The Best Modern Retro Motorcycle? - Middleweights

[@dougfielding8215]

I looked at all of these and picked the W800 and am crazy happy with it. More than 9,000 km in 6 months of riding and always a joy to ride, look at and listen to.

[@patricktracy7940]

Same!!!

[@jetmechB727]

I'm glad to read this. The W800 is the bike I've been looking at for the third bike in my garage. Kind of wished I had purchased it for my second.

[@dougfielding8215]

@@jetmechB727 You will love it's easy going, yet fine performance character.

[@robertkollath8929]

Have you ridden the bonny street scrambler? Light weight lots of fun.

[@austincouto4652]

Also have a W800, absolutely love it.

[@SteveBlancoMusicianWarrior]

Love all these bikes. I have a W800. Insanely well built. It's a Japanese work of art in every way.

[@tomfolkes4997]

Hi Alex, just found your vlog cuz I'm a lifelong (78 yrs) biker and a sucker for good comparisons. My third bike was a 1965 BSA Lightning, first long trip on it was over 6K miles cross country USA, and although I loved the look of it, I pretty much felt beat up at the end of the trip. It did leave me with a passion for those old Brit twins, something like a lingering smile when thinking of an old girlfriend, but moved on to a Honda 750 4 banger which was the ultra of its day. Today, being the old man that I am, I have ridden a 1999 Harley Electra Glide since it was new, stylish, comfortable, plenty of Mojo, but too heavy for me now. So, comparisons like this are once again tickling the old passion for a lighter but still appealing standard. The purely modern bikes have become so slash and flash techno loaded that they have, for me, lost a lot of appeal, along with the high prices. I like your straight forward, no BS presentation. Keep up the good work and I hope you gain a lot more subscribers. You deserve it. Thanks

[@atrothe]

Cmon old guy. The modern retros have fuel injection, ABS and traction control. That means you are unlikely to be eating the tarmac or stranded on the side of the road. It aint new fangled..it is life saving reliability. Get you leg thru something like a 650 bergman if your hips are to old for a leg over. You will love it.

[@ryosapien27]

I’ve owned a thruxton 900 and currently a v7. I’d honestly pick the V7 every time it’s just better in every way and is an absolute stunner of a bike

[@akapadia9698]

Hi Ryan, your honest review of owning guzzi v7, maintaining/service and ride wise, I am a new rider and looking into it, however apprehensive to go for Italian bike as a 1st one Would value your opinion Thanks

[@JC-lk3oy]

​@@akapadia9698 Moto Guzzi values reliability. As far as Italian brands, I'd put them at the top. Even that aside, the V7 is the easiest bike to work on I've ever seen. You can do a valve adjustment in half an hour, and an oild change in no time. The shaft drive is also the ultimate in low maintenance and reliability. The only downside is that parts can be a pain to get a hold of. If the dealer can't get something for you, ebay is your best bet. Also, dealers aren't everywhere, but if you live near a decent size city nearby you'll have one. Hope this helps.

[@stratolestele7611]

I went to my local dealer who carries most of the large overseas bikes in the US. I went in fully planning on a T120 and ended-up with a new z900rs café. I love it immensely. However, I still long for a brit or brit-style, twin. As it would be an addition, it has to be inexpensive, great looking, and full of character. That leaves me with a used Bonnie, RE Interceptor, or a W800. Great job on the video buddy!

[@tanglediver]

A retro is all about personal taste. The one you like, is the best!

[@frederickwoods5943]

The Summer I turned 62, retiring and recent widower the Triumph caught my eye; bought two 2012's; a Bonneville SE and Thruxton 900. I still have them, very satisfied with the air/oil-cooled 865cc twins. Five months ago I bought a Royal Enfield 650INT and could not be happier: the factory supplied ABS, Pirelli tires, sweetest gearbox ever, excellent fuel metering, and . . . pipes that don't turn Blue!

[@loganb6361]

Frederick Woods do I get one what do you think?

[@AlexSimmons11c]

Still a happy owner a year later myself :-)

[@bramdewit3537]

Great video, all great bikes. For me the V7 is by far the coolest bike out there.

[@AlexSimmons11c]

Really cool choice, and that's why I love bikes! Everyone likes something different!

[@matusknives]

A couple of years down the road - this is still a very relevant and helpful video. Thank you. I hope you will get back to making videos again in the future.

[@shremich4583]

i have since decades a Kawa Z750 LTD Twin Y1 '81, always fun to ride and very reliable, she is very similar to the W800. i upgraded now to a new Triumph T120 as daily Rider and i do not regret it :)

[@baronbristow8764]

I have the w800 and the scrambler. I love the w800. I’ve done around 50000km on it. Super reliable, super comfy, has a similar vibe to my 60s bmw. I upgraded the suspension and it transformed it. Magic. The scrambler is more like a little monster. It does do dirt, but I’ve mostly ridden roads. Much lighter, modern power / vibe from it. Doesn’t feel like a vintage bike. Depends what you’re after. I love both. The RE is great value and get good reviews, but I’ve never ridden it. ps. W650 came out before the modern bonneville.

[@daveco1270]

I had a used 2017 Moto Guzzi V7iii for about a year. It was a beautiful bike, fun to ride, but I didn't have a dealership nearby, which made me nervous. I did all the basic maintenance myself, but I like having a qualified tech in the area in case they're needed. I ended up selling it. I currently have 2 vintage bikes. I love the modern retro bikes and I'll probably get a newer Bonneville eventually but there's something cool about riding of a 50+ year old motorcycle.

[@MayoungPunte]

Five minutes in, i like this man already.

[@davidekelman5715]

Feeling that too lol

[@elestrakuhinje1253]

I was the owner of W800 Street edition (2019). I had it for 2 years, put almost 20k km. Great bike, super simple and reliable, nice attention to details, great feeling, great sounding engine, nice low rev torque, real propel made in Japan bike... Right now I have 2023 Suzi SV650, great bike. But I am already looking again to buy some retro bike. It will definitely be GUZZI V7 SPECIAL. It just sounds amazing, it is extremely nice detailed, it has V twin wich shakes so nice, it has great haritage, still made in Italy, in Mandello Del Lario facotry, and also it has decent power 65 HP (compared to W800's and Royal's 47 HP). I think of 5 motorcycles you made video of Ducati is bit stranger here. It's more modern and it is more like Monster then other bikes here. Also, Royal Enfield looks way more cheaper and budget when parked near W800, V7 or Bonneville. So I think in real old school retro rating W800, Bonnie and V7 are even.

[@patricktracy7940]

Hey Alex thanks for this. I have a W 800 as a daily rider (no car). I considered the Triumph and the Guzzi. The RE dealer at the time had a bad reputation. Always had my eye on the W. Either way all of the bikes on the list rock!! Cheers.

[@austincouto4652]

I also pulled trigger on a W800 over a used T100 Bonnie and Moto Guzzi V7. Dont regret it at all. Love my W, just wish we had the mod support of a Bonneville.

[@stucrisp6865]

I ride regularly with my wife as pillion. The only one of these (we didn't try the scrambler) she liked the seating position of was the W800. Solo, I'd have picked the INT650 but without mods, she hated the pillion position. Having some extra cubes also doesn't hurt two up. You are correct about aftermarket for it though - we want a sissy bar for her and unless you take a risk with Chinese brands, you have to get fabricating. I'm in Australia and the pricing and discounting scene is different here. The price disparity is much steeper than the US and discounting in 2021 isn't as common as it was. Having said that we got AUD $2000 off the sticker price for the W800 making it very attractive indeed and coming in less than the base INT650 which you don't regularly see discounted. Triumph is positioned as a premium m/c brand here and the price is much higher relative. Again, no discounts commonly at the moment. The retail for the cheapest Bonnie (T100) is just north of AUD $18k. The INT650 base price is just north of AUD $11k. That is a big difference - much bigger than in the US. I liked your video though - thanks.

[@jfrp18]

Great video! The other day I had a test ride on the RE interceptor 650 and i fell in love immediately with that machine! Would like to try the Ducati scrambler as well. A hug from Colombia 🇨🇴✌🏻

[@michaelkohrs6504]

I own a w800 and I agree with you. But it is not fair at all to take the Ducati in comparison because the w800 delivers you a retro looking bike (and indeed all is of Metall) with retro style riding quality, while the Ducati in the end has old style element but is a modern bike. To be fair, you should compare the Ducati to a Kawasaki Z650RS or even a Z900RS. That the Triumph might be slightly better than the W800 I might agree, but I like the W800 more, just the look.

[@stuglenn1112]

Actually I think you've done a real good and fair assessment. The only other thing to maybe consider is the exclusivity of the bike. Something like the Moto-Guzzi may appeal just because you don't see one every day. My personal favorite is the W-800 but I don't think it's a $9K motorcycle, like you mention discount at $7K is more like it. As you mentioned, I think in a few more years after a picture emerges of the RE's longevity will be better to judge then.

[@AlexSimmons11c]

I think the Enfield will slowly become the new "benchmark," unless Triumph gets back to basics. The W800 I would think would be an even match if Kawasaki would just bite the bullet and make it a $7000-$7400 retail machine and be done with it haha.

[@frederickwoods5943]

@@AlexSimmons11c the Royal Enfield is the current best value for the money. I owned a '73 RD-350 and a '75 also; this Enfield has the same type of endearing "character" as my Yamahas with twice the fuel economy. (Edit: the R.E. doesn't wheelie-on-command like the RD's).

[@Paul-pb3vq]

Motoguzzi now your talking. Test rode one the other week, absolutely loved it. Hadn't give them a second thought until my local motorcycle dealer just started selling them. Great heritage as well. That's going to be my next bike I hope. Need to convince the wife 🤔

[@dawudgt]

@@Paul-pb3vq I was working on that 2 years till I convinced her to get a 300cc and just for trials 😅. Now without to ask to much I will upgrade soon.

[@jons78733]

I love the video. I am thinking about buying a Royal Enfield and this solidified my thoughts. I thank you for that. I already have a Ducati Multistrada and want the RE for short cruising and getting back to the basic reason why I started riding motorcycles 40-years ago. Keep up the good work!

[@kdsowen2882]

Top-selling bike , in its class, two-years-running in Britain , they are very highly-regarded down-here in NZ

[@jons78733]

@@kdsowen2882 - Yep! Three months later and I did end up buying an Interceptor 650. I am enjoying the heck out of it. I have done modifications on it including mirrors, levers, lighting and an S&S exhaust. I have done the services on it myself and really love the bike!

[@fleshpie2129]

T120. Love it. Pricey? Yes. So cool? Yeeeees

[@pcat1000]

I have never ridden a Ducati, maybe because of fear of desmodromics , but I understand why you didn't include the Z900RS or the Yamaha 900 as they are in a different class and make much more power than the bikes you compared. They are high on my list along w/ the Speed Twin, Trident 660, & hope you have a comparison w/ those. Nice work w/ your fair comparisons.

[@jn1982]

I bought a W800, 2022 model. I love it. But alas, those Bonneville's are soooo beautiful. And the Royal Enfields look good and are the least expensive.......not enough time, not enough money, too many bikes!

[@jaylongo8332]

Great review, and I agree with the assessment even though I own a Royal Enfield INT 650. I hope the aftermarket parts market starts to catch up with the Bonnies, as I think the stripped down nature of the Enfields really lends to better customization.

[@AlexSimmons11c]

I whole heartedly agree, that's why I bought an Enfield :-)

[@dawudgt]

@@AlexSimmons11c #1 Thanks for the video 🙏🏻 Your RE is tubeless?

[@wsguntoro]

I love this genre of motorcycle ❤️

[@j.lizbardo]

No CB650r, xsr700, XSR900 or Z900rs last 2 the flagships.

[@AlexSimmons11c]

Me too obviously :-)

[@fleshpie2129]

@@j.lizbardo what is retro about XSR? Front light?

[@altinchrist]

Great vid Alex and very impartial as one has to be to come up with a winner.... At the end of the day the personal winner is always the baby you cuddle in your garage whatever that would be. Thanks for all this info, God bless you richly 👍

[@Liberace1177]

Outstanding information this is actually their view I've been looking for

[@andreastomblin2137]

Interceptor mans down!! You can not beat the price and quality of this bike at the price point I own one and it's a keeper for me. You can really make it your own with the custom parts available.

[@Apollo949]

The 900 Bonneville is a water cooled cheat so for me the authenticity goes to the W800 because it's a true retro motorcycle and probably more reliable than the Triumph because I've heard reports of gearbox issues. The Royal Enfield looks nice but for me looks like a mishmash of 60s and 70s styles that requires regular valve clearance adjustment to keep it running sweet, as would the Italian stallions. Well, that's my view on the bikes featured so I think I'd buy the beautiful Kawasaki over the others.

[@grandwagoner]

Very happy Scrambler owner for 3 years, but love all the bikes in your list. Yes they get all the Hipster cliches, but with bikes essentially being a hobby item nowadays, these are well priced, accessible and fun. My Scrambler has been reliable , but it’s no entry level bike, purely as the maintenance costs for regular servicing are insane

[@8080408729a]

The best motorcycle is the one which u can enjoy & can have beautiful memories with & also which you can afford 😅

[@AlexSimmons11c]

Some of the best advice someone can ever give!

[@billmagorian490]

I am an older guy looking to get back on a bike. I have been focusing on the Enfield. You had so many bikes in your post that it made it difficult to show a ride rating .What I found missing from your report was your personal impressions on mirrors, seat comfort, and braking. The value and three year warranty and free service puts the Enfield over the top. I live in Portland Oregon and there are two major stores selling Enfields. I wanted to capture the fun and easy riding of my 78 Honda 400 hawk. Other than the weight I think the Enfield will ve my pick.

[@sscbkr48]

Alex, you are the most diplomatic MC analyst everrr! That was a terrific opening complete with a steamer trunk full of legal disclaimers. Interesting condideration.. RE used Triumph engineers to create the twins therefore they should be reasonably reliable but time will tell. They give you the same old school Bonneville rushh for less $$.

[@jetmechB727]

Hopefully by summer I will have the W800 in my garage along side my other two bikes. So far I have a cruiser, Honda CTX 700, a adventure bike, the Kawasaki Versys X300 and now I', looking for a retro bike.

[@triumphthunderbird1]

Triumph Bonneville is the yardstick for which all other retros are measured. I have a 2006 Speedmaster variant and it still looks and rides like new! W800 is a close second. They are all great bikes, whatever fits you best, it's all good.

[@joseperez1464]

Bought a Triumph Street twin gold line last week, it’s fantastic.

[@johnsnelson7192]

Way to much plastic on the Royal Enfield. The W800 is an all steel bike. Same with the Triumph. I'd buy the classic Triumph T120.

[@paulm2467]

Take it off, put on high quality after market parts or Enfield’s own upgrades, personalise it, customise it, you can end up still paying less than the others for a better, more personal bike, it’s basics are really solid which makes it perfect for customisation, it’s even over engineered so it’s pretty straightforward to use big bore kits on it.

[@vincentiusrioyoshilistyo6601]

That makes Enfield more fun and delightful to do some mods and custom, regarding there's so many mod parts available in the market

[@stevenpearson5658]

Excellent comprehensive video, well done. I'm an Fjr1300 owner but looking to get one of these aswell. I like them all and would agree with most your comments and views. I think the W800 looks the most convincing Retro. I like the quirkyness of the V7 and the heritage of the Triumph. The Ducati looks to modern for my taste, the RE is great value, but you can see where those cost savings have been made. It's a toss up between a T100 or W800 for me!! You've got another subscriber, keep up the great reviews.

[@psychepass]

The duc scrambler definitely got me the first time but as my head was saying how expensive it is to keep. My vote goes for w800 simply because of after sales and reliability but I would probably buy a used one. Problem is there aren't many around in the market :)

[@AlexSimmons11c]

Yeah that's a tough one to find used because they just didn't send a lot to dealers!

[@johnwillard6198]

For me it’s all about how it looks , I’m 61 and I choose T-100 followed closely by the Moro Guzzi .

[@randyyoung6713]

For me the Moto Guzzi and Scrambler win the cool factor, but Based on posts and comments from various Facebook groups I worry about reliability for both and the same for Royal Enfield. Being in a rural area there are no Ducati, Guzzi, Enfield or even Triumph Dealers closer than 180 miles away. So for me it’s W800.

[@randyyoung6713]

Oh and I bought mine for $7,200 🙂

[@AlexSimmons11c]

So far I have had great luck personally with Enfield, but if your closest dealers are that far away I would say Kawasaki was a wise choice!!

[@dhruppatel2856]

Thank you very much for making this video.

[@DerpEye]

I really like this cathegory of bikes. Too bad i can't own more than one, and you really can't do much with a classic one. I often travel with luggage and sometimes a passenger, so i own an adventure bike. If i could own a second bike, i would go with the z900rs.

[@AlexSimmons11c]

Adventure bikes are great, can't go wrong there either haha

[@vivekanands1910]

Great video. I would love to own the one right behind you! GT 😎

[@AlexSimmons11c]

Not too hard of a dream to achieve since they aren't expensive hahaha. Thanks Vivekanand!

[@1205shyam]

Triumph for me too! But RE I think comes a close second considering the price.

[@AlexSimmons11c]

Once price enters the equation the RE becomes a clear contender, and in my mind the winner (which is why I bought one), but I had to do this without any bias and had to give Triumph it's due all around.

[@franksilva2542]

I am waving my little British flags as you deliver your conclusion, and hoisting a pint of bitters, mate.

[@themats7975]

Hey, nice timing. I've been checking out a few of these bikes both new and, sort of, used for the past month or so. Here's my completely unofficial, completely worthless reviews. Moto Guzzi V7 III: Great bike, funky looking. A lot of torque, throttle is twitchy but in a good way. Felt low to the ground (I'm 6'1), almost too centered. Nice ride. High school girlfriend meter: That girl who wasn't conventionally pretty but looked good from certain angles. Fun to hang with but a bit weird too. Triumph Bonneville (and Street Twin): Very pretty. Great torque. It will pick up quickly, but you feel in control. And, yet, it was almost too clean. High school girlfriend meter: The cheerleader who gets straight As and dad is a lawyer. She's perfect and, yet, there's something bland about her that you can't put your finger on. Why don't I like her more? Royal Enfield Interceptor: Felt great to sit on. Nice power, but not crazy. Torque was good but totally in control. Doesn't feel as low to the ground as the Guzzi and more fund to handle than than Bonneville, even though the Bonneville is tighter. Just a blast to ride. High school girlfriend meter: Pretty, but not perfect like the Bonneville. Quirky, but not weird like the Guzzi. You just feel comfortable around the Enfield. She's the one you want to hang out with day in and day out. I went with the Interceptor. (Would have ridden the W800 but I got a deal on a barely used Int 650 for $5,500 from a friend's neighbor so no need to ride the W800.)

[@AlexSimmons11c]

Hahaha, excellent way to put each one! Thanks for that hahahaha!

[@sscbkr48]

Excellent visuals! 😄 and I agree with your choice. Re price.. was that usd or cad?

[@themats7975]

@@sscbkr48 USD. Bought with just over 300 miles and no taxes. It was a lucky deal, but I would have been happy paying for a new one. Like I said, for me, at least, it's just a joy to ride. Hard to explain, but the RE just "feels" like a riding a motorcycle.

[@dgratale]

On a serious note, I have seen people complaining about the seals on the shaft drive of the V7. This seems to be pretty common problem and I have been told that it will cost you over $1000 to have it redone with new seals. This has been a consistent problem from the V7 to present day with the V7 III. Which is a bummer since I think the V7 III racer is the prettiest mass-production cafe racer currently for sale, plus shaft drive means no chain maintenance. I don't understand why Guzzi does not correct this KNOWN issue. You would think that they would have addressed it when updating to the Mark II version, let alone the Mark III. Additionally, I am surprised that the Kawi did not take the reliability title. Hard to beat the Japanese when it comes to reliability.

[@AlexSimmons11c]

Agreed Dom, I have only heard of a couple people having a seal issue, but with a shaft drive that is the only problem is that if something does go wrong...it is typically much more expensive to fix unfortunately. I can't imagine why they would not address it, except that the Italian motorcycle manufacturers seem to have a history of just accepting their flaws as "character" and deciding not to fix them. Ducati has done the same thing on several occasions with different models over the years (999 I am looking at you).

[@dougfielding8215]

The W800 has a solid reputation for outstanding reliability going back to the first W650 in 1999.

[@timjohnson1199]

And, I wonder what's involved in changing the clutch on the Guzzi? Used to be easy on my old Triumph. Of course, maybe that clutch lasts forever.

[@dougfielding8215]

The Kawasaki W series have a solid reputation for reliability going back to the 1999 W650 and continues with the W800s. That is one of the key reasons I bought a W800 Street. Classic Brit Twin architecture but with impeccable reliability.

[@dgratale]

@Back2Bay6 If it happens within the warranty period, they should. Remember to evidence your compliance with the manuals maintenance schedule so they cannot argue that you failed to maintain it properly.

[@martindavies8326]

The water cool Triumph’s, some have developed gear box gremlins after as little as a 1,000 miles, I like the look of the Triumph but for that Reason I’d go for the W800 all day long , I love the RE 650 but the seat is too high for me. 😎👍🇬🇧

[@philipbond9896]

Its good to hear different opinion’s , it takes out a lot of the guess work out of choosing a new bike. , that one may be looking at to buy ,, .

[@cadillacsmith5339]

Great video.... When are you doing the heavyweights?

[@AlexSimmons11c]

It was put off due to a lot of "life" delays over the Holidays, it is coming!!!

[@algesbrek5695]

I love the triumph but many recent models , the trany has isues that surface around 30,000 miles .have they fixed that yet ? I have a 750 shadow a.c.e and a 650 suzzuki v-strom....love them both . Very good vid bud ,informative and nicely presented .

[@AlexSimmons11c]

Thanks Al, I have not heard of the trans issue with the newer Bonne line! I'll have to look into it. Shadow will never let you down, and the Vstrom 650 is pure motorcycle perfection in many ways haha

[@dougfielding8215]

No one knows yet about the new ones. Stuart Fillingham says that Triumph has typically hidden their head in the sand. The problem is that the tranny (particularly in the 1200cc) can lock into one gear and not get out.

[@kennypool]

I hope you make 10k this year. Good luck.

[@sturejonsson]

I like Kawasaki w 800😊👍👍👍💪

[@jsprite123]

The best modern retro bike is the one that you enjoy riding.

[@loydchambers6129]

I liked the kawasaki 900made your honorable mention at least.

[@rickkern5785]

What happened to the XSR 700 from Yamaha? It has been around a long time and nearly the same power and fun of the Ducati. Tons of aftermarket for the Yamaha xsr700.

[@zaedshahin2219]

Couple of comments: 1) Do you still have your GT? 2 )The price is very close to the SV 650 (well made Japanese) why did you chose Royal Enfield (indian/"British"). 3) Can you also compare the service intervals...i as told GT & cont 650 have short service intervals and needs head value adjustment every 5K

[@thang5451]

I'm looking for the lightweight list

[@simongilbert2704]

well done ;; its east to say the triumph is best = as it cost more than most , but as you dont own one its harder, so this is to say well done again for being honest as it shows your reviews can be trusted, if people dont like the results then they can try setting a channel and we can watch them;;;;

[@markwenning2216]

got my my w800 cafe for $5599 brand new

[@fleshpie2129]

is that model so cheap in USA? Is it cafe or street version? In eruope it cost 9500 euro so about 10 000 dollars, and they have offer now for 7900 euro for Street model

[@psychepass]

@@fleshpie2129 thats a good deal!

[@josephsperato5645]

Once again, it all boils down to what you like but I could have easily bought the Royal Enfield ( dealership was too far away) Triumph I love but just too expensive for me, and never considered the Moto Guzzi or The Ducati. . This was the first Kawasaki I owned, w800 Cafe, and I must admit , price drop to 7000. and Close to home Dealership sold me after test riding it.

[@AlexSimmons11c]

That's why they are all great for different reasons, the current pricing hurts Triumph a lot in my opinion, and the weak dealer network hurts Enfield for sure! The W800 is a great bike, I did thoroughly enjoy my last ride on one :-)

[@dougfielding8215]

Enjoy, Joseph. You bought a real fine bike. Every ride on the W800 is a treat.

[@JJ-cg3rn]

Great video! Would love to own the W800. Kawasaki did a nice job with this motorcycle... Z900rs as well. Tough for me to choose between the two honestly. I also love the CB1100 as well, but I don’t think Honda will be bringing that one back to the United States anytime soon.

[@tonyramirez2731]

Great review, really enjoyed it!!!

[@erich.4305]

great video and as you know I don''t have a bike. I haven't ridden a moto guzi but have sat on one and revved it . I don't like the feel of the transverse engine. I guess it is either something you love or hate. I am drawn to the RE or the Kawasaki. I wish the Kawasaki was a six speed. I love the RE's but the confidence in the Kawasaki reliability is hard to beat.

[@AlexSimmons11c]

All very true Eric, and you are correct on the Guzzi, either you like the feel or you dont haha

[@dougfielding8215]

The W800 has good torque and very evenly spaced gearing. Having a 5 speed is a non issue. On mine, I've caught myself whipping along at highway speeds and realize I'm in 4th gear.

[@jacostaveras5979]

I’m 27yo, Is okay for me as a new rider to buy a xsr700 as my first 🏍?

[@tat2547]

Kawasaki W650 & Kawasaki W800

[@alpgurpinar7285]

Thank you, it was nice.

[@htbikes7598]

Looking forward to the lightweight video

[@AlexSimmons11c]

It's coming! These take a lot more work than the videos where I answer questions haha, look for it and a heavy-weight video soon!

[@AdamB5000]

Lots of love for the W800 in the comments. I'm surprised, but also not. I like it and the V7. 20 years since I've ridden, and these two have caught my eye. Leaning toward the W800.

[@souhailshamaissem7564]

Very fair comparison

[@thomdrums-ms4zt]

I agree with you except for one little caveat I have a Moto Guzzi V7 I too am a total Triumph guy love em ( Triumph) all ways have I really wanted a Bonneville but my almost equal choice was the Guzzi. My caveat IS Moto Guzzi never stopped making the “ retro” motorcycle! The V7 never went away it didn’t “come back” it’s always been since it’s inception. I do agree though on your criteria the Bonneville wins for the reasons you said but AGAIN the Moto Guzzi’s were always there so in the “ retro” idea of motorcycles I believe Moto Guzzi should take a close second although as said overall dealer availability parts etc Triumph does squeak ahead. To be honest Triumph is my favorite brand but taking into consideration all of the factors above I chose the Moto Guzzi. But great vid I do agree mostly.

[@truckerownerops]

Hello this is jose All good picks all have there good qualities but I have been and i still love the RE also I do agree with all you said . But even though most of the bikes have been out longer than the RE 650 in reality none of the makes of motorcycles you mentioned have been around like the RE brand. RE has been around for more than 100 years. I would still consider buying an RE because of there longevity as a company reputation.

[@AlexSimmons11c]

Thanks Jose! Obviously I tend to agree with you since I bough a RE myself :-)

[@truckerownerops]

@@AlexSimmons11c kzbin.info/www/bejne/amKxe2eldrSEoJI 👍

[@stevefox8605]

For me the most authentic /retro feeling are the Enfield and the Guzzi, the most fun the Ducati. The Triumph looks the part, but is a modern motorcycle to ride ( & the factory fitted alarm looses points for reliability in my experience). I found the w650 a bit bland, & like the Triumph (had a Thruxton for 10 years) a bit lacking character. Good video, Cheers mate 👍🏻👍🏻 Edit... Most "authentic" old bike feeling is probably a Cossack /Dnepir/Ural, but guess you don't get them in the US (they're dire so you're not missing out 🤣)

[@sacrificialrook6283]

You can get Urals here. They're not common, but there's some around. Dnepir...whoo boy. Some made it here, but the circumstances are just strange. If you could track down the importer, you might be able to order one. If you ordered one, it may or may not randomly appear at your doorstep. If it did arrive, the only guarantee you had was that it would NOT run. Ever. Comparing known examples threw the concept of standardized production out the window. The whole thing has become a philosophical exercise in "what is a motorcycle."

[@stevefox8605]

@@sacrificialrook6283 you should see the Chinese version.... The wheels are chromed whole, spokes & inside of brake drums too-&every example I've seen has its own "unique" wiring (loose wires, no loom!) 🤣 Thanks for your comment 👍🏻

[@sacrificialrook6283]

@@stevefox8605 I know of at least one Dnepir that came here with a mismatched motor. The right cylinder was from a 500cc. The left was from a 750... So, a Chinese copy of a satellite copy of a soviet copy of a bmw. It's the matryoshka motorcycle of awful! You...you can keep those, thanks.

[@AlexSimmons11c]

Very good points Steve, hence why I bought the Enfield hahaha. I just have to give Triumph points for championing the modern retro market and legacy for so long haha, but they've lost their touch in recent years.

[@rayseaman6204]

I was curious... Is the Harley Davidson 883 Sportster too expensive for this list ? Quality not good enough ? Or is it the ride and handling ? And NO, I am NOT a Sportster fan . My personal favorite motorcycle is my 1986 Honda 750 Nighthawk. When/IF it finally dies, I will have to take another look at Your List !!!

[@kingsmurf8131]

Great video very detail

[@AlexSimmons11c]

Thanks King Smurf, have a great day!

[@knutarvidhansen3300]

Blah blah blah blah. How the fuck is it possible to blah blah for more than 20 minutes without saying anything smart or come to a conclution? My W650 from 2000 has now made 283oookm! About handling, no one manage to follow me on curvy roads (whatever RR bikes). About quality, I sometimes (myself) do ordinary maintenance, but I havent touched (repaired) anything else so far. Have not adjusted any valve last 225oookm. About comfort, my longest trip in one day (24hour) was 1713km on a camel rally (iron butt), which I won! I had an injury in my back 40yrs ago (after that 16 time prolapses) Driving licence Moto when I was 44, then I tested aprox 25 different bikes before choosing the Kawasaki. I live in Norway with 5-6 months winter, Im soon 70yrs and still love my W (more than my other 3 bikes), after 12 times to W-meeting in Germany my bike has also become famous as a reference bike (of quality) among MC- forum in Europe. Convinced that this is the bike for u?

[@Bookerdevin101]

W800 Cafe 👌

[@rottweilerfun9520]

When are you going to do the heavy and light weights ?

[@sdhute]

Interesting looks like a local Kawasaki dealer offers a lifetime engine warranty.

[@goru426]

My local dealer is asking for $8700 OTD for the RE650.

[@timjohnson1199]

For me it's the Bonnie and the W. Not only both look awesome but the only dealers by me are those. Probably keep my NC700X, it looks a little funky but does everything well and I'm addicted to the storage compartment. So many great bikes, so little time!

[@pikebobstar2033]

Got to be the RE. Of course, not biased. No2 v7 then w800 the scrambler, nah. Bonnie, liquid cooling ruins the sound IMHO and is not typically retro. The RE is not perfect, mines developed a low speed squeak which, despite going through brakes, suspension and bearings is still there! Adds to the character. Had to put to bed early (that's another story) for winter thoroughly cleaning, drying and detailing with a suitable indoor covered course 👍

[@AlexSimmons11c]

Well since I bought a RE obviously I tend to agree haha, just trying to be fair about it :-)

[@nikitis13]

To understand an Enfield 650, you really need to do yourself a favour and watch/read the design direction Enfield engineers took, many of which ironically were ex-Triumph engineers. Read up on "Paul Young", he's a professional motorcycle racing legend. He was the lead development rider during the design of these bikes. He greatly influenced and helped the development and final product. Look closely at the geometry specs of the 650's and you'll notice quite a bit of "sport" in their chassis unlike the other models. The highly regarded Harris Performance frame builders in England designed the frames. So much thought time, resources and effort went into these bikes by incredibly talented, passionate people. The final product? Brilliance! For the money I think it's a no brainer. Enfield ALL the way. There is now a plethora of performance upgrades one can do to their bikes on a relatively small budget. They are an over-engineered bike with a forged crank and will easily take some big horse power if you choose to do so in the future. I've owned and or ridden all but the Kawasaki W800 in this comparison and as an all-round package/price, the Enfield 650's simply cant be beaten. If you haven't ridden one do so with plenty of enthusiasm and tell me I'm wrong. If you cant have fun on this bike, you're doing it wrong. If you're already got one and want more performance in way shape or form take a look at Tec Bike Parts. They offer some very tasty bits and pieces for a reasonable low price. That's my plan once I get one :)

[@souhailshamaissem7564]

You said for some reason you did not include the yamaha xj650 and the kawasaki z900. I really like to know those reasons if you don't mind

[@kingslots9134]

Best is cb400sf vtec...but unfortunately not in usa...we got it in Australia, fantastic bike.

[@allans7281]

Fun video!! The name Triumph invokes sex and elegance! T-100 is for me. I scored a new 2022 blue/white model for 7999 in burbank Ca. This was the first year of the new performance enhancements. When you fire up a Triumph there’s a beam of light that shines on you from the heavens!

[@atrothe]

You sure that beam wasn't a radar beam from a traffic cop?

[@deeptruthchanneldtc6770]

It has oil air cooled engine. Does the scrambler come in retro category.

[@Angelo-bh7id]

Why is the Kawasaki z900rs is included in the thumbnail but not included in the list? It should be the clear winner for me.

[@howardsway782]

I mostly agree, the Kawa Z900RS is a beautiful update of the legendary Z900 series, one of the best bikes ever made IMHO. Really good review Alex, needs a lot more time & scope. 67yrs riding since 1970's in Southern England UK across the pond. Last bike was Triumph 900cc RE, brother had TT100, RE was so much easier to manoeuvre at low speed, both have tons of grunt but not quite enough power for me. The Thruxton would be heaven to ride but far too pricey and would probably kill me now!!

[@raymondpexton5440]

Z900 kawasaki should be on the list 111hp

[@marclapalme1394]

What’s your reasoning for the XSRs not being on your list?

[@AlexSimmons11c]

There were a few reasons, I may make a separate video for them. The XSR900 and Z900RS I felt should fit in the "heavyweights" if at all, even though they are under 1000cc they put out considerably more HP and are more like almost a modern sport bike but dressed up in classic bodywork, so to me they are more of a modern bike with some retro style points rather than a true modern retro. Always up for debate though!

[@marclapalme1394]

@@AlexSimmons11c I would agree, I think both the 700 and 900 have much more power than the others on your list, other than the Ducatti maybe. But the 900 is very strong. Thanks.

[@RoleOurVideoNow]

I was wondering the same thing, however I don't disagree that both the XSR and the 900rs are likely considering more top tier... For the record I'm picking up my new 900rs next week 😁👍👌

[@JamesCouch777]

My #1 pick would be the Triumph, #2 the Moto Guzzi.

[@JoeMama-vj8es]

2:30 if you don't wanna hear him rambling.

[@dap777754]

he says "so without further adieu" in first ten seconds and 2 minutes later he's still circling

[@radhikaiyer8012]

SR400

[@stanleyblazeraznik6047]

Do you not show the Z900RS on the intro screen? What gives holmes?

[@kkiwi54]

Up to 1000cc for a mid-weight? Lol, I guess now I am officially old - when I was young anything 650 and up was a big bike, mid-weights were 350 - 500 :o

[@robertlindstrom540]

Starting my 10:th seaason with my Kawa VN750 next year. I have not ridden any of these but getting very interested in the Interceptor so propably going to test one in the spring. Triumph Street Twin also a possibility for next bike. Based on looks alone I choose the Bonneville for winner, with the Interceptor as a close second. Kind of like the Kawa also and I´ve owned several but there are some issues for me with how this one looks but ok, 3:rd place for that.

[@atrothe]

I still love my VN800 with low gearing. Takes off like a scalded cat.

[@Apollo949]

The W650 was released in 1999 before the Triumph Bonneville and goes way back to the W1 which was based on the BSA A7 so it's more authentic than the Triumph which does suffer from gearbox issues so the W800 is the real McCoy.

[@MohitSapra97]

Do a heavy weingt now, 1000+cc’s please!

[@deanblanton-fh3gq]

It’s seems that. Enfield and now the BSA single have lost their way to the classics. They seem to believe the crappy black outlook is what’s happing. SUCKS! The Triumph is over priced for what’s being produced. It’s much the same bike that was produced some 50-60 years back. The electrical and carbs or injection is much better now than the early years. That is what made the British bikes fade was the problems they gave ya. The Japanese manufacturers built a better bike and out sold them all for less money. The British and Harleys had issues .How do I know this? I owned most of the British stuff back in the day. Harley, almost went out of business until AMF saved them. Then Willy “G” and company bought them back and saved the Harley name with the Evo engine in the early 80s. Now,they are over priced for a bike that hasn’t changed much since the late 40s. Japanese still build a better British looking bike with the W800, along with the other twin cylinder models Kawasaki produces. Yamaha produced a twin 650 during the 70s that was a better bike than the British produced. Honda produced a few twins the 305, 350, and the 450. It was a time one could afford a classic Japanese bike. Honda came out in 1969 with its earth moving CB 750. Later Kawasaki hit the market with its KZ900. For a very affordable price back then compared to any Harley produced and they were very reliable low maintenance and much faster. The British bike makers were pretty much gone by the late 70s. I lived the bike scene then, I’m Just an old rider that’s been on most two wheels sold. I’m I an expert? Nope, just experienced with the many two wheel machine’s over the many years from the old bar hoppers, bobbers, choppers, to the high dollar custom stuff that came and went. I’m 80 years now and still in the saddle and don’t plan to stop. It’s in my blood and I love them too much and the bugs in my teeth and wind in my face.