SHOOTOUT Kawasaki W800 vs Royal Enfield INT650 | Ol' Man Ronin (S5,E20)

[@davgb7904]

Having tried a W800 and later a INT650 (Interceptor here in the UK) which was an easy choice and I bought the latter, you hit the reason, the nail on the head at the start. I liked most of the W but the vibration on the W was just ever present and frustrating - like a bulldozer or tractor. The vibes on the Interceptor are real and alive, but not intrusive - feeling part of the rider. I also feel the Interceptor feels much more comfortable cruising at higher road speeds and the W 'seems' to be working hard.

[@stevemiller7433]

The 650 is smooth.. That is why I bought it rather than the W800.. I already have a rolling vibrator, a RE 500.

[@jfess1911]

@@stevemiller7433 Well, at least you have an easy way to mix up cans of paint. Strap them on the RE500 and go around the block a couple times!😀

[@stevemiller7433]

@@jfess1911 excellent

[@davgb7904]

@@martinpelama You're saying it's the stroke being shorter on the RE (- and calling us dummies in the process)? Nothing to do with the engine angle configuration then? The 270 deg crank is inherently smoother and will have a much greater effect than the stroke.

[@shanewinter9246]

O so they both VIBRATE lol but one is ok other is not WOW

[@SteveBlancoMusicianWarrior]

I love my Kawasaki. I checked out all these bikes. Would never change my decision. The fit and finish is so insanely tight made in Japan. Riding it is absolute pleasure. Thanks for the video.

[@marksutherlandjr.2121]

W800 is my next bike, Ive been shopping and watching EVERYTHING I could. I know for certain it's Kawasaki W800 for SURE.

[@sefton1972]

The vibes on the W are due to the 360 degree crank which is a 100% British Twin characteristic & why I bought mine. It’s a genuine modern old school motorcycle. Every other parallel twin is a generic 270 degree crank. I also paid £6500 new for my W. They are £9000 on the website but never in the dealers. Mainly because of RE. 😂

[@jfess1911]

180 degree parallel twins are still common. Kawasaki twins, Honda 500's and possibly others.

[@jacksnyder4708]

Agree. I have a W-800 and the vibrations are barely noticeable, especially for the 360 degree crank. I had a 70 Yamaha XS1 with the same crank and the vibes were brutal. It's merely feedback on the Kawi and you still get that classic "British" sound complete with fuel injection and ABS. What's not to love.

[@michaeljoesmith3977]

True 360 degree crank is authentically British and resulting extreme vibration too. My 650 RE Continental GT I find disappointing when it comes to the exhaust note when compared to the 1970 Triumph Bonneville I had back in the day, but I am Not disappointed by the lack of bad vibrations.

[@sefton1972]

@@michaeljoesmith3977 that’s why I bought my W800 as it is a true 360 degree crank. The worst vibes are at 3.5k below 3 & after 4K it’s lovely. TBH it’s not that bad at it’s worst. It does have a balance shaft to quell the worst. It just feels like a real bike to me. I tried an interceptor but I found it a bit Vanilla. Smooth though but lacking soul.

[@mebeasensei]

Agree. The W is a nicer more unique and quality bike.

[@m.a.bustamante361]

I have a w800. The vibrations stopped after it broke in, somewhere around 900 miles

[@burtvhulberthyhbn7583]

Over 29k miles on my interceptor. One battery. 2 lightbulbs. A chain and sprocket. A whole lot of tires.

[@johnkestly4762]

The 650INT is geared lower, my W800 goes 70 mph at 4000 rpm, my RE 650 INT only goes 60 mph at 4000 rpm. So that is why they pull the same. My W800 is more comfortable for my 6 foot frame. The W800 vibrates around 60 mph, but I have never found it annoying. The W800 has a lot better fit and finish. My 2022 W800 has just shy of 15,000 miles, my 2022 RE 650 INT just shy of 4000 miles. The only thing the RE has going for it is warranty and price.

[@TommygunnerKid]

The Kawasaki design and production engineers in Japan know how to build modern, fast, reliable, economical and great handling bikes. Just look at their H2. They engineered the W800 to be a 1960's bike in looks, performance and sound, but with modern quality, reliability and economy. I believe the RE design engineers (in England) and production engineers (in India) are doing the best they can, and the result is the INT650. One company with tremendous engineering expertise produced the W800 as a tribute bike to their earliest motorcycling roots. The other is trying to produce the most modern bike it can. The engineering expertise level of the two companies couldn't be more different. Which is the superior bike? Ol' Man Ronin says the RE INT650. To each their own. But I bought the W800 when I could have bought any bike (including an Ninja H2) because of its uniqueness and promise of superior engineering. If you couldn't guess, I'm an engineer (retired) and can appreciate the efforts by the project teams at both companies.

[@johngriffin141]

I have 7 motorcycles, including a Triumph T120, but do not own either of these so I am not biased by ownership. However I have ridden both the INT 650 and the W800. I find the W800 to be a superior bike to the INT 650, build quality, performance, comfort, braking. Horsepower doesn't matter on these bikes since they are not sport bikes, torque is what matters. Pricewise, yeah the INT 650 wins, but at what cost? To me it feels like a cheaper motorcycle. Anyway, everyone has their own opinions, which is why I bought neither of these and went with the Triumph.

[@Soul2burn]

I own a W800 after owning two different Royal Enfield's and have no problem with the vibration compared to my RE500. I absolutely love my bike with the sidecar as i am now 70 years old and need the extra stability that comes with fitting a sidecar. I have a video of the bike on my channel

[@thomasroughley7982]

I am 65years old and anyone who thinks the w800 vibrates must be of a tender disposition. The interceptor is a nice bike also.😂😂😂😂😂

[@ambu6478]

Great review of these two motorcycles! I ride a Kawasaki and it's a very good ride.

[@OlManRonin]

agreed its a great motorcycle

[@kevinpack1454]

Question: If the selling price was the same between the 2 models, would it change your opinion? Here in OR, my local dealer is selling a brand new 2022 W800 for $6999 OTD which is what an INT 650 is OTD with the “dealer fees”. I do like some of the more “premium parts” on the W (metal fenders, foot brake, better seat, adjustable clutch & brake levers, handlebar instruments). 3 year warranty of the RE is a +, but you don’t hear a lot of quality issues with Kawasaki so not sure that’s a big deal for me.

[@stevenwatling3160]

38nm of torque on the Int 650 is not -'nearly the same' as 62nm on the W800. I have a 2016 W800 SE and one of the many things I love about it ( including the outstanding fit and finish ) is the torque and character of that amazing engine with its bevel gear driven camshaft, unique in this segment.

[@Winterstick549]

So Ronin is lying? I seriously doubt that

[@chrisday7057]

@@Winterstick549 The Interceptor has 52+ Nm (royalenfield.com.au/model/interceptor-650/). Not sure where OMR got his specs from.

[@skippmclovan1135]

@@Winterstick549 He is just plain WRONG there . . ! 62 is 63% GREATER than 38 . . ! Point made . . ! Period . . !

[@xorbe2]

The W800 engine is 19% larger (773/650) and has 19% more (62/52) torque. Dunno where he got 38nm from, that's way low for a 650 twin.

[@timothythompson4144]

​@@Winterstick549 I wouldn't say he is lying. He confused foot pounds with newton meters. He said they had the same torque numbers they do not. The royal enfield has 38 foot pounds which is 52nm. It boils down to you get what you pay for. The Kawasaki is a higher quality bike. It's also 3 grand more.You can't go wrong with the Royal Enfield.

[@Ironlegable]

int650 is the bike for folks who couldn't afford the w800. simple.

[@stevemiller5350]

Or maybe plan to keep it a long time, and will someday need parts.

[@rossgilmour1965]

I've not had the pleasure of riding the Royal Enfield, but as the owner of a Kawasaki W650 ('99 model), I can report that vibrations were an issue even back then. It's basically the same motor. One would've thought that, even with the 360 degree firing order (which gives that distinctive old-world Triumph Bonneville sound), Kawasaki's world-class engineering capability could've smoothed it out more. Personally I think Kawasaki's quality is higher, but your review is spot on.

[@canopus101]

My Royal Enfield is vibration free, much to the disappointment o my female pillion passengers. lol

[@kdsowen2882]

Japan's Domestic-market Wanted vibrations . They DID make some of the development-motors 100% vibrationless but they were rejected as not original-enough . It was originally-designed for the Domestic-Market Retro-Bike-Scene only and NOT for export or to compete with other-brands . Dave NZ

[@rossgilmour1965]

@@kdsowen2882 Thanks for the information. I'd like to have one of those vibration-free motors, as I find vibes annoying. To me, building vibrations into a motor seems tantamount to deliberately installing a fault.

[@FrankBarco]

It could be worse as they put a balancer shaft in it to smooth out the vibes some, so not as bad as an older Triumph.

[@rossgilmour1965]

You are right Frank. The 'good old days' of Triumph had worse vibes (plus leaking oil etcetera). I'm leaving on a 1,000 kilometer trip this morning starting in Newcastle via Bathurst to Canberra. Long distance is where the vibes get tiresome. I replaced a lot of the old rubber grommets & keep the chain well lubricated which helps. I still love the old W in spite of this idiosyncrasy. We've travelled 31,000k's together in the three years since I bought the bike & have completed a full restoration. I have a 2,000k trip planned for next month before winter arrives. Thanks for your comment.

[@markymarknj]

Ronin, here's another feather in RE's cap: color choice. You have so multiple color choices, while Kawi only gives you one. What are there, like 7 colorways with the INT650? I could easily get off on one in Ventura Blue, Baker Express, or the Mark II. They're all sweet! The big thing I don't like about the Big Four Japanese bike makers is the lack of color choice; if you're lucky, you'll get two, maybe three, per model year. Second, a $3K price difference is nothing to sneeze at. To put it another way, you can get the RE INT650 OUT THE DOOR for less than the the base price of the Kawi! At my local dealer, an INT650 can be rolled OTD in the low $8K range, or a thousand less than the Kawi's base price. In these days and times, that's important. Finally, though the valve check intervals are normally long for Japanese bikes, they use a shim & bucket system that's a PITA to work on; you sometimes have to remove the cam, not to mention the shims are expensive. OTOH, the RE uses screw & locknut adjusters, which anyone can work on. In my experience, accessing the valves took longer than checking and adjusting them. And I'd never done it before! Sure, the valve checks are more often, but they're easy peasy to do, so an owner can work on the RE. The Kawi might have to be outsourced for the valve check.

[@markymarknj]

@@stillshakin2125 cool! iIRC, with the Honda Rebel 500, you have to pull the cam to access the shims.

[@aaronbrewer1742]

Royal Enfield fit & finish is at least $3000 inferior. Other things...performance, service & maintenance, dealership knowledge. Overall royal enfield don't have their game ready for the United States market. Pretty bikes. I can't wait to get rid of mine. I should consider myself lucky that I learned my lessons about royal enfield so cheaply.

[@coloneljawoof6832]

Love my 2022 Wiskey 8. Never noticed any vibrations.

[@wolfpack3590]

Easy maintainance, cheap parts (but not cheaply made parts) is what make INT650 the winner with me, good looks is a bonus👍.

[@bruceyoung4636]

The first mod I do to the INT 650 would be to spend $50 and order proper INTERCEPTOR 650 side covers from India, forget Honda and their trademark on the name Interceptor.

[@luisloya1120]

They're available?

[@gwynnromano5881]

High frequency vibration through the handlebars takes a bike off the table for me. I ride a Triumph Thunderbird 1600. It’s a parallel twin with a 270 degree crank so there is a low frequency vibration that never bothers me. Recently I had my bike in for a rear tire replacement and the dealer gave me a used Africa Twin to take for a ride while I waited. As I recall, all of the Moto mags raved about the bike as if it was the greatest bike ever. I found the transmission ratios too close together. By forty MPH I was in sixth gear cruising without lugging the engine. It felt like the biggest dirt bike I’ve ever ridden. However, within ten minutes my hands were going numb. Maybe a set of Grip Puppies would help but for me the bike was a no go. Thanks for the review. I was thinking of replacing my bike with something lighter and the W800 was on my list but I’ll take it off.

[@tonymercer265]

Fill the bars with lead.

[@stevied6286]

Heavy steel bar end weights and grip puppies..Job done!

[@jeffgravitt3732]

I own a 2022 Honda NC750X DCT and can verify your experience with handlebar vibes. It doesn't hep that Honda tries to make us "better citizens" (only reason I can think of for springs this heavy) by featuring the stiffest throttle return springing of any bike I've owned in 55-plus years of riding. This thing puts my throttle hand to sleep! And yes, I use Grip Puppies. They help the vibes, but that spring.....

[@tommurphree5630]

I've heard that after - was it 600 miles ? Not sure , but the vibration goes away on the W800 .

[@slawomirkulinski]

So here is a question. Usual maintenance checkup on RE is 3000 miles. How this compares with this Kawasaki?

[@dhhjsjzjzjjhsjsjh]

I recently sold my W800 Cafe. I think it’s probably superior build quality to the Royal Enfield but ya know what? I couldn’t bond with it for whatever reason. The stock tires are pretty bad, the parts and accessories are expensive and limited. The seat was cramped. I would love to have a Red standard model W800 but I might just take the cash I sold my Cafe for and go get a Orange RE Int 650. I got a good deal on my Cafe so I didn’t lose a terrible amount of money. It would be an almost even swap. Am I crazy?!?

[@kdsowen2882]

6-months ago , I hope you bought the RE ! Dave NZ

[@dhhjsjzjzjjhsjsjh]

@@kdsowen2882 I ended up with a Moto Guzzi V9 Roamer :-)

[@killacoiler1707]

I have a 59 XLCH that is stroked, bored, ported, and polished; you want to talk about vibration 30 minutes and you are stopping off to relieve your bladder. That said, it has no speedo or tach, so I completely understand and can relate to your assessment of riding by the seat of your pants and needing the tactile input from the bike. I had a 63 Triumph rigid chopper in high school that was the same way no instrumentation just sheer vibration to let you know how you were going. The girder front-end let you know when you hit 100mph because any slight bump in the road was a wheelie lol! I have a Continental GT on order with the S&S high-comp piston set, lightened connecting rods, cams, air box upgrade, 2 into 1 Qualifier exhaust, ported and polished heads, tuner, and upgraded clutch springs. The RE dealer I am getting it from is also a custom speed shop so he is doing all the work and dyno tuning it for me. He built his personal Interceptor 650 with all the same parts and it dyno in at 90hp and 94 lbft of torque. Let me tell you it is a straight hoot to ride. I asked how much to do mine and he quoted me 10.5 out the door. So, if you figure that the W800 is roughly 10k in stock configuration, I felt the GT 650 with a hop-up was far better of a deal and none of the aftermarket work voids the warranty; hell yeah! Plus one of my goals is to own one bike from the oldest four manufacturers of motorcycles in the world, so I have the Harley-Davidson now I need the RE, an Indian Chieftain, and a Triumph Rocket 3 then my bike to do list is complete anything beyond that is just for giggles and was too good of a deal to pass up. On a side note if you have not been inside one of these RE 650 engines, you do not truly understand just how robustly built it is. It is a work of art! Absolutely impeccable machining. If you were to go all out on one of these engines it is undoubtedly capable of some triple digit power numbers without any worries! I may venture to see just how much can be squeezed out of it after it is out of warranty and I need a project we'll have to see come 2026/2027. Thanks for the video, keep the shiny side up Ol'man.

[@kdsowen2882]

That will be One Wild Ride ! Those things go like-snot with those-mods, wheelie-monsters . Dave NZ

[@killacoiler1707]

@@kdsowen2882 yeah the Dealer let me rip his built Inteceptor and I will tell you with 90hp and almost 95 lbft. Of torque the front-end becomes very light and it will come up on command and sometimes if you flog it, unexpectedly. His is still 650cc but has all the same mods that I want done to mine in it. It is a very fun bike and definitely different than much of what you see on the street these days. Looking forward to it for sure.

[@richard2951960]

i am 62 in my youger years i always rode motor bikes (Norton 850 commando, BSA rocket three , Laverda 750, and more ,About 3 years ago i fell in love with the W800 did not get one( the price) then i saw the RE int. 650 and bought it , i love this bike it is like i am back i my youger years !!! ( you get a lot of value for your money , not to talk about 3 year warranty and 3 year roadside assist)

[@CaptHollister]

I'm pretty sure that 60% more torque counts as more than a slight edge in Kawasaki's favour... The 360 degree crank of the W is also in keeping with the British tradition, let's not forget that Kawasaki's original large bikes which they inherited from purchasing Meguro were license-built BSAs. The Royal Enfield uses a 270 degree crank, invented by Yamaha in the 1990s and designed to make a parallel twin sound and feel like a 45 degree v-twin... certainly meant to appeal to lovers of a certain US brand.

[@OlManRonin]

ok

[@motormikeb1047]

The W800 is a handsome motorcycle but good looks alone don't warrant the $3000.oo difference between the two machines that are basically identical in all parameters. My Int 650 has classic looks and performs very well in all aspects. I have noticed the price for a Int 650 and its stablemate has started to creep up. If this trend continues the value of the Royal Enfield will be a moot point. 😎

[@OlManRonin]

they need to really think about that as the year pass

[@jimmyb4982]

Yep. The W800 costs 50% more, but it isn't 50% better. It's not that the W800 is a bad bike, but it's outclassed by the RE twins.

[@jfess1911]

@@jimmyb4982 In many respects, they are not in the same class. The W800 is built for a reliable, but otherwise more authentic 1960's look and experience. This includes vibration and bias ply tires. To people who want that, it is worth the extra money. The Int 650 is a less expensive but more modern motorcycle with retro styling.

[@jimmyb4982]

@@jfess1911 Given the sales of the W800 in Australia, clearly not a lot of people care for those things. Probably suits people who want something authentically British and niche. Cool bike, that's for sure.

[@jfess1911]

@@jimmyb4982 Agreed. The W800 is a niche motorcycle. Unlikely to be someone's primary ride. Kawasaki has numerous more practical models. If I were rich and had a garage full of motorcycles, though, a W800 would definitely be in there,.

[@Juliang61]

Just buy the touring seat for the interceptor, bleed the brakes and you're golden. Personally I upgraded the air filter and put on a 2 into 1 exhaust, Bridgestone tires and it is wonderful!!

[@BlakesPipes]

Miss you buddy! Hope you are riding all the bikes that are where your at!

[@andyedmond248]

G'day OMR. Outstanding review of these two bikes. Never ridden the W800 as yet, but the 650 Interceptor, (as it's called in Oz) is another matter. Decided I wanted one after the initial 5-10 minutes of feeling out the bike as I test rode one. All of the points that your highlighted about this machine were spot on. The dilemma I face now is deciding on what model I truly want. The Interceptor or the Continental GT. The head say's that the Interceptor is more suited for extended riding due to the upright positioning, BUT, the heart says that the 650GT is so bloody cool looking, not to mention the amount of customising that can be done with it! The hell with common sense and practicality, I will have a 650 GT in my garage soon, that's for sure. I saw a picture of one in a racing green livery with a single 2 inch wide white stripe through the tank and rear seat cowl and to me it looked perfect when saddled with the brown seat. One thing that certainly stood out whilst you were riding brother was the ridiculous amount of tar snakes on that bloody road!! It could certainly increase the "Crikey!" factor riding at night in the rain, that's for flipping sure! Thanks for the highly entertaining review brother, and looking forward to your next video. Stay safe and cheers mate.

[@shanewinter9246]

No get a W ius a better bike

[@kdsowen2882]

I'd buy a GT tomorrow , if $$ weren't an issue .....but I Do own a w650 because it came-along at an amazing-price . I love it and cane-it everywhere like I did my old Bonnie years-back . It's definitely got a strong engine and I only kick-start it, which is one of it's plus-es for me . I've made it louder and love it . Any 'Air-Therapy' on a bike you enjoy , is unbeatable , I'm 'cracking-70 and I'll ride until I can't , do what makes you feel-alive . Dave NZ

[@FielderTerry]

A great way to pass New Years Day on a virtual ride by this old guy with another ol’ guy. Thanks for your opinions on these 2 amazing bikes.

[@ChadWinters]

have you done a comparison of the Interceptor and the Continental? I'm not sure I understand the differences there

[@OlManRonin]

rider triangle is the difference

[@markymarknj]

Both the iNT650 and the Continental GT use the same platform; they use the same engine, frame, wheels, and brakes. The difference is that the INT650 offers more of a standard (or roadster for our British friends) position, while the GT has a more sporting position; the GT is done like a cafe racer with the low handlebars, set back foot pegs, etc.

[@ChadWinters]

@@markymarknj thanks! That’s interesting because just based on the names I would expect them to be flipped, and the Interceptor to be the sporting one.

[@markymarknj]

@@ChadWinters you're welcome! Many people are, shall we say, curious about Royal Enfield's names for the 650 twins? It would make sense to swap names, but I don't make that decision...

[@gregdavis4167]

I bought my int 650 at williams vintage cycle in xenia 4 years ago when they first hit US shores.no one knew what they were.no one had seen one.people still think it’s a restores ‘70’s bike.great bike no regrets on buying it.with the S&S pipes it just sounds so good.let a friend borrow it for 2 weeks while his bonnie was down and he fell in love with it.said it was like going back in time riding his ‘79 bonnie again.

[@OlManRonin]

Congratulations Greg

[@chrestensrensen2486]

I have allways loved the Triumph 650 Bonneville - And I allways love my Kawasaki W 650 because it is looking fine (1999) and it is a better maschine build - And people love it - both children and old people but not Harley freaks - tsk tsk tsk!!

[@HitomiCOD2]

I own a Kawasaki W800 now (MY2022) and I absolutely love it. The vibrations are only there for the first 10 minutes then its soft sailing. Bought it used for 6700€ and a lot of people compliment my bike on how it looks brand new (and it does). I keep it verty clean, polished and shiny and i enjoy maintaining it.

[@johndesmond1987]

If like me your budget does not run to new bikes, and the warranty was therefore not a factor, which bike would be preferred?

[@stratolestele7611]

Gracious, that is some seriously beautiful rural country scenery. Yep, I'm with you on the looks of the Kawi engine, but overall, I'm choosing the RE to add to my stable.

[@MrLittleW]

The torque of the Interceptor 650 is 52 nm / 38 ft-lbs. Not 38 nm.

[@johnrocker2986]

I had same spongeness with my INT rear brake until I flushed out the original fluid for new fluid, huge difference.

[@skippmclovan1135]

Guys, the torque difference is actually HUGE ! The W800 has a massive increase in torque of more than 50% again of the RE650 .. ! That translates out on the road enormously ! It is NOT "Just a little bit more torque" as the reviewer states. That is inaccurate. It is 63% MORE torque !

[@QuestoDomini]

… not to mention that all black INT version looks killer nice! That’s what I would pick ! … but will give the Kwai a compliment that it sure has a great look, that engine is super good looking!

w800 is a twenty year engine updated for today's standards (comes from the w650). Int 650 is a completely new engine, engineered to be less vibey. I have a w650 and wouldn't replace it with another motorcycle. One thing that people keep forgeting when doing this comparisons is resale value. At the end of 3 years, if you want to move up to XSR or a z9000rs, you sell the W800 by almost the same value you paid for (Also... BARGAIN with the dealers... please!!)... the interceptor... not sure about it. It is like a regular computer and a Mac. Mac has issues, yes, but they are as nice (or nicer) to use, and always retain their value. ;)

[@MinhVu-in9iz]

Well said, w800 will hold its value more, plus they are rare!!

[@FruitPunchSamura1]

It's the opposite in my country. Kawasaki loses half its value in 2 years. Whereas an RE would still go for almost the same price.

[@MinhVu-in9iz]

@@FruitPunchSamura1 RE is too high of a seat for me otherwise I would buy one or consider it!

[@pujabelgian]

@@MinhVu-in9iz I paid 8400 cad.. included 12% sales tax for a new 20 Interceptor. The current year is now almost 11,000 OTD. It's a blast to ride, and even more fun having saved a slug of money. 👍👍

[@norsehall309]

G'day Ronin from Australia, bit late watching this but Riding the road was a bigger draw card, your choice of Bike was spot on, l have upgraded my Interceptor to suit myself and style of ridding and still comes in under what the base cost of its competitors bikes, l have nothing but praise for the service during a warranty claim on my bike they bent over backwards to get me back on the road, we have two Enfields and they won't be the last, great review Mate, cheers Neil 🤠.

[@Maryjane3115]

How tall are you Ronin? Im 6’3” and looking at the RE Int650.

[@MrWebon]

I just cannot find the INT650 in chrome+black, I only see chrome+red... Was that model discontinued?

[@71jvf]

I haven’t ridden the Enfield yet, but it is going to have to be pretty special to beat out my streetified 1999 KLR650 or my ‘88 NT650.

[@bluesysaxman]

Hi Ronin, At age 58 I have decided to get my license and start riding. The last time I rode was 40 years ago and that was a 125cc trail bike. I am looking for a bike that will do three things. First it has to fit me. At 5'8" what I have found is the british style bikes like the Royal Enfield interceptor and the HD Iron 883 are both comfortable and I can plant my feet squarely on the ground. I will say I like the looks of the bikes in the style of the Intercepter 650. The second thing is it needs to be powerful enough to get me out onto the freeway if I want without being a machine that is too powerful for me to handle. The third thing is I only want to buy one bike and not have buyers remorse and want to get something else within a season or two. The local Enfield dealer here has a nre 2022 int 650 with the bakers express paint job. It is already outfitted with an led headlight, Panniers and mounting kit, and engine guards. I would also want the S&S SLIP-ON MUFFLERS installed. He said $8750 out the door. I am not sure whaT I should get. I won't take my motorcyle training until the end of April.

[@kdsowen2882]

Buy the Interceptor , then you can actually lean-it around corners (eventually) and it's not as slow as the 883 , plus you can throw an 865-kit on it in a few-years , if you want real-excitement . Dave NZ

[@bluesysaxman]

@@kdsowen2882 I ended up getting a Kawasaki z650rs. It is very managable.

[@albertopoll7523]

Good morning. In Italy the kavasaki warranty on w800 is 2years, including roadside assistance for 2 years. The oil change is after 12000 km. My opinion, the bike Hass it's own distinctive character, even the sound distinguishes it, it folds well, is easy to wear and never seemed annoying to me like a defect. A flaw for me, it's true, is the too smooth shifting. I own a 2024 w800, even in city traffic it has unexpected merits. Thanks for the review an greetings.

[@vincentiusrioyoshilistyo6601]

Nice video, I found that perfectly match that anything you've said 'bout Interceptor 650 (in Indonesia, they sell the INT with Interceptor designation). Overall, what'd you expecting from anything cheaper than common market? Of course every aspects of INT would be far more inferior than any of more expensive bike in the market. But this give us any alternate options to do mods on this bike. I can say, INT was nothing but a blank canvas. You can put everything you desired on this bike, since this bike has so much optional accessories in the market, from indicator switch until performance parts, you name it. What 'bout the W800? It leads every aspect far superior, away from INT 650. Then? That's it, what'd do to upgrade the (almost) perfect bike compared to the INT? Nothing. You ride it for months, it'd be actually a boring bike without any optional upgrade to do to this bike for years. Also, we got an exceptionally exhaust notes from its 270 degree firing order of the INT 650. Just my 2 cents ✌️

[@frankmarkovcijr5459]

The w800 has a bevel Drive camshaft which will last forever not like a chain which is 650 Royal Enfield has which will break and totally your engine. To bring the Royal Enfield 650 Interceptor to an 850 status you spend more than if you bought the Kawasaki. Plus if you want to you could put a Kickstarter on the Kawasaki like it had when it first came out 20 years ago. But being a BMW guy I like to have the shaft drive so if I bought a new bike I would probably go to the Moto Guzzi rude because of what they have and I have a local dealer. The bitterness of low quality lasts longer than the sweetness of the low price. You can't beat Japanese quality and reliability hands down enough said.

[@ChadWinters]

So all chain drives will break and total your engine?

[@frankmarkovcijr5459]

@@ChadWinters for years I rode Honda motorcycles with chain drive overhead cams. No matter how much I would religiously adjust the cam chain you would just ride around and the chain would break and totally your engine. A chain drive is a cheap nasty way to drive a valve train but it works until it goes boom and then you kiss your engine goodbye. When the cam chain broke in my CX500 Honda it tore through the water pump and broke the camshaft in two. But I will say that the bike had a quarter million miles on it when the chain broke. On all of my British motorcycles they are Gear Drive. I have chain drive on my 1970s Airhead BMWs but BMWs are a different story. The cam chain on my 100/7 was at 500,000 Miles when the car destroyed my motorcycle and almost took me out as well. The cam chain on my cm185 TwinStar my first Honda lasted $36,000 MI it didn't break but it was totally worn out and the Pistons were cracked into and the Rings were holding them together. If the mechanics had not seen me ride my motorcycle into the shop they would have thought that it would not have had enough compression to start. All of my Honda motorcycles died from cam chain disease whereas a Gear Drive will last the life of the motorcycle. My 1965 Triumph TR6 with half a million miles on it in 40 Years of ownership prove that. My gear Drive Harley-Davidson Sportster has 400,000 miles on it and I don't worry about the Gear Drive on it breaking like a chain can. When Harley Davidson went to chain drive instead of the Gear Drive like in the Evolution motor they had nothing but problems and they went through four styles of chain and three different tensioners. When the change broke on a twin cam it totaled your engine and Harley paid out big time for warranty claims. That's why many twin cam owners change from chain drive to Gear Drive. Gear Drive is also highly recommended for the new Harley MH big twins as well.

[@dsera2721]

well, the entire paragraph just proves to me that you're "show" rider, no offense.

[@frankmarkovcijr5459]

@@dsera2721 I'm not sure what you mean by a show Rider my bikes are not pristine by any stretch of the imagination they all show the miles on them. As I am a slow down smell the orange blossoms kind of Rider I put more hours in to get the miles I have then somebody who runs fast all the time.

[@OlManRonin]

@@ChadWinters some people ONLY post negatively. Ignore it

[@Rockinbiker1946]

I'm looking at both. I think that a set of bar risers on the W would help, so that would be a cheap way of increasing comfort. The seat on the W is way more comfortable and a seat change on the RE would be a much bigger expense. My main concern is dealer availability. Where I live the closest RE dealer is over 200 miles away and that is pretty much a deal breaker. Kawasaki dealers are all over the place. One advantage is the W has tubeless tires and an available optional center stand.

[@FL-PHILLIP]

Oh man, I just bought the Himalayan...too many biks, so little time. Great review. Lil Ronan floated by at 6:45.

[@timothythompson4144]

I almost pulled the trigger on the W 800, but then I found out the Z900rs existed.

[@rubo1964]

W800 has been discounted significantly like 7k or less new therefore not a deal breaker.He didn't mention beatiful bevel engine on W800.Its work of art.Thats my pick

[@hiddenmortimer5189]

What’s the ride position of the INT compared to that of the classic 350? Are your legs more cramped in the INT? By the way, nice video! Especially the scenery. I wish I had that here in AZ.

[@OlManRonin]

The INT is more relaxed. the triangle is even with a near 90 degree in knees just slightly back. Its easier to stand up on the Classic if you need to

[@markymarknj]

@@OlManRonin Thanks! That's good to know.

[@dougbrooks4047]

My 2021 RE 350 Meteor in Oregon (USA) $4,549 + $450 freight + $425 for 300 mile required service from certified dealer to retain warranty, plus $115 documentation fees. I actually talked them out of setup fees of $1,299! Total cost minus license with no Oregon sales tax was $5,539. Last summer I tried to buy the RE 350 classic and was quoted $6500 with no budge on ADM. Last week I purchased a 2022 Kawasaki W 800 new from a dealer in Sublimity for $5999... Out the door price... I will keep the Meteor, was only offered $ 1,800 for trade in and in excellent condition. I love the W 800, it is in a different class then the Royal Enfield as far as fit and finish. The exhaust on the RE 650 INT is heavy looking, angles too far up the sides for my eyes, and the engine casing is way too big and out of balance with the bike. I would change out the seat to a touring seat right away. I've waited close to a year for the RE 650 INT Mark 2, which you can hardly find, and the dealership won't budge on the setup and ADM fees for this color scheme. Dealers in the US are adding too much mark up on the RE making MSRP a moot point. Before anyone who hasn't seen and rode a W 800 in person judges this bike, I'm telling you photos and videos don't do it justice. Fit and finish makes me stare at my new bike constantly, makes me happy and feel good. I'm a big RE fan but the build quality is not nearly as good as the Kawasaki W 800, a bike still made in Japan. I think the W 800 stabled with the new RE 650 Meteor would cover my needs nicely.

[@JohnGrumbling]

would like to see the RE but no dealers near in West Pa. Ready to ride again. 80 yrs.

[@doylegaines1319]

So I went to your home page and I think I picked on a theme. You seem to like promoting 2 particular kinds of motorcycle- less expensive, heavy, and slow, or expensive , heavy, and slow. Unfortunately, I don't like heavy and slow, no matter how inexpensive it may be.

[@johnharris7353]

Read all comments took a while. I haven't had a bike for 2 years so I'd be thrilled to have either one. Have found a low miles 2019 W800 for $6k. I'll try to get that. Same $ as a new Int! I'm 70 and last bike. Was insane hopped up '97 Blackbird. The Lord somehow preserved me on that thing!

[@BoatingBiker]

I have ridden the Int650 and the W800. I found the W800 to be a far superior ride. The W800 is quite vibey but nothing to complain about. The quality of Kawasaki is way superior to the RE. Parts may be pricey but with Kawasaki reliability you wont be spending fortunes. The RE is a very different set up and consequently rides differently. I admit my preference is largely subjective but my W800 is a keeper.

[@wardroland270]

Thanks Ol’Man. Enjoyed your video. Great job. Good info. God bless. Happy trails.

[@richardturner4950]

Are they not able to use the Interceptor name in America?

[@OlManRonin]

nope Honda owns the name here

[@enricodedios3702]

I have the 2019 street model its my first motorcycle. I love it so much and I planned to keep it for many long years.

[@StonedOli]

I'll never understand the allure of the 6 speed over a 5... I don't want to be shifting all the time, I want to be running through the power band and interrupting that as little as possible.

[@adamccrawford]

Do you have the MPG numbers for both bikes?

[@OlManRonin]

easy to find online Mileage may vary ;) thanks for watching

[@glenndelacruz2906]

there are high quality gloves that mitigate handlebar vibrations and good quality boots as well that absorb vibrations, and quality seats that, again, absorb vibes. In life, I always find that you always get for what you pay for. There is always a reason why most items are more expensive.

[@markc7842]

Kawasaki all the way for me, I'm riding the Z900RS

[@runtosatan-nl1te]

Probably should have mentioned the reason for the vibration on the Kawasaki is the fact that the crankshaft is a traditional 360 while the Royal Enfield crankshaft is a 270 something relatively new! And not only makes for a smoother ride but better gas mileage!

[@peteb2304]

The low cost of the INT650 is what got me into motorcycling this year. Now that I'm here, I think I would have liked a Triumph T100 or a Speed Twin, but it's all good. I appreciate having the bike I bought for the price I paid. The W800 is a beautiful bike, but for the price I'd be looking at a Moto Guzzi V7.

[@mystifiedaphid9295]

I’ve been riding bikes for thirty-odd years, and ridden all sorts… Street Twin (or now Speed Twin 900) is the nicest riding machine I ever had 😊👍🏻

[@DaBinChe]

I have had a w650, MotoGuzzi V9, StreetTwin. Street twin was the smoothest most comfortable, V9 had most character, w650 was funnest to ride most sporty

[@jeffwertz2953]

I'm sure someone prob caught this but the INT 650 is 38 ft/lbs so about 52NM

[@russtynail55]

W800 has 20% more torque, not insignificant as stated and definitely noticeable when comparing the Interceptor 650 and the Kawasaki W800. The focus on horsepower is misleading.

[@antonioskarasulas7604]

I toured Turkey and the Balkans on a W800. It is a lovely bike, with all the reliability and fine craftsmanship you would expect from Kawasaki. I now have a Triumph Bonneville (2003, 800cc model), which are comparable bikes, and which I have toured much of Europe on. The Bonnie wins the comparison hands down! It's noticeably heavier which not rolling but the centre of balance is much lower and this makes it a lot more comfortable to operate. It also vibrates less. I liked the W800 a lot, but love the Bonneville. Haven't tried the Enfield 650 twin yet.

[@Smokey7447]

When I decided my Meteor 350 just wasn't cutting it anymore, I decided to trade it in for a modern retro. I tested out the INT650, W800 and z650rs. Walked away with the z650rs. Why? The z650rs won in the power, performance, handling and aesthetic department. The only thing I don't like is the (lack of) exhaust note with the stock exhaust system. I also added 4 years of warranty for $500, giving me 5 years of warranty coverage. Mine is the candy emerald green color scheme which reminded me of a bike that I fell in love with as a kid: the 1978 z650 B1. I'm always getting people asking me how my B1 is in such good shape! You should try one and do a comparison to the INT/GT.

[@OlManRonin]

Ride what you love!

[@kdsowen2882]

@@OlManRonin Or Love what you ride ! Dave NZ

[@flat6fever680]

Couple of thoughts. I am on my second W650. First one bought new and second one nearly new. The 5 speed is my transmission of choice in car, truck or motorcycle. 6th gear on most bikes and vehicles is a gutless EPA gear overdrive of sorts and just one more required shift. If it has 6 speeds your inclination is to use them all and then be constantly shifting. My Mazda Miata NA (1997) 5 speed is a great example compared to my S1000. Second and far more significant thought on the W is the horrible frame design under the seat. If you are 6 feet tall you will not get comfortable. There is a horrible step or hump forcing you to ether sit way far forward on the W650/800 or have tail bone pressure and be sloping forward as the seat slopes very forward in the part you sit on. A flat bench seat like on the INT is far superior for riders of all sizes and doesn't limit your seating position. That said the W, and especially the 650, is a work of quality and art. If it weren't for the odd frame design I would have nothing bad to say about it.

[@atrious333]

That’s a pretty big difference in torque. What 39% more?

[@OlManRonin]

and yet the pull isnt as noticeable between the two given the gearing WHICH I neglected to mention ugh

[@saathm8742]

He got the specs wrong the enfields 52nm

[@Apollo949]

Doesn't the Royal Enfield need regular valve clearance adjustment every six months, whereas the W800 uses shims and is virtually maintenance free? Therefore, over a period of five years you may find that the cost evens out and that the W800 is ultimately better value with superior Japanese build quality and a more authentic retro style that is pleasing to the eye. The Enfield looks like a mishmash retro from the 60s with a little 70s style thrown in whereas the Kawasaki can trace its lineage directly to the BSA A7.

[@bigred8438]

Does the RE have ABS? the W800 has.

[@collyernicholasjohn]

It does

[@chrisfitzmaurice7484]

My RE 650 *feels* like it has more than 37 ft/lbs of torque. If I were to guess I'd say it was low to mid 40's. It pulls very well going uphill no matter the gear. But it's a good bike whatever the power specs. And it sounds boss.

[@mr.solitude3352]

The diff in torque... 38 (RE) vs 62 (Kawa)... is not a small or tad difference. Exercising a little bias there?

[@victorgonza4528]

Both of them slow heavy machines, Kawasaki wins on the quality , Royal Enfield wins on price , done .

[@OlManRonin]

ummmmm kinda what I said lol

[@bigmacdaddy1234]

You will run out of driving skill long before you run out of speed with these bikes.

[@jimstewart2141]

Great and honest review again Ronin, as i return to biking again I am torn between many of the RE bikes!!! Which should i buy a single or a twin?????

[@OlManRonin]

ride them and see which fits your lifestyle

[@jimstewart2141]

@@OlManRonin honest as day is long. roll on next summer for rides out

[@jfess1911]

I agree with Ronin. In the US, the singles are working pretty hard at highway speeds. They are lighter and great fun on the backroads, though.

[@jimstewart2141]

@@jfess1911 Think i will start with the singles and once confident progress to the twins. Man barely ridden in 30 years cannot wait till next spring when the weather clears up in UK.

[@jimstewart2141]

@@OlManRonin will do

[@BlakesPipes]

Own the W800 Café and love it, still love your channel, good to know what you felt. Never have had a problem with the Cafe and would not expect a problem with anything in 5 years in production of cars or bikes today. All recalls. Keep up the great work

[@markfraser6307]

What will they be like in 10 yrs time my 30 yr old kwaker is still going

[@OlManRonin]

we share see. There are multitudes of RE bikes all over the world still kicking (pun intended) lol Cheers

[@TheClarkenstein]

I have had the opportunity to own both bikes compared here. The W800 Cafe is what is currently in my garage. The RE is a nice bike, but now that you can get the W used, I would suggest picking up a W. The vibrations are not bad and only hit at one section in the powerband. On the interstate the W is smooth as silk other than that one spot. And the W’s seat is significantly superior to the RE. Don’t bother with the touring seat in the RE - it still sucks. The valve check interval on the RE gets old quick. Easy job, but I would rather ride than maintain. That said, I’m probably going to sell the W. Aesthetic isn’t everything, and I want better suspension performance.

[@fiucik1]

I don't like the silhouette of the RE650 Interceptor. It has too short wheelbase for the relatively high ground clearance. W800 looks smoother, plus that engine is probably the prettiest engine available these days

[@mrgrizzlyrides]

We love our Interceptor. I have never ridden the Kawasaki so I am not in a position to comment on it. I do agree with your comments on the Int. The seat does get better the more you ride it and your backside acclimatises to it. I found the suspension lacking. I fitted 26mm spaces to the front forks, instant improvement. I will be upgrading the rear shocks to Hagons. When we bought our Int we also test road a T120 Triumph Bonnevile. We asked ourselves “is a Bonnie worth double the price of an Int?” No way man; so it was a no brainier for us. We didn’t consider the Kawasaki because it was Japanese;?where as the Int and Bonnie are British bike names; nothing at all against Japanese bikes. Luv the way you keep mentioning your Harleys; I understand you don’t feature them much now coz your viewers prefer RE stuff and that’s cool man, but I like the Harley stuff too. Great comparison video Jeff; thanks for sharing with us. Ride safe. Neil🏍👍🙏🍻

[@edwardweiszbeck1649]

Saw the little RC onin rdd lol by at 6:28pm June 10

[@papatorr3669]

I, too, like the look of both of these. And it is a tough choice, but between these two including the used market and considering price, performance, and handling: I'm going to have to pick the TRIUMPH BONNEVILLE! (But if I can include four cylinders, I'll keep my Honda Nighthawk 750, and my Kawasaki VN750, and my Suzuki VS800; all three of these for less money than any one of those other three! And yes, they fill similar riding niche/styles in different ways.)

[@TrustyZ900]

I ride a Z900RS and had the chance to ride my friend's Interceptor. Nothing to get excited about. The W800 will definitely outlast the RE.If the 800's fit and finish is as superb as my 900 then the choice is obviousThe looks of the RE seems to be budget. Love the sound of a 360 deg, twin. In the end, I bought a '23 blue SV 650 ABS for about $500 US more than a RE. Maybe not retro, but lots of fun and I don't need a 3 year warranty. Anvil tough.

[@snowdoll3778]

hiya Ol' Man Ronin went by at 6:48. My dad is hoping to get the int650 :D

[@ncmotorcyclist]

Nice comparison video

[@DrumNut927]

?Here’s my question: which one is going to be more reliable. Which one’s always going to get you home?

[@OlManRonin]

The answer lies in the warranty and who stands behind what as well as how well you maintain your equipment

[@motomanny2389]

I saw old man Ronan run by at 3:44

[@chutethemall8099]

I've seen lots of Kawasaki dealerships everywhere, but I've never seen a Royal Enfield dealer anywhere.

[@jonesvox1]

I took lengthy and numerous test rides on both. Hands down, the quality of the Kawasaki is leaps and bounds over the RE. The seating position of the RE was instantly painful on the wrists (I’m 6’1”) and shoulders for me. The RE gearbox was ultra-cheap feeling, as well as the clutch. The shift lever, foot pegs, and brake levers on the RE is so cheap I was rather shocked. I really like the RE in the looks department but the mediocre build quality….right down to the sloppy frame welding and controls really turned me off. I bought a barely used W800 for a price similar to a new INT650 and I’m really happy with it. Warranties are a lot of fine print. Neither are a motivator for me….and the exceptional build quality of the W800 gives me way more confidence that it will easily be around and running long after the RE warranty has expired. The performance of the W is smooth and predictable, while INT650 feels “loose” in handling and braking to me. The RE power curve is weak in the lower gears to me. Both bikes are not intended to won any performance awards, for sure. They’re both great for back roads and city scrambling. Yes, the price of the W is high, by any comparison but you get what you pay for….quality. Enjoyed your video! Every rider is going to have their ultimate favorite

[@dsera2721]

lmao 😂 noob rider

[@jimmyb4982]

Particularly harsh comments about the RE. It's not nearly as bad as you make out.

[@stevefleming4450]

It's still an individual choice but I have to agree.. good choice.. very informative as always.. cheers bud.

[@bobman7881]

I get off my 1200 Sportster roadster and on to my W800 and think wow no vibration lol

[@TommygunnerKid]

I sold my 2007 XL50 Anniversary Sportster to buy the W800 last year. Kept a 2010 Road King. I have no problem with the W800's vibrations either.

[@JohnPalmer-n3t]

Hey man. For some reason we got unsubscribed. The last time I was in Mt. Vernon, I stopped in at the bike shop you deal with. Nice little shop. I also stopped in at Iron Pony, Westerville. That is the biggest accessories place I have ever seen. I don't like the 360 degree crank on the W. That is the vibration problem. R.E. 650 is the business. The seat on the R.E. is rubbish. Like an Iron Board. Glad you are back. I am in Australia.

[@Arthurzeiro]

I think you mixed up the specs a little sir, you showed the W800's correct torque figure in metric units, but the Interceptor's imperial number in metrics, it should read about 52NM instead of 38, cheers.

[@OlManRonin]

directly from Kawasakis web site and others thank you

[@rupertthebusdriver8997]

Interesting take on both bikes , enjoyed the watch

[@OlManRonin]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@bigred8438]

You missed something extremely important - the torque difference between the two bikes is 30Nm. You said a little bit more, That is a huge difference, you may as well say it has 2/3 more torque in the w800 than the 650. That's because it has under square dimensions with the stroke being longer than the bore, which is extremely rare in modern bikes. That is a huge plus to the W800 over the 650 for one reason alone, going two up with a pillion will be easier (incidentally if you don't want to notice a pillion at all, even someone as small as my wife, your bike should put out at least 105Nm to avoid noticing they are there.

[@collyernicholasjohn]

Ronin got it wrong. Int = 52 nm

[@fearofghostster]

Saw lil ronin at 6:50