The Kawasaki Versys, Perfect Everyday Motorcycle

You don't hear much about Kawasaki's Versys, in some Asian countries it's not even available. The Kawasaki Versys flies under the radar with no specific hole to file it under. But that is the very purpose of this 650cc Kawasaki machine. It's a well-priced, reliable by its simplicity, do-anything motorcycle.

And the Kawasaki Versys is backed up by its name, Versys, which is essentially an abbreviation of versatile system. The Kawasaki Versys is an uncomplicated 650cc parallel-twin machine with a welcoming seating position and a up-for-anything attitude. In fact, throw a set of dual-purpose tires on it and, for less than you believe, you've got a capable ABS-equipped go-anywhere ride.

In typical Kawasaki style, there's been a host of upgrades – mostly cosmetic – for 2010, but it takes a trained eye to really notice the difference between the 2009 model. Aside from the obvious and most important 2010 upgrade of a Bosch anti-lock braking system, Kawasaki has thrown a smattering of practicality at it, including a sprinkling of aesthetic changes.

The 649cc parallel-twin fuel injection engine has been tweaked for better low-to-mid range output to get the most out of that everyday, do-anything rationale, and the engine now has rubber mounts to cushion vibration and new engine covers. The pillion seat has been revised, updating the triangle formed by the seat, pegs and grab rails which results in more pleasant traveling companion at the end of a ride.

And you could do a bit more traveling, too, with the addition of some handy luggage hooks out of sight under the rear tail. The once-cumbersome rear mudguard extension has been cleaned up for a tidier look, as has the new end cap on the muffler and the new LED tail light.

Up front, the Kawasaki Versys gets a new stacked headlight which is slightly reminiscent of BMW in its appearance. The new angular front guard and radiator shrouds are sportier and the new front indicators have been repositioned higher and closer to the front of the motorcycle for better visibility.

The ride is uninspiring, but it's easy with plenty of low-range torque. Low-speed maneuverability is effortless, as you sit in the Kawasaki Versys rather than on top of it, and the two-way adjustable suspension provides plenty of feel between and you the road. It demands plenty of inquisitive looks from other road users, with it's stacked headlight, it's off-set lateral-mounted rear shock absorber and it's athletic stance.

The minor tweks and safety enhancements to this quirky-looking machine have made an already practical motorcycle even more so, and with Kawasaki reliability, everyday riders looking for an everyday motorcycle should buy it...