A couple of sharp, fresh paint schemes have us regarding the multi-talented Versys 650 in a whole new light.If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission. Learn more"Versys" is a funny made-up word that makes a bit more sense when you do what I just did and look it up on Wikipedia.There I learned that Kawasaki's vaunted adventure touring bike's moniker "is a portmanteau of the words versatile and system."The Versys 650 gains two new colorways, including Candy Lime Green/Metallic Spark Black, for the 2027 model year. - Credit: KawasakiI've never thought of a motorcycle as a system, but especially in its 650 variant, the bike is versatile as hell.AdvertisementAdvertisementIt's also even more compelling for the 2027 model year, thanks to a couple of complementary new colorways that each pop in their own unique ways.Green machinesEspecially on the top half of the bike, the two new paint schemes (which just popped up on Kawi's European site) are nearly photo negatives of each other.The Candy Lime Green/Metallic Spark Black really leans into green on the front fender, fairing and tail piece, set off by a black and silver body and various silver components.The Metallic Carbon Gray/Metallic Spark Black edition keeps things stealthy, with just a hint of green up front nodding to Kawasaki's heritage. - Credit: KawasakiMeanwhile, the Metallic Carbon Gray/Metallic Spark Black edition flips the script, embracing the dark side with just a bit of green up front, acknowledging the brand's signature shade.AdvertisementAdvertisementTo me, they both look great, with the choice coming down to how low-profile you want to go; as someone whose wardrobe is probably 90 percent black, I favor the bike with a similar aesthetic, but to each their own.Suspension is fully adjustable: a 41mm inverted fork handles the front, while a remote-preload-adjustable single shock manages the rear. - Credit: KawasakiBecause no matter which you pick, you've got a winner with the Versys 650.Sitting smack in the middle of the Versys range (the brand also offers a 300 and an 1100, in the US market anyway) lands the 650 in Goldilocks territory. The 649cc parallel-twin engine makes 66.1 horsepower at 8,500 rpm and 44.9 Ib-ft of torque at 7,000 rpm, more than enough oomph and grunt to zip through gridlock and rip through twisties far beyond city limits. With 66.1 hp and 44.9 lb-ft of torque on tap, the Versys 650's parallel-twin has plenty of firepower for city riding and canyon carving alike. - Credit: KawasakiThough the seat height of 33.3 inches (and 6.7 inches of ground clearance) may put off newer and shorter riders, the curb weight of 482.9 pounds is relatively approachable for this type of bike. AdvertisementAdvertisementHelping to keep things under control is a responsive braking set-up (dual semi-floating 300mm discs up front and a 250mm disc at the rear), complemented by ABS and Kawasaki's own traction control system. A 33.3-inch seat height paired with 6.7 inches of ground clearance means confident trail capability; the 482.9-pound curb weight keeps the bike from feeling overwhelming, even in two-up scenarios. - Credit: KawasakiThe suspension is just as solid: a 41mm inverted telescopic fork, with adjustable rebound damping and adjustable preload, plus a single rear shock with remote spring preload adjustability. The bike also boasts a four-position adjustable windshield, powerful LED lights and a full-color 4.3-inch TFT dash you can pair with your smartphone for foolproof navigation.Just in case you needed more reasons to give the new Versys 650 a double-take.Availability and pricing While the bike has yet to be announced for the US market, based on existing patterns, it should happen in a matter of weeks. AdvertisementAdvertisementConsidering the updates are aesthetic, not mechanical, I would be surprised if the price deviates too much from the 2026 model year's $10,399 starting price.2027 Kawasaki Versys 650 Learn More About the Author:Now managing editor, Steve has served in a variety of roles with GP since 2019. Having previously written and edited for such publications as Men's Health, Men's Journal, Esquire and ESPN, he enjoys covering a range of topics — but mostly those pertaining to cycling, snow sports, pocket knives and motos — and dreams of a utopian world in which everyone's bike seat is at the proper height.Want to stay up to date on the latest product news and releases? Add Gear Patrol as a preferred source to ensure our independent journalism makes it to the top of your Google search results.