Do you find your Kawasaki Versys 650 a bit too tall for comfort? You’re not alone. Many riders love this versatile bike but struggle with its height, especially when stopping or maneuvering in tight spaces.
Key Takeaways
- Understand the Versys 650: Familiarize yourself with the bike’s specifications, including its seat height of 33.1 inches and weight of 483 pounds, to appreciate the need for lowering adjustments.
- Benefits of Lowering: Lowering the bike enhances stability, boosts confidence when stopping, and eases foot placement, making it more comfortable for various riders, especially on long rides.
- Popular Lowering Methods: Key methods to lower the Versys 650 include adjusting suspension preload, installing lowering links, or modifying the seat for a lower profile.
- Essential Tools: Gather necessary tools such as a socket set, torque wrench, and motorcycle stand to ensure a smooth and safe lowering process.
- Follow Safety Protocols: Always assess the impact on ride quality and handling after modifications; consult a professional mechanic if unsure about suspension adjustments.
- Performance Considerations: Adjust suspension settings carefully to maintain optimal handling, especially after any height changes, to ensure safe riding.
Understanding The Kawasaki Versys 650
The Kawasaki Versys 650 offers impressive versatility, yet many riders find its height challenging. Understanding its features and benefits helps you prepare for potential adjustments.
Overview Of The Motorcycle
The Kawasaki Versys 650 combines sport performance with touring capability. Weighing approximately 483 pounds and featuring a seat height of 33.1 inches, it suits various riding styles. Its 649cc engine delivers about 68 horsepower, making it responsive for both city rides and long journeys. The bike’s upright seating position enhances visibility and comfort, which many riders appreciate. However, the height can create difficulties when stopping or maneuvering.
Importance Of Lowering
Lowering the Versys 650 can significantly enhance rideability. Riders benefit from improved stability, easier foot placement, and greater confidence when stopping. A lower seat height can prevent leg strain, promoting comfort on longer trips. When adjusting the height, consider how it impacts handling and suspension. Ensuring proper lowering techniques maintains the bike’s performance, resulting in a smoother riding experience without compromising safety.
Popular Methods To Lower Kawasaki Versys 650
Lowering your Kawasaki Versys 650 can enhance comfort and control. Several popular methods exist, each with different approaches and benefits.
Adjusting The Suspension
Adjusting the suspension provides an effective way to lower the bike. You can modify the preload on the fork and shock to reduce the ride height.
- Locate the Adjusters: Find the preload adjusters on the front forks and the rear shock.
- Use Tools: Use the appropriate tools, like a spanner wrench, for adjustment.
- Make Incremental Changes: Turn the adjusters clockwise for a firmer ride, which lowers the bike, or counterclockwise for a softer ride. Test sit on the bike after each adjustment to find your preferred height.
Lowering Links
Lowering links change the geometry of the bike, providing a more noticeable reduction in seat height.
- Purchase Compatible Links: Look for lowering links specifically designed for the Versys 650.
- Support The Bike: Use a motorcycle stand or jack to keep the bike stable during installation.
- Remove The Rear Suspension: Detach the rear shock and lower links using hand tools.
- Install The New Links: Attach the new links and reassemble the rear suspension. This can lower the bike by approximately 1 to 2 inches.
Seat Modifications
Modifying the seat can also create a lower ride experience.
- Consider Seat Padding: Remove some padding from the seat for a lower profile. Professional upholstery shops can assist with this.
- Use Lower Seat Options: Look into aftermarket seats designed to lower the seating position while maintaining comfort.
- Evaluate Positioning: Test different seating options to ensure an optimal fit for your height and riding style.
These methods work together to lower your Kawasaki Versys 650, improving handling and confidence on the road. Always double-check your modifications for safety and compatibility with the bike’s design.
Tools And Materials Needed
To lower your Kawasaki Versys 650 effectively, gather the right tools and materials. This will help ensure that the modification process goes smoothly.
Essential Tools
- Socket Set: A comprehensive socket set helps remove and tighten nuts and bolts on your bike.
- Wrench Set: A good quality wrench set provides leverage for bolts in tight spaces.
- Torque Wrench: This tool ensures bolts are tightened to the proper specifications, which is crucial for safety.
- Allen Wrenches: These are essential for adjusting various components, especially on adjustable suspension systems.
- Pliers: Needle-nose pliers or regular pliers can aid in gripping and maneuvering small parts.
- Jack or Motorcycle Stand: A stable jack or motorcycle stand supports the bike during modifications.
- Lowering Links: These replace the stock links and reduce the bike’s height without compromising suspension performance.
- Suspension Adjustments: Consider new springs or preload spacers tailored for a lower ride height.
- Seat Foam or Lower Seat: A lower seat or seat foam reduction improves comfort and lowers the bike further.
- Screw and Bolt Kit: A fresh set of screws and bolts ensures more secure fastening after adjustments.
- Lubricant: Use a lubricant for moving parts to ease adjustments and prolong the life of components.
Step-By-Step Guide
Follow these steps to effectively lower your Kawasaki Versys 650 for a more comfortable ride.
Lowering The Suspension
- Gather Your Materials: Use a jack or motorcycle stand, socket set, and a torque wrench.
- Prepare The Bike: Elevate the bike and ensure it’s stable before making adjustments.
- Adjust The Forks: Loosen the top clamp bolts, slide the fork tubes up by 1-2 inches, and retighten the bolts to secure them.
- Set Rear Suspension: Locate the rear shock preload adjuster. Decrease preload to lower the bike’s rear end.
- Check Alignment: Ensure both front and rear adjustments are even to maintain stability.
Installing Lowering Links
- Choose The Right Links: Purchase lowering links specifically designed for the Versys 650. These often lower the bike by 1-2 inches.
- Remove The Rear Wheel: Use a socket set and wrench to take off the rear wheel for easier access.
- Detach The Shock: Remove the shock mounting bolts using your wrench. Be careful to support the swingarm.
- Install Lowering Links: Attach the new lowering links according to manufacturer instructions. Ensure they’re securely fastened.
- Reassemble The Bike: Reattach the shock, reinstall the rear wheel, and tighten all bolts to the recommended torque specs.
- Select A Lower Seat Option: Consider aftermarket seats designed for lower height or modifying the existing seat.
- Remove The Seat: Use an Allen wrench to detach the seat promptly and reveal the foam.
- Trim Seat Foam: Carefully shave down the foam using a knife or electric carving knife. Aim to reduce height without sacrificing comfort.
- Test The Fit: Reattach the seat to check your new height. Make adjustments until you achieve optimal comfort and reach.
- Secure Everything: Ensure all components are tightly fastened. Zero movement enhances safety on the road.
Each of these steps allows for a custom fit to enhance your riding experience on the Versys 650, ensuring you maintain control and comfort on your journeys.
Safety Considerations
Lowering your Kawasaki Versys 650 enhances comfort and control, but safety must remain a priority during this process. Keep the following considerations in mind.
Impact On Ride Quality
Lowering your bike affects its ride quality. A lower center of gravity can improve stability, especially during cornering. While some riders enjoy this enhancement, too much lowering can lead to a harsher ride, reducing comfort over bumps and rough roads. It’s important to find a balance. Always assess your riding style and the typical terrain to determine how low to lower your bike.
Ensuring Proper Handling
Proper handling is crucial after making modifications. Adjust your suspension settings following any height changes. Begin by checking suspension sag; this involves measuring the bike’s height before and after you sit on it. Make the necessary adjustments to maintain optimal handling. Improperly adjusted suspension can lead to instability, especially at higher speeds. If unsure about adjustments, consult a professional mechanic for assistance.
Conclusion
Lowering your Kawasaki Versys 650 can make a world of difference in your riding experience. By taking the time to adjust the suspension or modify the seat you can achieve a more comfortable and controlled ride.
Always keep safety in mind and ensure that your adjustments don’t compromise handling. Finding the right balance is key to enjoying your bike while maintaining stability.
If you’re ever unsure about the process don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Happy riding and enjoy the newfound confidence that comes with a lower seat height!
Frequently Asked Questions
What challenges do riders face with the Kawasaki Versys 650?
Riders often struggle with the tall height of the Kawasaki Versys 650, which can affect comfort, control, and handling. This height may make it difficult for shorter riders to reach the ground securely, impacting their confidence when stopping or maneuvering.
How can I lower my Kawasaki Versys 650?
You can lower your Versys 650 by adjusting the suspension, installing lowering links, or modifying the seat. These methods help improve comfort and handling, making it easier to ride, especially for shorter individuals.
What safety considerations should I keep in mind when lowering my bike?
Safety is crucial when lowering your bike. Proper suspension adjustments are necessary to maintain stability and ride quality. Ensure that any modifications don’t compromise handling, especially at higher speeds, and consider seeking professional help if unsure.
How do suspension adjustments impact ride quality?
Suspension adjustments significantly affect ride quality as they determine how the bike responds to bumps and turns. Properly adjusted suspension helps maintain stability and comfort, while improper adjustments can lead to instability and a rough ride.
Should I seek professional help when modifying my motorcycle?
If you are uncertain about lowering your motorcycle or making suspension adjustments, it is advisable to seek professional assistance. Experts can ensure modifications are done correctly, optimizing safety and performance based on your specific riding style and terrain.
