Voge was launched by vast Chinese manufacturer Loncin as its new premium brand in 2018 and in 2024 its BMW F900-derived DS900X proved a massive seller for its high spec, credible performance and sub-£9K price. We reviewed it a few months ago and were impressed, and now comes a smaller capacity machine with high expectations on its shoulders.
The DS625X hopes to build on that success. It’s an update on the existing DS525X (which in turn was derived from Honda’s CB500X parallel twin) with more cc, more power and more spec. The result is good looking, well-built and decently equipped. It has much of the appeal of a larger adventure bike but in a middleweight package. Its closest conventional rivals are bikes like Suzuki’s aging V-Strom 650 but blows them away in the terms of spec, style and value.
The Voge DS625X’s 581cc parallel twin is an update of the 494cc version in the preceding 2022 DS525X, which in turn was a variation of the Honda’s 471cc parallel twin from the CB500X/NX500. With more oversquare dimensions and a 270º (not 180º) layout it’s slightly revvier than the NX with its 63bhp peak power found 500rpm higher up the range, meaning there’s a slight gulf between midrange ‘travelling’ and peak power.
As a result you sometimes need to change down one or even two gears for quick overtakes. There are also just two power modes – E (Eco) and S (Sport) with the sharpness of the throttle response the most discernible difference. But, overall, it’s a decent unit with performance closest to the 66bhp of Kawasaki’s aging Versys 650.
Handling-wise, the ride is plush and comfortable over distance (or would be with a slightly softer saddle), stability is excellent and steering is light. That said, it’s also not totally precise and confidence-inspiring and occasionally a little mushy. Considering the quality and adjustability of the individual components, however, including ‘cross spoke’ alloy-rimmed wire wheels, Metzeler Tourance tyres, preload and compression adjustable KYB 41mm USD forks and a KYB monoshock, also fully adjustable, I’m convinced it could be improved with a little adjustment.
The DS625X’s riding position is typical of a middleweight adventure bike, certainly one that’s on the slightly larger, roomier side, but also benefits from a reasonably low 835mm seat height. The handlebars are high and wide, the mirrors are fine and the saddle’s OK, if fairly hard, leaving me demanding a ‘comfort break’ after 45 minutes or so.
There’s also a height adjustable screen, although it requires both hands so can’t be done on the move. It also didn’t seem to make much difference to comfort, for me at least.
Adventure bikes, by definition, are among the most practical of motorcycles, being capable of touring, scratching, going off-road and even commuting fairly effectively. Middleweight adventures, with their more affordable prices and manageable proportions are more practical still. As such, by virtue of its extra spec and astonishing value, the DS625X zooms straight to the top of the pile. At this price point no bike is more versatile.
Equipment is the DS625X’s ace card – it has pretty much everything. As well as fully-adjustable suspension, there’s a 7” TFT dash, 12v and USB-C sockets, backlit switchgear, cruise, two modes, adjustable screen, centre stand, cross-spoke wheels… the list goes on.
Admittedly not all are perfect – the indicators, for example, are not self-cancelling, the warning light is small and dim and the result is they get left on too often – but they’re still welcome, especially at this price. In addition, a three-box aluminium luggage system is also available as an optional extra for just £699. A heated seat and handlebar grips will also be available as accessories, in due course.
The launch price of the DS625X is an astonishing £5999 + £200 on the road charges. Considering its spec, style and build quality, when even a pretty basic (and old) Suzuki V-Strom 650 is nearly £2000 more, that can’t be ignored and is also certain to guarantee its some degree of sales success.
Admittedly, dynamically, the DS625X doesn’t stand out: its midrange is a little underwhelming, its handling a touch vague and not all of its features are perfect, such as the indicators and screen. Overall, though, these are quibbles. The DS625X is capable, smart, well-equipped and an adequately performing middleweight adventure bike which, for the price, is an absolute steal.
2025 Voge DS625X Specification
Price: From £5999 + £200 OTR
Engine: 581cc parallel twin, DOHC, four valves per cylinder, liquid cooled
Power: 63bhp (47kW) @ 9000rpm
Torque: 57Nm (42lb-ft) @ 5250rpm
Transmission: Six-speed, chain
Frame: Steel double cradle
Suspension: (F) KYB 41mm USD telescopic forks, fully adjustable (R) KYB fully-adjustable single shock.
Wheels: Cross-spoke wire, (F) 19 x 3.5in/ (R) 17 x 5.5in
Tyres: Metzeler Tourance (F) 120/70 x 19, (R) 170/60 x 17
Brakes: (F) 2 x 298mm discs, Nissin two-piston calipers, (R) 240mm disc, Nissin single-piston caliper. Cornering ABS
Weight: 206kg (wet)
Wheelbase: 1,465mm
Seat height: 835mm
Fuel tank: 17.6 litres
Fuel consumption: N/A
Service intervals: 3600 miles/12 months
Warranty: 24 months unlimited mileage
Contact: https://www.motogb.co.uk/make/voge
Words: Phil West
Photos: Voge/Joe Dick
