Kawasaki calls it an adventure tourer, but we think it might be more of a budget-friendly sport tourer, since it runs with a 17-inch front wheel that ain’t too gravel-friendly. Either way, we’re happy to see the Versys 650 LT get some updates for 2022 that should make it an even better machine.
The biggest update the middleweight Versys gets is a traction control system, which should be a welcome feature for those all-weather riders. Kawasaki’s TC system comes with two levels of interference, and can also be turned off at the handlebar.
There’s also a new 4.3-inch TFT colour dash. This certainly isn’t rare tech these days, but for the Versys to be taken seriously as a modern touring bike, it’s a welcome upgrade. Kawasaki says it’s Bluetooth-compatible with its proprietary Rideology app, too. The TFT offers a digital speedo, a bar-style tach, odometer, dual tripmeters, gear indicator and plenty of other data.
The bodywork gets an reworking for 2022, which is supposed to bring it more in line with the big Versys 1000. The overhaul includes a new LED headlight, and a four-way adjustable windscreen. Riders can adjust the windscreen over a three-inch range.
There are no known changes to the engine for 2022.
Kawasaki includes those plastic handguards in the purchase, and 28-litre detachable hard sidebags. As always, there’s a long list of official factory accessories you can add on as well. The Versys 650 LT comes with a two-year warranty, and an $11,399 MSRP, a $900 hike over the previous 2020 model. See more details at Kawasaki’s Canadian website here.
