Is the Voge DS625X the best value all-rounder of the year — or does the Versys still rule the road?
Voge DS625X – Off-Road Grit Meets Everyday Practicality
The DS625X may be the new kid on the block, but don’t let that fool you because it means business. Marketed as a “crossover,” this thing is built to do it all. Whether you're splitting through traffic, chasing green lanes on the weekend, or touring the Highlands, the Voge has all the tools to get it done.
You get 19" front and 17" rear spoked wheels, tubeless tyres, proper long-travel suspension, crash bars, a skid plate, and a confident riding stance that screams ready for action. It's rugged, it looks the part, and most importantly rides like it was made for riders who want to push further.
Power-wise, the 581cc twin-cylinder engine kicks out 63hp, which is more than enough to keep things fun whether you’re bombing down B-roads or bouncing down a trail. You've got several riding modes, traction control, and ABS as standard. A solid spec for a bike that only costs £5,999 brand new.
The riding position is relaxed, the 835mm seat height makes it super accessible, and the adjustable windscreen, levers, and forward-set pegs mean you can dial it in to fit your riding style. Top that off with a colour LCD dash, nav integration, tyre pressure monitoring, and full LED lighting. It's a seriously capable, tech-packed bike for the money.
It’s an underdog with attitude, and it punches well above its weight.
Kawasaki Versys 650 – Road-Ready Touring Refined
Now on the other end of the spectrum is the Kawasaki Versys 650 — the seasoned veteran. It’s been refined over the years into one of the best-value touring platforms out there. If the Voge is a mountain scrambler, the Versys is a mile-muncher.
The Versys boasts the 649cc twin — but it leans harder into the touring side. Think smoother power delivery, superb road manners, and comfort-first ergonomics that make it ideal for big road trips or daily commuting.
For £7,999, you’re getting top-tier reliability and all the right kit: Kawasaki’s KTRC traction control, an adjustable screen, a colour TFT display with Bluetooth, LED lights, and an overall build that’s tight, tidy, and built to last.
Opt for the Tourer+ model, and you’ll get hard luggage and a few touring upgrades that make two-up trips effortless. This is the kind of bike you can load up, fire into gear, and head for Europe without even thinking twice.
The Versys is smooth, smart, and built to eat miles. But it’s definitely more road-focused and not afraid of gravel, but it won’t be your best mate on the rough stuff like the Voge will.
Which One’s Right for You?
That all depends on what kind of rider you are.
If you love the idea of taking the back roads, crossing streams, or just knowing you could if you wanted to then the Voge DS625X is a no-brainer. It’s rough around the edges in all the right ways, feels ready for battle, and gives you that "let’s see where this road goes" kind of energy.
If your world is more about smooth tarmac, long rides, loaded panniers, and reliable performance day in, day out then the Kawasaki Versys 650 is the more refined, road-savvy choice. It's calm, calculated, and always delivers. Especially on longer hauls.
Final Thoughts
Two different vibes, two solid bikes, one clear takeaway:
The Voge DS625X is built for adventure-first riders who want max value, off-road readiness, and everyday usability without breaking the bank.
The Kawasaki Versys 650 is for touring-focused riders who want to eat up the miles in comfort with proven tech, support, and street performance.
Both bikes bring big energy to the midweight adventure segment in 2025 and whichever route you take, you’re in for one hell of a ride.
