Bmw F 750 Gs Vs Versys 650

When it comes to middleweight adventure motorcycles, two giants stand tall: the BMW F 750 GS and the Kawasaki Versys 650. Both bikes offer a thrilling blend of on-road performance and off-road capability, making them perfect for adventure-seeking riders. But which one reigns supreme? Let’s dive into a comprehensive comparison to help you make an informed decision.

Engine and Performance

BMW F 750 GS: Powered by a parallel-twin engine displacing 853cc, the F 750 GS produces 77 horsepower and 61 lb-ft of torque. It features electronic fuel injection and a six-speed transmission.

Kawasaki Versys 650: The Versys 650 boasts a liquid-cooled, inline-twin engine with a displacement of 649cc. It generates 69 horsepower and 47 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed gearbox.

Suspension and Handling

BMW F 750 GS: The F 750 GS comes equipped with a telescopic fork up front and a single shock absorber in the rear. It offers a comfortable ride on both paved and unpaved surfaces, thanks to its long-travel suspension.

Kawasaki Versys 650: The Versys 650 features a 41mm telescopic fork and a rear shock with adjustable preload. Its handling is more road-oriented than the F 750 GS, providing a balanced ride in most conditions.

Features and Technology

BMW F 750 GS: The F 750 GS comes loaded with an impressive array of features, including ABS, traction control, hill start assist, and an optional TFT display with navigation and Bluetooth connectivity.

Kawasaki Versys 650: The Versys 650 offers a more modest feature set, including ABS, traction control, and an LCD display with basic information. However, it does have an optional quick-shifter for smoother gear changes.

Off-Road Capability

BMW F 750 GS: With its longer suspension travel and more aggressive tires, the F 750 GS excels in off-road situations. It can handle rough terrain with ease, making it a great choice for adventure-minded riders.

Kawasaki Versys 650: While the Versys 650 is not as off-road focused as the F 750 GS, it still offers decent capabilities on dirt roads and light trails. Its road-oriented suspension limits its off-road prowess compared to its competitor.

On-Road Performance

BMW F 750 GS: On paved roads, the F 750 GS delivers a comfortable and stable ride. Its engine provides ample power for highway cruising and overtaking, and its handling is confidence-inspiring.

Kawasaki Versys 650: The Versys 650 shines on the road, with its nimble handling and responsive engine. It offers a more sporty ride than the F 750 GS, making it a great choice for spirited riding.

Comfort and Ergonomics

BMW F 750 GS: The F 750 GS offers an upright riding position with a comfortable seat and handlebars. It features adjustable seat height and a windscreen that provides good wind protection.

Kawasaki Versys 650: The Versys 650 has a more crouched riding position than the F 750 GS, but it still provides a comfortable ride. Its seat is narrower but offers good support for long distances.

Price and Value

BMW F 750 GS: The BMW F 750 GS has a starting price of around $10,000, while the top-of-the-line model with all the bells and whistles can cost up to $15,000.

Kawasaki Versys 650: The Kawasaki Versys 650 starts at a more affordable price of around $8,500, and the top-end model with additional features costs around $12,000.

Verdict: The Choice is Yours

The BMW F 750 GS and the Kawasaki Versys 650 are both excellent middleweight adventure motorcycles that offer a unique blend of on-road and off-road capabilities.

If you prioritize off-road performance, longer suspension travel, and a comprehensive feature set, the BMW F 750 GS is the clear choice.

However, if you prefer a more road-oriented ride, a more affordable price tag, and a sportier handling experience, the Kawasaki Versys 650 is a great option.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and preferences.

Answers to Your Questions

Q: Which bike has a more powerful engine?

A: The BMW F 750 GS has a more powerful engine, producing 77 horsepower compared to the Versys 650’s 69 horsepower.

Q: Does the F 750 GS have better off-road capabilities?

A: Yes, the F 750 GS has better off-road capabilities due to its longer suspension travel and more aggressive tires.

Q: Is the Versys 650 more fuel-efficient?

A: The Versys 650 typically has better fuel efficiency than the F 750 GS, with an average fuel consumption of around 55 mpg compared to the F 750 GS’s 45-50 mpg.

Q: Which bike has more storage capacity?

A: Both the F 750 GS and the Versys 650 offer similar storage capacity, with optional panniers and top cases available for both bikes.

Q: Is the F 750 GS more expensive to maintain?

A: The F 750 GS may be slightly more expensive to maintain than the Versys 650 due to its more complex electronics and higher service intervals.