Suzuki GSX-S1000GX vs Kawasaki Versys 650
Specs side by side, plus our verdict on which one is the smarter buy for the way you ride.
The Suzuki GSX-S1000GX and Kawasaki Versys 650 are among the most cross-shopped touring bikes of 2026. The Kawasaki Versys 650 undercuts the Suzuki GSX-S1000GX by about $8,400, so value is squarely on the table. On paper the Suzuki GSX-S1000GX leads on power with 150 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.
Our pickSuzuki
Suzuki GSX-S1000GX
Kawasaki
Kawasaki Versys 650The verdict
The Suzuki GSX-S1000GX edges it overall at 8.3/10, but the Kawasaki Versys 650 wins on best for new riders, so let how you ride decide.
Kawasaki Versys 650
66 hp.
Suzuki GSX-S1000GX
150 hp and 0.65 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.
Suzuki GSX-S1000GX
Our top score in this matchup at 8.3/10.
Cyan marks the best figure in each row. Specs are the most-cited for the current model; verify before relying on them.
Still torn between them?
Answer a few questions and we'll rank every bike by how well it fits you.
Suzuki GSX-S1000GX vs Kawasaki Versys 650: your questions answered
Which is faster, the Suzuki GSX-S1000GX or the Kawasaki Versys 650?
The Suzuki GSX-S1000GX makes the most power at 150 hp and 106 Nm, giving it the edge on outright performance.
Which is cheaper, the Suzuki GSX-S1000GX or the Kawasaki Versys 650?
The Kawasaki Versys 650 is the most affordable here with an MSRP around $10,099.
Which is lighter, the Suzuki GSX-S1000GX or the Kawasaki Versys 650?
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 Suzuki GSX-S1000GX or the Kawasaki Versys 650?
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.
