As with most people, I'm usually thinking about the next bike that I want (didn't say I wanted to get rid of my GS :) ). Looking at the new bikes these days I've kind of taken a liking to the Versys. Anyone have any experience with this bike? Some things that I like about it are the riding position, adjustable windscreen, clean under frame exhaust design, and versatility. I have never ridden one, only sat on one at the dealership and done just a little research. What do you guys think?
http://www.kawasaki.com/Products/Product-Specifications.aspx?scid=6&id=572
No first hand experience but every person I meet with one raves about it.
-Jessie
Same, no personal experience but I've only ever heard good things.
Look for posts by Homer about his Versys here, I know he loves it
I almost bought one about a year and a half ago. They didn't depreciate much, so I went with an FZ6. If you agree with the torque over power philosophy when it comes to road bikes and like lightweights, it sounds perfect.
I have both a 1990 GS500 and a 2011 Versys. I absolutely love my Versys. I enjoy the upright seating position, low-end torque and has plenty of aftermarket parts to personlize it. I put over 14,000 miles on it last year which includes weekend twisty rides and did a cross country trip from Portland, OR to NYC and it has handled every terrain I rode through: sand (most difficult), fire roads, gravel roads, twisties, highways, etc..
It is truly a versatile bike and enjoyed every mile on it. Also the maintenance is little to none and I have not experienced any sour moments with the bike and it's build quality. The best way to explain it, I use my GS500 as a daily commuter and when I jump on the Versys I feel like I am on a really advanced "nice" bike and totally puts a smile on my face. Having the GS actually makes me appreciate the Versys a bit more, if this makes any sense.
Its a bike that doesn't do one thing superbly, but does everything really well... can't say enough about it!