Vstrom 1000 v Versys 1000

[doebag]

First [returning] newbie question. I've had a 'search' of the forum, and am wondering if anyone has direct comparisons of the newer Versys/Vstrom
I guess most here will say the Vstrom is better, but I'm looking for a bit more than that.
I had an original Vstrom 1000 and loved it but the latest model looks a bit more minimalistic and the Versys more of a complete bike.
I know the engines are totally different but would like some ideas about day to day use and touring ability between the two.
Since I asked this question on the Versys forum, the 2019 model Versys has been announced with more bells and whistles and a bigger price tag.

[vstroman]

I think the versys looks better, the stacked headlights and beak on the vstrom are just ugly to me, but the V twin will always win the day, but I have never liked inline 4's,I see there are some new colours in the vstrom next year which will be an improvement at least in that regard. I have test ridden both bikes and I much preferred the vstrom despite it's looks.

[kissofdeath]

as Vstroman says, after testing both bikes the strom wins every time

[Brockett]

What is the weight difference, balance etc. What will it be  used for?

[TLPower]

KTM 1090 Adventure https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/KTM-1090-ADVENTURE-HUGE-2600-DISCOUNT-FROM-RRP-LTD-NUMBERS-IN-STOCK-NOW/113331513528? and also https://www.v-strom.co.uk/smf/index.php?topic=35404.0 both absolute bargains.

[deecat]

 We ran a 2016 Kawasaki Versys 1000 before changing it after doing about 5,000 miles on it for our current V-Strom 1000.

Both bikes are/ have been used for 90% two up riding. I have listed my own and the wife's opinions
 on both bikes.

Power the Kawasaki  has more but I would say that it is only better over say 90 mph and the Suzuki feels punchier lower down.

The Kawasaki turns in faster but now that I have become used to putting a bit more input on the Suzuki I have no problems going around corners.

The Standard suspension on the Suzuki soaks up bad roads better and unlike the Kawasaki which I changed for a Nitron shock the V-strom will stay stock.

The Kawasaki can cover ground well on smother motorways or A roads but if like us you want to travel on smaller B roads with poorer surfaces the Suzuki wins by a mile due to it feeling slimmer and lighter at low speeds,but it is still as good on A roads .

The Versys seat is slightly bigger and under seat storage (after removing the plastic tool holder )
is a lot better than the Suzuki.

The reasons for me changing the Kawasaki where that it was very heavy two up at walking pace to a point that I really had to pick where I would stop and the wife could tell that it was making me tense.

Also at constant 55-70mph speeds I would suffer with high frequency vibration after about 30 – 60 minuets that would make my hands go completely numb , tried rubber mounts, different bars. gloves etc  but nothing cured it.

For us we feel that we have found a very good bike with the V-strom which we find comfortable (lots of 6-8 hour riding days),fast enough good on fuel and the wife can tell that I find it no problem wherever we go .

If you have any specific questions about the Kawasaki I will try to help

[porter]

I've had my strom 3 and a half years and 25k so know it well. Recently rode a versy 1000 but only 50miles or so. it felt faster, more planted,, turned sharper, braked better, firmer suspension and more comfortable. I liked it.
But it was heavier,  though the weight was lower. There was some vibration from 5k rpm till about 7k felt through the bars, seat and pegs, but I could live with it.  The four cylinder engine goats you into revving it and so going faster, maybe too fast.
When I got on the strom to go home I just liked the relaxed feel of the v twin. I think the versy is the better bike but that don't mean it suits me better.
Get a ride on both see what suits you.

[doebag]

What is the weight difference, balance etc.

I don't know, that's why I am asking questions 

What will it be  used for?

My current ride is a GTR1400, which replaced my Vstrom. It's scratched an itch, but looking for something else now that Mrs DB does not go pillion. I think that going too small engine wise will be a shock after the GTR. Usage, mainly solo touring and pleasure riding, no commuting anymore. I'll test ride both a Vstrom and a Versys but like I said , at first looks, the Vstrom is a bit minimalistic compared to the Versys

[Relevant11]

you have to weigh up the need for bits and bobs against  having a v twin, tried the Kwak and the mt09 before the Veek , the  ergonomics and the engine won me over . Can’t say I’ve hankered after any gizmos I’m missing other than cruise control but I’ve one of those friction lock jobbies for the auto bhan.

[doboy]

I have just traded in a 2017 kawasaki 1000 so can give some advice.. I have had loads of bikes as I change them regular.. First of all the versys1000 engine is a peach & the smoothest engine I've ever had.. It also pulls like a train from any revs. It handles well for a big bike & brakes are good.. Down side, it's heavy so when loaded up with pillion & luggage you can feel that weight.. mpg was always 55.. However one of its biggest  downfall is that the heat from the radiator has no where to go so comes out a between the side panels straight onto your legs, and believe me it's "hot" in the summer. Shame kawasaki slipped with that one.

[doboy]

AN UPDATE. Kawasaki have just announced a new 2019 model 1000 versys  & it looks like they have made a mod to deflect the hot air away from the legs ..a bit late with that one ..and its said to be £14,350 ..I think it makes the 1000 v strom look a real bargain 

[UK_Vstrom650]

The 2019 1000 Versys comes with quite a few updates including cruise control, cornering lights, semi-active suspension etc. Details here:

https://www.visordown.com/news/new-bikes/2019-kawasaki-versys-1000-and-se-released

[porter]

Yes but do you really need it all. That makes the versy se a grand more than the basic Gs1250, I know what I'd rather have.
I ride with three mates on gs1200te, multi 1260 and tiger1200, I never get left behind, I never wonder if I'd be better on sport mode, comfort mode etc I don't pay their serving cost and my Veek was exactly half the price of two of theirs.
I'm sure kawasaki will do a basic version for a few grand less. It not a popular bike, like the Veek so I think they will struggle to sell them.

[TLPower]

 

[tonybro]

Without repeating the already comprehensive comments. Had two new Versys 650 in last three years. Test drove new Versys 1000 and the VStrom 1000. Instantly noticed the VStrom made me smile and had a thoroughly enjoyable ride.
The finish on Versys is better although at its new price tag needs to be. By the time you factor in the depreciation after a couple of years think the VStrom will win hands down.
The only thing I will miss on Versys is the luggage. Well thought out. A top box that can fit two helmets and panniers that don't impede it.