2024 Kawasaki Versys 650 LT ABS

Kawasaki’s Versys 650 LT ABS is a middleweight adventure-touring motorcycle capable of carving twisty pavement, slaying highway miles, or commuting through urban sprawl. Street tires and cast wheels limit the Versys’ off-road capability, but switchable traction control increases its ability to traverse modest dirt roads.

The 2024 Kawasaki Versys 650 LT ABS utilizes the same 649cc DOHC liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine as the Ninja 650 and Z650. Tuned for low-to-midrange response, the engine produces a claimed 44.8 lb.-ft. of torque. Fuel injection feeds the eight-valve cylinder head via dual 38mm Keihin throttle bodies. Compression ratio is set to 10.8:1; bore and stroke measurements are 83.0 x 60.0mm.

A 4.3-inch color TFT display gives riders access to switchable ride modes, switchable traction control, and smartphone connectivity through the Rideology app. Kawasaki Traction Control (KTRC) provides two ride modes. Mode 1 is less intrusive than mode 2 and riders also can disable traction control.

Chassis components consist of a double pipe diamond frame constructed from high-tensile steel, and a 41mm telescopic fork with stepless adjustable rebound and adjustable spring preload offering 5.9 inches of travel. A single offset laydown shock with remote adjustable spring preload provides 5.7 inches of travel. The brake system features dual 300mm discs with dual-piston calipers upfront and a single 250mm disc with a single-piston caliper at the rear. Both systems feature nonswitchable ABS. Wheel sizes are 17 inches front and back.

Kawasaki’s Versys 650 LT earns long-distance prowess with 7.3-gallon hard saddlebags, an adjustable windscreen, and 5.5 gallons of fuel capacity. Cruise control, heated grips, and power outlets do not come standard, but Kawasaki offers the latter two as add-on accessories. Riders wanting cruise control will have to enter the aftermarket.

A 33.3-inch seat height is approachable for most riders and the relatively short wheelbase (55.7 inches) provides agile handling. But its 482.9-pound (plus 20 pounds with bags and hand guards) curb weight makes the Versys 650 LT heavier than most of the competition.

The 2024 Kawasaki Versys 650 LT ABS is available in Metallic Matte Dark Gray/Ebony for $10,099.