Kawasaki Versys 650 Special Edition - 2017 Specifications and Reviews

The 2017 Kawasaki Versys 650 Special Edition is a versatile middleweight sport-tourer designed for riders seeking adventure without sacrificing everyday practicality. Known for its upright riding position, agile handling, and comfortable 840mm seat height, it excels at blending road and light off-road capability. The 21-liter fuel tank and balanced performance make it ideal for weekend getaways and commuting alike.

2017
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General information

CategoryAllround
Year2017
ModelKawasaki Versys 650 Special Edition
 
 

Engine and Transmission Specifications

DrivelineSealed chain
Transmission type,final driveChain
Gearbox6-speed
Cooling systemLiquid
Lubrication systemForced lubrication, semi-dry sump
IgnitionTCBI with electronic advance
Fuel controlDouble Overhead Cams/Twin Cam (DOHC)
Fuel systemInjection. Digital fuel injection with two 38mm Keihin throttle bodies
Valves per cylinder4
Bore x Stroke83.0 x 60.0 mm (3.3 x 2.4 inches)
Compression10.8:1
Torque64.00 Nm (6.5 kgf-m or 47.2 ft.lbs) @ 7000 RPM
Power69.00 HP (50.4 kW) @ 8500 RPM
Engine typeTwin, four-stroke
Capacity:649.00 ccm (39.60 cubic inches)

Brakes, suspension, Frame and wheels

Rear brakes diameter250 mm (9.8 inches)
Rear brakesSingle disc. Single-piston caliper.
Front brakes diameter300 mm (11.8 inches)
Front brakesDouble disc. Two-piston calipers.
Rear tyre160/60-ZR17
Front tyre120/70-ZR17
Rear wheel travel145 mm (5.7 inches)
Rear SuspensionOffset laydown single-shock with remote spring preload adjustability
Front wheel travel150 mm (5.9 inches)
Front Suspension41mm hydraulic telescopic fork with stepless adjustable rebound and preload / 5.9 in.
Trail108 mm (4.3 inches)
Rake (fork angle)25.0°
Frame typeTubular diamond, high-tensile steel

Physical measures and capacities

Fuel capacity21.00 litres (5.55 gallons)
Wheelbase1,415 mm (55.7 inches)
Ground clearance170 mm (6.7 inches)
Overall width841 mm (33.1 inches)
Overall length2,165 mm (85.2 inches)
Overall height1,400 mm (55.1 inches)
Seat height840 mm (33.1 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Weight incl. oil, gas, etc217.0 kg (478.4 pounds)

Other specs

MaintenanceFind parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay
CommentsSmall windscreen.
Factory warranty12 months
StarterElectric
Color optionsCandy LimeGreen/Metallic Spark Black

Performance Profile & Rider Fit

69 hp
Peak Power
4.2s
0-60 mph

Best For

Track30%
City70%
Cornering68%
Daily Riding78%
Touring80%
Passenger65%

Rider Profile

Best ForSuitable for newer and intermediate riders thanks to its manageable power delivery and forgiving, upright ergonomics.
PurposeDesigned as a versatile all-rounder for commuting, weekend rides, and light touring rather than outright performance.
Rider FitA moderate 840mm seat height and 217kg wet weight make it approachable for riders of average height and build.
CharacterA friendly, torquey parallel-twin adventure-tourer that balances comfort, practicality, and everyday usability.
Not Ideal ForNot the right choice for riders seeking track-focused speed or serious off-road capability.

Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.

Rider Fit Visualizer

2017 Kawasaki Versys 650 Special Edition Rider Ergonomics Assessment

Calculated in your browser only - your height/inseam are never sent to our servers.

Feet:

At 840mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with balls of both feet on the 2017 Kawasaki Versys 650 Special Edition, with a relaxed knee angle of around 130 degrees and a forward-leaning riding position.

Data quality: measured. Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated (a typical street-bike rule of thumb - stiffer or softer suspension will vary). This is an approximation from category-typical geometry and generic body proportions, not a measurement of this specific bike or you - sit on it before you buy.

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