Hey there riders Moto Journo Kris here and Kawasaki are updating their Versys 650 beginner to mid-range sport tourer for 2022, with a couple of welcome changes no doubt aimed at keeping up with the competition.For 2022 things go up a notch, there’s no major overhaul, however if you’re spending your hard spent moolah and assuming the price doesn’t change drastically this will remain one of the best value touring options.

First up I’ll mention the KTRC or Traction Control system that’s being added, that’ll offer two modes and can be turned off, aiming at boosting safety in slippery conditions, although on the A2 models in Europe there’ll only be one mode.

Running a parallel twin 649 cc engine, the Versys 650 already offers fairly smooth, linear and predictable power, with a six-speed gearbox offering plenty of flexibility, and no slipper clutch, not that’s it’s particularly necessary. So was traction control a must? Well KTM introduced it on their 390 Adventure, while the V-Strom 650 also boasts it, so I would say it’s a smart inclusion to entice the safety conscious.

Blinging things up a fair bit more is also the inclusion of a new 4.3 inch TFT display, with switchable dark/light backgrounds and phone syncing via the Rideology app, which gives access to the bike’s settings and data via a smartphone, but also has the capability to record riding logs with GPS information – making use of your mobile’s GPS and data. That does mean the app needs to be running in the background, however that’s probably not an issue for many people, as it can sit in a pocket doing that. To keep your smartphone charged however, a USB or DC power connection is an accessory.

With the electronics system being much more basic than the Versys 1000 which also runs the Rideology app, it’s unlikely you’ll be needing it to set a huge number of electronic settings, however it’s still a nice inclusion. Sure I can live without a TFT but if all the competition start to have one and pricing is competitive, it’s an easy feature to influence buying decisions.

Lighting is now also all LED, which I’d almost say is bigger news than the TFT display, LED headlights just offer far better performance and light throw than old halogen units, which boosts safety and visibility and vision. On a bike that’s a capable tourer but also an ideal commuter, having good lighting at night is essential.

That also extends to the indicators which are LED now too, in a nice premium touch, rapidly becoming the norm. I reckon LED indicators are much more visible too, when we get the high quality items from bike manufacturers so that’s a win as well. The taillight was already LED, with many machines making that swap before any other lighting.

You’ll also notice a styling update with the Versys 650, which is somewhat subtle but definitely gives the front a more sporting edge and I’d say the bike has gone from strength to strength there.

That does mean better wind protection on the 2022 version according to Kawasaki too, with a four position adjustable screen spanning 80 mm of adjustability. No tools are required either, there’s a simple latch system you can operate from the rider’s seat, making it easy to use, but coming with a recommendation not to do this while moving.

Images courtesy of Kawasaki Motorcycles.

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