2010 MODEL INFORMATION

MODEL
NAME Versys / Versys ABS
MARKETING
CODE KLE650 C/D
 INDEX

OVERVIEW - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - P.3

KEY FEATURES - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - P.6

LONG-TRAVEL SUSPENSION & SPORTY 17” WHEELS - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - P.6

SLIM, UPRIGHT RIDING POSITION - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - P.8

COMPACT PARALLEL-TWIN ENGINE TUNED FOR LOW-MID RANGE TORQUE - - - - - - - - P.10

SLEEK, FLICKABLE CHASSIS - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - P.11

OTHER CONTROL-ENHANCING FEATURES - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - P.12

WIND PROTECTION - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - P.13

TOURING POTENTIAL - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - P.14

PASSENGER COMFORT - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - P.15

SHARPER NEW STYLING - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - P.16

ADDITIONAL FEATURES - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - P.18

COLOURS - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - P.20

SPECIFICATIONS - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - P.21

2010MY Versys / Versys ABS MODEL INFORMATION PAGE 2

 OVERVIEW

FUN ANYWHERE
Difficult to explain and impossible to categorise, the highly acclaimed Versys is one of
those machines that truly exceeds the sum of its parts. Its name, derived from “vertex”
(Latin for pinnacle, summit, top) and “system,” hints at its initial development goal of
offering a truly superior platform from which riders can maximise riding fun in any number
of street riding situations. One ride is all it takes to confirm that the Versys does indeed
deliver on its engaging any-street promise.

UNIQUE PACKAGE
Designed for those that love to ride - whatever the road conditions, the Versys offers a
unique package comprising long travel suspension & sporty 17” wheels, a comfortable
natural riding position and a compact, responsive Parallel-Twin engine tuned for low and
mid range torque.

2010MY Versys / Versys ABS MODEL INFORMATION PAGE 3

 OVERVIEW

Highly acclaimed for its versatility and engaging character, the Versys concept is best
understood by riding it. The Versys features engine characteristics, chassis balance and
suspension settings all selected to maximize rider enjoyment on the street in real world
conditions. With its superb control and feedback, the Versys offers a high level of rider
confidence in numerous street riding situations and rewards a variety of riding styles from
city commuting to the enjoyment of fast A road sweeping bends and tight country lane
hairpins.

Long-travel suspension & sporty 17” wheels

The combination of long-travel suspension with stiffer spring settings is one of the keys to
the active control offered by the Versys. In addition to being easily able to cope with a
variety of road conditions and offering confidence-inspiring feedback to the rider, the
Versys allows riders to consciously control the bike’s forward-rear weight balance –
adding a new dimension of controllability and feedback for riders to explore.

Slim, upright riding position

A slim, upright riding position with wide handlebars offers both a naturally relaxed posture
and great controllability, and allows riders to explore a number of riding styles. Whether
riding in the hills, down hedge lined country roads or navigating city traffic, the clear,
unobstructed view afforded by the tall seat height and upright position make it easy to see
and avoid potential problems on the road ahead.

Compact Parallel-Twin engine tuned for low and mid range torque
A compact Parallel Twin engine tuned for low and mid range torque delivers a satisfying
and predictable surge of acceleration when pulling away or out of corners. The controlled
response of the carefully tuned engine offers reassuring rider confidence whatever the
gear or revs.

2010MY Versys / Versys ABS MODEL INFORMATION PAGE 4

 OVERVIEW

ESSENTIAL PACKAGE MAINTAINED

For 2010, the new Versys maintains the essential package of its predecessor, but new
state-of-the-art styling and a number of other clever upgrades mean it is more fun to ride
than ever.

Refined styling & finish

The new Versys has sharper new styling for 2010 reflecting its essential nimble and
sporty nature. A number of clever cosmetic changes give it a slimmer, sleeker look, and
the sculpted new bodywork adds to its dynamic image: like an athlete, the new model
exudes flexibility and controlled strength. In addition, smaller detail changes and a more
refined finish contribute to its higher-quality appearance.

Additional upgrades
Enhanced comfort when riding with a passenger, revised mirrors with improved visibility,
new genuine accessories and optional ABS mean the new Versys is better equipped than
ever to provide a fun weekday street riding and weekend or holiday touring experience.

2010MY Versys / Versys ABS MODEL INFORMATION PAGE 5

 KEY FEATURES

LONG-TRAVEL SUSPENSION & SPORTY 17”

WHEELS
Not all streets in the real world are made of
circuit-smooth tarmac. Road imperfections
(bumps, potholes, repairs) are common,
and some cobbled streets still exist. While
the Versys was not designed for all out
off-road use, its long-travel front forks and
rear shock were specially selected to cope
with the huge variety of street conditions it
may come across, and, along with its 17”
wheels, enable aggressive sport riding.
Further, the long-travel suspension
provides an added dimension of
controllability: the ability to consciously
control the bike’s front-rear weight transfer
gives riders an additional riding element to
explore.

* The long stroke of the inverted front forks and off-set laydown rear shock (F: 150
mm, R: 52 mm) allow experienced riders to actively control the bike’s front-rear
weight balance. Purposely increasing braking force to compress the front
suspension before a corner reduces the caster, resulting in quicker steering.
Alternatively, the rider can opt to brake less aggressively, maintaining the bike’s
attitude for smooth, stable turn in. The Versys puts this choice in the hands of the
rider, so even the same corner can be enjoyed a number of different ways.
* Both the front fork and rear shock combine long travel with stiff springs. Standard
off-road-style long-travel suspension allows a bike to fly over bumps and ruts with
ease, but this type of suspension was deemed to be too soft for the kind of riding
Kawasaki engineers wanted to offer. Likewise with sports bike suspension, road
holding is superb, but performance is best on (relatively) smooth roads. Combining
both long travel and stiff springs yields the benefits of both off-road-style and
sport-bike suspension, offering excellent road holding in a wide range of street
riding conditions plus superb feedback, enabling aggressive sport riding.
* In addition to being tapered, the outer
tubes of the 41 mm inverted front
forks are relatively short (even at full
compression, a large portion of the
inner tubes remain visible) to provide
the ideal stiffness balance to
complement chassis settings.

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 KEY FEATURES

* In order to accommodate the longer stroke of the rear suspension, an aluminium

gull-type swingarm was chosen. The use of aluminium helps reduce unsprung
weight.

* In addition to being lighter, using a simple non-link type rear shock offers more
direct feedback from the rear wheel, contributing to greater rider “feel.” The
excellent feedback clearly communicates how the bike is behaving thus increasing
rider confidence.
* The ability of the rear suspension to soak up bumps and ruts was the key to being
able to ride over cobbled streets and handle road imperfections like debris and
potholes, etc. Consequently, a great deal of development time was devoted to the
tuning of the Showa rear shock unit. The high-grade unit makes use of a free piston
and 2-stage damping valves to ensure smooth action at the initial part of the
compression stroke and firmer damping near full compression, giving a more
planted feel.
* This careful attention to the tuning of the rear suspension ensures the Versys can
be ridden aggressively and with confidence through city streets, be they paved,
brick or cobblestone.
* Both the front and rear suspension
have adjustable rebound damping
and preload, offering riders a range of
adjustability to experiment with should
they so choose.

* 17” wheels front and rear contribute to the bike’s quick steering. The 120 mm front
tyre offers an excellent balance of quick steering and front wheel traction. Tyre sizes
are as follows:
- Front: 120/60ZR17M/C 58W
- Rear: 160/60ZR17M/C 69W

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 KEY FEATURES

SLIM, UPRIGHT RIDING POSITION

When engineers considered the kind of riding they wanted to offer, and the speed range
most often used in everyday riding, a naturally relaxed posture and high controllability via
a slim, upright position with wide handlebars was deemed ideal. Because it would have a
great impact
on rider control and enjoyment, a substantial amount of development time and effort was
devoted to fine-tuning the riding position.
* The combination of a compact Parallel Twin engine and a narrow, lightweight trellis
frame enabled by the offset laydown rear suspension is the key to the Versys’ slim
riding position.
* A short-style tank positions the rider closer to the front wheel for increased
controllability and offers a greater choice of forward-rearward sitting positions.
* The seat’s slim design, and the knee grip characteristics of the tank, afford good
freedom of movement, allowing riders to change position should they so choose.
Thick urethane increases comfort and contributes to a seat height that places the
rider in a position of fun
controllability. The stepped shape of the two-piece seat also provides support for
the rider when accelerating.

* Complementing the wide handlebar, the footpegs are positioned low and slightly
forward of the seat.
* Together, all these points result in a very natural, relaxed riding position designed to
offer a high level of machine control. The upright riding position accommodates a
variety of riding styles (lean-in, no-lean, lean-out), broadening the spectrum of riding
enjoyment and also offering a high level of comfort; a great benefit for touring. This
combination of comfort and control is one of the things that make the Versys so
rewarding to ride.

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 KEY FEATURES

* When combined with the long-stroke

suspension, the upright riding position
and higher seat height offer a
commanding view of the road ahead
– especially advantageous when
navigating city traffic or winding roads
in the hills.

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 KEY FEATURES

COMPACT PARALLEL-TWIN ENGINE TUNED FOR

LOW-MID RANGE TORQUE
When tuning the 649 cm3 Parallel Twin engine, our engineers’ first priority was to find a
throttle response that balanced a powerful feeling and a quick-revving character. To
optimise performance for everyday riding, care was taken to maximise low-mid range
torque. When opening the throttle, riders will notice that the engineers succeeded in
creating an extremely smooth and powerful engine character that offers both a high level
of control when making minute throttle adjustments and a gratifying rush of acceleration in
the lower rpm ranges.

* Intake and exhaust cams with short operating angles move the torque curve toward
the lower end of the rpm range.
* To achieve smooth power and torque curves, the exhaust system makes use of a
balance tube.
* Fuel injection settings for the Versys were selected primarily to deliver a strong
powerful feeling when the throttle is opened.
* Performance and feel were optimised for the mid-range (3,000-6,000 rpm).
However, in the low-rpm range (below 3,000 rpm), power delivery is very smooth,
and even above 6,000 power and torque curves continue without dropping off
suddenly.
* The above settings result in performance that favours the speeds most used in
everyday riding.
Corner pick-up is excellent: the powerful mid-range delivers a satisfying surge of
acceleration and the flat, step-free torque curve and smooth engine response let
riders use the throttle with confidence – at any rpm.

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 KEY FEATURES

SLEEK, FLICKABLE CHASSIS

The key to the Versys’ sleek chassis is its compact Parallel Twin engine, which allows the
use of a slim, lightweight frame. Together with the forward-located seat position and the
under-engine muffler, this engine-frame combination delivers a highly centralised mass
distribution, which contributes to the extreemly agile package. High priority was given to
achieving chassis settings that deliver a high level of feedback, better enabling the rider to
recognise their own and the bike’s limits.
* The base frame construction and stiffness balance were set to offer a high level of
feedback to the rider.
* The highly compact engine and under-engine muffler contribute to mass
centralisation. The front cowl (including instrument panel and headlight unit) is
mounted directly to the frame, minimising its effect on handling.
* The bike’s tall seat height and
long-stroke suspension result in a
higher C of G. The resultant increase
in agility makes the Versys even more
fun to ride.

* Chassis dimensions provide a

balance of flickability and high-speed
stability. (Although the Versys’
performance is optimised for
everyday speed range, it is quite
happy to oblige riders who wish to
travel at higher speeds.) With a
wheelbase of 1,415 mm, the Versys
can still be considered a “short
wheelbase” model, and accordingly it
delivers a high level of agility.

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 KEY FEATURES

OTHER CONTROL-ENHANCING FEATURES

* Triple petal disc brakes offer superb stopping power and feel at the lever. 5mm thick
front discs contribute to enhanced controllability.

* For additional braking reassurance, models with front and rear Bosche ABS are
available as an option in some markets.

2010MY Versys / Versys ABS MODEL INFORMATION PAGE 12

 KEY FEATURES

Wind protection
An adjustable windscreen helps reduce wind noise and helmet buffeting, creating a
serene space behind which to enjoy high-speed riding.
* The adjustable windscreen has three different settings (raised, standard, tilted
forward), allowing riders to tailor its position to suit their preference. (Adjusting the
bolt-mounted windscreen requires a 4 mm hexagonal wrench.)
* A taller screen is also available as an
option.

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 KEY FEATURES

TOURING POTENTIAL
For riders looking further afield, a comfortable seat, relaxed riding position, large-volume
fuel tank, protection from the adjustable windscreen and enhanced touring potential make
the Versys a very capable touring partner - solo or with passenger. A number of optional
accessories further increase the Versys’ touring potential.
* Along with the comfortable seat, the relaxed position enables riders to spend long
hours in the saddle.
* A 19-litre fuel tank combined with a fuel injection system tuned for fuel economy
offers an ample touring range.
* A number of new genuine
accessories available from Kawasaki
dealers further contribute to touring
comfort: hand protectors, heated grips
with 5 levels of adjustment, and a 12
V outlet. As with the previous model,
a taller windscreen, an adjustable
vario windscreen and frame sliders
are also available.

* In addition to the optional top-case, specially designed large-volume GIVI panniers

are available as accessories. Each pannier can hold a full-face helmet and is rated
for 5 kg.
* Passenger footpeg stays and the reinforced sub-frame were designed to
accommodate the optional panniers and top case (rated at 5 kg). The sub-frame’s
additional strength contributes to increased stability when carrying luggage or a
passenger.
* Thanks to the under-engine muffler, the bike’s profile can stay relatively slim even
with the panniers attached.
* Hooks added to the underside of the
tail cowl provide additional tie-down
points for securing luggage.

2010MY Versys / Versys ABS MODEL INFORMATION PAGE 14

 KEY FEATURES

PASSENGER COMFORT
Sometimes sharing the ride is half the fun. The Versys has a number of features that
make riding with a passenger enjoyable for both rider and pillion.
* Each part of the two-piece seat was designed with different thickness and firmness
of urethane, optimising comfort for both the rider and passenger.
* The pillion position was also designed to offer a natural seating posture. Revised
grab bars are flatter, easier to hold and positioned further out for greater freedom of
movement.
* Fine-tuned passenger seat/pegs/grab bar relationship offers enhanced passenger
comfort.

* Rubber added to the passenger footpegs also contributes to the enhanced

passenger comfort.
* The comfort afforded by the slim layout - thanks to the under-engine muffler - also
extends to the passenger. A further benefit is that heat is kept away from the
passenger.
* Layout is such that a passenger can
also be comfortably accommodated
when the optional panniers are
attached.

2010MY Versys / Versys ABS MODEL INFORMATION PAGE 15

 KEY FEATURES

SHARPER NEW STYLING

The 2010 Versys receives a sharper new styling package that better reflects its sporty
nature. The updates include a more refined finish that gives the bike a higher-quality feel.
* The new stacked dual headlamp
design gives the Versys a slimmer
appearance and alludes to its nimble
handling. Using a single position lamp
further contributes to the slim
appearance.

* Sculpted bodywork of the new front

cowling and side fairing adds to the
Versys’ updated and dynamic image.
Like an athlete’s, the image is one of
flexibility and controlled strength.

* Revised radiator shrouds and swingarm pivot covers enhance appearance and
contribute to the high-quality finish.
* Slimmer front turn signals
complement the sharp new image.
Positioned higher and further forward
they help make the bike more visible.

* Diamond-shaped mirrors contribute to the sharper styling. Positioned higher and

further outward, they also offer improved rearward visibility. Revised mirror housings
ensure a blur-proof view.
* New front fender design looks sporty.

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 KEY FEATURES

* Revised engine covers contribute to

the bike’s new styling.

* Revised engine covers contribute to the bike’s new styling.

* New LED tail light (shared with the
new Z1000), featuring a transparent
red lens gives the tail a clean, tidy
look.

* Trimmed of unnecessary material, the

new rear hugger makes the tail look
shorter, contributing to the bike’s light
look.

2010MY Versys / Versys ABS MODEL INFORMATION PAGE 17

 ADDITIONAL FEATURES

Engine
* Triangular layout of the crankshaft and transmission shafts makes the engine very
short front-to-back.
* Transmission input shaft, output shaft and change drum are contained in a
“cassette”-style package that both allows a compact layout and facilitates easy
transmission maintenance.
* Semi-dry sump design reduces engine height.
* The plated, linerless cylinder is
lightweight. The narrow cylinder pitch
reduces engine width.

* Auto-fast idle system simplifies starting and ensures the catalyser reaches optimum
temperature quickly.
* Simplified cooling system routes coolant through the engine cases to the cylinder
and head to reduce external plumbing.
* 180° crankshaft drives a balancer shaft for silky smooth engine operation.
* Oil jets located in the rod big-ends direct oil to the undersides of the pistons for
added cooling.
* With the large radiator and
under-engine muffler, the Versys
offers superior comfort from a heat
dissipation perspective.

Chassis
* Rubber mounts instead of rigid mounts used for the upper-rear engine mounting
reduce vibration transmitted to the rider.

2010MY Versys / Versys ABS MODEL INFORMATION PAGE 18

 ADDITIONAL FEATURES

* Revised footpegs with new hollow

rubber covers help reduce unwanted
vibration.

* The instrument panel features white

LED-backlighting for increased
visibility at night. Features include a
digital speedometer, analogue-style
tachometer, digital fuel gauge,
odometer, dual trip meter, etc.

Other
* Under-seat storage space has room for a U-lock or similar security device.
* The turn signals also function as hazard lights.

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 COLOURS

Pearl Solar Yellow / Metallic Flat Spark Black

Metallic Spark Black / Metallic Flat Spark Black

2010MY Versys / Versys ABS MODEL INFORMATION PAGE 20

 SPECIFICATIONS

ENGINE

Engine type Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke Parallel Twin

Displacement 649 cm³
Bore x stroke 83 x 60 mm
Compression ratio 10.6:1
Valve/Induction system DOHC, 8 valves
Fuel system Fuel injection: ø38 mm x 2 (Keihin)
Ignition Digital
Starting Electric
Lubrication Forced lubrication, semi-dry sump

DRIVETRAIN

Transmission 6-speed, return

Final Drive Sealed chain
Primary reduction ratio 2.095 (88/42)
Gear ratios: 1st 2.438 (39/16)
Gear ratios: 2nd 1.714 (36/21)
Gear ratios: 3rd 1.333 (32/24)
Gear ratios: 4th 1.111 (30/27)
Gear ratios: 5th 0.966 (28/29)
Gear ratios: 6th 0.852 (23/27)
Final reduction ratio 3.067 (46/15)
Clutch Wet multi-disc, manual

FRAME

Frame type Diamond, high-tensile steel

Wheel travel, front 150 mm
Wheel travel, rear 145 mm
Tyre, front 120/70ZR17M/C (58W)
Tyre, rear 160/60ZR17M/C (69W)
Rake/Trail 25˚ / 108 mm
Steering angle, left / right 35˚ / 35˚

2010MY Versys / Versys ABS MODEL INFORMATION PAGE 21

 SPECIFICATIONS

SUSPENSION

Suspension, front 41 mm inverted telescopic fork with stepless (right-side)

adjustable rebound damping and adjustable preload
Suspension, rear Offset laydown single-shock with 13-way adjustable rebound
damping and 7-way adjustable preload

BRAKES

Brakes, front Dual semi-floating 300 mm petal discs

Caliper: Dual piston
Brakes, rear Single 220 mm petal disc
Caliper: Single-piston

DIMENSIONS

Dimensions (L x W x H) 2,125 mm x 840 mm x 1,315 mm

Wheelbase 1,415 mm
Ground Clearance 180 mm
Seat height 840 mm
Curb Mass 206 kg (KLE650C) 209 kg (KLE650D)
Fuel capacity 19 litres

PERFORMANCE

Maximum power 47 kW {64 PS} / 8,000 rpm. 25 kW {34 PS} / 6,500 rpm (25 kW
kit)

The specifications mentioned here apply to and have been achieved by production models under
standard operating conditions. We intend only to give a fair description of the vehicle and its
performance capabilities but these specifications may not apply to every machine supplied for sale.
Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd. reserves the right to alter specifications without prior notice.
Equipment illustrated and specifications may vary to meet individual markets. Available colours
may
vary by market.

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