F800 GS vs Kawasaki Versys 2010

[ol170]

Hi Chaps

I'm posting this in the hope that someone might have experience with both machines, or at least be able to offer me an insight into which bike might be more suitable for my needs (or just generally better)?

I've narrowed my search for a new bike down to the two above (a Versys 2010 (new) or an F800GS 2008/2009). I took the Versys for a test ride last weekend up near Cambridge and generally liked the bike - a bit vibey at higher speeds but light and relatively fast.

I'm taking the F800GS out tomorrow for a few hours as a direct comparison. I've always wanted to enter the world of GS and the F800 seems to be the perfect bike to begin!

I should say that the bike will be primarily used for distance travelling, with luggage - off-road ability is very attractive (which clearly leans me towards the beemer...) - as is the potential to customise it with a variety of adventure accessories...

I should have a better idea myself tomorrow after having ridden the 800, however, with a limited no. of hours under my belt with either of the bikes a further insight would be most welcome and useful!

Many thanks for your time.

Oli

 

[richie]

Hi Chaps

I'm posting this in the hope that someone might have experience with both machines, or at least be able to offer me an insight into which bike might be more suitable for my needs (or just generally better)?

I've narrowed my search for a new bike down to the two above (a Versys 2010 (new) or an F800GS 2008/2009). I took the Versys for a test ride last weekend up near Cambridge and generally liked the bike - a bit vibey at higher speeds but light and relatively fast.

I'm taking the F800GS out tomorrow for a few hours as a direct comparison. I've always wanted to enter the world of GS and the F800 seems to be the perfect bike to begin!

I should say that the bike will be primarily used for distance travelling, with luggage - off-road ability is very attractive (which clearly leans me towards the beemer...) - as is the potential to customise it with a variety of adventure accessories...

I should have a better idea myself tomorrow after having ridden the 800, however, with a limited no. of hours under my belt with either of the bikes a further insight would be most welcome and useful!

Many thanks for your time.

Oli

I rode an 800GS a few weeks ago owned by Rich of this parish, it was possibly, probably the best dual purpose bike I have ever ridden full stop.

 

[(RIP) Ewan]

I have an F800GS and love it. However, the F650 twin is probably a closer comparison to the Versys with regard to power, weight, price, seat height, wheel size, tyre type. The F800 will feel different to the Versys, I expect you will definitely prefer one or the other. However, if you prefer the Versys, give the F650 a go before you write off GSs. Good luck!

 

[Dean]

I have an F800GS and love it. However, the F650 twin is probably a closer comparison to the Versys with regard to power, weight, price, seat height, wheel size, tyre type. The F800 will feel different to the Versys, I expect you will definitely prefer one or the other. However, if you prefer the Versys, give the F650 a go before you write off GSs. Good luck!

When ive read the reports and reviews on the Versys I have always thought it seems the closest to the F650GS

mind the versys is a 650 and the f650 is a 800 but detuned but i think still lhas a tad more power... and maybe smoother engine but have never ridden a versys so can not compare, but i think they look good

The F800GS is without doubt also a good bike

good luck with your choice which ever it is

 

[Davy F]

I rode a Verseys from north of Aberdeen to Stranrear, then home to its new owner in Norn Iron. Cracking bike and was able to easily keep up with the TDM900 we had gone over on. I would certaintly consider one if I was looking in that segment of the market.

 

[John Armstrong]

I'm sure there's a test in this months MS & L with the Suzuki 650, F650GS and Versys.

 

[Janie]

i have a versys as my second bike.........and its light easy to ride..if not a bit boring, but a great bike for playin on..... don't know if i would want to do long tours on....
but i have admit i'm a beemer lover and if i could have a 800 as well i would have.......

 

[red1]

Have a look on www.webbikeworld.com

They had 2 early Versys and tweeked and blinged them and used them for tours into the Canadian outback. They seemed to love them.

The Versys gets excellent write-ups everywhere.

 

[Rangoonruns]

I have ridden a versys 3x now and i am always amazed how this bike takes corners, i love it if only it was an 800cc for the leg work

 

[Duchess]

I quite like my versy's

 

[twizzle]

Well, i think you have your answer.......

Hi Chaps


I've always wanted to enter the world of GS and the F800 seems to be the perfect bike to begin!




Oli

 

[K75 King]

Hi Oli,

I think the BMW is the bike for you, but I am slightly biased as it was me who saw you out on your demo ride on Sunday!!


Tony

 

[ol170]

Thank you everyone for your advice. Great to have a breath of responses!

I had a really good 4 hours on the F800GS courtesy of Coopers BMW in Tunbridge Wells and had an exhilarating ride to Sissinghurst.....!

I have to say, I was really impressed with the beemer and am convinced this is the way I want to go. With quite a bit of power throughout the gears, the engine seemed really comfortable at higher speeds, more substantial and solid. The Versys in contrast always seemed slightly strained, willing you to rev it more - consequently I never quite felt I was in the right gear..!?

So, onwards for me.... I’m joining the club!

Can anyone tell me if installing an akrapovic (or similar) exhaust to a bike like the 800 has any negative effects on the performance or longevity of any components?

Thanks, Oli

 

[Duchess]

So, onwards for me.... I’m joining the club!

Thanks, Oli

Noooo .... dont do that one

 

[Rangoonruns]

or wait for a tiger cub lol.

 

[K75 King]

Can anyone tell me if installing an akrapovic (or similar) exhaust to a bike like the 800 has any negative effects on the performance or longevity of any components?

Thanks, Oli

Hi Oli,

The Akrapovic we fit is supplied through BMW and is recommended by them. I've not heard of any bikes suffering through fitting the exhaust, and the (slight) increase in performance is worth it.

 

[ol170]

Hi Oli,

The Akrapovic we fit is supplied through BMW and is recommended by them. I've not heard of any bikes suffering through fitting the exhaust, and the (slight) increase in performance is worth it.

Thanks Tony, very good to know. O

 

[Dean]

So, onwards for me.... I’m joining the club!

Can anyone tell me if installing an akrapovic (or similar) exhaust to a bike like the 800 has any negative effects on the performance or longevity of any components?

Thanks, Oli

Hi oli, welcome to the,erm forum.

a great bike you have chosen

my akrapovic was fited to my bike as new even carries a BMW parts number and is under there warranty. so the effect is all positive

 

[ahmorris]

I have a 2007 Versys which is fun, but for long distances I find it very vibby. I'm swapping it for an R1200GSA.

 

[richie]

I rode an 800GS a few weeks ago owned by Rich of this parish, it was possibly, probably the best dual purpose bike I have ever ridden full stop.

And rode a Versys today, it is a good bike, but it is no match for the 800GS....

If you have no intention of off roading whatsoever, great bike...