the V-strom is better for long rides. It’s smother, less vibrations and the larger wheels make it seem like a better ride. The Kawasaki is great for quick runs around town. I put a 14 tooth front sprocket on the Suzuki (down for the 15 tooth stock), and the Kawasaki stock gearing is still quicker. Overall I think they both are good at different things. The suzuki I like because it’s smooth, and a very good leaner. I’ve actually drug the foot pegs more than once on it. The Kawasaki is quick and great to jump train tracks and speed bumps, but can’t lean turns as well. Hope this helps for anyone who cares… lol

Those 0-100 km/h times seem pretty high for both bikes in the unrestricted models. Were those times perhaps meant for the restricted versions?

The versys is more Road oriented that's why I chose it. Very good for Europe. Both are very good but the versys is looking better.

I like both of them

I own a Versys650 (non restricted here in Europe). After 2 seasons (can't ride for a few months in the winter because of snow/ice/salt on the streets) the trip counter is at 35.000km. The only thing that broke twice is the bulp of the headlight - not a real issue as it is replaced in 10 minutes. Beside that, I haven't had issues at all. And it's a hell of a fun in the twisties - bad for the bank account, as you need new tires permanently :D I also take her on gravel roads or forestry roads from time to time - works fine if it's not too rough and you don't think you're a dakar racer. But my little Versys has seen more "offroad" than most BMW GS' or Africa Twins here. All in all I can't complain and don't regret buying her. Sure, there are more capable, stronger, prettier or faster bikes out there, but everytime when I'm back in the saddle, I'm just happy with her and don't really need something else :) I'm sure you can take both mentioned Bikes - the VStrom and the Versys - for an around the world trip. Both would do great!

Of these two it's the V-strom for me. But in the class. I'd grab a T700

Most of the clips are taken from Powerdrift indian and zigwheels india. Happy to see indian channels are impressing the global audience

Are you going to compare it the the new tracer 7? Or is that even available where you live.

Having owned a 2014 Vstrom 1000, and currently owning a 2017 versys 650, I would say that the versys with the 17 front wheel has more sporty turning on pavement. Also lots of power for a 650. It has no off-road pretensions, and I don’t either. Strom was very stable, it wanted to go straight down the road, also good for some dirt.

I have been looking at both of these models for two years. You have confirmed my 1st choice, the Kawa 650 for its features & history as a solid bike at a great price. I just wish it was about 50mm lower as my legs are growing shorter I think. 😉

There's supposed to be about 14cm difference in wheelbase between the two, was this noticeable when riding?

New subs here from Phillipines. I'll go for v Strom. Thank you for including ph conversion for the price.. More reviews sir Jack.. Godbless.. Ridesafe..

I have the 2021 1050XT and it's brilliant but underpowered, i can't even imagine how painful the 650XT must be power wise?

you got purdy good content man .............. subbed !!

Bro please do a comparison between BMW 1250 GS & KTM Super Adventure 1290

outstanding review!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Im on my second Vstrom. Had an 04 650 for a few years and really enjoyed it. Rode a Triumph 900 Scrambler for a couple years then recently picked up a 19 Vstrom 650.

A good review video.

I actually owns a Versys 1000 since 2 years after owning a 650 Vstrom (first model) for 11 years. You didn't talk about duo and I think the VStrom is better suited for that than the little Versys. My big one is not in the same league

I agree that the Suzuki is probably the better bike and were it not for its hideous looks, I would probably prefer it over the Kawy. However, I couldn't bear to look at it let alone live with it.

I've been studying a lot of reviews and with a tire size change the Versy can be a formidable off road bike as well. All though both are awesome I would take the Versy

What about centrestands? They are essential for this kind of bike.

having owned both, i do want to add that kawasaki's paint finish is more premium. The Vstrom was prone to paint flaking, especially on the beak. I am a bit of a kawasaki simp though, so take my advice with a grain of salt. Both are amazing bikes, I am a motorcycle technician and my boss rides a vstrom 1050 and I've loved it when he lets me take it out. I can't knock either brand, or either model. Can't go wrong with either one.

I would automatically go Suzuki before any other manufacturer. Nice to know in this market section its the best best too. Thanks for a good video . Please just stop calling it a Kawazaki

I think K missed a trick here .. would have made sense to offer at least the option of a more O/R Versys - maybe parallel to the road biased one. I suppose the market-research pointed them to deliver what they've come up with .. but options are always appreciated. That said, the re-birth of the KLE will cover this anyway... so it's all irrelevant now

They priced VStrom ridiculously higher than the more popular Versys in India.. Honda priced their CB500X almost equal to that of Versys in India.. So, Versys is all set to continue its dominance in this middleweight “Pseudo Off-road capable” tourer segment in India !

I’ve got a Versys 650. Only real complaint so far is wind noise or wind protection. But I’m a tall guy and have found some better fairing. A digital modern display would be nice but it’s not necessary. Haven’t tried the V-Strom.

Vstrom 650xt is it recommended for 6ft guys ? Worry will have an awkward leg posture while riding

The size and placement of the exhaust is much better on the Versys. On the V-Strom fixed panniers are mounted on outside of the exhaust and the bike becomes very wide. Except for a topbox I would only use soft luggage on the V-Strom. Fuel consumption and reliability are better for the V-Strom.

Here in Ecuador the typical road conditions, even on "paved" roads, mean a bike must be comfortable navigating bumps, potholes, dirt stretches, bulldozed landslides, etc. The Wee is the only reasonable choice for all-country riding, as well as Peru, Colombia, etc.

the V-Strom 650 Adventure definitely seems like the better bike but i just can't get over the beak and the stacked headlights, personally I love the design of the Versys 650LT wayyyy more

3:47 That's Llanelli beach, about 3 miles from where I live!

V strom looking good👍👍

Rubber mounted frame, less expensive,nicer front end, and no “beak.” Kawasaki👍🏻👍🏻

4:14 What's this "rocking" you keep referring to??

They are both good looking bikes, though I like the solid rims on the Vstrom. Though both bikes really are nearly ID, in the torque area, I cant believe that the Torque specs for the Kawy (though with a bit more revs) are as high for the In line engine, as they are for the V engine, when the V's are known for their Torque. I think Kawy is fudging a bit. The Suzy has a racier sound, more throaty sound, where the kawy sounds like a two stroke on steroids. Both compete very well, but what kind of price you get, in the long run makes the better deal.

We need the Yamaha Tracer 7 here in Canada. That'll eat some share from both the Versys and V-Strom. Coming on Yamaha, the markets is there.

V-strom all day long best handling Bullitt proof engine

I'm planning a lap of Oz and I'm doing it on a strom, great comfort range and value

Restricted- unrestricted does this pertain to the riders license or experience ??

How do they compare to the Honda NC750X ?

love my 09 Wee strom

We have both and the vstrom is so much nicer. The engine is super smooth.

What does restricted and unrestricted mean?

what is this "learner approved" thing? We don't have that in Canada. Is it convertible back to the full powered mode?

When I got my V-Strom 650XT about a year ago it costed about the same as the Versys (Brazil). More recently, Suzuki went nuts and it's quite more expensive (R$52k vs R$41, or R$46 for the Versys Tourer, with every accessory available). I get 23-24.5 km/l in my tame commute routine.

I have a 2018 Versys 650. (Never been on the Vstrom) The bike is great for my non-off road riding, but it's biggest obstacle is it's high center of gravity combined with it's high seat height. (then add 40lbs of gas up high) The bike can be difficult to handle at parking lot speeds. It wants to tip..fast. But once you're over about 13mph....it's wonderful. Also, I would NEVER take it off road because of the high center of gravity. And I'll also admit, if I get another bike, I'll downsize to the Honda CB500X.

Funny didn't mention the vsteom nose dive when braking

What’s with the restricted versions ?

Versys has much better handling, especially when 2up. It's better looking as well. I sold v-strom after a year.

Good review. I can't decide, but I do more hwy riding than dirt, so the Kaw gets the edge. I'd like to see an expansion of the V-Strom line, offering 550, 950, and 1250 cc versions. I do like the stubby exhaust under the Kaw better, and the windscreen is easier to adjust. The V has better looks, IMHO. You can't go wrong with either, as they are both great fun and value for the money.

If you are planning any off road get the Vstrom. If you are road only maybe the Kawa. The front wheel diameter on the Kawa is too small for off road. I can take a Harley off road but that does mean its a good idea. I prefer the Vstrom because the V motor is going to make more torque down low and the longer wheel base will make it more stable. I have ridden both.

The bit people and reviewers tend to miss - the price of parts / the cost of servicing. I'm a Kwakkerist - but I do have 1 Suzook ... The Green parts are always cheaper, sometimes by quite a margin.

The wee hands down

Kawasaki is no mystery that it is inferior to Suzuki starting with the poor frame in welded iron tubes while on Suzuki we have a magnificent aluminum frame, and then ... the strong piece, the engine ... but do you want to put a cheap 2-cylinder in line with a V-twin. but let's not joke, you shouldn't have any doubts about the purchase.!

sold the v-strom to get the versys. so far so good.

Hey mate do You want to upgrade to a 650l or zx6r?

What does that 55 hp lams model mean.

I think you are a Kawasaki fan, Jack. I have seen many comparisons between Kawasaki and other brands. I'm also a Kawasaki fan, Ducati comes second on my list.

wa..smart review

I really doubt the Versys is outselling or has outsold the Vstrom.

Easy answer, Versys 650 and Tracer 7 don’t sell here in Japan, so V Storm 650 is the un-contested king at 2/3 the price of the Tenere 700. Sad times...

I've been around bikes for a long time I've never heard of the power restricted models you described why would that be a thing

Great & thanks but for the same price I would choose the Yamaha MT07 🤩🤩🤩

whay other bikes are there out there comparable to these two?

Two years ago, I was at this crossroads junction. So, I test rode both bikes over a route identical to both. Highway tarmac, town concrete road, broken tarmac, dirt road, mixed gravel and potholed tarmac and then, on my return from work, in reverse order. And doing this after seeing the legions of videos here, there and everywhere praising the V Strom, the result was, for me, extremely disappointing. I had expected the V Strom to perform the way the videos had claimed it would. Unfortunately, it did nothing of the sort. So, what happened? 1. The aerodynamics of the Suzuki windscreen were just terrible, causing a turbulent, buffeting airflow at speeds above 80 kph. Not for the Kawasaki. 1. The front suspension on the Suzuki seemed non-existent. Zero feedback. And strangely for a bike touted as a soft adv, completely non-adjustable. The Kawasaki was leagues ahead with basic preload and compression adjustment. 3. The ground clearance of both bikes is said to be identical. It didn't feel that way on the Suzuki which threatened to impact the lips of even slightly deeper ruts and potholes. Not so the Kawasaki, which has no issues whatsoever. 4. The rear suspension on both bikes is too hard but the placement of the rear strut on the Kawasaki meant that it was easier to replace it with an aftermarket one. 5. Traction control, for me, is dangerous on an adv bike as it makes the rider depend more on electronics to mitigate his errors rather than motivate him to read the terrain, learn from it and ride safely over it. Thankfully, the Kawasaki doesn't have it, though I would have loved a switchable ABS rather than the airways on one currently doing duty on it. 6. In India, the Suzuki was priced about AUD 2400 more than the Kawasaki which is ridiculously high a difference. In conclusion, the 19 inch front and spoked wheels simply didn't justify the very high price differential nor the other, for me, serious deficiencies, and I bought the Kawasaki. Of course, to each his own. Peace 🙏🏼