2015 Kawasaki Versys 650 LT

Specifications

• Make: Array
• Model: 2015 Kawasaki Versys 650 LT
• Engine/Motor: Four-stroke, liquid-cooled, DOHC, four valves per cylinder parallel twin
• Transmission: 6-speed

Overview

A multi-talented, middleweight motorcycle that will make your commuting and paved adventures lots of fun!

The Kawasaki Versys® 650 LT comes into the 2015 model year with a host of updates, including dramatic new styling, more power and torque, improved comfort as well as rubber-mounted engine and handlebar, plus new suspension tomaximize your street-riding fun. The 2015 Versys 650 LT is one of those rare motorcycles that is equally at home commuting on the local freeway or mixing it up on your favoriteback road. Whatever your destination, this reliable, versatile, comfortable and nimble motorcycle will eat up the miles and encourage you to take the long way home.

Two versions of the 2015 Kawasaki Versys 650 will be offered– a Standard ABS model, with everything you’ve come to expect from this flexible motorcycle, as well as an LT model. The LT includes all the same high specification but will additionally have KQR™ (Kawasaki Quick Release) Hard Saddlebags and Hand Guards to increase its

overall versatility.

2015 Kawasaki Versys 650 LT Key Features:

- Amazingly versatile motorcycleis exceptionally comfortable

- NEWFront-end styling with an aggressive and functional design plus larger windshield

- NEWFront and rear suspension

- NEWFront and rear brake master cylinders, calipers and pad material

- NEWDunlop tires

- NEWLarger, adjustable windshield

- NEWInstrument cluster and ignition switch position

- NEWIncreased power and torque from the 649cc parallel twin with Digital Fuel Injection (DFI®)

- Standard 24-month Kawasaki Limited Warranty

2015 Kawasaki Versys 650 LT Features and Benefits:

Fun and Comfort

One of the standout attributesof the 2015 Kawasaki Versys 650 LT is its upright riding position, which is ideal for commuting, back road runs and even weekend jaunts. Its narrow frame allows the Versys 650 LT to be nimbler than its bulky competition. And for 2015, the comfort has been enhanced with the relocation of the footpegs. Located 15mm lower and 20mm further forward in comparison to the 2014 model, the footpegs allow the rider to enjoy this versatile motorcycle in greater comfort.

Styling

The 2015 Kawasaki Versys 650 LT has all-new, dynamic styling that is sure to catch your eye. To sculpt the aggressive new appearance, the designers took inspiration from Kawasaki motorcycle heritage with the creation of a new front fairing, where we now find a design that is equally good-looking as it is functional. Ratherthan the previous stacked headlights, it has two horizontal headlights incorporated into the upper cowling. The new look exudes Kawasaki’s sportbike DNA in a uniquely Versys-specific package.

Powertrain

The dependable fuel-injected 649cc, parallel twin engine remains the best choice for this light and nimble street motorcycle with its lively performance and smooth acceleration. Derived from the Ninja® 650 motorcycle but tuned for greater torque, the engine inspires confidence for daily commuters and provides fun on weekend trips. The torquey twin delivers a deep ribbon of power in the low- and mid-range of the powerband, while also pulling vigorously to the top of the rev range.

Chassis & Controls

Long-travel, high-tech suspension coupled with the revised riding position is critical to the multi-role mission of the 2015 Kawasaki Versys 650 LT. Combine these enhancements with the updated frame and you have one of the most versatile bikes in Kawasaki’s line-up.

In the front, the all-new, adjustable Showa fork is utilized to increase rider confidence and comfort in all situations. It splits the damping and spring functions into separate fork tubes, giving the rider adjustabilitywhile also saving weight.

New longer outer fork tubes help to improve rigidity and provide the ultimate combination of light handling and supreme comfort.

At the rear, a new KYB shock allows riders to quickly make preload adjustments via the new remote-mounted adjuster. This can compensate for cargo or passenger weight or be tuned to the rider’s preference.

LT Model

The 2015 Versys 650 will be available in two models. There is the fully equipped Standard model, and then the new LT model, which has the same specification and will be supplied with standard KQR (Kawasaki Quick Release)28-liter Hard Saddlebags and Hand Guards. This equipment will add even greater flexibility to an alreadyaccomplished motorcycle. The saddlebags, for example, will be invaluable for both daily commuting and to make it more practical for weekend escapes. Furthermore, the Kawasaki Quick Release system makes it very easy for the rider to remove and mount the bags in a matter of seconds.

The Hand Guards will further add to its appeal, bring welcome protection from the elements, increasing the long-distance comfort of the Kawasaki Versys 650 motorcycle.

Accessories

The Kawasaki Genuine Accessories program isavailable at authorized Kawasaki dealers. The range of options includes KQR™ (Kawasaki Quick Release) 28-liter Hard Saddlebags with the Kawasaki One Key system, as well as a new KQR 47-liter Top Case (with the same One Key system), which can accommodate two full-face helmets and can be used alone or with saddlebags. There is also an optional LED Light Bar, a 12v DC Outlet to power electronics, Grip Heaters, a low Gel Seat, TankBag, Knee Pads, Frame Sliders, Windshield and a Gear Position Indicator, to name some of the items offered as Kawasaki Genuine Accessories.

649cc DOHC Parallel Twin Engine

- Most compact engine in its category, helps reduce the dimensions of the entire motorcycle

- Triangular crank and transmission shaft layout keeps the motorcycle short

- Semi-dry sump oil system reduces overall engine height

- Narrow, chrome composite-plated aluminum cylinders help reduce engine width

- Tuned to deliver smooth, responsive power in the low- to mid-RPM range for exceptional roll-on response – ideal for negotiating city traffic, tight back roads or freeways

- 180-degree crankshaft and a balancer shaft produce a remarkably smooth engine

- Oil jets on the connecting rod ends spray oil on the undersides of the pistons to aid cooling

- Under-engine muffler with 3-way catalyzer helps mass centralization for light handling and great looks

- NEW One-piece exhaust and muffler helps to boost top-end performance

- NEW Exhaust end-cap design for smarter appearance

- NEW Fuel pump for improved fuel delivery

- NEW Revised ECU settings to match exhaust updates and enhance fuel economy

Liquid-cooled

- NEWKAMS (Kawasaki Air Management System) radiator air ducting system

- Engine temperatures remain consistent for long engine life and sustained power in tough conditions

- Coolant routed through the engine case reduces the number of external hoses

Digital Fuel Injection (DFI®)

- A pair of 38mm Keihin throttle bodies with ECU-controlled sub-throttle valves mean optimum performance

- Sub-throttle valves, located behind the main throttle valves, give the Versys 650 LT precise throttle response and great feel

- Automatic fast idle system makes starting and warm-up easy, even on cold days

- Precise fuel injection provides great fuel mileage, and the 3-way catalyzer significantly reduces emissions

Six-speed Transmission

- Versys 650 LT motorcycle has a racing-style cassette transmission layout thatis extremely compact

Slender Double Pipe Perimeter Frame

- Frame is small, light and narrow at the knees and pegs for excellent comfort and control

- 3D computer analysis in the design process achieved the optimum balance of stiffness for superior ride and handling

- NEW Rear subframe design adds strength for saddlebag mounting

Suspension

- NEW Showa front fork has spring components in the left tube and damping components in the right, saving weight

- NEW KYB offset lay-down rear shock includes new remote adjustable preload

- Lay-down single shock complements the distinctive frame design, with an integrated line flowing from steering head to rear hub

- Short, compact frame and engine design allows the swingarm to be longer, improving overall handling

Anti-Lock Disc Brakes

- NEW Front and rear brake block-style calipers, front and rear master cylinders and brake pad material for increased braking performance

- Standard ABS brakes

- Same disc design as found on some Kawasaki sportbikes: the petal design offers improved cooling and warp-resistance compared to traditional discs

Six-spoke Wheels

- NEW Versys 650-specific Dunlop Sportsmax D222 tires for light handling and comfort

- The six-spoke wheels are similar to the ones found on the Ninja® ZX™-6R and ZX-10R motorcycles. They use less material between the spokes, so rim thickness is reduced along with overall weight

- Lightweight wheels increase suspension performance, handling, acceleration, deceleration and initial turn-in performance

Comfortable Ergonomics

- NEW Footpeg location is 15mm lower and 20mm further forward to accommodate a wide range of riders

- NEW Subframe design with increased stiffness, enhanced grab rails and comfortable seating position make the Versys 650 ABS more enjoyable for the passenger, as well as allowing use of Kawasaki Quick Release (KQR™) saddlebags (standard equipment on the 2015 Versys 650 LT model)

- Seat is tapered at the front to make it easier for most riders to reach the ground

- Rubber bushings at the rear engine mounts, on the handlebar mount and hollow rubber-covered footpegs result in reduced engine vibration and a more comfortable ride

Unique Bodywork

- NEW Bodywork design emphasizes sporty appearance of this touring motorcycle

- NEW Cowling with twin horizontal headlights and a new LED tail light give the Versys 650 LT a distinctive, high-tech appearance

- NEW Adjustable and larger windshield provides a large still-air pocket for comfort, and its tool-less adjustability makes it adaptable tofit the rider’s preference

Instruments

- NEW Easy-to-read instrument panel has a large analog tachometer and digital readout for the speedometer, fuel gauge, odometer, dual trip meters and clock

Versys 650LT model

- NEW KQR™ (Kawasaki Quick Release) 28-liter Hard Saddlebags and Hand Guards are standard equipment

- Hard Saddlebags allow riders to carry gear on the daily commute or weekend jaunts. They mount and dismount quickly using the Kawasaki Quick Release (KQR) system and also have the Kawasaki One Key system that allows them to be locked using the motorcycle’s ignition key

- Hand Guards are mounted with aluminum brackets and use composite covers to protect hands from the elements when riding in all weather

Kawasaki Genuine Accessories

- KQR™ (Kawasaki Quick Release) 47-liter Top Case with Kawasaki One Key system. It can accommodate two full-face helmets, is color-matched to the motorcycle and can be used with the standard Hard Saddlebags

- Optional Saddlebag and Top Case Liners

- LED Light Bar to provide greater visibility for the rider and for other road users

- Grip Heaters for cold weather riding

- Helmet Lock to secure your helmet to the motorcycle

- Radiator Guard to protect from debris and stones

- Frame and Front Axle Sliders

- Gear Position Indicator to let the rider know what gear is selected

- DC Power Outlet to charge devices

- GPS Mount to allow you to mount a GPS device

- Windshield to provide more protection from the elements

- Gel Seat to provide more comfort for longer journeys

- Backrest Pad to keep the passenger more comfortable

- Tank and Knee Pads to improve comfort and to protect the paintwork

- U-Lock Bracket to securea lock when not in use

Specifications

Quotes

“Kawasaki has announced a host of updates for the 2015 Versys 650, and the new bike will be offered in a standard ABS version as well as an LT version that features hard saddlebags and hand guards as standard equipment. In addition to a styling makeover very similar to the updated Versys 1000, the 2015 Versys 650 also gets the larger three-level-adjustable windscreen and twin side-by-side headlights. The exhaust is now a one-piece unit with header pipes joining together in the under-engine collector that is claimed to provide an incremental boost in top-end power (claimed peak power went from 68.3 hp to 69 hp), and the ECU fueling curves were modified to offer better mileage. The engine receives the similar rubber engine mounting for less vibration. Suspension upgrades also mimic the 1000, with a separate function fork featuring the damping control in the right fork leg and spring preload in the left. The rear shock has modified settings, along with a remote hydraulic spring preload adjuster.” ----- Sport Rider“There are two Versys 650 models available: the base ABS model and the LT, which includes Kawasaki Quick Release 28-liter hard saddlebags with integrated subframe mounts and hand guards. We spent the day on the LT and the bags are easy as pie to open, close and remove from the Versys. The rear subframe has been beefed-up under the newly styled tail section to increasing the payload capacity by 66 pounds, allowing for the addition of a top case to bolster the touring capabilities of the Versys 650. One key operates the bags as well as the ignition. The hand guards are a nice addition not for off-road bashing but for shielding your hands from chilly conditions.” ----- Motorcycle USA