I tested both and was very tempted by the Tracer, but ended up buying the Versys. At first I was a bit put off by the weight of the Versys, but of course once it’s moving you don’t notice it. In fact, to me the extra weight meant it felt much more stable on bends, on uneven surfaces and particularly in crosswinds. On the Tracer I felt very much high up and “on” the bike, without the road “presence” or wind protection of the Versys. Also remember that Yamaha don’t recommend fitting a top box to the Tracer, and its maximum payload is 167kg compared to 220 kg for the Versys. So for me, the Tracer is a lighter, more nimble bike for A and B roads and shorter trips, mostly solo. The Versys is bigger, more comfortable, easier to ride and will take two people as far as they want to go. I’m not sure about your problem with the foot pegs, I’m 5’9” and have never noticed this. Great review by the way, and don’t get me wrong, the Tracer is a great bike! PS Kawasaki recommend only using the QS up above 4000 rpm, and on the way down only with a closed throttle. In other words, like all QS, it’s a tool borrowed from racing and should be used as such. A lot of bad reviews are due to people not following this advice. And of course your Tracer is presumably well run in compared to the Versys demo you were riding. All these systems improve with use and familiarity. But quite honestly, unless you’re racing or overtaking, it’s best to use the clutch. PPS the mild vibration at 4000 rpm is typical of a new engine, I had it too. After 1000 miles or so of careful running in according to the handbook, it will disappear completely
Hi Charles Thankyou for your comments and feedback. I'm sure it will be helpful to lots of people trying to decide between the two bikes. Ultimately though there is no perfect bike, only what is perfect for you, although we all settle for a compromise in order of what's more important to us. Be that top speed, carrying capacity, weight, rider comfort, electronics, seat height etc....My ride was only 45 mins and I know from my own bikes that some minor annoyances disappear once we have more time and get used to riding the bikes. For example the mirrors on my Z1000sx seemed too far away compared to the ones on my Tracer. Now the mirrors on my Tracer feel too close after riding the Z1000sx and I prefer the Kawa's mirrors. Hope we all get back to normal soon and get out for some fun and therapy on our lovely machines. Thanks again Charles.
Thanks for this compare GeeTee,I bought my Versys 1000 from Millenium a year ago and considered the Tracer GT at the time.I haven't ridden the Yam but let me tell you I had the exact same issue with the Versys footrests being in the wrong place (same as the 650) but being a six footer I can plant a foot either side and quickly got used to it. I know guys who like me had the 650 Versys and then bought the Tracer 900 and they love them like you do.I never test rode the Yam but I'm really happy with the big V,it's great that there is so much choice out there. If you are reading the comments and are considering these two great bikes I would strongly recommend test riding both of them.I had a great experience at Millenium (I have no allegiance except its where I bought my 650 V) and if we don't support our local dealers we will not have local dealers!!
I tested these back to back and agree that I could get both feet flat on the Tracer but not on the Versys, also I found both pulled well but the seat of the Versys much better but I am heavy. Overall you need to test both, Versys better two up and for larger/taller people, the Tracer better for lighter/shorter riders. The price difference disappears if you compare base Versys as that is a better match for the Tracer, no electronic suspension or cornering lights etc. Good review, thankyou. And yes I went Versys SE GT . :)
Thankyou for your comment Gopher1471. You did the right thing by testing both. They are great bikes and each person's compromise would be different from the next. Thanks again
Nice, no nonsense review that GT. These are the two bikes I've come down to so your thoughts are really useful. My heart says Yam, but you've pointed out the better wind protection and load capacity on the Kwaker, so I'm still unsure. Thanks anyway.
A very nice and detailed review comparing the Tracer & Versys. I'm glad I found this! My brother just purchased a 2020 Tracer in June and I have a 2016 (purchased in June, 2017) Versys. We took a trip with friends a couple months ago and traded bikes for 35 miles or so. He has the base model Tracer that cost about $9000(out the door) and my Versys was $10,500 (out the door.) Obviously his Tracer base model does not have all the bells & whistles of the GT and mine does not have all the upgrades that were new to the 2019-20 Versys models. First: Both are wonderful motorcycles. In my short 35 mile ride on the Tracer, I really enjoyed it's smaller feel, light handling, peppy engine & overall quality. I found the Tracer a little rougher at higher rpm's than the 4 cylinder Versys. Both are quick off the line, but the Versys is faster as the revs climb and smoother throughout the rpm range. Both vibrate at the top of their rpm range, but you would be going way too fast to be cruising at those speeds for long.....or until the law caught up with you! The Tracers vibes start at lower rpms than the Versys. The Versys fairing & windscreen does offer more protection. For a solo sport tourer who is under 5'10", the Tracer would be the better choice, albeit with a better seat.I found it a little thin and hard. The Versys would be a better choice for a taller rider in either solo or passenger mode. The main drawback to the Versys is cost. In the USA, the Tracer GT is about $14,000 out the door and the Versys is over $20,000. That's a big difference. However, when I purchased my Versys in 2017, it listed for $14,000 out the door and I got it for $10,500. There might be similar deals on the 2019 Versys leftover models. All in all, you can't go wrong with either MC. They are both great MC's.
Thankyou for taking the time to write this, I enjoyed the read. I've read that the vibes on the Tracer GT (different bike than you mention I know) are down to setup, for example. I don't have any vibes on mine unless I carry a passenger under hard acceleration. Some people have mentionedntgat the addition of a Top box makes it Vibey too. Also it could be down to the weight of the rider. Being only 65k I don't suffer from saddle soreness that some have mentioned either. As you say though, they are both great bikes, Thankyou again.
@@geetee5509 I did not mention that my brother is 5'9"(1.75m) and weighs 200 lbs. (almost 93kg). The Tracer is a great fit for him. I'm 6'2" (1.88m) and 200 lbs. so the Versys fits my frame better. The Tracer would be a little cramped for me on a longer ride, but was fine for the 35 miles I rode it. Again, both are wonderful MC's.
Pretty spot on. The wife and I tested the Tracer GT and Versys 1k both in 2018. both are very good. The reason I chose the Versys was that there was much more room for two up riding. 6' with 32" inseam, so no trouble with foot pegs. Still, if I only rode solo, I'd probably have the Tracer.
Nice, honest review thanks. I'm thinking of trading in my XT1200 for something a bit lighter and more nimble, but still able to take a pillion in comfort, so what with also being a taller guy the Versys is more to my liking,
I have the tracer 900 GT & the versys was on my list but never test rode one so I can’t comment. Bought the tracer brand new in 2018 so two years ago & i love it but it does annoy me sometimes......I.e key position, toggle wheel “impossible to use while riding”, foot peg in way when lowering side stand. Apart from that it’s a great piece of kit & actually shocked me when I took it to donnington on a track day & gave it the beans👍. I highly recommend the michlin road 5’s as they totally transform the bike from the crappy stock tyres it came with.
Hi Si, I agree the tracer is a great bike. I have just put the Michelin road 5s on mine too and yes they are great tyres, very confidence inspiring. Thankyou for your comments.
Great honest review! Here in Israel the TGT costs the same as the Standard V Both have cruise control so I’m considering both as my next tourer machine. Cheers 🍻 BB
@@geetee5509 wanting to carry gear and a pillion so I liked that you mentioned to overall carrying capacity of both bikes 167vs220kg many reviewers overlook this very important detail. Weighing in all the factors and the fact I’m 6’ 220 lbs I think the ‘green machine’ would be a better choice for me.
I found that the foot peg possition was a problem when i test rode the vesys 1000, which was a shame because i liked the bike apart from that, good review.
Really good review! Was still torn between the 2, but leaning towards a tracer more now. Of the 2 different riding positions, which bike would you be able to ride for longer periods of time?
I can ride my Tracer all day no problem and the Kawasaki has a slightly better knee position. You couldn't go wrong with either to be honest, unless maybe you have short legs like me and then the Kawasaki is harder to reach the ground on.
I agree it looks a really good purchase. Engine size, bhp and torque are up slightly but also lower seat height, lean sensitive IMU, up and down quickshifter, larger panniers. Can't wait to try it myself.
Kawa is 40kg heavier. Unless you ride on motorways all day, your body will notice the difference the next day. Take the panniers off, and the tracer can be a very fun everyday lively bike, a bit more dual purpose in that respect.
Hi Beverly A lot of people complain of the wind noise from the screen, it's a complaint about a lot of bikes though. I did notice wind noise when I first got my Tracer but quickly got used to it and don't notice it anymore. I have kept the standard screen on. I have some R&G crash bungs on mine but I have recently seen some Givi engine bars/protectors that look really nice too. Try joining the Facebook group for the Tracer and Tracer GT too. Thank you for your comments.
Do you find that a screen is necessary. I'm looking at getting my first bike, something in the 650/700cc range. Looking at 700 Tracer. But as I'm just going to be pottering about shall I go with a naked say MT 07. I want an upright posture and don't want to be cramped Anything else you can recommend
I owned an MT09 for a while and at the same time as the Tracer. The airflow around my head was much smoother and quieter on the naked bike up to motorway speed limits. Above that and for wet weather I prefer riding the Tracer with the screen. I got rid of my MT09 because it wasn't as versatile as the Tracer. The MT09 had a shorter tank range, poor pillion accommodation, poor wet weather protection. It wasn't designed as an all rounder but is an excellent blast around street bike or commuter. You may also consider the Versys 650 or the Honda NC750 or the Suzuki Vstrom 650. A lot of people rate the Triumph Tiger 900 very highly too. There is no perfect bike though and everybody settles for a compromise in one area or another depending on what's most important. Good luck with your search.
Thanks for your thoughts. Very difficult to choose. Be nice to test ride a few bikes!!!! When we can!! What was it like above motorway speeds???? Just kidding!!
The quickshifter was great at ordinary speeds yes, but when I was giving it the beans there's a slight dip in power before the bike take a off again. I'm sure it would be something people wouldn't notice after a week of ownership.
HHave 2016 versys 1000 4 years can't say had the problem with the foot rest and just had test ride versys 1000 se did agree about the gear change. and the seat is wide . Tracer felt a bit small for me and the wife. tracer did not fell as smooth and refined
Hi Paul, Thankyou for the comments. I agree, jumping from the Versys back onto my Tracer and the Tracer felt small, but never had that impression before. I would guess that the Versys would be more adept at two up touring than the Tracer.
Hi Daryl. Thankyou for commenting and bringing this to my attention. I have since looked it up and found a video on RUclips debunking this. Had me worried for a little while in case I was doing some damage. Thankyou for pointing this out though. Here's the link to the video I saw...... ruclips.net/video/D0S4nMx_tbA/видео.html
It'd be good to provide more verbal information on the differences, in several aspects. Kind of very basic and not rich review Sorry, being honest here
I tested both and was very tempted by the Tracer, but ended up buying the Versys.
At first I was a bit put off by the weight of the Versys, but of course once it’s moving you don’t notice it. In fact, to me the extra weight meant it felt much more stable on bends, on uneven surfaces and particularly in crosswinds. On the Tracer I felt very much high up and “on” the bike, without the road “presence” or wind protection of the Versys.
Also remember that Yamaha don’t recommend fitting a top box to the Tracer, and its maximum payload is 167kg compared to 220 kg for the Versys. So for me, the Tracer is a lighter, more nimble bike for A and B roads and shorter trips, mostly solo. The Versys is bigger, more comfortable, easier to ride and will take two people as far as they want to go.
I’m not sure about your problem with the foot pegs, I’m 5’9” and have never noticed this.
Great review by the way, and don’t get me wrong, the Tracer is a great bike!
PS Kawasaki recommend only using the QS up above 4000 rpm, and on the way down only with a closed throttle. In other words, like all QS, it’s a tool borrowed from racing and should be used as such. A lot of bad reviews are due to people not following this advice. And of course your Tracer is presumably well run in compared to the Versys demo you were riding. All these systems improve with use and familiarity. But quite honestly, unless you’re racing or overtaking, it’s best to use the clutch.
PPS the mild vibration at 4000 rpm is typical of a new engine, I had it too. After 1000 miles or so of careful running in according to the handbook, it will disappear completely
Hi Charles Thankyou for your comments and feedback. I'm sure it will be helpful to lots of people trying to decide between the two bikes. Ultimately though there is no perfect bike, only what is perfect for you, although we all settle for a compromise in order of what's more important to us. Be that top speed, carrying capacity, weight, rider comfort, electronics, seat height etc....My ride was only 45 mins and I know from my own bikes that some minor annoyances disappear once we have more time and get used to riding the bikes. For example the mirrors on my Z1000sx seemed too far away compared to the ones on my Tracer. Now the mirrors on my Tracer feel too close after riding the Z1000sx and I prefer the Kawa's mirrors. Hope we all get back to normal soon and get out for some fun and therapy on our lovely machines. Thanks again Charles.
Thanks for this compare GeeTee,I bought my Versys 1000 from Millenium a year ago and considered the Tracer GT at the time.I haven't ridden the Yam but let me tell you I had the exact same issue with the Versys footrests being in the wrong place (same as the 650) but being a six footer I can plant a foot either side and quickly got used to it.
I know guys who like me had the 650 Versys and then bought the Tracer 900 and they love them like you do.I never test rode the Yam but I'm really happy with the big V,it's great that there is so much choice out there.
If you are reading the comments and are considering these two great bikes I would strongly recommend test riding both of them.I had a great experience at Millenium (I have no allegiance except its where I bought my 650 V) and if we don't support our local dealers we will not have local dealers!!
I'm 6'2" and weigh 280. I would go with the Kawasaki. Both are great bikes
I tested these back to back and agree that I could get both feet flat on the Tracer but not on the Versys, also I found both pulled well but the seat of the Versys much better but I am heavy. Overall you need to test both, Versys better two up and for larger/taller people, the Tracer better for lighter/shorter riders. The price difference disappears if you compare base Versys as that is a better match for the Tracer, no electronic suspension or cornering lights etc. Good review, thankyou.
And yes I went Versys SE GT . :)
Thankyou for your comment Gopher1471. You did the right thing by testing both. They are great bikes and each person's compromise would be different from the next. Thanks again
Nice, no nonsense review that GT. These are the two bikes I've come down to so your thoughts are really useful. My heart says Yam, but you've pointed out the better wind protection and load capacity on the Kwaker, so I'm still unsure. Thanks anyway.
A very nice and detailed review comparing the Tracer & Versys. I'm glad I found this!
My brother just purchased a 2020 Tracer in June and I have a 2016 (purchased in June, 2017) Versys. We took a trip with friends a couple months ago and traded bikes for 35 miles or so. He has the base model Tracer that cost about $9000(out the door) and my Versys was $10,500 (out the door.) Obviously his Tracer base model does not have all the bells & whistles of the GT and mine does not have all the upgrades that were new to the 2019-20 Versys models.
First: Both are wonderful motorcycles. In my short 35 mile ride on the Tracer, I really enjoyed it's smaller feel, light handling, peppy engine & overall quality. I found the Tracer a little rougher at higher rpm's than the 4 cylinder Versys. Both are quick off the line, but the Versys is faster as the revs climb and smoother throughout the rpm range. Both vibrate at the top of their rpm range, but you would be going way too fast to be cruising at those speeds for long.....or until the law caught up with you! The Tracers vibes start at lower rpms than the Versys. The Versys fairing & windscreen does offer more protection.
For a solo sport tourer who is under 5'10", the Tracer would be the better choice, albeit with a better seat.I found it a little thin and hard. The Versys would be a better choice for a taller rider in either solo or passenger mode. The main drawback to the Versys is cost. In the USA, the Tracer GT is about $14,000 out the door and the Versys is over $20,000. That's a big difference. However, when I purchased my Versys in 2017, it listed for $14,000 out the door and I got it for $10,500. There might be similar deals on the 2019 Versys leftover models.
All in all, you can't go wrong with either MC. They are both great MC's.
Thankyou for taking the time to write this, I enjoyed the read. I've read that the vibes on the Tracer GT (different bike than you mention I know) are down to setup, for example. I don't have any vibes on mine unless I carry a passenger under hard acceleration. Some people have mentionedntgat the addition of a Top box makes it Vibey too. Also it could be down to the weight of the rider. Being only 65k I don't suffer from saddle soreness that some have mentioned either. As you say though, they are both great bikes, Thankyou again.
@@geetee5509 I did not mention that my brother is 5'9"(1.75m) and weighs 200 lbs. (almost 93kg). The Tracer is a great fit for him. I'm 6'2" (1.88m) and 200 lbs. so the Versys fits my frame better. The Tracer would be a little cramped for me on a longer ride, but was fine for the 35 miles I rode it. Again, both are wonderful MC's.
Just found a 2019 versys se lt with 350 miles for $12 k..im so tempted...
Pretty spot on. The wife and I tested the Tracer GT and Versys 1k both in 2018. both are very good. The reason I chose the Versys was that there was much more room for two up riding. 6' with 32" inseam, so no trouble with foot pegs. Still, if I only rode solo, I'd probably have the Tracer.
Thankyou Rench55.
Looked at both of these bikes. Decided to go with the tracer. Good vid 🏍👍
Thankyou Allan, much appreciated, yes the tracer is a great bike.
Nice, honest review thanks. I'm thinking of trading in my XT1200 for something a bit lighter and more nimble, but still able to take a pillion in comfort, so what with also being a taller guy the Versys is more to my liking,
I have the tracer 900 GT & the versys was on my list but never test rode one so I can’t comment. Bought the tracer brand new in 2018 so two years ago & i love it but it does annoy me sometimes......I.e key position, toggle wheel “impossible to use while riding”, foot peg in way when lowering side stand. Apart from that it’s a great piece of kit & actually shocked me when I took it to donnington on a track day & gave it the beans👍. I highly recommend the michlin road 5’s as they totally transform the bike from the crappy stock tyres it came with.
Hi Si, I agree the tracer is a great bike. I have just put the Michelin road 5s on mine too and yes they are great tyres, very confidence inspiring. Thankyou for your comments.
Great honest review!
Here in Israel the TGT costs the same as the Standard V
Both have cruise control so I’m considering both as my next tourer machine.
Cheers 🍻
BB
Thankyou, they really are both fantastic bikes, you can't go wrong with either.
@@geetee5509 wanting to carry gear and a pillion so I liked that you mentioned to overall carrying capacity of both bikes 167vs220kg many reviewers overlook this very important detail.
Weighing in all the factors and the fact I’m 6’ 220 lbs I think the ‘green machine’ would be a better choice for me.
Im glad i was able to help out. Your comment are most appreciated, thankyou
at 10:50 where was the lead guy going? Nearly head on into that car.
I noticed that yes. I think he was trying to do some advanced riding using all the road to see round the bend but almost ended badly.
Have just traded my 2 year old Tracer 900 GT for the Versys GT
Amigo qual recomenda Tracer ou Versys
I found that the foot peg possition was a problem when i test rode the vesys 1000, which was a shame because i liked the bike apart from that, good review.
Yes me too Tony. I also really liked the bike but shame about the footpeg placement.
Great review,great detail,thank you...
great review
finally a review that i have been waiting for. im torn between these 2. thanks bro
Ditto.
Wish the screen was set higher for your test ride. Wind noise was distracting.
Really good review! Was still torn between the 2, but leaning towards a tracer more now. Of the 2 different riding positions, which bike would you be able to ride for longer periods of time?
I can ride my Tracer all day no problem and the Kawasaki has a slightly better knee position. You couldn't go wrong with either to be honest, unless maybe you have short legs like me and then the Kawasaki is harder to reach the ground on.
Gonna test ride the new GT Tracer before I commit to the Versys. The Tracer seems like good value.
I agree it looks a really good purchase. Engine size, bhp and torque are up slightly but also lower seat height, lean sensitive IMU, up and down quickshifter, larger panniers. Can't wait to try it myself.
Kawa is 40kg heavier. Unless you ride on motorways all day, your body will notice the difference the next day. Take the panniers off, and the tracer can be a very fun everyday lively bike, a bit more dual purpose in that respect.
I m interested what is the weight diference like in town,can you go in between trafic like on tracer?
Got my ninja though from Millennium- cant fault them lovely bunch
Also bloody hell ive not been that toby carvery in a few years... im hungry
Yes it's a good dealership, I test rode the Versys 1000 from there.
Service intervals are better on the Tracer, Kawasaki service intervals are to close if you do big mileage.
Good review. The kwak is a heavy beast. Have you tried the KTM 790 Adv? Light bike and nimble.
No Stuart, not tried the KTM. Hoping to get a few more test rides and review some more bikes soon though.
Thanks for the review! But why are you blurring out the instrument panel in your video. Strange.
Hi
Nice comparison
I’m looking at the Tracer.
As I’m 6’ is screen tall enough.
Also have you put any protection on it, bars or sliders??
Hi Beverly
A lot of people complain of the wind noise from the screen, it's a complaint about a lot of bikes though. I did notice wind noise when I first got my Tracer but quickly got used to it and don't notice it anymore. I have kept the standard screen on. I have some R&G crash bungs on mine but I have recently seen some Givi engine bars/protectors that look really nice too. Try joining the Facebook group for the Tracer and Tracer GT too. Thank you for your comments.
Do you find that a screen is necessary.
I'm looking at getting my first bike, something in the 650/700cc range. Looking at 700 Tracer.
But as I'm just going to be pottering about shall I go with a naked say MT 07. I want an upright posture and don't want to be cramped
Anything else you can recommend
I owned an MT09 for a while and at the same time as the Tracer. The airflow around my head was much smoother and quieter on the naked bike up to motorway speed limits. Above that and for wet weather I prefer riding the Tracer with the screen. I got rid of my MT09 because it wasn't as versatile as the Tracer. The MT09 had a shorter tank range, poor pillion accommodation, poor wet weather protection. It wasn't designed as an all rounder but is an excellent blast around street bike or commuter. You may also consider the Versys 650 or the Honda NC750 or the Suzuki Vstrom 650. A lot of people rate the Triumph Tiger 900 very highly too. There is no perfect bike though and everybody settles for a compromise in one area or another depending on what's most important. Good luck with your search.
Thanks for your thoughts. Very difficult to choose.
Be nice to test ride a few bikes!!!! When we can!!
What was it like above motorway speeds???? Just kidding!!
Yes, but did you like the quickshifter?
The quickshifter was great at ordinary speeds yes, but when I was giving it the beans there's a slight dip in power before the bike take a off again. I'm sure it would be something people wouldn't notice after a week of ownership.
HHave 2016 versys 1000 4 years can't say had the problem with the foot rest and just had test ride versys 1000 se did agree about the gear change. and the seat is wide . Tracer felt a bit small for me and the wife. tracer did not fell as smooth and refined
Hi Paul, Thankyou for the comments. I agree, jumping from the Versys back onto my Tracer and the Tracer felt small, but never had that impression before. I would guess that the Versys would be more adept at two up touring than the Tracer.
Picked up on you stopping your bike with the kill switch. Not good to stop bike that way.
Hi Daryl. Thankyou for commenting and bringing this to my attention. I have since looked it up and found a video on RUclips debunking this. Had me worried for a little while in case I was doing some damage. Thankyou for pointing this out though. Here's the link to the video I saw...... ruclips.net/video/D0S4nMx_tbA/видео.html
I stand corrected.... Thanx
Handle vibration vise ?
Its as heavy as the bmw k1300 lol
Versys is better bike no question.
First like. :)
Hi Danijel,
Thankyou pal. I'm still enjoying the Tracer as you can see, it's a great bike.
It'd be good to provide more verbal information on the differences, in several aspects. Kind of very basic and not rich review
Sorry, being honest here
I m interested what is the weight diference like in town,can you go in between trafic like on tracer?