That's one candid review. I test-rode the W650 in 2002 when I was in Europe before returning to the US and liked it so much I promised myself I would get one. Unfortunately, the W650 did not fare well in sales and K pulled the plug on it. So I ended up getting a Triumph Thruxton but still pining for the W, mainly for its kickstarter. Now I also have the 2018 W Classic and Iove the relaxed lope of the torquey motor and the simple construction of the whole bike -- no riding modes, plain analog tach and speedo, air-cooled engine. I started riding in 1967 and this bike takes me back in time. I just wish Kawasaki retained the kickstarter for posterity.
I live in Japan and own the W 650. Very reliable and great for city riding and ok for touring. I have the Givi luggage system on mine and is very practical. I personally think the seat could be a bit more comfortable for longer trips. I’ve owned it for 6 years now. It’s never broke down or given me any issues in all that time.
@@Jf_1900 Well, I haven’t needed to do much maintaining, other than tightening the chain, and changing the oil. It gets inspected every 2 years, so I let them do what needs to be done. I kind of wish the battery would at least die, that would get me using the kick start for awhile. Lol
Bought it 2012. My daily commute & weekends ride. Loving my W800 each day. For me W8 is the last gens for modern EFI. Value for money. Tq Kawasaki/Meguro!
The limited 'Black Edition', best looking W800 out there with that gorgeous, exquisite understated black paint finish and understated 'Black Edition' logo's. I hunted for ages to find one, eventually buying a 2015 W800 'Black Edition' with only 7,500km's on the clock. Awesome bike from every aspect, best, classic British styling, classic 360° parallel twin exhaust note, great torque, smooth clutch, nimble handling... In essence, everything I like about British 60's and 70's bikes, but without the oil leaks, poor Lucas electrics and unreliability! But incorporating latest engine technology refinements. Turns heads every ride with the inevitable questions, what is this bike? Responses are always "Triumph" or "BSA" and the surprised looks when I tell them it's a Kawasaki!
Hello from a W650 owner in France, enjoyed the review. The one thing most reviewers fail to mention is the positive stop neutral, it's a good feature especially when coming to a stop at junctions/traffic lights.
for the last 30 odd yrs, I have been a Yamaha cruiser rider all the 1100 class from virago through to the v stars with one stint on the 1600 road star, but due to a shoulder problem I came down in size to the w800 and I have not been let down by her performance even 2 up my better half loves our little tours around the local countryside, mine is a 2015 se version in red.
Prior to my W800 I had 2005 Vstar classic 1100 that i had for a month, and that was a really good bike. If i didnt need the money back then i would have probably added a few things here and there by now.
I bought a brand new W3 650 in 1973 in Tokyo. They were more expensive than the Honda CB750 at the time but everyone had a CB750. I shipped mine all over the world and ended up selling it to a GI in Germany in 1978. Last I heard a few years ago was the it was still disassembled and in the boxes it was sent back to the States in!. Loved that bike in Germany. Wasn't the fastest on the autobahn but sure got a lot of compliments from German friends on 50cc Kreidlers!
Good review and nice to see home again.... looks like the area around Tagaytay? I have been seriously thinking of a W800 lately............. if I can ever get back home to the Philippines. Styling is spot on . I really can't warm up to the transformer style of a lot of new bikes. This, and the Enfield 650's really hit the mark. Retro styling with modern mechanicals and not an over abundance of electronics.
I live in Cebu and i was on the TCH making this video. Yes, classic styled bikes will never go out of style and the simplicity of the W650/800, and RE650 make them ideal for long term use.
greatly appreciated. i am thinking of a bike and this one came up in my research. How would you compare this to something like honda rebel 1100? You must have not reviewed the 1100 but I'd like to know your opinion
I had an africa Twin 1000 a while back and the engine is pretty potent yet user friendly. The rebel 1100 is basically an africa twin in a cruiser setup so its safe to safe that it would be a great performing cruiser. I just couldn't get the styling though.
As for w800 vs rebel1100 it all depends on you. The w800 is a great bike for what it offers if you are looking for an authentic retro bike without the retro maintenance. The rebel1100 is a totally modern take on a cruiser.
Nice review. Been looking at the 2020 model with front and rear disk breaks. Though they only sell it in dark green in my country. Would like the black ebony look but the stock breaks are a bit... Yeah.
Hi Manoy66. Thank you for your videos. Since you have already ridden two bikes I am very interested in, I would like to ask you which one of them you prefere and why: Royal Enfield Classic 350 OR Kawasaki W800. Would appreciate to hear your opinion. Thank you and kind regards.
Both are amazing bikes. Classic good looks, practical performance, and easy to maintain. But if i were to choose one, it would be the w800. Bigger engine, 60s/70s styling, and they're not as common as the re350.
Have you seen the video 2000 Kawasaki w650 on you tube, that's the bike to get 👍. After years on Harley's I'm currently riding a Yamaha XSR 155 and it has to be one if not the best bike I've ever owned 👍🙏
The w650 would be a great bike to own for long term or as part of a collection if finding one here wouldn't be so hard. Carbs would be a tuning dream for most classic tuners plus that kickstart is a big plus if the estart fails. And the power difference would be negligible considering the W650 weighs less than the w800
@@TheManoy66 my parents went to school at Cebu Institute Technology and many cousins who went to Velez (so)? Gotta support Cebuanos and Bisayan speaker! Lol
I apologize if it took me awhile to respond to you. Yes, the w800 has some bugs but that is what makes it charming. The newer models remain basically the same but with the addition of ABS makes it a whole lot better. The Street version comes with taller bars and longer cables as well. Making handlebar swaps a lot easier.
That's one candid review. I test-rode the W650 in 2002 when I was in Europe before returning to the US and liked it so much I promised myself I would get one. Unfortunately, the W650 did not fare well in sales and K pulled the plug on it. So I ended up getting a Triumph Thruxton but still pining for the W, mainly for its kickstarter. Now I also have the 2018 W Classic and Iove the relaxed lope of the torquey motor and the simple construction of the whole bike -- no riding modes, plain analog tach and speedo, air-cooled engine. I started riding in 1967 and this bike takes me back in time. I just wish Kawasaki retained the kickstarter for posterity.
I live in Japan and own the W 650. Very reliable and great for city riding and ok for touring. I have the Givi luggage system on mine and is very practical. I personally think the seat could be a bit more comfortable for longer trips. I’ve owned it for 6 years now. It’s never broke down or given me any issues in all that time.
Great stuff! How do you maintain it so that it has had no issues?
@@Jf_1900 Well, I haven’t needed to do much maintaining, other than tightening the chain, and changing the oil. It gets inspected every 2 years, so I let them do what needs to be done. I kind of wish the battery would at least die, that would get me using the kick start for awhile. Lol
Bought it 2012. My daily commute & weekends ride. Loving my W800 each day. For me W8 is the last gens for modern EFI. Value for money. Tq Kawasaki/Meguro!
I’ve been riding Harley Davidson’s for 31 years, my youth is now gone, this bike is a great candidate for me. Thank you for the great demonstration
The limited 'Black Edition', best looking W800 out there with that gorgeous, exquisite understated black paint finish and understated 'Black Edition' logo's.
I hunted for ages to find one, eventually buying a 2015 W800 'Black Edition' with only 7,500km's on the clock. Awesome bike from every aspect, best, classic British styling, classic 360° parallel twin exhaust note, great torque, smooth clutch, nimble handling... In essence, everything I like about British 60's and 70's bikes, but without the oil leaks, poor Lucas electrics and unreliability! But incorporating latest engine technology refinements.
Turns heads every ride with the inevitable questions, what is this bike? Responses are always "Triumph" or "BSA" and the surprised looks when I tell them it's a Kawasaki!
Nice review bro very straight forward. Walang annoying na chipmunk na tawa.
Finally! Meron na nag comment about sa chipmunk na tawa na gamit ng karamihan. Hate ko rin un! Bahahaha
Hello from a W650 owner in France, enjoyed the review. The one thing most reviewers fail to mention is the positive stop neutral, it's a good feature especially when coming to a stop at junctions/traffic lights.
Oh yeah i remember that. Didn't really mind it though but i did find the w800 a joy to ride around town.
for the last 30 odd yrs, I have been a Yamaha cruiser rider all the 1100 class from virago through to the v stars with one stint on the 1600 road star, but due to a shoulder problem I came down in size to the w800 and I have not been let down by her performance even 2 up my better half loves our little tours around the local countryside, mine is a 2015 se version in red.
Prior to my W800 I had 2005 Vstar classic 1100 that i had for a month, and that was a really good bike. If i didnt need the money back then i would have probably added a few things here and there by now.
I bought a brand new W3 650 in 1973 in Tokyo. They were more expensive than the Honda CB750 at the time but everyone had a CB750. I shipped mine all over the world and ended up selling it to a GI in Germany in 1978. Last I heard a few years ago was the it was still disassembled and in the boxes it was sent back to the States in!. Loved that bike in Germany. Wasn't the fastest on the autobahn but sure got a lot of compliments from German friends on 50cc Kreidlers!
Great review my friend. Here to support your channel.
Just found your channel. Keep it up u got an epic voice for voiceover style videos
Such a nice bike. So good, man.
Great review! Cool bike bro! 😍🔥 Riding along with you now. 👍🏻👊🏻
Good review and nice to see home again.... looks like the area around Tagaytay? I have been seriously thinking of a W800 lately............. if I can ever get back home to the Philippines. Styling is spot on . I really can't warm up to the transformer style of a lot of new bikes. This, and the Enfield 650's really hit the mark. Retro styling with modern mechanicals and not an over abundance of electronics.
I live in Cebu and i was on the TCH making this video. Yes, classic styled bikes will never go out of style and the simplicity of the W650/800, and RE650 make them ideal for long term use.
Good review, great to see the everyday-life in another country as you ride around. Dave Aotearoa nz
I enjoyed this video and gave it a like.
Thanks!
Love the bike wish they still sold it.
They still sell it. Check your kawasaki dealership if they have in stock
Dude u have a very pleasant voice to listen too, great video too. 👍
Dude 😳
Gonna agree with this
Great review bro!
greatly appreciated. i am thinking of a bike and this one came up in my research. How would you compare this to something like honda rebel 1100? You must have not reviewed the 1100 but I'd like to know your opinion
I had an africa Twin 1000 a while back and the engine is pretty potent yet user friendly. The rebel 1100 is basically an africa twin in a cruiser setup so its safe to safe that it would be a great performing cruiser. I just couldn't get the styling though.
As for w800 vs rebel1100 it all depends on you. The w800 is a great bike for what it offers if you are looking for an authentic retro bike without the retro maintenance. The rebel1100 is a totally modern take on a cruiser.
Hello brother.... New subscriber here.... I really love that bike.... I'm saving money for that.... Ride safe and God bless brother....
Thank you. Wishing you good luck in finding the W800 of your dreams. 👍
Nice review. Been looking at the 2020 model with front and rear disk breaks. Though they only sell it in dark green in my country. Would like the black ebony look but the stock breaks are a bit... Yeah.
In your case I would highly recommend the 2020 model for the dual disc brakes. Make it even better with aftermarket pads and steel braided lines.
Hi Manoy66. Thank you for your videos. Since you have already ridden two bikes I am very interested in, I would like to ask you which one of them you prefere and why: Royal Enfield Classic 350 OR Kawasaki W800. Would appreciate to hear your opinion.
Thank you and kind regards.
Both are amazing bikes. Classic good looks, practical performance, and easy to maintain. But if i were to choose one, it would be the w800. Bigger engine, 60s/70s styling, and they're not as common as the re350.
Yeah I'd put mine in the living room. Beautiful bike.
The best way to bond with your motorcycle, is to take it camping.
I like that idea. Someday
i love this no annoying additional sounds just relaxing the voice and the bike review
For risers you change any cables with longer one?
Not in this case. I simply rerouted the clutch cable and thats it. If i installed a taller riser then most likely longer cables would be needed.
Have you seen the video 2000 Kawasaki w650 on you tube, that's the bike to get 👍. After years on Harley's I'm currently riding a Yamaha XSR 155 and it has to be one if not the best bike I've ever owned 👍🙏
The w650 would be a great bike to own for long term or as part of a collection if finding one here wouldn't be so hard. Carbs would be a tuning dream for most classic tuners plus that kickstart is a big plus if the estart fails. And the power difference would be negligible considering the W650 weighs less than the w800
Have you got 2 different tyres? I a m new to motorcycles. Is this something that is ok???
Yep its ok. It was the only one i could find the same size as stock.
Master, nice ba na sya gamiton as first big bike? I mean gikan sa 150cc ba
YES! I highly recommend. 👍👍
@@TheManoy66 salamat master..palit nya ko puhon.. if di ko mkalimot pa reviewhon tika heheheh
Hi where'd you buy your glove?
Got my gloves from this guy
facebook.com/radtimesph/
One inch handlebar risers: Any modification of the cables needed? Which risers are you using? Thank you.
No mods needed. All you have to do is reroute the clutch cable and thats it.
A very nice review!
Thank you.
Glad you liked it!
Hello bro.. It is true the vibration so hard?..
There is a bit of a buzz but very minor
The bike you rode probably needs a bit of TLC. Wobble at 130 is uncommon on the W. A lot of W riders can go much faster with no issues.
Could be. Nevertheless the W800 is a great bike for the rider who just wants to have a good time on 2 wheels.
Hi, where'd you buy the gloves?
Bought it from this place
facebook.com/radtimesph/
👍
Great review
I’m subscribing to your channel because you’re Bisayan !
Expect more bisaya vlogs in the future 💪
@@TheManoy66 my parents went to school at Cebu Institute Technology and many cousins who went to Velez (so)? Gotta support Cebuanos and Bisayan speaker! Lol
A great classic bike……styled after a BSA of the 60’s I believe…..good bang for your buck too. Thanks for the vid.
Thanks man
It's too bad they don't make this a solid ride with all the bugs worked out. I'd buy one.
I apologize if it took me awhile to respond to you.
Yes, the w800 has some bugs but that is what makes it charming. The newer models remain basically the same but with the addition of ABS makes it a whole lot better. The Street version comes with taller bars and longer cables as well. Making handlebar swaps a lot easier.
I think 800cc is the perfect size. Re-watching. It sure is beautiful. Thanks for the video, very well done!
Does this bike have tubeb tyres/tires? Thank you.
Yep it has tubed tires. 18 for the rear and 19 for the front
Nice!
kawasaki is good my friend
what brand risers did you get?
No brand found it online and it only cost me around $10 from where i'm from. Solid machined aluminum 1 inch risers.
@@TheManoy66 solid machined aluminum for $10??? nice!
@@eliasp8645 yep. Check out aliexpress
The W650 has the same HP.