Kawasaki W650: Is it Everything I Thought it Would Be?

[@UncleVoodoo]

I love motorcycles that give me the experience I got as a kid getting on a bicycle, that sensation of flight and the feeling of freedom to go anywhere I pointed it. The motorcycle steps it up a notch almost as if it's a living, breathing thing that needs my attention to remain alive and as companions there is nothing we can't do. This is when the bike becomes more than just a machine, it becomes a friend.

[@ScooterintheSticks]

The more I watch your videos and listen to you talk, and reading your comments here, I'm beginning to think you're a moto poet/philosopher. I agree with your thoughts and observations on the ideal connection between man and machine. If you've never had a chance to ride a Vespa GTS scooter you should seek one out. As someone once told me about the feeling of flying on a motorcycle, flying on a motorcycle is like being a fighter pilot. On the GTS I'm a bird. It seems you're more attracted to the bird! Have fun with your new Royal Enfield!

[@GregoryMarston]

Hello Steve, thank you for your message. I want to tell you I bought a 2000 W650 today which has 8900 original miles and it is in mint condition. I remember back in 2000 I saw the same motorcycle in Conway New Hampshire and I fell in love. So after 24 years I am an owner of the motorcycle of my dreams. Thank you for inspiring me with your great videos!

[@ScooterintheSticks]

Congratulations on acquiring a W650. I hope you find it as satisfying as I have mine. I had to look at a map to see what kind of riding you could do around Conroy. Seems like the mountains will be calling! Have fun riding the W650.

[@larryyz_hideaway]

I picked up a W800 Street in the spring of 22, largely because I had admired the 650 for 20+ years when they were new and then were cruelly denied to the North American market until 2019. My bike has a little more displacement, a little more power, fuel injection, a rear disc and abs...but I still long for the 650. It just looks right. I love the way the giant chrome headlight reflects the passing treetops (mine has a matte finish)...and the kickstarter is rad as hell. The small details matter. One thing my bike does have in common with your 650 is the pullback/deer antler/beach bars that everybody hates and I love....seems more in keeping with the bike's mission.

[@ScooterintheSticks]

The kickstarter sure is cool. It's something you seldom see now. And the motorcycle is just a beauty. The bars feel a lot like the JC Higgins (Sears) bicycle I had as a kid. Not in fashion anymore but certainly adds to the styling of the W650. Have fun with your W800. It looks like a fine motorcycle.

[@davericketts9101]

Love the pace of this video and made me feel relaxed, just watching it. Good to hear that engine / exhaust note during the video. Even with music playing, I could still hear that lovely sound. Thank you.

[@ScooterintheSticks]

Glad you enjoyed it! I took it for a ride a few days ago. It is a fine machine. Seductive in its sound and performance. Understated and smooth for a rider like me who just likes to ramble along and drink in the sights.

[@davericketts9101]

@@ScooterintheSticks I am exactly the same. Done all the fast stuff, over many years but enjoying my riding now, more than I have done at any time in my life. As you now, I have just found one of these great bikes and pick it up next week. I also have a 2022 Royal Enfield red/chrome Classic 350 and it is also a relaxing ride. Enjoy your riding Steve. I look froward to any future videos of yours, on this bike.

[@kz1000st1]

I enjoy riding along with you. It reminds me of the years I had mine. What I can tell you is that 22 years old isn't that big a deal. My 1983 Kawasaki still runs healthily, as does my 32 year old Honda. The myth that Japanese bikes are "throwaway" comes from people who ran the living crap out of them and then were shocked that repairs for their abuse were about half what they paid for them. So they ditched them and bought a new one. Much like what Chinese scooter owners discover.

[@ScooterintheSticks]

I expect this motorcycle with run until the end of my riding days. And is still easily serviced and repaired at the Kawasaki dealer down the road. And since I don't beat the crap out of things they should last awhile!

[@chrestensrensen2486]

Hi Steve. I have the W650 silverblue model from 99. And it is a wonderfull nice and light bike to drive. Pure pure motorcycledriving at the best. Fine handling - beautifull classic look - and when you start driving it I allways begins to smile and relax. Steve you have gott one of the loveliest motorcycles that is in the world. I have the Thruxton from 06 and it is also a beauty but not so relaxed to drive as the Kawa W65o. I have an old R100/7 from 88 and it i customized and a great bike too. BUT MY W650 IS MY FAVORITE DRIVING BIKE:

[@ScooterintheSticks]

My experience on the W650 mirrors yours. It does always get me relaxed and smiling. I'm grateful that it found its way into my life. Like you, I've had other motorcycles in my life. But nothing compares to the W650. And it is a beautiful machine to look at!

[@EvanEdwards]

Well Steve, it certainly is a connected world. When I last followed you online, it was in the middle of the first decade of this millennia, you were blogging, and I occasionally ran into you around State College. My wife was getting her doctorate. Here we are, roughly 15 years later. My wife passed earlier this year from cancer and I'm looking at riding again for meditation and reflection. I poked around online and it is wonderful to see you're still riding. Still in yellow. I'm oddly comforted.

[@ScooterintheSticks]

I've sorry to hear of your wife's passing. I hope time will leave you with only fine memories of her. Are you still in this area? If you are perhaps we'll cross paths again. Riding has remained a vehicle of meditation, relaxation, and reflection from the start through today. I've added a couple motorcycles to my small scooter fleet and a riding jacket that is not yellow. But most of the time it's the Hi-Viz look for me. Good luck in your thoughts and search for how best to meditate and reflect. A scooter or motorcycle might be the right path.

[@ralfhoffmann2487]

That bike looks and sounds gorgeous and the opening shot of empty, tree lined back road with crickets chirping - magic!

[@ScooterintheSticks]

It's much smoother handling now. Like it was when new. And those tree lined roads here are perfect to ride a GTS scooter.

[@karnereeves3460]

I have had the absolute pleasure of owning and riding my W650 for tree years now. I live in rural Taranaki New Zealand. Think it's the nicest motorcycle I've ever had. Karne

[@ScooterintheSticks]

It's a really nice motorcycle for me as well. I'm riding it a lot!

[@ChuckChrome]

It is such a pretty area where you live and you have the perfect machines to exploit those types of roads. Fairly similar to where I live in NE Ohio but we don't have the big hills on the horizon. Thanks for continuing to provide great content.

[@ScooterintheSticks]

I'm fortunate to have the machines and fine places to ride. I'm not sure how it all came together but i'm grateful it has. As I ride I'll keep making videos of those experiences and the thoughts that occur to me on the road.

[@frenchenstein]

Three or more times I've seen this video. I love it. My 2011 W800 gives the same feeling of a kind of serenity. Ride safe❤️

[@ScooterintheSticks]

Glad you enjoyed it! I'm hoping to go for a little ride this afternoon on my W650 before it rains. The thermometer is pointing at 45F which is a gift here in January!

[@KrakensGarageandAdventures]

Uncle Voodoo is a profound speaker when hes not joking around. Hes very in touch with hisbriding experience. I'm so glad you decided on the W650. It really dies have a cult following.

[@ScooterintheSticks]

He sure is. I enjoy following along on his rides. I'm glad I have the W650 in the garage. It's a great motorcycle. And you are largely responsible for pushing me off the pot when I was waffling around with several different bikes in mind. Thank you for that!

[@chrestensrensen2486]

More than that! A dream!

[@ScooterintheSticks]

@@chrestensrensen2486 Yes sir to that!

[@FredVanderhoek]

I know this video is a little old. I must say I fully agree with the ehole "vibe" of this story. I bought a W800 A few months ago. This video describes my experiences precisely riding in the southwest countryside of Utah. Pure bliss on every ride. Thumbs up!

[@ScooterintheSticks]

Thanks for sharing your experience with your W800. I have to admit though I can't quite connect my mental picture of roads in southwest Utah with a W800. Maybe I've watched too many videos on Matt's Off Road Recovery. But I sure can understand the feeling of pure bliss!

[@angof]

Welcome to the W650 club :)

[@ScooterintheSticks]

Thanks! Do I get a leather jacket??

[@Yamafizzy]

Thinking about getting a W650 - after this great review it's a whole lot more likely. Really enjoyed it, thank you 👍😊👍

[@ScooterintheSticks]

Glad it was helpful! The more I ride my W650 the more I appreciate the machine. It is just a simple motorcycle and always a joy to ride.

[@rechard-jb9cr]

Life has been hectic lately. I finally found 16 minutes to watch your this video - so relaxing to watch and listen to your philosophizing. I don't know if you can catch the parallel, but I get the same "floating through the curves" feeling when putting down 2 lane black top with my wife on the back of the Tri Glide. She too enjoys the slower pace. T G certainly is easy to ride, don't even have to put feet down at a stop and don't have to worry about gravel, dirt or even ice for that matter. I do appreciate the self-canceling turn signals though. : )

[@ScooterintheSticks]

I think each of us finds that floating feeling on whatever works for us. I don't think there is only one "perfect" choice. So whether riding a W650, Tri Glide, or some flashy sportbike, if it delivers the desired feeling that's great. Self-cancelling turn signals -- that's a luxury!

[@GregoryMarston]

Hi Steve, My W650 is in my dooryard right now, it arrived last night at around 6 and it is every thing I expected and more. It is in mint condition.

[@ScooterintheSticks]

You're a lucky man. Not everyone gets to experience a W650.

[@KoflaOlivieriPhotography]

Excellent choice, the W650 is a great motorcycle. Don't pay attention to how old the bike is. Back in 2018 I purchased a 1978 Kawasaki KZ1000 to restore lol

[@ScooterintheSticks]

I have no issues with the age of the motorcycle. It's nine years younger than my 1992 BMW K75C was. Both were well maintained and in excellent condition. I suspect I'll be riding it until I can't ride anymore.

[@davidfreiboth1360]

I’ve had a 2000 W650, a ’08 Bonneville T100 and now a ’20 W800. The Hinckley Triumphs are great bikes, but I prefer the Kawis. Pity they don’t get the love they deserve in this country.

[@ScooterintheSticks]

True. They weren't well received in the US. Not loud and aggressive enough I guess.

[@flatgrindrides]

Glad you found a new, old friend! Seems like that W650 is a great fit. Glad you’re enjoying it.

[@ScooterintheSticks]

It's been a gift to have stumbled upon it.

[@VonRyansExpress-v3r]

Sounds like it has a 360° Crank so has that melodious, satisfying sound that British Twins were so famous for . . .

[@ScooterintheSticks]

Yes indeed, it has that lovely 360 degree crank set up.😍

[@VonRyansExpress-v3r]

@@ScooterintheSticks👌

[@larrywade9041]

Hi my friend; I heard you LOUD & CLEAR when you said that your bike has character. That is exactly how I feel about my W800! Along with you, I subscribed to a guy who goes by (big blue motorbike dog). You might want to watch some of his videos, as he REALLY talks about his W800. He's got many videos r.e. this bike in his archives. Just a tip! So glad you love your bike as it is beautiful. Have a beautiful day!! Illinois, USA

[@ScooterintheSticks]

I checked out Big Blue Motorbike Dog and he sure does have a lot of videos and information about the W800. Seems like a fine motorcycle. Just as I thought it would be. I hope to see one in the wild someday. Thanks for sharing the information!

[@erik_dk842]

Thank you for us along on your ride. I love the roads and the sound of the bike. I Recently bougt a 1993 BMW K75 RT after crashing the Suzuki Burgman 650 scooter, which I had for 14 years. Having a suspension system sure is nice - the scooter was hard as a board

[@ScooterintheSticks]

My pleasure. I sold my 1992 BMW K75C in order to buy my Himalayan. I enjoyed the bike and it was a solid performer with a fine suspension system. But it was getting heavier to handle than I wanted to deal with. And I really wanted something to ride on the dirt and gravel roads here. I've never ridden a Burgman 650 but it sure does look big and cumbersome. But I know guys who swear by them. Different strokes I guess...

[@erik_dk842]

@@ScooterintheSticks My reson for going with a K75 instead of a 100 or 1100 for the same price, was that I wanted as few vibrations as possible, my hands can't take vibrations. How is the Himalyan and the W650 for your hands?

[@ScooterintheSticks]

@@erik_dk842 I guess since I’m not very sensitive to vibration I don’t really notice it so I can’t say for sure. I know the W6 50 generates some vibration in the foot pegs at certain speeds but even that I wouldn’t have recognized unless someone pointed it out to me.so I’m probably the wrong guy to ask about vibration. I will say the motorcycles that I found to be ultra smooth without any sense of vibration, have been, my Vespa, scooters, and triumph motorcycles.

[@Argo-F-Ur-Sef]

I was close to getting a W800 and love the style. However, I settled on a Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 mainly as it was several thousand cheaper. It gives me the same feeling as you experience. It also has just enough pep to be thrilling when needed. So glad you enjoy yours!

[@ScooterintheSticks]

The Interceptor is a fine motorcycle. I've looked at them at the dealer but never took a test ride. I was shopping for the Himalayan at that point. I was seriously considering the Classic 350 and had thought more than once about the Interceptor. But then I stumbled upon the W650 and looked no further. Royal Enfield is making some great machines. I hope you have many fine adventures on your Interceptor. And think of what would can do with that extra cash!

[@chrestensrensen2486]

Great and The RE are really looking SUPERB!

[@colbrt]

My only reservation with the bike (I wanted one bad back in 2000) would be the lack of EFI. I feel no nostalgia for carbs. It is probably the 2nd most beautiful retro bike ever made (nod still goes to the GB500 for me.) Love these bikes! And for the time, this had much more elegant styling than the Triumphs of the time.

[@ScooterintheSticks]

Fair enough! I have two machines now with carbs and they definitely seem to sometimes have a mind of their own. But once warmed up and running they're fine. As with ABS, I'm not sure EFI is on my list of must haves in a scooter or motorcycle. It sure is a pretty motorcycle.

[@bigbluemotorbikedog]

The W800 has EFI and ABS, as well as LED lighting. Just as a thought, might be something to consider.

[@chrestensrensen2486]

You have now answered the Triumph what their problems was . OK now they starts to make a one cyl 400 classic. Are Triumph slleeping. Do they not understand how the bonneville was so fine. Kawasaki did it...BETTER

[@mebeasensei]

I actually like the carb version with the kick start as opposed to the Injected version with no kick start. Reason - you can upgrade carb version to get more horsepower. I am not so sure about the injected models although I do believe it is possible to get mapping kits. Then of course, having a kick start. Now all that said, easier said than done. Getting the jetting right in all conditions and loads is tricky. I threw out the air box, jetted it, puts a titanium 2-1 custom exhaust on it and saved 20kg of weight. And it went better when it went better. Other times it was a complete dog. Ended up putting the air boxes and original exhaust back on. Now the newer - and heavier - W800 models have ABS, slipper clutch, traction control, injection, more lower down torque but the lack of a kick start still scars me. Do not enjoy not being able to start a bike with a sketchy battery and no kick start. No injection means no electric fuel pump so it always feels like it is Salvageable.

[@nicolasmeslier7871]

Hi Steve, I although ride a W650 in the South WEST of France. Mine is a 2005. I call her « the flying carpet » Floating …. I see what you mean and I totaly agree Thanks and ride safe Cheers from France

[@ScooterintheSticks]

Flying carpet... I like that! The W650 gets better every time I ride it. The only real adjustment I've had to make is using the choke to warm up the bike before riding. None of that with my fuel injected vehicles. But it doesn't take long until I'm floating along...

[@bulasturubula3660]

I'm adopting one soon, can't wait!

[@ScooterintheSticks]

The W650 is a wonderful motorcycle. I hope you find the same satisfaction as I have.

[@bulasturubula3660]

​@@ScooterintheSticks I got it in December, so i've had it for 4monthes now. I paid it 1500€, and it's in great condition ! (only had to replace the tires, oil change, new battery, rince the gas tank, ...) The sound is quite soft (it's full stock) but heh, it's allright. It's really an innofensive bike. It came with a massive windshield, with it i could easily reach the max speed of 180Km/h (120mph), but i had to remove it because it was old. Now with a much smaller windscreen i can't go anything over 130km/h (90mph) or it will wobble. I don't care for speed so it's fine. It's pretty good looking, it started many conversations. It's a really low bike tho, for me who is quite tall, and the saddle is slippery as heck. Right now the slippery saddle is my biggest issue. But i love it, it's great, it's my first bike and i'm really enjoying it.

[@AliasMrHackenbacker]

That was a great summary, it sounds like the bike is the perfect partner for you. I to like the more relaxed machines that as you say float rather than attack. Motorcycling has become my way of chilling from the stresses that life throw up, i've become much more interested in exploring places with the journey becoming more important than the destination. The w650 and 800 are fairly rare here in the UK compared to the Triumphs and Royal Enfield Interceptors, they seemed to be overlooked unless Kawasaki UK don't import many compared to the Z650 and 900 models.

[@ScooterintheSticks]

It does appear to be a perfect partner. I just love riding it. I agree with you about the journey being more important than the destination though I do like to arrive somewhere with food! The W650 and 800 are rare here as well.

[@peaceandcalm-paulruby9304]

I like the opening 1 minute of the video its got a mood.

[@ScooterintheSticks]

It's funny how sometimes you stop somewhere along the road and the energy just feels right for something. As I was looking around it just seemed especially peaceful there.

[@jeffkeni]

Some of the roads you were on reminded me of my local roads in central Illinois in how they bisect the farm land. Crop on both sides! I wondered where you are. The mountainous horizon triggered my curiosity. Judging by the Bellefonte/ Lewiston road sign, I will guess you are in Pennsylvania, thanks to Google! The W is a very cool bike. I hope to add one to my garage someday. Now that I have recently fulfilled my goal of putting an old BMW Airhead in my stable, I can begin to think about what comes next.

[@ScooterintheSticks]

There are a lot of roads with crops on both sides here. When the corn is tall I just think the deer are standing in there just waiting to get me! I'm in central Pennsylvania and this video was shot in Penns Valley, and area to the east of Centre Hall, Pennsylvania. The Kawasaki W650 is a cool bike. Not many around. And of all the machines I ride, I get the most inquiries about it.

[@captainjim605]

I'm seeing a series: Then Came Williams (ala Then Came Bronson). Glad the W650 is working out for you.

[@ScooterintheSticks]

Hah! That would be fun. I think we need another motorcycle inspired TV series. I need to get writing!!

[@richicago20]

another great one, Steve….good choice avoiding the gravel!!!

[@ScooterintheSticks]

Thanks 👍 I’m not ready to scratch the bike up yet!

[@richicago20]

@@ScooterintheSticksno way am i taking my beautiful 2023 Matte Black Primavera up to our mountain cabin! The gravel road would destroy her perfect skin.

[@ScooterintheSticks]

@@richicago20 I've destroyed the perfect skin on my GTS. It still looks nice but you can tell it's been through a war. So I'm done with that except for my Royal Enfield Himalayan.

[@Bob-xc2us]

Riding on gravel takes some getting used to but it is not a problem for the W motorcycles.

[@GregoryMarston]

I very much enjoy watching this video, thank you. How many miles were on your motorcycle when you bought it?

[@ScooterintheSticks]

I'm glad you found the video worth watching. The W650 had 47K miles on the clock when I bought it. The bike was well maintained and I suspect it will run another 20 -30 thousand miles before any serious maintenance is required.

[@clinterz]

I'm envious. It was always easy to find my zen on the W650. Riding a Himalayan is a completely different thing; it rides more like a dirt bike...and it's hard to find your zen on a dirt bike.

[@ScooterintheSticks]

You're right about the differences between the W650 and the Himalayan. I find some sense of relaxation when riding the Himalayan but I would not describe it as zen in the way I do with my Vespa GTS or W650. But the Himalayan also doesn't feel like a dirt bike to me. Probably because I'm older now and can't throw it around like I remember throwing dirt bikes around as a kid. It's more like a tractor to me as I plod along. Thanks for taking the time to comment. I appreciate it.

[@I-Libertine]

Excellent video. Subscribed.

[@ScooterintheSticks]

Awesome, thank you!

[@owensmith1258]

Great video!

[@ScooterintheSticks]

Thanks! Glad you enjoyed it. The W650 is a fine machine.

[@jethrobradley7850]

Enjoyed the laidback, meditative vibe of the music, the bike and your narration. Out of curiosity, what's the quickest comfortable cruising speed of the W650? (I suppose I'm wondering how it performs on the freeway) And what are the brakes like?

[@ScooterintheSticks]

For the backroads here the W650 is absolutely smooth and comfortable from 25mph to 55 mph. I've ridden it on freeways at 70mph and it runs fine and still has plenty of power left but without a 6th gear the RPMs are getting high. And there is a slight vibration in the footpegs but nothing in the bars or seat. I would not buy a W650 if I was planning on a lot of freeway riding. It will do it but there are many other motorcycles better suited for that kind of riding. For me it is the perfect cruiser for main roads and backroads with occasional time on the freeway. The brakes are fine. Plenty of power for the size of the bike and the speeds at which I ride.

[@jethrobradley7850]

@@ScooterintheSticks Thank you for that. It sounds like I might have to look at something else. Maybe a Triumph or similar.

[@Bob-xc2us]

@@ScooterintheSticks I have a W800 from 2022 and it runs well on the 70mph freeway but I have a small bug screen to take the wind pressure off my chest. Wind is not a problem at 60mph and below but you need something at freeway speeds. It is not the right bike if all your driving is freeway but for back roads and occasional freeway work it is perfect. Nice low end grunt and just enough old school vibes to let you know you driving a motorcycle and that you are alive. Bob form Canada

[@ericdreibelbis7043]

Definitely get what you mean, I went with rebuilding a 79 xs 650 Yamaha, But very similar bikes

[@ScooterintheSticks]

Nice!

[@victorhawkins3461]

Funny you should ask "Why buy an (old) motorcycle..." just as you passed a pristine, two-tone, restored or perhaps resto-mod '63/'64 Chevy Impala coupe. Short answer? 'Cause they're cool...just like that Impala. I loved my '05 Vulcan 2000, yet we move on...

[@ScooterintheSticks]

You have a sharp eye. I had to go back and look for that Impala in the video. I didn't see it when I was riding and missed it while editing the video. When I was in 4th grade a neighbor's parents had a 4 door Impala. We often begged for a ride to school in the winter rather than walk. I remember the green car. I don't remember it being cool! I'm satisfied with my collection now. Haven't had any urge to look at anything else. We'll see how long that lasts...

[@andreafratoni8726]

Sono di Rho e ho riconosciuto il tratto di strada di birighello!!!! Mi piace la moto e mi piacerebbe provarla. L'unica cosa che mi spiace è non avere il kick della 650 che fa ancora più retrò oltre a giudicarlo, personalmente, utilissimo. Complimenti per la prova

[@ScooterintheSticks]

Mi piacerebbe guidare la mia W650 in Italia un giorno. Oppure una Vespa GTS. Qualsiasi cosa, davvero. Non sono sicuro che attraverserò di nuovo l'oceano in questa vita per farlo...

[@twloughlin]

Floating - that's the ticket. I think that says it all.

[@ScooterintheSticks]

I agree!

[@newlife155]

Hello, Steve, in one of your videos I would appreciate any tips you might have for us about riding on tar snakes, I see in this video, especially, that you have a lot in that region. Any thoughts would be appreciated. Enjoy your W650.

[@ScooterintheSticks]

While I have read and heard of people complaining about tar snakes as a challenge on the road I have never experienced any issues riding on them. And we have plenty. It could be my rather relaxed pace without aggressive cornering could render them incidental. In the heat of summer the tar, new tar at least, could become gooey and a leaning tire could slip I guess. But again, I am not an aggressive ride. And going in a straight line over them would not be an issue. Hard or emergency braking might. But again, in all my years of riding on them I have never had an issue. As soon as the rain passes I will take the W650 out again. In the wet weather it has been all Vespa GTS work!

[@ScooterintheSticks]

I posted an answer on another comment so I just paste that here: While I have read and heard of people complaining about tar snakes as a challenge on the road I have never experienced any issues riding on them. And we have plenty. It could be my rather relaxed pace without aggressive cornering could render them incidental. In the heat of summer the tar, new tar at least, could become gooey and a leaning tire could slip I guess. But again, I am not an aggressive ride. And going in a straight line over them would not be an issue. Hard or emergency braking might. But again, in all my years of riding on them I have never had an issue.

[@雅紀-p4d]

唯､速いだけのbikeでは退屈だ。 唯､遅いだけのbikeも然り。 お互いに､足り無い部分を補いながら気持ち良く 走れて居れば､最高🍀

[@ScooterintheSticks]

コメントを共有していただきありがとうございます。 最高のバイクとは、人生の隙間を埋めるバイクかもしれません。 Komento o kyōyū shite itadaki arigatōgozaimasu. Saikō no baiku to wa, jinsei no sukima o umeru baiku kamo shiremasen.

[@Stefan_trekkie]

As always for just 15 min video, you ask and answer a lot of questions. Of course everyone is different and likes and is used to different things. I like every cruiser styled bike but after owning the formention classic 350 for a while, I can say they are not for me. I am too used from bicycles and scooters to not use my legs to operate leavers to control something on the bike and feels like too match mental work when doing so and I live in too big city and traffic. So, big maxi scooter loud be my bike for cruising. Actually my old 20 years old maxi scooter Kymco is like that. Relaxed, comfortable, low rpms torqie engine for cruising and don't like to pushed hard. So, I know what you are talking about. Long time ago when I was starting with motor bikes a cruiser bike was my dream. But they are the most expensive to buy 2nd hand and poor 20 year old me had just a fraction of the money needed. So, I will stick to scooters for now and maybe forever. This is not a critique of your Kawasaki or any cruiser, they are marvelous machines.

[@ScooterintheSticks]

Sometimes when I'm editing the video I think I talk too much. Never sure where that line is. Riding a scooter and not having to manipulate so much is one of the serious attractions. I realize though that some people love operating motorcycles and the more shifting the better. I suppose I'm fortunate I enjoy both experiences and relish the differences. I sure remember being 20 and poor. I worked full time and more and never seemed to have any extra money for anything. And the way prices are for motorcycles I can see why not many young people buy them. Thanks for taking the time to share your thoughts. It's always good to hear what others think about scooters and motorcycles.

[@Bob-xc2us]

Hi. I lived and worked in Bermuda for about a year and a half and drove a rental 50cc scooter. That thing would do an indicated 60mph but was very easy to drive at the Ilsand speed limit of 22mph. In the somewhat chaotic traffic of Bermuda the automatic transmission was a god send. I some times miss that when driving my W800 in heavier stop and go traffic. I have owned a "72 Honda CB350, 1981 Honda CMT400, an '82 Yamaha Virago 750 and now the 2022 W800 that I bought as my 68th birthday present (never too old). Even tough I enjoyed all of my previous bikes, none of them provided the relaxing and calming effect provided by the W800. It will provide brisk performance between 4000rpm and red line but the relaxing low end torque is the intoxicating part that can't be found in many high strung short stroke motorcycles. The W's have a long stoke engine that provides effortless tractor like pulling power. My W800 is actually hard to stall taking off without using any throttle. Congratulations to all the proud owners of W series motorcycles who actually get it and a big thanks to all who share such interesting videos and comments. Regards Bob, soon to be 70 years young.

[@AllanWyatt-j2r]

You're seriously short shifting that bike. This engine comes alive at 4000-4500 rpm and they'll cruise at those speeds all day. I've put over 10k miles on mine and discovered that performance envelope about 3K miles into owning it. Mine is a clone of your bike and I absolutely love this bike. The polar opposite of my BMW R1150GS. When I ride it anywhere I plan on spending anywhere from 10-20 minutes talking to people about it. I get thumbs up at stop lights all the time. It's forever bike for me....

[@ScooterintheSticks]

Yes indeed, I do short shift the W650. And pretty much every motorcycle I've ever ridden. I've never been much interested in best performance envelop for a motorcycle. I've always been more interested in a laid back, understated, meandering ride. Sure, from time to time I may have the need to push the RPMS up higher but not often. I suppose every rider has different desires and goals when they ride. Getting the most performance from the engine isn't on my list.

[@Bob-xc2us]

Yes my W800 really wakes up between 4000 and redline but I only need that when traffic requires that I get going in a hurry. I can drive my bike all day and never get it over 3000rpm. It pulls nicely from 2000rpm in fifth gear. It will putt around at 30mph in fifth and still pull up to higher speeds without down shifting. It makes almost all of its torque at 2500rpm. The W650 and W800 engines are long stroke engines (the stroke is longer than the bore is wide) and they pull more like a diesel tractor engine but still have the beans in the upper rpms. That low end torque is part of what makes them so relaxing to drive. No need to ring its neck to get somewhere. They love to be short shifted and they are built to handle that kind of driving. They are low compression engines so your not lugging them at lower rpms. They are truly 100,000 mile motorcycles with only routine maintenance.

[@25chief39]

Back in the day when you and I were young, the everyday "standard" bikes that this one harks back to (I'm thinking Triumph Trophy 650, BSA Thunderbolt or A10, Yamaha XS650, Honda CB450) were "all rounders" that were expected to do everything, including "adventure touring". Now it's all split up into specialist niche motorcycles like ADV bikes. So why do you also have an Enfield Himalayan? Do you really need it? Could the W650, maybe with a Trials Universal type of tire, do 99% of what you expect the Himalayan to do?

[@ScooterintheSticks]

The W650 is a beautifully designed motorcycle and as you say harkens back to what I thought motorcycles looked like as a kid. That was an essential part of the attraction for me and why I was also looking at a Royal Enfield Classic 350 and Triumph Street Twin or Bonneville. I ruled out the Triumphs because there just seemed to be too much "power." I don't need it and I don't want to have to manage it. And while the W650 has a lot of horsepower when you ride the motorcycle the power is very understated. And I liked that. Enough that I never looked any further after test riding it. I already had the Himalayan when I bought the W650. I planned to use it as a backroads cruiser and not as something to ride on the dirt and gravel mountain roads. In part because I hadn't ever considered that and in part because it is still shiny and clean after over 20 years on the road. Pounding it through rocks and stuff just seemed wrong. It is similar to the Himalayan in weight but that's where the similarities end. The Himalayan has more ground clearance, the suspension seems better suited for rougher roads, it is definitely easier to stand on the pegs, and with half the horsepower it is probably a lot easier to manage over rough terrain. At least for me at my skill level. And the Himalayan is just do damn fun to ride in a manner different that anything else in my garage. I love riding the W650 too but it is a different animal.

[@25chief39]

@@ScooterintheSticks Thanks for giving me the courtesy of a reply. Personally I don't do rocks. Gravel roads and tracks are the limit of my rough riding ambitions.

[@ScooterintheSticks]

@@25chief39 I try to avoid rocks. I certainly won't attempt to ride through a rock field but there are plenty of places where rain and water wash out sections of roads and exposes some bigger stuff. You have to pick your way through it and the risk of falling increases. Not something I want to do as my 70th birthday approaches. And if I know a section of road is rocky I will go another way.

[@25chief39]

@@ScooterintheSticks same here.

[@Bob-xc2us]

@@ScooterintheSticks Welcome to the club Steve. I will turn 70 this August. I bought my W800 as a present for myself on my 68th birthday. Never too old and the W series motorcycles are perfect machines for people with the necessary experience to enjoy the ride and not need the adrenaline rush that we craved in our earlier years. Peace and tranquility is where it's at for me now.

[@SCALE_RC__AND_SLOTCARS]

I like a bike thats different Steve and the W650 is definitely that ,at a modern motorcycle event there will be many retro triumphs and guys will look at them having seen lots of them before but then the come to the Kawasaki and stop to pause and not seeing many they will spend some extra time checking it out and reminiscing about older twins with their carbs and British bikes. I did have A yamaha xs 650 many years ago which had a similar look and ideology to the kawasaki W650 ,of course the W650 came into production soon after the xs650 .im sure the marketing people spotted a gap in the market and have filled it very well since ,enjoyed your post as always ...Harry

[@ScooterintheSticks]

The retro look and feel of the W650 is a big part of why I bought it. Purely visual and emotional with little attention to the machine and it's workings. Carbs or EFI didn't matter. And neither was I concerned with a rear drum brake or no ABS. It was just a machine that struck emotional chords. And I am grateful to discover it works better than I would ever have imagined. In the same manner that my 1992 BMW K75C did. Simple, excellent engineering. And I'm glad you liked the video. Already working on the next one in my head...

[@pnwoods]

There's one for sale, here, 900 miles away. Asking price $6200. Four digit mileage. In your experience, would the logistics of flying down, & riding it back, be offset by the W650's riding experience? ... Other riders note vibration above 3500 rpm. Is it notable? Thanks for any input, .. and your vid.

[@ScooterintheSticks]

Tough questions. $6200 is a thousand more than I paid for mine. I suppose the real question is how bad you want it. I know people who go that far for a scooter or motorcycle. At 3500 hundred RPMs the engine definitely sounds like it must be buzzing or vibrating but it seems more a sound that something physical. I've not ridden it enough at higher speeds to confidently comment on vibration. My first reaction was "vibration?" No. But then I thought a minute and I can't say for sure. I'll keep it in mind for another video.

[@pinkhelmet2]

Mine (a 2005 650) has some vibration somewhere between ~3500 - 3900. Not hard to live with and gone outside that range.

[@Argo-F-Ur-Sef]

@pnwoods Try out a Royal Enfield Interceptor. They are on sale now for $4,999 ($1000 off). I love mine.

[@kdsowen2882]

They are rarer in your part of the world but it's very low-miles . If you have ridden an old Triumph,Bonnie or 500 Daytona , it's similar (but better) with less-vibration . The vibration was intentional in its design as it was originally-designed for the Japanese retro-market which is mad for 60's Bonnevilles . I have an 03 ,w650 , fine-bike . Their only-fault seems to be fuel-taps , the outlet-pipe is pressed-into the body of the tap, with an 'o'-ring . You can fit another tap etc (see Adventure Riders ) , Huge W650-following and info on there. They are also slow to warm-up and idle needs turning-down when I stop (big-knob) . They do an easy 250,000miles before any serious engine-work , just change oil-filter etc regularly . Dave nz

[@pnwoods]

Much appreciated for yours/everyone's input/experience/advice. .... Recently turned 72 yrs. ... Retired. The W650 appears a proper fit for an adjusted riding experience. Purchased the bike. Will investigate any/all recommended information/experience/improvement resources offered by the community. ... Will most certainly check with Adventure Riders. Any recommended aftermarket seats for longer rides? Also, advice on suspension additions? @@kdsowen2882

[@peterbuckley5204]

Got a 2002 w 650 in silver and blue again mint condition replaces my 1983 1100 intersate which was proving a bit too heavy had it 14 years 18000 miles on clock ideal for this 72 year old would i sell it NEVER enjoy yours as i do mine pete in uk

[@ScooterintheSticks]

You and I are fortunate to have a W650 in our lives. They are fine motorcycles.

[@atp1130]

Did you sell your k75?

[@ScooterintheSticks]

Yes I did. In January of 2022. It made way for the BMW K75C.

[@Scooterdude01]

It's jewelry not a motorcycle. I had a Yamaha 650 special, but here in SW Florida 😎 the air cooled engine was like riding an oven. Had to let her go. Have two scooters now helix and reflex.

[@ScooterintheSticks]

I'm not exactly sure what you mean. Motorcycles in general are toys. Is the W650 different?

[@jamshedsethna3428]

W650, same HP as W800.

[@ScooterintheSticks]

The engines are much different. 676cc for the W650 and only 778cc for the W800. W650 - 50HP W800 - 48HP Go figure.

[@Bob-xc2us]

@@ScooterintheSticks The W800 at 47hp for the tiered licensing system in the UK and other markets. In other markets it is rated at 52hp. The W800 is essentially the same engine as the W650 with a different bore and stroke and minus the kick starter (too bad). It has slightly higher torque that comes in at a lower RPM and has lower red line of 7000rpm because of the bore and stroke differences but they are remarkably similar motorcycles. ABS, fuel injection and catalytic converters have made them heavier so the overall performance is about the same. Also the W800 has 41 or 42mm forks and W650 has 39mm forks.

[@Bob-xc2us]

Same horsepower but the W800 has a larger bore and makes a few more foot pound of torque. They have the same stroke and are essentially the same engine mechanically. European emission regulations force them to increase the capacity to maintain performance after all the emission equipment restrictions. The W650 and W800 perform very similarly but the W800 is 20 pounds heavier because of mandatory ABS and Cat converters in the exhaust.

[@borisbkirov9156]

🙆🏍👍🇦🇿

[@ScooterintheSticks]

Thanks!

[@majorlifts]

Dude youre trippin me out riding in the middle of your lane, where all the oil and street junk from cars is, freaks me out like youre gonna wipe out sny second.

[@ScooterintheSticks]

No need to worry about oil and street junk on these back roads. Traffic is far too light for that. What I do have to worry about though is gravel, especially in the summer when they are continually doing tar and chip treatments, liquid manure which is like grease, and deer. I've never really ridden anywhere that oil or street junk was an issue except when it first starts to rain. As I said though, no worries on these roads.

[@dannyvan5792]

brol bucht rotte motor no good

[@ScooterintheSticks]

So far almost 50 thousand trouble-free miles on the engine. What should I expect from this rotten engine?

[@libertiner1380]

You killed the Vespa story now 😞

[@ScooterintheSticks]

Hardly. No scooter or motorcycle is perfect for every environment or situation. My enthrallment with my Vespa scooters persists. And as the weather cools, they more and more become my ride of choice. The Vespa stories will continue!

[@andreafratoni8726]

Sono di Rho e ho riconosciuto il tratto di strada di birighello!!!! Mi piace la moto e mi piacerebbe provarla. L'unica cosa che mi spiace è non avere il kick della 650 che fa ancora più retrò oltre a giudicarlo, personalmente, utilissimo. Complimenti per la prova

[@ScooterintheSticks]

Mi piacerebbe guidare la mia W650 in Italia un giorno. Oppure una Vespa GTS. Qualsiasi cosa, davvero. Non sono sicuro che attraverserò di nuovo l'oceano in questa vita per farlo...