Kawasaki revealed the 2022 model update of its acclaimed Versys 650, which has been long overdue. The model receives some small but meaningful changes.
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Versys 650 gets a new face, TFT display and traction control
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H2 SX SE gets a new face and feature additions
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Updated Versys should arrive in India soon
Kawasaki Versys 650
The Versys 650 has finally gotten the update it’s been waiting for and the bike now has the same 5-inch TFT display seen across most of Kawasaki’s updated model range. This display also brings Bluetooth connectivity via the Kawasaki Rideology app. The Versys 650 finally also gets traction control that will be available in two modes. Mode 1 will be a little less intrusive while Mode 2 offers early intervention in low-grip surfaces. The system can also be turned off.
The other upgrade comes in the form of the new face that follows in the footsteps of the Versys 1000. The bike gets a sharper front fairing, twin LED headlights and a new four-way adjustable windscreen.
The rest of the motorcycle remains the same, including the 66hp, 649cc parallel twin motor and the impressive long-travel Showa suspension. We expect the updated Versys 650 to be here within the first quarter of next year and it could carry a price hike of around Rs 30,000-40,000 over the current model, which is priced at Rs 7.15 lakh, ex-showroom.
Kawasaki H2 SX SE
Kawasaki’s range-topping hypertourer also receives a big update for next year. While the 200hp, 999cc supercharged motor makes the same amount of power, it now gets revised cam timing, a new exhaust and multiple other changes to improve the refinement of both the engine and the gearbox.
Visually, the bike gets a more menacing-looking face with a new LED headlamp set-up. The side and upper fairing cowls have been redesigned and there’s a pair of more aerodynamic mirrors. It also gets a 6.5-inch TFT with its own unique smartphone app. In terms of comfort, the H2 SX SE now gets larger seats and a new version of Showa’s electronically controlled Skyhook suspension.
Kawasaki has given the bike a new Bosch 10.3ME IMU, which brings with it many more rider assists. These include a vehicle hold assist, keyless unlock and start and a tyre pressure monitoring system. Moreover, it also gets radar-assisted features like adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning and a blind spot assist.
Finally, the bike gets a new Brembo front brake master cylinder and Bridgestone Battlax S22 tyres. The H2 SX SE could debut in India sometime next year, but with an estimated price tag of around Rs 30 lakh, it might be available only on an order basis.
Vishal Venugopal
Ved Janve
Azaman Chothia
