There’s a huge range in style and capacity of learner bikes these days and when it comes to what you should buy, it’s difficult to know where to start. From 50cc scooters through to 650cc sportsbikes, there is a machine to suit every type of rider.

At the upper-end of capacity and size are a bunch of machines restricted in output, complying with the Learner Approved Motorcycle Scheme (LAMS). As such, capacity is 654cc and and there is a power-to-weight limit.

The large capacity LAMS bikes are the pick of the bunch as they are mostly restricted ‘big bikes’. As a result they get a more refined chassis, better quality of build and more powerful engine, which is the case for bikes like Ducati’s 659 Monster, Triumph Street Triple 660 and Suzuki GSX650F.

Kawasaki’s Versys 650L ABS is one of a three-bike 650 learner range that includes the sporty Ninja 650L and naked ER-6nL. Both the Ninja and Versys L models have a full power version too, available for the same price.

Image: Alex Gobert.

For 2015 there’s been a host of changes to the Versys 650. The biggest and most noticeable change is the styling; twin headlights are now central to a sharper, sleeker, more dynamic look. There’s been a host of changes with an emphasis on greater comfort, including a relaxed footpeg position, big grab rail, adjustable windscreen, rubber engine, handlebar and footpeg mounts.

A bigger tank, remote pre-load adjuster, integrated pannier mounts, stronger wheels and sub-frame, improve its function as a tourer.

The handling update for 2015 comes from a Showa Separate Function Fork (SFF), new shock settings, a new brake system and longer travel suspension. While in the engine a new header design improves high rpm performance and a revised ECU makes it more fuel-efficient.

Yes, the 650L is restricted. The full power 51kW, 64Nm parallel-twin engine from the 650 puts out 39kW and 57Nm in the 650L. The restrictions come from a different ECU and a throttle stop. At the end of the day it’s characteristically the same engine, but in the 650L it is optimised to work in a smaller band of power.

And work it does. Low- to mid-range is where it is at it’s strongest and most rider friendly. From idle it’s characteristic of a parallel-twin in how it makes power and torque. It will pull you out of slow situations a gear too high and not be hunting for revs at slow speed. From a standstill it hauls the 216kg machine away with ease.

Image: Alex Gobert.

Where you do miss the extra power is in low rpm, high gear situations. A couple of gears too low and you’ll have to make your way back down through the gearbox to get good drive. But out on the open road at speed, there is enough performance to pass with a crack of the throttle. Power restricted it might be, but there’s a lot more speed in this machine then what you need on the road.

Like the engine platform, the chassis design is a lot like the Ninja and ER6n. As such, it shares a lot of the inherent sharpness and excitement you get with a sportier chassis dimension.

The base setting is set for suppleness on the road and it isn’t challenged in this regard. The compliance of the rear shock is great in high-speed operation and the brakes give great feel and excellent power. It’s also light and fast in the steering that, along with the slim width and tall seat, make it great cutting through traffic.

When you do ride it harder you feel that the front reacts too slow. This is just a base setting shift that more experienced riders may want and one the Showa fork allows you to dial out. The front-end gives excellent incremental adjustment change on the adjusters placed on the top of the fork legs.

Image: Alex Gobert.

With a tall 840mm seat height, the Versys will suit taller riders best and be a challenge for shorter ones. The scallops at the back of the tank keeping my knees too wide is my only bad criticism of an otherwise brilliant seating position.

The long seat and rubber mounting of the engine, footpegs and handlebars make it a super smooth ride. The adjustable windscreen cuts the air well in its highest position and if you are shorter than 180cm you will be cocooned behind it. In the lowest position you get full wind flow with a brunt of the impact taken out by the spoilers and passages in the new fairing design.

It’s this level of adjustability and attention to detail where the big value in the Versys is. This and more importantly the quality of finish and level of performance set the Versys at the top-end of the new learner bike market. Best of all, it’s at a price that’s pretty hard to beat for value for money.

It’s good as a commuter, great for touring and fun in corners. It’s all this and learner legal in the 650L, a highly versatile all-rounder for everyone.

Image: Alex Gobert.

Specifications

Engine type: Liquid-cooled, DOHC, four valve per-cylinder parallel-twin
Capacity: 649cc
Bore x stroke: 83 x 60mm
Compression ratio: 10.8:1
Claimed power: 39kW @ 7800rpm
Claimed torque: 57Nm @ 3800rpm
Wet weight: 216kg
Seat height: 840mm
Wheelbase: 1415mm
Fuel tank capacity: 17L
Colours: Metallic Spark Black/Flat Ebony
Price: $9999 + ORC
Detailed specs: www.kawasaki.com.au