The Kawasaki Versys-X 250 made its debut last year, bringing a dual-sport flavour into the popular 250 cc segment with its 249 cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine. Thus equipped, the junior Versys produced 33.5 hp at 11,500 rpm and 21.7 Nm of torque at 10,000 rpm, adding a viable entry-level step on the dual-sport ladder.
At RM23,789 including GST though without road tax, registration and insurance, the Versys-X 250 is somewhat unique in the capacity segment which is otherwise populated by naked and full-fairing sports bikes. As shown here, its taller, upright stance offers a new choice for riders shopping in the 250 cc class who may otherwise find a sport bike too stretched out, or a naked bike a little short in the saddle.
Its 810 mm seat height is slightly more accessible relative to other, larger dual-purpose bikes, while being shod with wire-spoke wheels measuring 19 inches in front and 17 inches at the rear; the front fork is non-adjustable though the rear monoshock is preload-adjustable. Transmission is via a six-speed gearbox, while the standard-fit centre-stand allows for more stable parking and easier chain maintenance.
Stopping duty is handled by single Nissin disc brakes front and rear, with a four-pot caliper for the front. As tested, this Versys-X 250 did not come with ABS, which we found to be a notable omission on a machine likely to be pressed into daily riding duties. How does it perform on the move? Watch our video above to find out.
A fixed-height windshield offers decent wind protection for motorway-speed jaunts, too, while mounting brackets as standard are ready to accommodate a top box. Bodywork makes the Versys-X 250 look larger than it is, with plastic shrouding around the 17-litre petrol tank, which incidentally offered a usable range of almost 400 km between fills in its time with us. As for colours, you can have any shade as long as it directly reflects Team Green.
GALLERY: Kawasaki Versys-X 250
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As usual another great video from you Mohan.Between this and the BMW G310GS,which is the better machine?I know the price difference is quite substantial and licencing class not withstanding.Does the Bimmer worth the extra outlay.Thanks
I owned the Versys-X and my friend has the G310s. What he said after riding my bike is that it handles the same and has lighter clutch very good for stop and go traffic (which he likes). But he says that my bike has more vibrations on the handle bar compare to his, but he said since we only use it for commuting to work its negligible. Hope this help.
Great video. I have a question. Since it’s a dual purpose bike, any idea what is the ride experience off the tarmac? Will it tolerate the palm oil plantation roads? Or some durian orchards maybe?
Mohan I love your beard.
Mohan, actually the versys-x 250 is not unique. It was preceded with the very popular KTNS RS3 250cc. And if tall 250cc is what you are looking for, plenty of motard bikes like the Demak DTM 250, Kawasaki D-Tracker 250, CMC Tekken 250 are also available.
As for the comment on the notable ommission of ABS in this little 250cc bike, is ABS widely available in this segment in the 1st place? The wording should be “it would be nice if ABS is available…” This is not a problem of language, this is a problem of the superbiker perception in you that still cannot be put aside when riding other genere of bikes. Please improve.
Mohan has given an excellent review (as usual) within the time limit. I am sure he knows everything you have said and more.
Does this bike considered as tall bike? Does it possible to adjust the height of this bike? I’m sorry for this question, not very experienced with a touring/dual-purpose bike you see.