The mid-weight touring segment has long had a quiet champion, the Kawasaki Versys 650. For 2025, the Japanese manufacturer hasn’t reinvented the wheel, but it has polished it enough to remind us why this machine remains such a dependable all-rounder for Indian riders who crave both comfort and confidence.
From highway cruising to weekday commuting, the Kawasaki Versys 650 has always walked the line between practical and premium. This year’s update nudges the dial forward in small but meaningful ways.
Smooth, Proven Engine That’s Still a Workhorse
Kawasaki stays loyal to its 649cc parallel-twin engine and for good reason. This liquid-cooled unit churns out 66 bhp and 61 Nm of torque, numbers that may seem modest on paper but come alive on the tarmac. Power delivery is linear, and the six-speed gearbox is as slick as ever.
For everyday use, there’s enough torque in the midrange to handle Indian traffic chaos without breaking a sweat. But stretch it out on a motorway, and the Kawasaki Versys 650 cruises effortlessly at triple-digit speeds. The refinement levels are commendable, especially for a bike in this segment.
No Gimmicks, Just Thoughtful Design
Visually, the 2025 Kawasaki Versys 650 doesn’t stray too far from its familiar silhouette. That’s a plus, this bike has always struck a smart balance between sporty and sensible. The twin LED headlamps now feel sharper, the windscreen is adjustable and functional, and the fairing subtly hugs the frame, giving it a clean but muscular stance.
One notable aesthetic upgrade is the new grey-and-green colour scheme, which feels fresh without shouting for attention. It’s unmistakably Kawasaki, just a bit more grown-up.
Chassis and Comfort: Touring-Friendly Yet Nimble
The Kawasaki Versys 650 sits on a steel diamond frame, known for offering good feedback without feeling too stiff. Kawasaki has retained the long-travel suspension setup, 41mm USD forks up front and a preload-adjustable monoshock at the rear.
This is what gives the bike its magic: it glides over bad roads but doesn’t wallow in corners. Paired with 17-inch alloy wheels and Dunlop Sportmax tyres, it strikes a comfortable balance between urban agility and highway poise.
Braking duties are handled by twin 300mm discs at the front and a single 250mm disc at the rear, with dual-channel ABS as standard. The feel at the lever is progressive and reassuring, even during sudden stops.
Tech and Emission Updates: Cleaner, Not Cluttered
Kawasaki hasn’t stuffed the Kawasaki Versys 650 with unnecessary tech. You still get an LCD display with smartphone connectivity, and the ride assist electronics remain minimal.
The real headline here is the engine’s OBD2B compliance, aligning with India’s updated emission norms. This makes the 2025 Kawasaki Versys 650 cleaner, more eco-conscious, and ready for future regulations.
Price and Value: A Slight Bump, Still Sensible
The 2025 Kawasaki Versys 650 is priced at ₹7.93 lakh (ex-showroom), a ₹16,000 bump over last year’s model. For a motorcycle that blends everyday usability with serious touring ability, it still feels like good value.
You won’t find many bikes at this price offering this level of ride quality, refinement, and long-distance comfort, without the complexity of excessive electronics or maintenance costs.
Final Word: Who Should Buy It?
If you’re looking for a motorcycle that’s not trying to be the loudest or the fastest but simply works every time, the Kawasaki Versys 650 is still the one to beat. It’s a bike for grown-up riders who value consistency over gimmicks.
Whether you’re a weekend tourer, a daily commuter who loves refinement, or a rider ready to upgrade from a 300- 400cc machine, the Kawasaki Versys 650 makes a strong case for itself in 2025, just like it always has.
2025 Kawasaki Versys 650 specs
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 649 cc parallel-twin, liquid-cooled |
| Power | 66 bhp |
| Torque | 61 Nm |
| Gearbox | 6-speed |
| Suspension | 41mm USD forks / monoshock |
| Brakes | Twin discs (front), single disc (rear), ABS |
| Tyres | 17-inch alloys |
| Weight | Approx. 218 kg (kerb) |
| Price | ₹7.93 lakh (ex-showroom) |
| Colour | Grey with green accents |
FAQ: 2025 Kawasaki Versys 650
Q: Is the 2025 Kawasaki Versys 650 suitable for city riding?
A: Yes. While it’s a touring-oriented bike, its upright seating, smooth engine, and predictable handling make it usable in urban traffic.
Q: Is it good for two-up touring?
A: Absolutely. The pillion seat is roomy, and the suspension setup makes it ideal for long rides with a passenger.
Q: Are there better alternatives in the segment?
A: If you prefer more tech-heavy bikes, the Triumph Tiger Sport 660 or the Suzuki V-Strom 650xt might appeal. But for simple, reliable performance, the Kawasaki Versys 650 leads on value.
Q: Is there a major performance upgrade in this model?
A: No performance upgrades; the main update is the OBD2B emission compliance and refreshed colour scheme.
Disclaimer
This review is intended for informational purposes only. Prices, specifications, and features are subject to change as per manufacturer updates or regional availability. Please consult your local Kawasaki dealer for the most accurate and up-to-date details before making a purchase.
