I NEVER EVER WANT TO RIDE A VERSYS 650 AGAIN! | Pike's Peak Multistrada VS Versys 650
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- čas přidán 3. 07. 2024
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Okay people, I am sorry if this upsets you but sometimes a bike is so boring there's nothing left to do but complain. I never want to ride a Versys 650 again, and too long didn't read is just get the Multistrada Pike's Peak.
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00:00 - Trigger Warning
00:29 - Intro
03:09 - Ducati Specs
04:03 - Versys Specs
04:28 - Spite's New Favorite Bike?
07:35 - Twisty Road Test
15:29 - Highway Test
21:23 - You Okay Bro?
24:07 - Final Thoughts - Auta a dopravní prostředky
On a level of flour to ghost pepper how spicy was this one? I honestly didn't mean to roast the Versys so hard, but I just really, really don't like riding it. Sorry Versys people...
You know a great way of looking at it honestly. But that 5/10 put it at the top of the list for revzillas daily rider over and over. Perfect daily rider. Nothing else lol
Hey totally fair review. If you have a chance to review the versys x300, as a mini adventure bike , I think it's a bit of an underdog in the segment!
I don't think anyone was shocked you found a 65 hp upright bike boring lmao.
I’ll give a thumbs up for the vid cause of your honesty about the honest review! I’m still considering the Versys tho bc with a pipe the done sound as lame as they do stock. I think that my main prob is the sound is so boring but the price is more where I have to be so well see 🤷♂️
There went your credibility. Picked Italian junk that will break down every other month instead of one of the best bikes sold today.
Lost a subscription today over this.
I had a 2012 Versys 650 for 8 years and I loved it. Paid $4500 for it slightly used and sold it for $4500 after 12,000 miles. Never broke down. Never needed any repairs. Was a great bike to get back into motorcycling. I have 3 bikes now. I think being critical of any bike that’s reliable and functional is like criticizing someone first job. Everyone needs a starting point.
yeah, my father in law got his license 2 years ago, at age 57 and my advice was to get a 2010 Versys 650, second gen same as yours. I think it was a perfect choice for him, he had more than enough power to learn and now he is ready to buy something a bit bigger and more powerful, I think he is aiming at Africa Twin or VStrom...
but everytime I rode his bike I was surprised with low end torque and acceleration at lower speeds, handling is great and I think every begginer or someone who doesn't need too much power and just want to get a bulletproof bike that can do everything you need can't go wrong with any generation of Versys 650.
and after all, Zack Courts had it as number 1 for so long on his Daily Rider leaderboard for a reason, and him and Ari are one of the best motorcycle sources on CZcams so that says a lot about the bike.
What bikes?
@@elessar_19 exactly. I like Spite, but he embellishes stuff like this for the views and comments, just like Yammie Noob(though not as bad). Any fan of riding motorcycles would have a hard time saying they're not having any fun at all riding a particular bike. It's not that bad. I mean, if you're on two wheels...
Zach and Ari are like top ten human beings. Project Farm is another one.
I think I bought your bike recently 😂. Well, at least a very similar one. 2012, had around 13,000 on the clock, for around the same price. It got me back into motorcycling after 8 years away, and I’ve loved it for 1500 miles of daily riding so far. It’s not the sexiest, or the quickest, or the most comfortable, or the most agile, or the most exciting…but it’s just capable at everything. A very versatile system. Very little to legitimately complain about.
Your first bike? Or first to take on the road maybe. They are great bikes! Was my first too.
Definitely think Spite hits the nail on the head though
I honestly don't even understand calling any bike boring. It, serious as a heart attack, doesn't make sense to me. I've ridden bikes that I've liked more than others... but I've never ridden a bike I'd call boring.
I agree with you, as long as I am on two wheels, everything is fun.
I'm of the same impression. Even a practical bike is fast compared to cars and you're still out in the elements and totally exposed and free
@ilovebanks1526 that's exactly how I feel about it. I just can't wrap my brain around his comments. If he said he hates the looks I'd kind of agree. If he said it's a poor off road bike and a poor on road bike...I wouldn't agree but I'd understand. Saying it's a boring bike, I don't get it.
@@CoreyBrass Try a 125cc bike for more than the first 10 minutes where you find the lack of power hilarious. Riding anything that low power for more than 10 minutes I would find extremely boring.
@DennisEldrup Well, I rode a human powered bike across the state of Iowa in RAGBRAI. I've been bored on a bike but I've never found any bike boring itself. I honestly think that says more about the person on the bike than the bike itself.
I really like the Versys 650 and it's insanely practical, but let down by a super boring sounding/feeling engine. That said, not everyone rides for passion/fun, some people just need to get places without spending a fortune and the Versys does that well.
Have a Versys 650, been a great bike for me....although the day I got my Tenere 700 and heard the CP2 engine...oh my. But I only spent $4k on the Versys, rode it over 25k miles, it's never broken down and I've never done anything to the engine except oil changes. May be 'boring' but I trust that Versys a lot.
@@hahayouareanoob the tenere is bulletproof too, I have an mt07 which is practically the same engine. Bought new, now on 30 k still going strong
See, I read comments like this and hear people say riding the bike is boring... and I can't even wrap my brain around comments like this. I love the sound of some engine more than others but I don't even understand the concept of not liking a bike, or finding a bike boring/let down by the sound? Like I'm literally sitting here thinking, and at no point have I ever said to myself "well this mountain road is boring... if only my bike made a better sound."
I honestly think comments like that say more about you than it does about the bike.
@@CoreyBrass If I'm on 2-wheels I'm happy, scooter, dirt bike, Harley, adv bike, all fun to me. Some bikes are more 'exciting' to ride though.
@@hahayouareanoob I agree 100%. 👍
I absolutely love the VERSYS 650, don't care if you like it I love it.
A boring engine is a good engine.
If you don't care, then why are you here?
@@VToldsMotoShow I am here because I watch his contents, I sill don't care if he loves it or not, that is his opinion and this is mine, chill and don't get so emotional
Every bike has a purpose. Would he compare versys to a Himalayan or any other single cylinder bike? Don't think so. + nobody rides an H2 as a daily driver. The comparison is ridiculous
same
The versys is a great bike for what it is. I can't imagine why one would want to compare a 19000 dollar Ducati to a Versys 650. I would rather have a video categorising boring bikes with exciting bikes to ride, irrespective of genre, power, or price.
I would like to elaborate, saying that other than just compare a Versys 650 with a Ducati, list all bikes that have proved exciting to ride, and all bikes that are boring to ride.
in other news, S1000RRs are more exciting than Yamaha R7s!
That's what happens when you have 2 bikes and you have to pump out some content. You start to really reach.
Thank you sir well said
I have never not had fun riding any motorcycle. The fact you are on two wheels should bring you joy. Just cruising along on a nice day.
I thought I was the only person feeling that way.
fz6 sucks balls, makes me want to take the camry.
You should ride a Burgman 400. Let’s take this dad energy to a new level.
😂😂
Nah, Burgman Executives. Peak beige salaryman.
@@victoriazero8869 too exciting.
My friend and I have been joking buying burgmans for a year now. It's becoming serious lol
Never really thought about getting a Versys before, but after watching this video I kind of want one. I love a bike that doesn’t distract me from the ride!
I’m just an ordinary biker who is never going to be in a position to spend 18k on a (second-hand) ride - I don’t own one, but seems to me that the Versys is an affordable two-wheel machine that gets you out on the road, and won’t give you any problems. Of course if you are a Blogger and you get to ride lots of great bikes without any cost attached, then of course you go for the expensive up-market bikes.
Get what you want man. There's a whole bunch more I'd recommend over this bike, but having more people on two wheels is better than four+ all the time. Ride safe.
lots of bikes out there that cost around the same as a versys 650 that are more fun--- a ninja 400 is more fun than a versys 650 and it costs less lol. Sometimes you guys just want to be contrarian to be contrarian. Versys 650 is in fact the most boring bike in production but is nowhere near the worst as it is indestructible reliability and can tackle different terrains.
@@englishsteel-nz6im who are you talking to?
@@englishsteel-nz6im But what if the rider is over 21? Most adults aren't interested in riding a Ninja or the back pain it provides. The Suzuki is probably more appropriate in that case. In other words, you're talking about 2 completely different demographics.
@@MrPhins People over 21 aren't interested in Ninja's? lol
I switched from an 80's 600 Ducati to a brand new Kawasaki 650 in 2006 and it was more like switching from a gourmet kitchen to a microwave for me. But it got me to work every day with no fuss & I've only had to check the valve clearances twice in over 95,000 km of riding it. And, while it will do all the things that you expect from a twin of this capacity, like being easy to ride & having decent acceleration from around 3,000 rpm, the real party trick is that, in my experience, it loves to be ridden like an inline 4. So, let it lope along during all the boring bits, but when you get into the fun stuff keep it on the boil at 6,000-8,500 rpm & you might find that there's some spice in the sushi after all.
I went with the SV650 because so many said it was way better than the 600 and 750 Monsters. The only Ducati I've owned was a Multistrada 1000s. It handled very well and had a wide power band, but it was too tall for me and simply replacing the TPS turned out to be a big job. It was labor intensive for maintenance. I never did get the hang of starting it, not like a Japanese bike (Versys?) that fires right up.
'Spice in the sushi' is fantastic
Absolutely agree with “keep it on the boil at 6,000-8,500 rpm.” I wonder if these “reviewers” ever really ride the Versys like this?
also a versys rider and i 1000% agree. I ride like my bandit S 1200 i use to have, which was an inline 4, and it is fun if you ride it that way. But when you want to commute comfortably, you can just cruise at 6k rpm and get where you are going with no stiffness and little fatigue. Not once in this video did he ride the versys like I ride it. He got up to about 8k rpm at one point for like a second, but the rest of the time he was like 3-4k rpm, and the bike just isn't fun in that rev range.
If the Versys 650 was a spice, it'd be flour
It's the Mayo of Motorcycles
@@Averrent nah, mayo can stop your heart. The Versys 650 will never be that exciting.
@@fullmetalcorgi1350 It's the cholesterol friendly mayo
@@Averrent I can't believe it's not mayo?
@@krikcet-163 Goes great on "This ain't bread"
What I'd like to see? A video about the Versys 1000. Never ridden one, and I'm genuinely curious if it's just a bigger 650 or a wholly different experience.
They are totally different. The 1000 is loaded with just about everything. It only has 120 HP and 75 torpue. So it''s not going to be racing KTM 1290's. But it's super comfy, fast enough to get you jail and has a nice sound. There Are plenty of reviews of them. Big Rock Moto has a good review.
That feels like it would be a more fair comparison
@@keithengle592 Right. The 650 is not comparable in any way to the Dukkie or the Versys 1000
borrowed by my buddy's for a bit last year. really enjoyable bike. comfy, very smooth, and respectable power. size felt similar to the MS and S1000XR but engine wasn't as "fun" and it didn't feel very rowdy like those other two bikes do. you could easily feel the difference in power, but it's also way cheaper and probably more reliable. I wouldn't be disappointed to have one to take on long road trips but i'd get bored if it was my daily.
@@4tech69 I guarantee a well ridden V1k will stick with a 1290 through the twisties.
I ride with one group who all have zx14s and I keep up no problem. It's got a real meaty midrange that shoves you out of corners plenty fast enough.
Spite: The Versys 650 is for nerds.
Also Spite: The Ducati fun factor is logarithmic.
🤓
100% Logarithmic :( he look like his Master Yumi 😊
My friend's Versys 650 is what got me to drop my sport bike. It was just so comfortable and easy to ride. I had no idea motorcycling could be so comfortable. Of course I then went and picked up my 701, which kills my butt even with the "comfort" seat, but at least my wrists no longer feel like death. lol
It's cuz you weren't putting the weight on your core. Also depends on type of sport bike-- R6 extremely uncomfortable no matter what and Gixxer's of all types quite surprisingly comfortable given the ergo's. But if you're letting your weight fall on your wrists then that's your experience. For me why I hate the R6 is not weight on wrists(core, remember), but the extra aggressive position grinds on my calves. Not so on a Gixxer or CBR tho.
@@englishsteel-nz6im Yeah I know the core thing. I'm lazy. lol If anything, it was actually my back that suffered more than my wrists. My wrists were actually fine most of the time, so saying they were a problem was mostly an error on my part.
It was a CBR500R, which is as unaggressive as you can get. It was actually fine for the most part. I didn't really realise how tired of being bent forward even just the 5 degrees that I was on that bike until I experienced what a fully upright ride feels like. I had a very hard time going back after that. I like my sumo much better now for that. Same fun thrills, no broken back from being forward all the time. Even the comfort seat is doable for a few hours at a time until my rear starts to scream to get off for a bit.
I ditched my zx10r for a versys. Have Never regret that swap.
This video must be the worst ever.
The total uncoolness of the Versys 650 is what makes it cool. Just wish they would put that engine in the KLR.
A few years ago, I was deciding between a Versys 650 and an MT-09 Tracer. I bought the Tracer, and I love it. But I have to be honest. The Versys actually felt more comfortable. However, I just couldn't justify buying a 650 that weighed as much as the Tracer, but had so much less power. But here's the thing. I live in Kyoto, Japan. I almost NEVER get to experience the power of my Tracer in daily riding. Traffic and the roads around here just don't allow it. I often wonder if I perhaps would have been better off with the Versys. It was much cheaper. I'm not upset. I love my MT-09 Tracer. But I think people need to really evaluate how they will actually ride versus how they dream about riding. I suspect that many of us buy too much bike when we really don't need to.
How it is to ride in Japan inner cities ? Is it great ?
@@tempofugo168 It's not what I would call great. It's very congested and slow. It's not chaotic though. People follow traffic rules fairly well. It's not like India or some other places. It's just bumper-to-bumper slow most of the time. You have to get out of the city if you ever want to experience third gear.
@@adamschoedel8829 ok, what about speed restrictions ? Are they harsh ? Can you lose your licence ? Are there some patrol or radar controlling speed ?
@@tempofugo168 Wow! You have a lot of questions. Riding in Japan isn't that particular or unique. The roads are generally well-maintained. As I said, in many places, it is fairly congested most of the time. Many streets are tight and small. As for speed restrictions, it's complicated. The posted speed limits are ridiculously low. Almost everyone completely ignores them. However, due to the aforementioned congestion, you often don't even get to go the speed limit. Speed enforcement is nothing like it is in the US, for example. There are so many fewer police patrolling or running radar traps. They do exist, but they are very rare. The main restriction to riding fast is simply the traffic congestion. It's effective. You just can't go fast unless you are a lunatic. Yes, you can get tickets. There are bike cops (and they are very skilled). You probably won't get away from them. You can lose you licence. But you really have to try to lose it. If you're looking for a place to speed and get away with it, Japan isn't your best bet. Also, in the more sparsely populated areas, like the northern island of Hokkaido, they do have more speed enforcement. It's just like sparsely populated states in the US. It's a way to generate revenue. Some things are the same everywhere.
@@adamschoedel8829 thanks ! Is it easy to loan a bike there ? My dream is to do some night riding in Tokyo, I have a trip planned this year (around October). I'd like to rent a bike for a week (mt10 or mt09).
I feel the "sport touring dad" bikes are generally misunderstood by those younger folk who've never ridden them. They're flavoured by us older sort not because we're slowing down and scared of power - were experienced riders and we've got money to spend. We want fast *and comfortable*. Modern sport touring dad bikes are typically around 450-500lbs (not the fat behemoths of yesteryear) and often providing 120+hp. They're *not* slow. They're excellent on the edge of the tire, and will get their zoom on all day long.
Frankly, they're for people who want the speed and handling of sport bikes without sacrificing comfort.
I mean, even the Versys - it's a ninja 650, but more comfortable. It's boring, yes, but so is the Ninja :)
214kg and 66 bhp... it is heavy and slow
@@dreamcrusher112 Slow is relative. The Versys is not built to be a sportbike. Its not meant to race. Speed was not the top priority in building the bike. Comfort on longer rides was for a very good price. Heavy is good for highway riding particularly when you are surrounded by 18 wheelers. Lastly, You can only go fast so many times before you become numb to it. "Okay I went 150MPH, now what?
@@dreamcrusher112 It depends on your definition of slow. 0- 70mph, it faster than 90+ percent of cars and trucks on the road. It is quicker than most big tourers. It is as quick as the superbikes of my youth like the CB750.
The ninja & versus is ...not boring brother...
That was painful to watch. Spikes review damages his credibility in my eyes. The Versys 650 is obviously one of the greatest bikes being sold today and his inability to see that basic fact is just sad. He forgot the most important fact of all. That Ducati will spend three to six times as much time in the shop as the Kawi.
Spite is allowed to have an opinion and his opinion doesn't hurt his credibility one bit. Your comment hurts your credibility immensely.
Spite doesn't have to give the expected cookie cutter following glowing review of any bike. He gave his honest opinion and bolsters his credibility.
Versys 650 are very old beginner level Ninja 650's that have been rehashed and rebodied for decades. It's a dated platform that really shows it's age dated when you ride anything modern in comparison.
Sure, they're pretty reliable. But so is my Briggs and Stratton lawnmower, but that doesn't make it fun.
It's not much different than Kawasakis KLR650 that's largely unchanged since 1987. They work, but it's a 30+ year old bike that you pay new bike money for when you could have something like a MT 07 or Triumph 660 instead. Kawasaki isn't even trying to give us some new to ride. Your and Spite are both right. It's a good bike, but it's old and boring.
Spite is allowed to have an opinion and his opinion doesn't hurt his credibility one bit. Your comment hurts your credibility immensely.
Spite doesn't have to give the expected cookie cutter following glowing review of any bike. He gave his honest opinion and bolsters his credibility.
Versys 650 are very old beginner level Ninja 650's that have been rehashed and rebodied for decades. It's a dated platform that really shows it's age dated when you ride anything modern in comparison.
Sure, they're pretty reliable. But so is my Briggs and Stratton lawnmower, but that doesn't make it fun.
It's not much different than Kawasakis KLR650 that's largely unchanged since 1987. They work, but it's a 30+ year old bike that you pay new bike money for when you could have something like a MT 07 or Triumph 660 instead. Kawasaki isn't even trying to give us some new to ride. Your and Spite are both right. It's a good bike, but it's old and boring.
Spite is allowed to have an opinion and his opinion doesn't hurt his credibility one bit. Your comment hurts your credibility immensely.
Spite doesn't have to give the expected cookie cutter following glowing review of any bike. He gave his honest opinion and bolsters his credibility.
Versys 650 are very old beginner level Ninja 650's that have been rehashed and rebodied for decades. It's a dated platform that really shows it's age dated when you ride anything modern in comparison.
Sure, they're pretty reliable. But so is my Briggs and Stratton lawnmower, but that doesn't make it fun.
It's not much different than Kawasakis KLR650 that's largely unchanged since 1987. They work, but it's a 30+ year old bike that you pay new bike money for when you could have something like a MT 07 or Triumph 660 instead. Kawasaki isn't even trying to give us some new to ride. Your and Spite are both right. It's a good bike, but it's old and boring.
Spite is allowed to have an opinion and his opinion doesn't hurt his credibility one bit. Your comment hurts your credibility immensely.
Spite doesn't have to give the expected cookie cutter following glowing review of any bike. He gave his honest opinion and bolsters his credibility.
Versys 650 are very old beginner level Ninja 650's that have been rehashed and rebodied for decades. It's a dated platform that really shows it's age dated when you ride anything modern in comparison.
Sure, they're pretty reliable. But so is my Briggs and Stratton lawnmower, but that doesn't make it fun.
It's not much different than Kawasakis KLR650 that's largely unchanged since 1987. They work, but it's a 30+ year old bike that you pay new bike money for when you could have something like a MT 07 or Triumph 660 instead. Kawasaki isn't even trying to give us some new to ride. Your and Spite are both right. It's a good bike, but it's old and boring.
Spite is allowed to have an opinion and his opinion doesn't hurt his credibility one bit. Your comment hurts your credibility immensely.
Spite doesn't have to give the expected cookie cutter following glowing review of any bike. He gave his honest opinion and bolsters his credibility.
Versys 650 are very old beginner level Ninja 650's that have been rehashed and rebodied for decades. It's a dated platform that really shows it's age dated when you ride anything modern in comparison.
Sure, they're pretty reliable. But so is my Briggs and Stratton lawnmower, but that doesn't make it fun.
It's not much different than Kawasakis KLR650 that's largely unchanged since 1987. They work, but it's a 30+ year old bike that you pay new bike money for when you could have something like a MT 07 or Triumph 660 instead. Kawasaki isn't even trying to give us some new to ride. Your and Spite are both right. It's a good bike, but it's old and boring.
Well Spite I don’t completely disagree with you, as a Versys650 owner even. But I needed a bike in budget that would be reliable over thousands of miles, had the luggage to do big trips, and wasn’t the size of a Goldwing or K1600GTL but could keep up in range - my friend rides a K1600GTL. I also have a bad knee that doesn’t like a sportier riding position’s bend for more than an hour.
I too would rather have a Multistrada, 1250GS, maybe even a S1000XR - but I don’t have the money for those, and the the Versys came with the luggage - which it spoils for space with the KQR’s full face helmet capacity.
I spent a day with 11.5 hours in the saddle with only two short breaks, and I felt fine afterwards. In some cases, that really has value.
I’ll agree with the others too that a bit more pep and a less-boring 270° crank should be a mandatory update to the model in future.
Hope you get the soul back in time for the full review! 😂
I love my 2022 Versys 650. Just perfect for commuting and weekend trips. Good value, easy to handle and sufficient powerful to have fun in the city.
It's funny that a dude named spite is such a chill and nice dude
As a 2017 versys 650 owner the only thing I heard was you say it does nothing bad, is good at everything, and has a nice windshield lol. I understand how you feel and I too feel that way. I just love all types of motorcycles and could not choose do I want a cruiser, a supermoto, a sport bike, or dual sport. I then landed on getting the Swiss Army knife of bikes the versys. I too find the sound of the parallel twin boring but as a family man that wanted a well rounded practical bike it has fit in well. My wife though wants me to get a cruiser if she is going to ride with me but it’s mostly just used to commute to work.
Versys is actually better for 2 up than a cruiser.
Haha. I loved this video. I watch Spite because of his passion for bikes. Seeing him ride a bike with zero passion and all functionality, was great! Haha. Whitney just laughing and giggling her ass off at his pain is so evil and wholesome at the same time.
I feel like boring bikes are for longer trips so your not tired of them after a long ride.
I have ~ 40 years of experience with motorbikes, rally cars, speed cars. I have ridden fast 4 cylinder bikes, strong 2 cylinder bikes, trials, races, super motos and ended up on a Versys 650 in 2007. I see you driving on boring flat roads and highways, honestly I would die of boredom on such roads even in a Ferrari. I recently had a 4-day tour of the Alps and their passes, sometimes for 12 hours at a time, and I was never bored for a moment. My advice is, change the road, not the motorcycle. In my country, people say: every hair bothers a bad fu**er ... Cheers mate 🙃
I tested a Versys 650 LT & was very pleased with it. I didn't buy it because it lacked power for fully loaded long touring rides. But for everyday use its a good, reliable & cheap bike. Not everyone wants "thrills" & comparing a 650cc twin against a V4 1200cc is a strange choice.
I think you need to do a Versys 650 vs NC750X. But make sure the NC is the manual version. I just want to know which one you hate more.
Man that sounds like a very, very boring day, but if I can line one up I will do it.
I second that! But add a rebel 300 as well. Please Spite, as Whit if she will do it. We would love to see ya’ll suffer😂
@@spitescorner get the automatic! Try not to fall asleep lol.
@@spitescorner If I was close to you I'd let you use mine. Yes, I have an NC750X, let the roasting begin! 🤣
Don't forget to add the V Storm 650 into that comparison.
Whitney is exponentially better than Spite’s former partner.
I’m a 53 year old dad of 2 young daughters. I almost got a Triumph Tiger 660. But I thought to myself I already have a practical vehicle with the Honda Odyssey. I wanted a bike that was less pocket protector and more cool looking so I opted for the Bonneville.
This doesn't just go for the Versys - but the whole idea that something good makes it really bad is a stance I will never learn to understand!
It happens for other things too.
You have nothing bad to say about the versys, and THAT makes it the worst!
I am not saying it's the best - and it would be sad if it was as good as something twice it size and 3 times the money, but I just can't wrap my head around this becomes so bad! But then again, I also struggle a bit to get the notion that something bad and faulty makes it better because that "adds character" or "a soul" - when it's so clearly something someone said to try and justify what they bought, and then others starting to regurgitate it as fact and truth because they really think its like that, or just don't know better!
We can't all like the same things, and we shouldn't. you don't have to like the Versys, but it's hard to take your opinions serious after a "review" like that - at least if what you are looking for is an objective opinion - I am sure there are people who agree with a lot you say, that might value the more subjective style - there is a value in that too, but anything you say about a bike, good or bad, someone like me needs to take with not just a grain, but a pinch of salt.
I would like to see you compare the Versys 650 with the Vstrom 650. The battle of the anvils.
Up here in Canada a Pikes Peak goes for $36k roughly. Versys $12k roughly. I will take practicality, dependability, and a motorcycle that doesn't cost as much as a car - any day!
It is a good honest review. However, I struggle to find justice in spending over $35k for a motorcycle. Let alone 30k, or 25k, or 20k. Have we really become this out of touch?
Fellow Canuck and agree 100% Just just bought a 2017 Vstrom 650 but the Versys was in very close 2nd due to my budget
They might change their tune the first time they had to service that Ducati. But it's easy to rag on a the more practical choice when you ride other people's bikes for free.
Well said. That’s where the disconnect is.
A bike that does everything well is a very desirable thing to many people, comfortable, good wind protection, handles good, rides good, easy to ride, good mpg, cheap to insure, good commuter, good for back-road touring, good for weekend trips & camping, it's good. That's why people love the Versys! I have a cb500x and love it and for all those same qualities and I have fun commuting and travelling on it.
I’m a 2009 Versys 650 owner. Yes it most definitely has only a face a mother could love. And yes it does everything you need it do adequately. But for some reason I just love the damn thing lol. I did however re gear it. I went down 1 on front and up 2 on rear and it made a very noticeable difference.
What difference did it make ?
@@tempofugo168faster acceleration
I'm honestly surprised that a former proud KLR owner can't have fun on a Versys. The parallel twin is quite lively until you surpass highway speeds.
My 2 previous KLRs were indeed a tad boring. Never thought that about my Versys. Am about to buy another one shortly. My Africa Twin will satisfy any power desires. (5 years with it...great ADV machine)
This video makes sense since you have probably ridden a ton of really cool bikes. For the average person like me (this is my second bike), this bike is perfect. On group rides I know I’m not breaking any speed records, but I get there with the most comfort and it’s still a ton of fun!
I own a 2016 white Versys 650, just like the one in the video. Its ok bike, drove 60000 km and still runing. Planing to take it to the Nortkapp. Bike is not boring, you just need to take it on fun roads! Greatings from middleaged dad😂
I’m not a Versys owner, or really even particularly a fan, but I have to say that IMO this is just trash motorcycle content. For a couple of intermediate riders to sit on a slightly twisty road at 40 mph, maybe do a couple of freeway roll ons, and talk about how they need 170hp and Ohlins suspension and 30 rider modes in a 30k ish bike just compounds all of the toxic big D energy in the online motorcycle space. Haters can go watch PowerDrift ripping the street and dirt on a versys and decide if you think the problem is the bike or Spite’s riding.
I was riding an nc750x last week in Portugal and had almost the same feeling about the bike - it goes, it turns, but it was insanely nothing.
You will better enjoy the transalp 750
@@m.rraghav817 I own a tiger 800 , it puts a smile on my face even considering I struggle to control it at times
@@EscurKo ahhh i see, good bike but a bit heavy , but it's got a beautiful whistle
Desperately practical and efficient and…….dull.
If there was ever a motorcycle that was the equivalent of a toaster oven its the NC700/750.
Man so good to see you both riding together again ! Congrats spite
Get a real exciting bike.. like a NC750X! -cough.. Jokes aside; bikes like this are very reliable and will never let you down. They will always get you where you wanna go and are low maintenance cost. But yeah; they are quite .. boring. However; if i had to travel a big distance i would know my pick reliability wise and it aint Italian.
Nothing wrong with the Versys 650 at all.
I ride an nc750x dct and I love it , the bike even shifts for me!
@@MrBob714 Great bike, Bob.
Me thinks we should send lots of Versys 650 pictures, t-shirts, merch to Spite.
I need more kindling around the apartment! 🔥
Not everything needs 150hp..
You two keep it going. I liked you two best at that other place. Good show.
Love the honesty! hat's what makes this channel so good.
Versys 650 is for older folks who wants to tour around in an affordable, comfortable and capable package. It is not exciting by design but it is very accessible and therefore quite popular among touring crowds in certain countries.
In France at least, it's kind of the best thing you'll get with an A2 licence. I'm going to ride it 160 KM every days the whole year. I wanted something cheap and reliable, that will get me anywhere : Versys 650. The bike is maybe soulless but every bike I can buy must be limited to 47.5 HP, so every road trail will be soulless anyways... I also have an A2 Ducati Scrambler Nightshift which feels super super nice and pleasant to ride, sadly there's no affordable trails with that engine...
also a great bike for newer riders who want versitility and a little bit of poke. or commuters. but i agree, definitely too underpowered for touring for my tastes
Love to see you both on the videos! ❤
I enjoyed the commentary more in this video than I think I have in any other motorcycle video of any sort before.
100% same here
Spite the KLR owner calls the Versys boring?
Would love to try the updated Pikes Peak, but I don't think I'd ever turn in my Multistrada 1260 Enduro. Gives me all the acceleration I want, has a 7.9g tank, and gets over 45mpg on interstates. I've gone 286 miles from Vegas to Anaheim and had over 90 estimated miles left. Discontinued too soon, but I got mine before it was too late.
It’s a really good bike though. Better suspension than a Ninja 650! It’s sublimely comfortable with excellent ergonomics and great weather protection. In 2007 it was revolutionary. The upgrades over the years have kept it relevant. The downside is that Kawasaki never did anything with that 650 engine other than slight refinements and emissions updates. I would buy a 4th Gen because I loved my 2nd gen and I miss it. Sadly, it really is a you get it or you don’t bike, much like the Honda NC750X. I really appreciate Ari Henning and Zack Courts for showing so much love for the Versys 650.
Guarantee it out lasts that Ducati.
You would be surprised. I ride the hell out of my Multistrada for 10 years and over 50k miles. It never gave me a moments trouble.
@@TDub_ADV Yeah no way I believe that. Ducati's are known to spend most of the summer in the shop.
@@scottsledgister1877 that was along time ago. not at all the case with modern ones. do some research....
HAHAHAHAHAHA shout out to my homie who bought this literal exact Versys from AF-1 shortly after Spite recorded this video. I tried to talk him into a KLR.
If you think that's gutless, wait till you try the KLR
It's at least a good starter bike though right?
"Versys 650, I'd rather be driving" is like saying, "Vanilla ice cream, i'd rather have saltines."
NGL, Spite makes a good case for the Versys 650. I may have to check one out now.
Welp, a week into owning my first Versys 650, gotta say, I'm grateful for the strong endorsement given by Spite.
Glad to see the dynamic between you two, you can't fake the relationship, I appreciate it, I don't think I'm alone
Agreed, more Whitney please! The banter is fun, and it's cool to see things from different riders perspectives, different personalities etc. Good stuff guys!
This was entertaining. Thank you, guys!😁
I've been looking at ninjas and Zeds but the 2015 versys for a great price. I'm probably going to make it my first bike. After all the great reviews I can't wait..❤️💪🏾💯
I think boring bikes have a place. As one who commutes on a motorcycle everyday, I reach for my Honda Nc700x keys over my Ducati Multistrata or Triumph speed 4 keys every day. It’s comfy, easy to ride, and does well in the snow. If I’m going on a ride just to ride, that’s when I go for the Ducati or Triumph.
I have a 2015 Versys 650LT. I currently have 86,700 miles on it and use it every day to commute to work. I love that bike and would not change it for the Ducati. I also have a 2021 Kawasaki ZX14R. Both those bike together probably cost less than That Ducati.
I have a 2015 650 versy, 39,000miles, i rode 19,000 of those miles, new rider of 25 months... my senior hobby... it cruises 94mph all day and gets good millage at that speed, it will jump up to 104mph or 115 with ease but gas millage plummets... it has a 5.5gal tank... i would like a 1000sx kawa but how far can you go at 105mph on a tank... i enjoy the hyways of AZ and socal... dave senior new rider
@@daveh5625 I ride over 90mph all the time too. I’m averaging 39mpg. I generally go to work for 3 days (180 mile’s total) and fill up with 4.5 to 5 gallons depending how fast i rode to work. I know that the fuel light can come on and I can easily make it 30 miles home with 1/2 a gallon to spare.
The 1000sx is a great bike, but for commuting like I do, I prefer a less complicated bike to work on and maintain. I would nave to change tires (my biggest expense) every 5 to 6000 miles on the 1000sx. Also, I run Regular gas on my Versys while the 1000sx requires premium. If you want something fun, keep your Versys and get a Zx14r or 3rd Generation Hayabusa. Super comfortable and easy to ride sports bikes for older people.
I do not aim with my hand, I aim with my eye
I do not shoot with my hand, I shoot with my mind
I do not kill with my gun, I kill with my heart
The Versys 650 has forgotten the face of his Father
Except the two most highly respected motorcycle journalists, Zack and Ari, appear to think the Versys 650 is the best motorcycle for the greatest number of people....
As a versys owner it is always fun to see my bike featured on a channel that I watch on a regular basis. Even though I know that you hated this bike before you even agreed to write it for this video. But something you have to remember is that not every bike is for everybody. I personally enjoy my versys for what it is but have other bikes that are much more fun for when I want to use them. You being the owner of another very utilitarian bike with a cult following should understand this. I can't stand the KLR 650, but that bike isn't for me. Anyway, I just wanted to say I appreciate you reviewing it even though you reviewed it as apples to pasta Neapolitan Pizza.
Great again Spite !! Thnx !!
Proud Versys 650 rider here… still love ya bro. Always great to have Whitney on the channel.
I love the two host format
comfortable, rides straight, dependable, simplistic, expectable. All things that I am looking for in a daily rider and road trip type of bike. Thanks for the video!
Also, really enjoyed the Samurai comparison!
My past 4 bikes, has been a kawasaki zx6r, honda nighthawk 750, an iron 883, and now a versys 650. Honestly i'm loving the versys. I will admit it is a bit boring in the 4-5k rev range, and if you ride it like you would ride an iron 883, for instance, it is boring. But im not leaving a stop light and shifting until i am at least at 9-10k rpms, and shit is it fun going through mountain canyons. I ride it 130 miles a day to school(I'm a motorcycle mechanic) and back and it handles the highway with ease. Riding on the highway on it is boring I will admit because you are mostly coasting at 6k rpms the whole time, but I dont find many bikes fun on the highway at all unless im doing illegal stuff like on my zx6r(which is why i got rid of it lol).
Yess!! Love the Spite/Whitney combo!
If guy who changes 3 lines one after another, one handed, without using blinker even once tells me that some bike is boring, I say this must be good bike.
The worst part about the Versys 650 is the $8899 MSRP. The KLR is 2k cheaper, and bikes like the Vstrom 650 and MT-07 are similar in price.
KLR way more fun bike cuz more capable off road and more like a post apocalypse rig.
Spite, I love your channel and I think it's cool that you and Whitney are doing videos together, BUT...c'mon man! This was not a fair comparison! The Multistrada is three times the price of the Versys 650! Yes, the Versys may be the Toyota Carolla of motorcycles, but that's fine given what it is: an affordable, reliable bike that would be great for a beginner or someone who just wants a reliable commuter. And by the way, I find it interesting that the Versys has better wind protection than the Ducati. I say that because I and am seriously thinking of buying a Multistrada. So thanks for bringing up that point.
That was pretty much the whole point though, seeing if a bike that's 3X the price is worth the upgrade. It's not always the case. It was in this case though
@@spitescorner IF that was your point you did a poor job in communicating that. I love ya bother. But this is video gave me flashbacks of Yammienoob and not in a good way. You are better than that. Yammie gets off on trashing entry level bikes. Don't be Yammie. You basically trashed the bike for most of the Video when the bike does well exactly what it was designed for. If you want to compare entry level to top tier, I suggest you find a better way of doing so for the sake of growing your channel. You have the opportunity to far exceed YN. But you won't do it with content like this one.
Any plans to ride either the V-Strom 650 or 1050?
Can't agree with you here... Versys 650 is an awesome bike. I rode my friends and it is so comfortable and smooth. Not the fastest thing around, but that's not what its aimed for. Just a comfortable way to get around on 2 wheels and enjoy your day. I don't see anything wrong with the bike or anyone who owns one.
what is the power to weight ratio of the versys 300 vs the 650?
I've never seen handlebar mounts like that on the Ducati. Pretty interesting. I wonder if that actually would help functionally
Question:
Versys 650 or Duke 390?
I got rid of my mt07 for a 22 Harley. And the versys description matches how I feel about my Harley
I'm curious - as a new rider, happy with my Versys 650 because I have nothing to compare it to - is there a bike in the same price point that you rank higher. Not necessarily new but maybe a 2017 650, around 6k or so? Just curious.
Sadge, I'm going to get my Versys 650 on Saturday... I think the main problem you have with this bike is that it is adapted to the european A2 market (it is made to be limited to 47.5 HP, in fact pretty much 90% of their sales in France is an A2 version). It is the same thing with the CB500 (which is litteraly 47.5 HP full) or the Z650. When you want a reliable highway bike for very long distances, the Versys 650 is the best you will get with an A2 licence.
Here in the USA the Versys 650 is 69 hp and weighs about 400 lbs.
Veri nice review, thank you:-)
great episode!
Look up a YT influencer, I think he is called Schaff. He does excellent reviews on motorcycles. He doesn't do any talking. He lets the motorcycle engine speak and he's a very high performance reviewer. One of his reviews was with a versus 650. It was pretty good in my opinion.
I think the virtue of the Versys 650 is that it's a versatile system :P It's got enough punch for the street or as a commuter, but it's got that practical functionality to go adventuring on weekends.But as a Kawasaki Sport Tourer, I'd go for the Ninja 1000. I am interested in how it compares to the KLR650?
I’ve got a 09 versys. It’s my first bike so of course I find it super cool and exciting 😂 I don’t really see myself keeping for more than 3-4 seasons tho but the power wheelies in first and second are its saving factor (also a nice slip on exhaust really changed how it sounds. Take that car muffler off it and put an arrow or Leo Vince on there and it’s gold)
Fun video, I never rode a 650 but I bought a versys-x 300 with no abs in 2019 as a secondary play around bike and I love it. I keep the big bike for commuting and enjoy riding the piss out of the little versys in the woods on fire roads over the weekends, granted I did a lot of adv mods so it's not as easy to break things.
The difference between you hating that bike and loving it is about 270°.
I was recently spending some time in my local Triumph dealership when I bought my used Street Triple, but while meandering the showroom, I found myself eyeballing the Tiger Sport, which seems to be about the same class of shmedium sport tourer... If these two are so different, where in the spectrum do you think the Tiger might fall?
Also, love seeing Whitney showing up in these videos. Love the perspective and banter!
Better than the klr 650???
This ought to be interesting…
To be fair, I just got rid of my ‘21 Versys 650 for a ‘19 Road King Special - the Versys is not a bad bike by any means, but I wanted to try something different - and it don’t get much more different than going from a Versys to a 114 Road King Special.
sad when it's the bike that you need to entertain you and not the ride it's self.
Whitney + Spite = CZcams Magic. The best. That being said, I've never not had fun riding a motorcycle, even terrible motorcycles. BTW, I'm an old fart been riding 40 years. I've been on my share of bad bikes. Ill take two wheels any day, regardless.
If you're not having fun on a motorcycle, it says more about the rider than the bike. I have had a blast on my agile and super reliable Versys 650 from short rides to cross country trips. The bank won't own it because it is reasonably priced, and you've admitted it is better for touring and more attractive than the Ducati. So . . . Why not a Versys again? I think you just like more power regardless of practically. The Versys is a great bike for the self-assured rider who doesn't choose a motorcycle to define them or make them feel cool.
Well, thats just like, your opinion, man. My heart likes the Duc. My pocketbook likes the Kawi. Such is life.
That was excellent episode!
Outta spite is a great podcast name
Is vanilla a spice?
Great review! I'd love either bike...yeah, if I had the $$ I'd take the Duke. Don't know if it's what you're going for, but the "snubby" humor, does remind me of your days with yammie. Either way, love the post!
Next week on InSpite of good judgement, Spite will be comparing the Honda Navi with the Fireblade. Spoiler alert, he finds the Navi boring in comparison. It has Cable brakes for Pete's sake and the mirrors feel cheap.