Versys vs 650R is the same as SV vs DL.
Versys uses many of the same parts, with a similar engine, as the 650R, just as the DL and SV share.
Versys is often said to be the better of the two between it and the 650R. The SV is often called the better of the two between it and the DL. In the Versys’ case it is because the Versys has more upscale suspension than the 650R. In the case of the SV, I think a lot of it has to do with the looks of the DL and the top heaviness.
All four are good bikes.
Between the Versys and the DL, the versys is a newer design, and more road oriented. It is more sporty, with more road biased tires and suspension. It’ll still handle dirt roads, just not *as* well. Nor does it have as large a gas tank, and stock I believe it has less wind protection.
As a light weight touring bike the versys is pretty darned good (see webbikeworld’s versys project).
All four bikes have hard luggage options, and I see lots of 650Rs, Versys, and DLs loaded up. Don’t notice many SVers doing the long distance thing, but that could simply be a reflection of the local riders and the forums I visit. Haven’t heard any reason why the bike wouldn’t be as good for it as the 650R.
If dirt roads are in your planning, I’d stay away from the Honda VFR (Interceptor) unless it really turns your crank. It’ll handle dirt roads, but not as confidently as a bike meant to visit them. Ditto for a BMW F800ST.
BMW F800GS is offroad overkill for most. Most people who buy them could get by just fine on the less expensive more road biased F650GS. I’ve ridden one of these and it is a nice bike. Far faster than you’ll need on the road. Reviews say it’ll keep up with the supersport badboys on the twisties, and I don’t doubt it.
Never having ridden a Versys (just sat on one), I tend to think of the F650GS as an upscale Versys. The versys can do everything the bimmer can 95% as well, but it doesn’t have the feeling of “premium” that the bimmer has.
Just my opinions – Remember, I’ve only ridden one of these bikes!
I’ve been looking into the category a fair bit, since I see my future bike being something akin to a DL or Versys…
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“The two seconds between ‘Oh S**!’ and the crash isn’t a lot of practice time.”