Kawasaki Versys 650 imported for homologation, launch this year - IAB Report

05/05/2015 - 08:52 Kawasaki Versys, Kawasaki Anjan Ravi

2015 model year update gets a host of changes.

Kawasaki has imported the Versys 650 for homologation, hinting that a launch could take place by the end of this year. The updated, 2015 Versys 650 was unveiled at the INTERMOT in September 2014, and when launched in India, it will be priced and positioned beneath the Versys 1000 which went on sale in January this year.

2015 Kawasaki Versys 650 side at the INTERMOT 2014 — The engine has been retuned for better fuel economy and high-end power, says Kawasaki.

Power for the Versys 650 comes from a liquid-cooled, parallel-twin 649 cc engine, which according to Kawasaki has been tuned for better efficiency and improved high-end performance. Matched to a 6-speed transmission, this engine makes 69 PS and 64 Nm of torque.

Engineers have also revised the suspension setup of the motorcycle, and claim that the rear suspension can now be better tuned for pillion riding or load-carrying duties. Further, on the 2015 Versys 650, the braking system gets significant changes: a larger 250 mm disc at the rear, a revised master cylinder, new calipers and new brake pad material.

Coming to cosmetic changes, the Versys 650's design has been made inline with its larger sibling, the Versys 1000. A new and larger adjustable windscreen, dual headlights, a stronger rear frame and a larger 21 liter fuel tank (up from 19 liters) are the list of other changes Kawasaki has made on the 2015 model.

2015 Kawasaki Versys 650 rear three quarters at the INTERMOT 2014 — The Versys 650 features improved braking performance over its predecessor.

Also read: Kawasaki Ninja H2 launched at INR 29 lakhs in India

Positioned as an all-rounder (tourer and daily commuter), the Versys 650 retails for EUR 7,695 in Europe (INR 5.45 lakhs). For reference, the Versys 1000 is priced at INR 12.9 lakhs, ex-Showroom, Pune.