Dl 650 or versys? the ultimate comparison for adventure seekers
What To Know
- The DL 650 has a more upright riding position, which makes it easier to see over traffic and gives the rider a more commanding view of the road.
- The Suzuki DL 650 and the Kawasaki Versys are both very comfortable bikes, but the DL 650 has a slight edge in this category.
- The DL 650 is a more comfortable and versatile bike, while the Versys is a more sporty and aggressive bike.
The world of adventure motorcycles is vast and ever-expanding, with new models emerging every year. Two of the most popular bikes in this category are the Suzuki DL 650 and the Kawasaki Versys. Both bikes have their strengths and weaknesses, but which one is the right choice for you?
In this blog post, we’ll compare the Suzuki DL 650 and the Kawasaki Versys head-to-head in several key categories, including performance, handling, comfort, and features. We’ll also provide our expert opinion on which bike is the better choice for different types of riders.
Performance
The Suzuki DL 650 and the Kawasaki Versys are both powered by parallel-twin engines. However, the DL 650’s engine displaces 645cc, while the Versys’ engine displaces 649cc. This slight difference in displacement gives the Versys a slight edge in terms of power, producing 69 horsepower compared to the DL 650’s 64 horsepower.
In terms of torque, the DL 650 takes the lead with 44 lb-ft compared to the Versys’ 40 lb-ft. This difference is noticeable in low-speed riding, where the DL 650 feels stronger and more responsive.
Handling
The Suzuki DL 650 and the Kawasaki Versys are both designed to be comfortable and easy to handle, but they have slightly different personalities. The DL 650 has a more upright riding position, which makes it easier to see over traffic and gives the rider a more commanding view of the road. The Versys, on the other hand, has a more sporty riding position, which provides better control and feedback in corners.
Both bikes have adjustable suspension, which allows riders to fine-tune the ride to their liking. The DL 650’s suspension is slightly softer than the Versys’, which makes it more comfortable on rough roads. However, the Versys’ stiffer suspension provides better handling on pavement.
Comfort
The Suzuki DL 650 and the Kawasaki Versys are both very comfortable bikes, but the DL 650 has a slight edge in this category. The DL 650’s seat is wider and more supportive than the Versys’, and its handlebars are higher and more upright. This makes the DL 650 a more comfortable choice for long rides.
The Versys, on the other hand, has a more aggressive riding position, which can be tiring on long rides. However, the Versys’ adjustable windscreen provides excellent wind protection, which can help to reduce fatigue on highway rides.
Features
The Suzuki DL 650 and the Kawasaki Versys come with a variety of features, including:
- ABS: Both bikes come standard with ABS, which helps to prevent the wheels from locking up under braking.
- Traction control: The Versys comes standard with traction control, which helps to prevent the rear wheel from spinning out under acceleration.
- Cruise control: Both bikes come standard with cruise control, which allows the rider to set a desired speed and then relax their throttle hand.
- Handguards: Both bikes come standard with handguards, which help to protect the rider’s hands from the wind and rain.
- Luggage racks: Both bikes come standard with luggage racks, which provide a convenient place to mount luggage.
Which Bike Is Right for You?
The Suzuki DL 650 and the Kawasaki Versys are both excellent adventure bikes, but they have different strengths and weaknesses. The DL 650 is a more comfortable and versatile bike, while the Versys is a more sporty and aggressive bike.
If you’re looking for a comfortable and easy-to-ride adventure bike that can handle a variety of terrain, the Suzuki DL 650 is a great choice. If you’re looking for a more sporty and aggressive adventure bike that excels on pavement, the Kawasaki Versys is a better choice.
The Bottom Line: Suzuki DL 650 vs. Kawasaki Versys
The Suzuki DL 650 and the Kawasaki Versys are both excellent adventure bikes that offer a unique combination of performance, handling, comfort, and features. Ultimately, the best bike for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
If you’re still not sure which bike is right for you, we recommend test riding both bikes before making a decision. That way, you can experience firsthand how each bike rides and handles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which bike has more power, the Suzuki DL 650 or the Kawasaki Versys?
A: The Kawasaki Versys has slightly more power than the Suzuki DL 650, producing 69 horsepower compared to the DL 650’s 64 horsepower.
Q: Which bike has more torque, the Suzuki DL 650 or the Kawasaki Versys?
A: The Suzuki DL 650 has more torque than the Kawasaki Versys, producing 44 lb-ft compared to the Versys’ 40 lb-ft.
Q: Which bike is more comfortable, the Suzuki DL 650 or the Kawasaki Versys?
A: The Suzuki DL 650 is slightly more comfortable than the Kawasaki Versys, thanks to its wider and more supportive seat and its more upright riding position.