Thoughts on a 650 Versys?

[snowy]

Had a great ride with me lad yesterday, Shropshire Hills and the Long Mynd, GTR and GSX in the sun!
But, however much I love my hack of a GSX750F it's a little small for both me and ma' boy, so looking for a suitable steed that would suit me as a commuter and me son who's a six footer!
Really like the idea of a 650 Versys, right riding position, should be big enough for a six foot rider, engine Should be good for me 80 miles a day filtering on the motorways, and looks like an easily maintained machine.
Any thoughts or ideas, or if you have one that may be available, let me know please.

[PRD]

Also take a look at Suzuki dl 650. Rode one recently. Very nice. I'm 6ft plenty of room.

[O.C.]

The latest Versys 650 is even better than its predecessor with many improvements, owners rave about its practicality and ability, I've never owned one but understand that they are a superb machine

A test ride is your next option

Good luck and do let us know what you decide   

[viper]

I mate had one and really struggled with the lack of power , after six months he chopped it in for a 1000 and now loves it , expensive mistake for him

[Burchy]

Had to take the GTR in for some work last week which took the better part of the day to complete, so I had a choice of loan bikes and took the Versys out for the day. Absolutely brand Harry Spankers with just 4 miles on the clock.

Didn't really know what to expect after the bigger 1000 version earlier this year, but I was impressed overall. The riding position us similar, as you would expect and the instrument panel clear and well laid out. The fuel light was already flashing so £10 worth of 95 octane and away we go around The New Forest. Initially I found it a bit vibey and jerky, but realised that it's not meant to be driven like a 4 cylinder bike. Get the revs up and stay north of 4000 and everything starts to work together.

Several times when I looked at the clocks I was surprised at the speed indicated. "Really? That's more than it feels like!". The little windshield did a good job and I could cruise happily at 3 - 6 points speeds on open roads.

Choosing a mid-range gear and spinning at 6000 the engine sounded really strong with a good fistful. Just like my old Triumph on full song. Honestly, the standard exhaust sounds nice!

Didn't get to check the lights in darkness, but they certainly looked ok. Tank range seemed to be approaching 200 miles and that felt easily achievable in the comfortable saddle.

Would I buy one? No. I'd get the bigger brother, but that's only because I like 4 cylinder motors. The 650 has a deserved good reputation and I can see it selling well

[snowy]

Burchy, thanks, a good honest summary!
All comments appreciated, I acknowledge that it ain't gonna go like a 100bhp+ 4 cylinder, but that's not what we want it for.
As long as it'll sit at 70-80 and still overtake, and weave through the traffic where I daren't take the GTR, it'd do!
Big believer in "ride it for what is was built for"............that's why I love me GTR!   

[viper]

my mate was happy when just whizzing around , communting ect ,but anything that involved a pillion or luggage made the little suzy wheeze like an asmatic ant