2015 Versys 1000
Discussion
Following moanthebairns rallying cry I thought I'd contribute rather than just lurking...
I test rode the new(ish) Versys 1000 last week and I was fairly impressed in the main. They’ve dramatically improved the styling of it, the engine sounds good although a little quite for my taste and the menu’s/on-board computer were all easy to use. It felt much nicer to ride than the Crosstourer which I rode last year, handling is sharper and engine is geared much better IMO. The seat/riding position was very comfortable and I can’t imagine a pillion ever having any issues with comfort.
Negatives: the base model which I rode is very basic indeed and even if you spend the money on the higher spec models the added accessories (heated grips & gear indicator for example) look and feel very cheap. The screen is awful, the adjustment system is clumsy and not accessible while on the move and even in the fully up position it provided little comfort, and I wish it had a bit more power to put it on par with the alternatives.
Would I buy one? Possibly if I was on a tight budget and warranty was top of my agenda. There are plenty of alternatives, both new and used, but you can upgrade to 4 years warranty for £360ish which is appealing. This would be a great bike for touring with a pillion (although without a pillion there’s probably better options) but for me I’m not sure it excites me enough to buy one brand new through choice. I’d rather spend a bit more money on something a little more refined with a bit more go.
I test rode the new(ish) Versys 1000 last week and I was fairly impressed in the main. They’ve dramatically improved the styling of it, the engine sounds good although a little quite for my taste and the menu’s/on-board computer were all easy to use. It felt much nicer to ride than the Crosstourer which I rode last year, handling is sharper and engine is geared much better IMO. The seat/riding position was very comfortable and I can’t imagine a pillion ever having any issues with comfort.
Negatives: the base model which I rode is very basic indeed and even if you spend the money on the higher spec models the added accessories (heated grips & gear indicator for example) look and feel very cheap. The screen is awful, the adjustment system is clumsy and not accessible while on the move and even in the fully up position it provided little comfort, and I wish it had a bit more power to put it on par with the alternatives.
Would I buy one? Possibly if I was on a tight budget and warranty was top of my agenda. There are plenty of alternatives, both new and used, but you can upgrade to 4 years warranty for £360ish which is appealing. This would be a great bike for touring with a pillion (although without a pillion there’s probably better options) but for me I’m not sure it excites me enough to buy one brand new through choice. I’d rather spend a bit more money on something a little more refined with a bit more go.
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