Built around Kawasaki's allround motorcycle platform, the 2016 Kawasaki Versys 650 utilizes a 649 cc (39.6 cu in) liquid-cooled twin, four-stroke layout. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 69 HP (50.4 kW) at 8,500 rpm while maximum torque reaches 64 Nm (47.2 lb-ft) at 7,000 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 6-speed gearbox and chain final drive. With a specific output of 106.3 HP per liter and a 1,500 rpm working window between peak torque (7,000 rpm) and peak power (8,500 rpm), the engine character is reflecting a performance-oriented street tune that balances strong mid-range pull with an energetic top-end rush.
On the scales, the Versys 650 measures 214 kg (472 lbs) wet (curb), translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.32 HP/kg (3.1 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 846 mm (33.3 in) seat height — resulting in a taller command-style riding posture suited to medium-to-tall inseams, combined with a 1,415 mm (55.7 in) wheelbase engineered for quick, flickable steering geometry. The 21-liter (5.5 US gal) fuel tank supports practical everyday commuting and weekend road stints.
Within MotoLibrary's Kawasaki archive, this model family spans 10 indexed model years from 2012 to 2025, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.
Specific Output
106.3 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.32 HP/kg (3.1 kg/HP)
Power Band Window
7,000–8,500 rpm
Standover Height
846 mm (33.3 in)
Engine
Displacement649.0 ccm (39.60 cubic inches)
Engine TypeTwin, four-stroke
Engine DetailsTwin, four-stroke
Power69.0 HP (50.4 kW)) @ 8500 RPM
Torque64.0 Nm (6.5 kgf-m or 47.2 ft.lbs) @ 7000 RPM
Compression10.6:1
Bore x Stroke83.0 x 60.0 mm (3.3 x 2.4 inches)
Valves/Cylinder4
Fuel SystemInjection. Digital fuel injection with two 38mm Keihin throttle bodies
Fuel ControlDouble Overhead Cams/Twin Cam (DOHC)
IgnitionTCBI with electronic advance
LubricationForced lubrication, semi-dry sump
CoolingLiquid
Transmission
Gearbox6-speed
Final DriveChain (final drive)
DrivelineSealed Chain
Chassis
Frame TypeSemi-double cradle, high-tensile steel
Rake25.0°
Trail109 mm (4.3 inches)
Front Suspension41mm hydraulic telescopic fork with stepless adjustable rebound and preload / 5.9 in.
Front Travel150 mm (5.9 inches)
Rear SuspensionSingle offset laydown shock with 13-position adjustable rebound damping and adjustable spring preload / 5.7 in.
Rear Travel149 mm (5.9 inches)
Wheelbase1415 mm (55.7 inches)
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre120/70-17
Rear Tyre160/60-17
Front BrakesDouble disc. Two-piston calipers.
Front Brake Ø300 mm (11.8 inches)
Rear BrakesSingle disc. Single-piston caliper.
Rear Brake Ø250 mm (9.8 inches)
Dimensions & Weight
Weight incl.214.0 kg (471.8 pounds)
Seat Height846 mm (33.3 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Overall Height1331 mm (52.4 inches)
Overall Length2126 mm (83.7 inches)
Overall Width841 mm (33.1 inches)
Fuel Capacity21.00 litres (5.55 US gallons)
Other
StarterElectric
Color OptionsMetallic Matte Carbon Gray/Metallic Spark Black, Candy Matte Orange/Metallic Spark Black
Use this page to compare this motorcycle by its real specifications, not only by model name. Focus on the details that affect fit, comfort, handling, range and ownership.
Power
Compare engine output with similar motorcycles if acceleration, highway use or two-up riding matters.
Torque
Torque is useful for judging real-world pull, especially for touring, commuting and loaded riding.
Seat Height
Check the seat height against your inseam and riding posture before choosing a motorcycle.
Fuel Capacity
Fuel capacity helps estimate touring range and how often you may need to stop.
Brakes
Brake setup is worth comparing if you ride in traffic, mountains or with a passenger.
Suspension
Suspension details can matter for comfort, road feel and long-distance riding.
Transmission
Transmission and final drive affect maintenance, smoothness and everyday usability.
