Bmw f 700 gs vs kawasaki versys 650: clash of the touring titans

What To Know

  • If you are looking for a bike that is more affordable and has a more street-oriented design, the Kawasaki Versys 650 is a great choice.
  • If you are looking for a bike that is more powerful, has a longer-travel suspension, and has a more comprehensive electronics package, the BMW F 700 GS is a great choice.
  • If you are looking for a bike that is more affordable, has a shorter-travel suspension, and has a simpler electronics package, the Kawasaki Versys 650 is a great choice.

The BMW F 700 GS and the Kawasaki Versys 650 are two of the most popular adventure bikes on the market. Both bikes offer a versatile blend of on-road and off-road capabilities, making them ideal for riders who want to explore both worlds.

Design and Styling

The BMW F 700 GS has a more traditional adventure bike design, with a tall, upright stance and a long-travel suspension. The Kawasaki Versys 650, on the other hand, has a more modern, street-oriented design, with a lower seat height and a shorter suspension.

Engine and Performance

The BMW F 700 GS is powered by a 798cc parallel-twin engine that produces 75 horsepower and 58 lb-ft of torque. The Kawasaki Versys 650 is powered by a 649cc parallel-twin engine that produces 69 horsepower and 50 lb-ft of torque.

Both engines are smooth and responsive, but the BMW’s engine has a bit more power and torque, which gives it a slight edge in acceleration and top speed.

Handling and Suspension

The BMW F 700 GS has a long-travel suspension that provides excellent off-road performance. The Kawasaki Versys 650 has a shorter suspension that is more suited for on-road riding.

Both bikes handle well on both paved and unpaved roads, but the BMW has a slight advantage in off-road conditions.

Brakes and Safety Features

The BMW F 700 GS and the Kawasaki Versys 650 both have excellent brakes. The BMW has slightly more powerful brakes, but the Kawasaki has a more advanced ABS system.

Both bikes also come with a variety of safety features, including traction control and stability control.

Features and Technology

The BMW F 700 GS and the Kawasaki Versys 650 both come with a variety of features and technology. The BMW has a more comprehensive electronics package, including a TFT display and a variety of rider aids. The Kawasaki has a simpler electronics package, but it includes some useful features, such as a gear indicator and a fuel gauge.

Price and Value

The BMW F 700 GS is more expensive than the Kawasaki Versys 650. However, it also comes with a more comprehensive electronics package and a more powerful engine.

The Kawasaki Versys 650 is a better value for riders who are looking for a good all-around adventure bike at a more affordable price.

Verdict

The BMW F 700 GS and the Kawasaki Versys 650 are both excellent adventure bikes. The BMW has a more powerful engine and a more comprehensive electronics package, but it is also more expensive. The Kawasaki is a better value for riders who are looking for a good all-around adventure bike at a more affordable price.

Ultimately, the best bike for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. If you are looking for a bike that is more powerful and has more features, the BMW F 700 GS is a great choice. If you are looking for a bike that is more affordable and has a more street-oriented design, the Kawasaki Versys 650 is a great choice.

The Final Verdict: Which Adventure Bike is Right for You?

If you are still unsure which bike is right for you, here is a quick summary of the key differences between the BMW F 700 GS and the Kawasaki Versys 650:

  • Engine: The BMW F 700 GS has a more powerful engine than the Kawasaki Versys 650.
  • Suspension: The BMW F 700 GS has a longer-travel suspension than the Kawasaki Versys 650.
  • Electronics: The BMW F 700 GS has a more comprehensive electronics package than the Kawasaki Versys 650.
  • Price: The BMW F 700 GS is more expensive than the Kawasaki Versys 650.

If you are looking for a bike that is more powerful, has a longer-travel suspension, and has a more comprehensive electronics package, the BMW F 700 GS is a great choice. If you are looking for a bike that is more affordable, has a shorter-travel suspension, and has a simpler electronics package, the Kawasaki Versys 650 is a great choice.

Common Questions and Answers

Q: Which bike is more powerful?
A: The BMW F 700 GS has a more powerful engine than the Kawasaki Versys 650.

Q: Which bike has a longer-travel suspension?
A: The BMW F 700 GS has a longer-travel suspension than the Kawasaki Versys 650.

Q: Which bike has a more comprehensive electronics package?
A: The BMW F 700 GS has a more comprehensive electronics package than the Kawasaki Versys 650.

Q: Which bike is more expensive?
A: The BMW F 700 GS is more expensive than the Kawasaki Versys 650.

Q: Which bike is better for off-road riding?
A: The BMW F 700 GS is better for off-road riding than the Kawasaki Versys 650.

Q: Which bike is better for on-road riding?
A: The Kawasaki Versys 650 is better for on-road riding than the BMW F 700 GS.

Q: Which bike is better for commuting?
A: The Kawasaki Versys 650 is better for commuting than the BMW F 700 GS.

Q: Which bike is better for touring?
A: The BMW F 700 GS is better for touring than the Kawasaki Versys 650.