Tiger 800 vs. versys 650: which mid-size adventure bike will triumph?
What To Know
- While it has less power than the Tiger 800, the Versys 650’s engine is also smooth and reliable, with a broad torque curve that makes it easy to ride in a variety of conditions.
- The Triumph Tiger 800 is equipped with a steel trellis frame and a long-travel suspension that provides excellent handling and stability on both tarmac and off-road trails.
- The Kawasaki Versys 650 has a more relaxed riding position than the Tiger 800, with a lower seat height and a more forward-leaning handlebar.
Introduction:
The Triumph Tiger 800 and the Kawasaki Versys 650 are two of the most popular adventure-touring motorcycles on the market. Both bikes offer a blend of on-road performance, off-road capability, and everyday practicality. But which one is the better choice for you? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll pit the Triumph Tiger 800 against the Kawasaki Versys 650 to help you make an informed decision.
Engine and Performance
Triumph Tiger 800: The Triumph Tiger 800 features an 800cc triple-cylinder engine that produces 94 horsepower and 58.3 lb-ft of torque. This engine is known for its smooth power delivery, linear acceleration, and excellent fuel economy.
Kawasaki Versys 650: The Kawasaki Versys 650 is powered by a 649cc parallel-twin engine that generates 68 horsepower and 44.3 lb-ft of torque. While it has less power than the Tiger 800, the Versys 650’s engine is also smooth and reliable, with a broad torque curve that makes it easy to ride in a variety of conditions.
Handling and Suspension
Triumph Tiger 800: The Triumph Tiger 800 is equipped with a steel trellis frame and a long-travel suspension that provides excellent handling and stability on both tarmac and off-road trails. The bike’s suspension can be adjusted to suit different riding styles and terrain.
Kawasaki Versys 650: The Kawasaki Versys 650 has a lightweight aluminum frame and a shorter-travel suspension than the Tiger 800. This makes it more agile and easier to maneuver in tight spaces, but it may not be as capable off-road as the Tiger.
Comfort and Ergonomics
Triumph Tiger 800: The Triumph Tiger 800 offers a comfortable riding position with an upright seating posture and a wide, padded seat. The bike’s handlebars are adjustable to accommodate riders of different heights.
Kawasaki Versys 650: The Kawasaki Versys 650 has a more relaxed riding position than the Tiger 800, with a lower seat height and a more forward-leaning handlebar. The bike’s seat is also wide and comfortable, but it may not be as supportive on long rides.
Features and Technology
Triumph Tiger 800: The Triumph Tiger 800 comes with a range of standard features, including cruise control, traction control, and ABS. It also offers an optional TFT display with Bluetooth connectivity and navigation.
Kawasaki Versys 650: The Kawasaki Versys 650 has a more basic set of features than the Tiger 800. It comes with ABS and a digital instrument cluster, but it lacks cruise control and traction control.
Off-Road Capability
Triumph Tiger 800: The Triumph Tiger 800 is the more off-road capable of the two bikes. It has a longer-travel suspension, a more aggressive riding position, and a wider range of available accessories for off-road use.
Kawasaki Versys 650: The Kawasaki Versys 650 is not as well-suited for off-road riding as the Tiger 800. Its shorter-travel suspension and more road-oriented tires make it better suited for light off-road trails and dirt roads.
Price and Value
Triumph Tiger 800: The Triumph Tiger 800 has a higher starting price than the Kawasaki Versys 650. However, it also comes with a wider range of standard features and a more powerful engine.
Kawasaki Versys 650: The Kawasaki Versys 650 is a more affordable option than the Tiger 800. It offers a good balance of performance, comfort, and value.
Conclusion: The Ultimate Choice
The Triumph Tiger 800 and the Kawasaki Versys 650 are both excellent adventure-touring motorcycles with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. The Tiger 800 is the better choice for riders who want a more powerful, off-road capable machine. The Versys 650 is a more affordable option for riders who prioritize comfort, fuel economy, and everyday practicality.
FAQ:
Q: Which bike has a more powerful engine?
A: The Triumph Tiger 800 has a more powerful engine than the Kawasaki Versys 650.
Q: Which bike is better for off-road riding?
A: The Triumph Tiger 800 is better for off-road riding than the Kawasaki Versys 650.
Q: Which bike is more affordable?
A: The Kawasaki Versys 650 is more affordable than the Triumph Tiger 800.
Q: Which bike has a more comfortable riding position?
A: The Kawasaki Versys 650 has a more comfortable riding position than the Triumph Tiger 800.
Q: Which bike has more standard features?
A: The Triumph Tiger 800 has more standard features than the Kawasaki Versys 650.