Kawasaki Versys 650 a touch of color for 2014

No changes, just new colors for the Kawasaki Versys 2014. Now the small crossover from Akashi wears Pearl Shining Yellow, Candy Lime Green and an "evergreen" Metallic Spark Black. Yellow, green or black therefore, and in two versions, standard or Tourer. For 2014, Kawasaki has not planned a restyling for a model which, thanks to the particularity of its line, still manages to stand out very well from the mass of other proposals, thus maintaining a certain aesthetic freshness. A motorcycle that was born in 2006 exploiting the technical base of the ER-6, and which over the years has already undergone two steps of stylistic modernization, in 2008 and now 4 years ago, in 2010.

As I was saying, credit obviously goes to its design, but also to that mix of ingredients that the technicians have been able to blend over time. Simple but effective ingredients, such as the steel tube frame, or the 649cc parallel twin capable of 64 HP at 8.000 rpm and 61 Nm at 6.800 rpm. Maybe someone would like a little more horsepower, also obtaining it from a larger displacement - updating to the current and popular 800cc - to have a more sustained output. But the Versys is already good as it is, especially at medium-low speeds, and thanks to the new engine mounts and footpegs introduced with the latest restyling, it gains enjoyment and comfort even at high revs, where vibrations became insistent.

The versys does a really good job on the road, whether it's city or a nice mix. Lightweight (200 kg) and easy to handle thanks also to the rear with an appreciable 160/60, reliable and communicative at the front thanks to the 41mm upside down fork; fork and rear monoshock (mounted with Cantilever layout) are adjustable in preload, the right opportunity to reduce the effects of load transfer during braking.

But Versys in the Tourer version it is also a good travel companion thanks to its spaciousness 35 liter side bags, the vario adjustable windshield and the hand guards. A 19-litre tank combined with the forward-facing twin-cylinder fleet will reduce stops at the petrol station.

In short, a lot of substance, to which must be added the ABS (optional for 500 euros) accompanying a braking system made up of double 300mm front disc with daisy profile and double piston calipers, and 220 rear with single piston caliper.

Versys is in dealerships starting from 7.750 €, a figure to be modified if you decide to draw on the optional list that Kawasaki has dedicated to this pleasant crossover.