Kawasaki Versys 650 vs Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX
Specs side by side, plus our verdict on which one is the smarter buy for the way you ride.
The Kawasaki Versys 650 and Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX are among the most cross-shopped touring bikes of 2026. The Kawasaki Versys 650 undercuts the Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX by about $3,000, so value is squarely on the table. On paper the Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX leads on power with 142 hp. Below we put them head to head on price, performance, weight and seat height, then give our verdict on which one is the smarter buy for the way you ride.
Kawasaki
Kawasaki Versys 650
Our pickKawasaki
Kawasaki Ninja 1000SXThe verdict
The Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX edges it overall at 8.1/10, but the Kawasaki Versys 650 wins on best for new riders, so let how you ride decide.
Kawasaki Versys 650
66 hp.
Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX
142 hp and 0.60 hp/kg, the strongest here.
Kawasaki Versys 650
Our 7/10 at $10,099, the most bike per dollar.
Kawasaki Versys 650
220 kg with an 845 mm seat, the easiest to throw around.
Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX
Our top score in this matchup at 8.1/10.
Cyan marks the best figure in each row. Specs are the most-cited for the current model; verify before relying on them.
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Kawasaki Versys 650 vs Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX: your questions answered
Which is faster, the Kawasaki Versys 650 or the Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX?
The Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX makes the most power at 142 hp and 111 Nm, giving it the edge on outright performance.
Which is cheaper, the Kawasaki Versys 650 or the Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX?
The Kawasaki Versys 650 is the most affordable here with an MSRP around $10,099.
Which is lighter, the Kawasaki Versys 650 or the Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX?
The Kawasaki Versys 650 is the lightest at 220 kg, which makes it the easiest to manage at low speed and in the bends.
Which is better for a beginner, the Kawasaki Versys 650 or the Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX?
For a new rider we'd point to the Kawasaki Versys 650: 66 hp and 220 kg make it the most approachable of the group.
