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2023 Kawasaki Versys 650 LT [Specs, Features, Photos]

2023 Kawasaki Versys 650 LT

The 2023 Kawasaki Versys 650 LT: Ideal For Touring And Adventure Riding

The 2023 Kawasaki Versys 650 LT is the middle option of Kawasaki’s 2023 adventure models. This motorcycle is well-suited for both touring on road and adventure riding. With a fuel-injected 649cc parallel-twin engine, the Versys 650 LT delivers smooth and responsive power throughout the rev range. It also has a comfortable riding position that allows riders to sit upright and relaxed, which is great for long rides.

The Versys 650 LT is no slouch in the tech department just like other Kawasaki motorcycles and comes with a variety of advanced features as well as long-travel suspension to provide a smooth and stable ride, as well as a range of rider aids including ABS and traction control. Versatility sums up the bike quite well. It also has a range of features that make it ideal for touring, including a large windscreen, comfortable seating, and spacious side bags that provide ample storage space for your gear. All these features combine to show why Kawasaki is one of the premier Japanese motorcycle manufacturers.

In terms of technology, the Versys 650 LT comes with a full-color TFT display that provides riders with all the information they need at a glance. The display is also customizable, allowing riders to adjust the layout and information displayed to suit their preferences. The standard LED lighting system provides bright and efficient illumination in all conditions, and its adjustable suspension ensures comfort and adaptability to tailor it to suit the rider’s weight and riding style.

The 2023 Kawasaki Versys 650 LT starts at $10,099 USD/$11,699 CAD

On this page: we’ve curated specs, features, news, photos/videos, etc. so you can read up on the new 2023 Kawasaki Versys 650 LT in one place.

2023 Kawasaki Versys 650 LT


Model Overview

General Info

  • Price: $10,099 USD/$11,699 CAD
  • Key Features:
    • 649cc 4-stroke, 2-cylinder, DOHC, 8 valves, liquid-cooled
    • Long-travel suspension and high-quality braking system
    • Full-color TFT display with customizable layout
    • Long-Travel suspension
    • LED lighting

Main Specs

  • Engine: 649 cc 4-stroke, 2-cylinder, DOHC, liquid-cooled
  • Power: 65 horsepower
  • Torque: 45 lb-ft
  • Weight: 482 lbs (218 kgs)
  • Seat Height: 32.1 inches (815 mm)

2023 Kawasaki Versys 650 LT


2023 Kawasaki Versys 650 LT Specifications

From Kawasaki

ENGINE

Engine 649cc, 4-stroke, 2-cylinder, DOHC, 8 valves, liquid-cooled
Power 65 Hp
Bore x Stroke 83.0mm x 60.0mm
Compression Ratio 10.8:1
Fuel System DFI® with 38mm Keihin throttle bodies (2)
Starter Electric
Maximum Torque 47.0 lb-ft

DRIVETRAIN

Clutch
Transmission 6-speed with positive neutral finder
Final Drive Sealed chain

CHASSIS

Suspension Front 41mm telescopic fork with stepless adjustable rebound and spring preload/5.9 in
Suspension Rear Single offset laydown shock with remote adjustable spring preload/5.7 in
Brakes Front Dual 300mm petal-style discs with 2-piston calipers, ABS
Brakes Rear
Single 250mm petal-style disc with single-piston caliper, ABS
Tires Front 120/70 ZR-17
Tires Rear 160/60 ZR-17
Fuel Tank Capacity 5.5 gal
Color Metallic Spark Black/Metallic Flat Spark Black

ELECTRICAL

Ignition TCBI with digital advance
Spark Plugs
Headlight LED
Tail Light LED

DIMENSIONS

Overall Length 85.2 in (2,164 mm)
Overall Width 33.1 in
Overall Height 53.5 in/55.9 in (windshield down/up)
Wheelbase 55.7 in (1,415 mm)
Ground Clearance 6.7 in (170 mm)
Seat Height 33.3 in
Curb Weight 482.9 lb. + 20 w/saddlebags & hand guards

WARRANTY

Warranty 12 month limited warranty
Extension 12, 24, 36 or 48 months

2023 Kawasaki Versys 650 LT


2023 Kawasaki Versys 650 LT Features

Dual Throttle Valves

Late-model sport bikes often use large-bore throttle bodies to generate high levels of power. However, with large diameter throttles, when a rider suddenly opens the throttle, the unrestricted torque response can be strong. Dual throttle valve technology was designed to tame engine response while contributing to performance.

On models with dual throttle valves, there are two throttle valves per cylinder: in addition to the main valves, which are physically linked to the throttle grip and controlled by the rider, a second set of valves, opened and closed by the ECU, precisely regulates intake airflow to ensure a natural, linear response. With the air passing through the throttle bodies becoming smoother, combustion efficiency is improved and power is increased.

Economical Riding Indicator

Using high-precision electronic control for engine management, Kawasaki models can achieve a high level of fuel efficiency. However, fuel consumption is greatly affected by throttle use, gear selection, and other elements under the rider’s control. The Economical Riding Indicator is a function that indicates when current riding conditions are consuming a low amount of fuel. The system continuously monitors fuel consumption, regardless of vehicle speed, engine speed, throttle position and other riding conditions. When fuel consumption is low for a given speed (i.e. fuel efficiency is high), an “ECO” mark appears on the instrument panel’s LCD screen. By riding so that the “ECO” mark remains on, fuel consumption can be reduced.

While effective vehicle speed and engine speed may vary by model, paying attention to conditions that cause the “ECO” mark to appear can help riders improve their fuel efficiency – a handy way to increase cruising range. Further, keeping fuel consumption low also helps minimize negative impact on the environment.

KTRC (Kawasaki Traction Control)

KTRC, Kawasaki’s advanced traction control system provides both enhanced sport riding performance and the peace of mind to negotiate slippery surfaces with confidence. Multiple rider-selectable modes (the number of modes varies by model) offer progressively greater levels of intrusion to suit the riding situation and rider preference.
Less intrusive modes maintain optimum traction during cornering. Designed with sport riding in mind, they facilitate acceleration out of corners by maximizing forward drive from the rear wheel. And because Kawasaki’s sophisticated software bases its dynamic analysis on the chassis’ orientation relative to the track surface (rather than relative to a horizontal plane), it is able to take into account corner camber, gradient, etc., and adapt accordingly.

In the more intrusive modes (and for some models, in any mode), when excessive wheel spin is detected, engine output is reduced to allow grip to be regained, effectively enabling riders to negotiate both short, slippery patches (train tracks or manhole covers) and extended stretches of bad roads (wet pavement, cobblestone, gravel) with confidence.

Smartphone Connectivity

Clever technology enables riders to connect to their motorcycle wirelessly. Using the smartphone application “RIDEOLOGY THE APP,” a number of instrument functions can be accessed, contributing to an enhanced motorcycling experience. Vehicle information (such as the odometer, fuel gauge, maintenance schedule, etc) can be viewed on the smartphone. Riding logs (varies by model, but may include GPS route, gear position, rpm, and other information) can be viewed on the smartphone. When connected, telephone (call, mail) notices are displayed on the instrument panel. Riders can also make changes to their motorcycle’s instrument display settings (preferred units, clock and date setting, etc) via the smartphone. And on certain models, it is even possible to check and adjust vehicle settings (such as Rider Mode, electronic rider support features, and payload settings) using the smartphone.

ABS (Anti-lock Brake System)

Kawasaki ABS systems use front and rear wheel sensors to constantly monitor wheel speed. Should information from either of the sensors indicate that wheel lock has occurred, the ABS ECU directs the pump in the ABS unit to modulate brake fluid pressure (releasing and reapplying pressure so that traction can be regained) until normal operation resumes. ABS offers rider reassurance that contributes to greater riding enjoyment.


2023 Kawasaki Versys 650 LT Photos


2023 Kawasaki Versys 650 LT Videos

2023 Kawasaki Versys 650 review by Scouts Out:

2023 Kawasaki Versys 650 Review by GM Moto Media:


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