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-   -   The All-Rounder | My Kawasaki Versys 650 | Ownership Review (https://www.team-bhp.com/forum/superbikes-imports/249760-all-rounder-my-kawasaki-versys-650-ownership-review-4.html)

As we end the year, some updates on the Versys.

Soon to complete 2 years in Feb 2024, the Versys has crossed 16k kms and its odometer is climbing steadily.


AOM Handle-bar


Currently I have removed the risers and installed the AOM handlebar. This has totally changed the handling of the bike. Versys now feels much more nimble and direct. Changing handlebar was done by self and help of a friend.

I also have flipped the front and read sprockets. The chain seems to be doing well, and would probably last another 7-8 thousand kilometers. The benefits of keeping the chain clean and lubed well is very evident.


LED Set


Next, the Versys now sport a set of LED bulbs which 8000 lumens and are much more brighter than the stock bulbs. The installation was done by myself and it is a 5/10 difficulty DIY.

Front brake pads are still stock, however the rear one wore out and a Vesrah brake pads is now handling the rear braking duty. I have learnt a few techniques which have given me confidence to use the front brakes more.
My usual reaction while needing to slow down is, shifting down a couple of gears, applying both brakes and using the engine braking. All these things are done simultaneously and are muscle memory so everything happens automatically, they help me slow down quickly and effectively. Also keeping an eye for far-away objects, riding in the center lane when possible and ability to detect moving objects in the peripheral vision have helped avoid sudden braking events.



To conclude, the Versys now runs the below enhancements/upgrades.

• Zana Crashbars
• Hexa Center-stand
• Hexa Panniers
• Hexa Top box
• HJG 40W aux lights (soon to come off)
• Maddog Alpha aux lights
• AOM Handlebar
• Pro Spec Windshield Extender
• Vredestein Tyres (stock size)
• Autobahn LED bulbs
• Zana GPS mount

#latePost

As 2024 has already come to an end, let me share the rides with the V. Sadly, there were only a few that materialized this year. The Versys is now loaded to the top and I don't think there are any more mods that are required for the bike in general. For now, I am just utilizing the mods that I've made to it.

So lets go through some images of the Versys in 2024



1. Versys India Riders Meetup at Rajasthan.
A ride to remember, what fantastic roads (as you exit Maharashtra). The ride back home was an endurance ride - we started from Jaisalmer at 6 am, were back home in Mumbai at 3 am.


2. The ARAI arrives to accompany the V!


3. A long weekend trip to Aurangabad - Ajanta Ellora caves.


4. A family vacation to Goa, where I rode solo after a long period of time.
Was itching to ride solo since the Rajasthan ride, just to test the endurance. Kind of "if I've still got it!" test. Family took the 6 am flight, I started at 6:30 am, we had lunch together at Goa. Just one break to refuel the bike, and empty my tank. The Water pouch made sure I was hydrated all time, and some energy bars kept me energized while on the move. Ride back home was even better as it was a night ride (my favorite time to travel). Started at 4pm from Goa, was home around 12 am.



5. A ride to Dandeli with friends.

As of now, the versys is sitting around 23,000 kms, and since the Scrambler 400 has arrived, the versys is limited to longer runs only. Anyways, looking forward towards a good riding year ahead.