Since this is my first bike I have nothing to compare it to. For some reason I feel like a spoiled kid by having this as my first bike. I've had my license for a week and have gone riding every day except one because of a thunderstorm. It's almost 100 degrees outside and I'm getting ready to go out right now. The bike is just amazing. It's so much fun to ride. I almost feel guilty towards my car because I only use it when I have to (which was kind of the point anyway).
Do you have some info about said 1000cc Versys or are you just sayin?
I have googled it and read hype only! I have no proof that they are really going to the 1000cc! And I am not going to say I read it on the internet that would be stupid! It could all be... BS!
The 1000 versys is there for the making. Take the z1000, tune for even more low end torque giving up a little high rev buzz. (shouldn't be hard to do cause it is already such a smooth low end engine). That is a 4 cyl that is not too wide for this application.
Next, a little suspension extension and beef. Different tires and seat. Bigger shield than the ninja and more upright peg position. Offer it with optional givi bags for the touring version.
Problem is, the Vstrom 1000 didn't sell but the weestrom still does. So, there may not be much of a market for a US 1 liter inbetween bike....
Well aware that there is no 1k cc Versys. But everytime I see the thread pop up there's just that glimmer of hope. I'll open the subject and there will be a picture and a link to an actual press release that it's arrived. I was more referencing the transgression of misleading people that a 1000cc Versys was coming . Oh well, lol
Hey I did see a photo and it looked like a black 2010 650 V to me, not a 1000cc! Never meant to mislead. I really don't know what kawi is doing. I'm just sayin I would still want the 650cc myself.
Since this is my first bike I have nothing to compare it to. For some reason I feel like a spoiled kid by having this as my first bike. I've had my license for a week and have gone riding every day except one because of a thunderstorm. It's almost 100 degrees outside and I'm getting ready to go out right now. The bike is just amazing. It's so much fun to ride. I almost feel guilty towards my car because I only use it when I have to (which was kind of the point anyway).
I couldn't agree more MTS, "what a bike"!
My V is my first bike as well. Just clocked 30K on it!!!
IMO an 800cc twin or triple would be the perfect next step for the Versys. I think there would be much more of a market for that type of powerplant than a 4 cylinder liter engine. I love the 650 but on the slab it has me longing for about 20 more ponies. So, if Kawi is reading this:
Liter = too big
650cc = a tad too small
800cc = just right!
An 800cc Versys gets my vote as well. 1000cc would be overkill and also position it with some stiff competition. An 800cc Versys would provide that extra passing power and lower cruising RPM as well as cheaper insurance. At 800cc it would be positioned against the Triumph and BMW. I am sure Kawasaki could provide a better bike than the BMW at a lower cost, cheaper maintenance and Kawasaki has a significantly larger dealer network. The Triumph is a good bike but also suffers from a much smaller dealer network. It also has a 19 inch front wheel which limits the rubber available. Kawasaki should give up the pretense of any actual off road capability and concentrate on making a better small light weight tourer. The only bike I ever had that was as good as the Versys was a TDM850. If Yamaha ever imported the 900 I would be in line for one in a minute. Note to Kawasaki, keep the under engine exhaust and lower the center of gravity. When you release it have doodads and farkles galore available from day one. If you want to win best bike of the year again and beat the pants of the competition, make this bike.
IMO an 800cc twin or triple would be the perfect next step for the Versys. I think there would be much more of a market for that type of powerplant than a 4 cylinder liter engine. I love the 650 but on the slab it has me longing for about 20 more ponies. So, if Kawi is reading this:
Liter = too big
650cc = a tad too small
800cc = just right!
IMO an 800cc twin or triple would be the perfect next step for the Versys. I think there would be much more of a market for that type of powerplant than a 4 cylinder liter engine. I love the 650 but on the slab it has me longing for about 20 more ponies. So, if Kawi is reading this:
Liter = too big
650cc = a tad too small
800cc = just right!
Eric
I agree totally! 800cc is just right. I wonder if there is enough meat in the 650cc cylinders to kick it up to 800cc? That way they would not have to modify anything else.
There is no way to bore out the cylinders. If you look at a picture of the cylinders they are already almost touching. To stroke the motor would cost almost as much as just starting from scratch with a new design.