For those of us who have this beautiful bike on their wishlist, it's great to get a long term review from a committed owner. The upgrade info is an added bonus. Many thanks.
I’m in Japan, and had a Yamaha SR 400. Great little bike, but I needed a bit more power, so I was on the lookout. I spied a parked W650. I thought it was the best looking bike I’ve ever seen. Unless my research uncovered a bike that is a mechanical disaster, I knew I would have it. I’ve owned one for several years now. Very reliable and enjoyable bike. With the Givi luggage system, it’s also practical. I thought about checking out the W800, but without the kick and carbs, I also feel like it is not as desirable.
She's a beauty. I have one of the Green/ Creme versions but had a new silver and blue one back in the day. Both US versions. Honestly, the nicest bikes I've ever owned out of several hundred.
I just picked one up, Going to spend the winter here in Canada polishing and making her my own. I haven't driven it on the roads yet, so I can not wait for that!!!!
😄Some is looking for a W with low mileage to buy, and some is afraid of when problems may appear. Don't bother! My bike (registerred spring 2000) has made 278oookm now. Exept replace oil and filter regularly, spark plugs, chain and sprocket when needed and some other maintenance from time to time. What parts is replaced?: 3 sets of front brake pads, 3main bulbs and one cluthwire, thats it. Adjusted 3 valves up to 60k and no more since then, nothing else in engine is touched. Bike is like when it left factory except I drive on Bridgestone Batlax BT-45 and changed rear tire to 120/90, smother into curves and some higher speed through curves before muffler hits the tarmac. I live in Norway, 11 times I've been to W-meet (W-treffen) in Germany, and they say my bike is the quality reference in Europe!
@@angof You will love this meeting, its not like any other bike meet I`ve joined. Approx. 60-70 partissipants and you will be treated like a family member.
Very well done, both the video and especially the bike. Have recently been looking at the W650, here in the US, as a candidate for a new/old bike. Just turned 70 and its time to find something a little lighter than my Harley Fatboy. Love the retro British look which takes me back to the 1970s and my long gone "72" Yamaha 650xs. Thank you for all the upgrade ideas, I had no idea they were so customizable. I will save this video for future reference.
Enjoyed that ! I was in the motorcycle trade as a mechanic from the early 70s to the late 80s. A Meriden Triumph/BSA man at heart. I worked at Paul Smart's Kawasaki Paddock Wood business in the 70s which was a Triumph dealer too. We had two W1s part exed during that period, which I fell in love with and had the use of one for a summer period, an up graded BSA A7/10 which didn't leak, no mechanical defects and reliable electrics. Looked great too. I'm now looking at W650s/W800s as they look and sound like late 60s Triumphs, more so than the Hinckley Bonnies I've owned. Great video. Thanks.
Its the best one I've seen. Love the black fenders , headlamp and handlebars .Looks proper . I'm really interested in your front suspension. There was a Japanese company that made that piece on the top of the fork for further adjustability. I have an 2001. Love it. Love the tank paint scheme. I'll be watching this video a lot. Thank you sir !!
Thanks, took me a few years to get her to where she is now but im very happy with both the looks and performance. The cartridges in the forks are probably a little overkill for a bike like the W ( as are the Nitron shocks) but I like i say in the video I`ll be keeping her forever. If I was to advise somebody looking to upgrade the suspension on a W id say go with Bitubo shocks and springs.
@@crossfire7463 Hope it's going-well for you . Mine seems to go better the-more I ride it and it definitely responds-well to 'spirited-riding' . I will experiment with heavier fork-oil next summer and a fork-brace if I can source something realistically-priced .
Nice bike.I have a 2001 green tank. Corbin seat and rack other than that bone stock. I love mine. Also bought a new rear fender because they crack. It’s not on yet. Keeper for sure!!
Good presentation leaving me to agree perhaps the W650 would pleasure better over the W800. I roll upon with a 1983 Yamaha SX650 limited special Heritage 653cc. It is an odd bike by what they did to them starting in 1981. They started their run in 1969. Beginning In 1981 to 1985 replaced the 18 inch rear with a 16 inch rear wheel and went with a step seat and drawn back handle bars. I believe I have figured out why Yamaha would have done that perhaps for straight line riding. Very strong and handsome motor.
Love the bike…these will go up in value. I changed my 19” front wheel to a 18” thinking it would improve the handling, but what you said about the suspension makes me think I was barking up the wrong tree. (But it’s black so it’s cool and comes off the w800 cafe) Mines a keeper too.
I've just bought a very nice w650 1999, been riding an 81 sr500 for 24 years, never driven a car, thought it's about time I had a 'new bike', just watched the vid and thought that level crossing looks familiar, my wife's sister lives in pendarves road, and you passed her house, nowt special about that, but i live in south staffs, around 295 miles away. Small world.
Beautiful bike. I love that paint job. I'm always on the look out for a cheap used W650. I'd love to use one as a starting point to build something cool.
Great bike,had mine from new (2005 model bought in 2006) still with me and it has that hint (or DNA) of BSA not Triumph, even the Mot tester want's to buy it, sorry mate, it's not for sale 😉
Ruby is beautiful, nice work. I find so many people don't "get" the Ws. Those that do, it's like belonging to a Secret society. I can't stay off of my 2019 W800 Street in the foothills of Alberta, Canada. Many rider's here have never seen one. I can't see myself ever selling my bike, (we know what we have, and it's quite special).
I love my w650 scrambler, go on exit and put in Kawasaki scrambler,it’s the black with gold highlights with massive wheels and tyres ,a great totally underrated bike,yours is lovely and sounds great
Great video! I'm one of those still thinking. My shortlist is basically down to the W650 (the 800 is no option for me as well - it has no real advantages but the kick starter is missing) and the RE Interceptor 650. The problem with the W is, that they are very rare and hard to find with low mileage, at least where I live.
The RE is equally-cool ! RE and W both have plus's and minus's , if you are a more aggressive-rider, go for the RE, like-wise if you want to increase HP. If you are more into 'tootling-along' and happy with 50HP in a beautiful reliable machine, perfect for city-riding etc, go for the W..
Do you tend to use the kickstart all the time, as if she were a true 60's Brit..? That kickstart is what sets this beauty apart from the modern classics, as real men need to kick start their bikes, right?? :)
Great review, and interesting to hear your thoughts on the W800; think I did right by getting the 650: I swapped my Royal Enfield Himalayan for one, and it was love at first sight by looks, and love at first mile when I rode it home. I actually like all the chrome, but I don't live on the coast, which I imagine rots the hell out of bikes if you use it all year round. All the best 🙂
Angof...i love yer bike I have a w650..i would like to know the name of your bar mirrors or even a link to them n i like the fact buying Britsh...thanks John In Scotland
Greetings from across the pond. Beautiful and informative vid. I have a 2019 w800 and was wondering what year w800 did you have. I tried to buy a w650 but they are rare in the states.
8:22 First off, great review of a very nicely put-together W-650. I recently picked up a 5,000 mile 2000 W650 here in the states that I’m going to do some customizing to. Question for you. I would like to change over my fenders (mud guards) and headlight can to black examples. Where again did you source the ones you have fitted to your bike please? I appreciate your help - Doug
Hi Doug the Fenders and the headlight bowl are from the later drum brake version of the W800, 2015 special edition I think. I know you didnt get that bike in the states so not much help. You could of course buy the headlight bowl from ebay and just swallow the import cost and get your current fenders blasted and powder coated black. Enjoy the bike & maybe I will do an update video soon as ive done a lot of different things to her now.
@@angof I owned a 1972 Yamaha XS650, it was a great bike and I wished I’d never sold her .. The W650 is a timeless classic, the perfect size bike for the type of riding I love .. So I’m saving up the cash for one ..!!
great video, bike looks and sounds a treat. really like the rear mudguard/fender. do you remember where it was from? I lie one for mine which currently has none and looks cool but not very practical. Thanks for sharing.
Really nice, and a proper old-school twin sound - 360 degree crank phasing is the right sound. I don't like the current trend for 270 degree cranks, they just sounf like a V-twin.
Here in the States they only ever sold these lovely W650s for two years. I'm led to understand Kawasaki got shy and nervous when Triumph brought out their new line of Bonnie twins, and pulled them from our salesrooms. Yet even as a longtime fan of British bikes, I've long thought these old Nipponese retro-twins, based it is said, at least partly, on some BSA-designed model of yore built by Kawasaki way back when under license, could have held their own. I suppose they've since seen the error of their ways, and introduced a revamped W800. But like you said, they just aren't as "character-full" are they? Thing is, they may be very reasonable over there in Blighty, where they enjoyed a far longer run, but over here in the Land of the Plastic Spork there's a serious "hipster upcharge" to those W650 models, with semi-decent examples asking and getting upwards of $10,000 (about 7500 quid). As for me, I mostly poke around nowadays on one of those original "Iron Barrel" model Royal Enfield Bullet 500 singles in green "Military' trim made in India, just the way the English had taught 'em to do back in 1954--though mine's actually a 2005. If you want a super-affordable classic design just like "Grandad's Bike", there you go. I adore mine. Reliability-wise it's little different than any other actual '60s British bike I've ever owned. So take those brand naysayers with a pinch of salt. Often enough I've found they've never even ridden, let alone owned one. They just heard something from a bloke...
Ive always loved the look of the RE classic 500. Im sure one will come into my garage before to long. And id also go for the military green as they look just prefect in that trim. Thanks for watching the vid and taking time to leave me a comment. :)
@@angof They're not for everybody, but if you're OK with cruising in the 50s and tinkering and fettling now and then a nice old original Iron Barrel single has its own unique virtues. The newer model Unit Construction Engine Bullets (post 2009 or so) are much the same, if perhaps just a few mph swifter, but come with too many modern electro-fripperies like electronic fuel injection for my elderly tastes, my attitude being "gimme a carb, 'cause gravity always works". But if you like twins, which you obviously do, go take a test ride on one of their newish 650s. They ain't bad at all in case you've a buddy looking for something new with a bit of "character" for only about half the price of a Bonnie. Their similar-generation new Meteor 350s are promising too, though I've only yet seen a single one "in the wild". Very "substantial" it seemed. I'd expect it might be a very fine first bike or perhaps a fine lady's mount--possibly a fair touring match to your W650 or a gentleman on one of their 650s.. Though I'd guess really anyone not routinely setting off the speed cameras or causing sensitive women at roadside to clutch their pearls might happily ride a Meteor forever.
The exhaust is a Motad full stainless system. Unfortunately the company has gone bust so not being made any more. They come up on ebay from time to time.
take those steering dampers off and get into the 100 m/hr tank slappers , make a great youtube video . Goodlookin bike mate nice ..regards MT01 rider from down under .
Nice bike/review 👍 I have just (dec. 20) bought a 2019 W800 cafe to take delivery I March, when the snow is gone 😬 Here in Denmark 🇩🇰 there is also far between / you see a W650 or a W800 🤔
Really enjoyed your long term report. I have a W800, and I agree with you about the staring option😊 Do you still have the chrome headlamp, I would prefer that to my black headlamp bowl (paradoxically!) PM me if a sale can be agreed. All the best - Paul, North Wales
Hi, the steering damper came from a website called wemoto based in Japan. Had one fitted on my W800 as well. Heres the link. japan.webike.net/KAWASAKI/W650/Steering+Dampers/434/1041/mc/p.b=498/
They only imported these to the U.S. 2000-2001. I found the more desirable ‘01 with 4,000miles on it only 45mins from my house. Very clean and never dropped for $4,800US. Can’t find them over here for 3,500£ but for just over £4k , not bad. Anyone have an opinion on that price? Thanks in advance.
Hello. If you're still reading comments, ... what brand was/is your steering damper? I'm buying a W650 and wish to follow your setup. I'm in California.
Angof:The crank is 360 degree like the old Triumphs, BSAs and Nortons. That's why it sounds so good. Have a 2022 red and black standard W800 and love it. Bob in Canada
@@simonbedden3026 bent them around a lamp post outside the house, warmed them with a hairdryer and just bent them a little at a time till they fitted perfectly. stuck on with car trim tape which is what the original badges are stuck on with. cut the heads off four countersunk screws that fitted the holes, painted them satin black and glued them in the badge before fitting.
Any vibration issues Angof ?, I’m getting some vibrations through the handlebars when opening her up. I’ve tried bar end weights which improved slightly.
Hi Mike, tbh I cant say that the vibrations thru the handlebars has ever bothered me. Certainly didnt cause me any issues on a trip this summer doing 300 mile days.
Check items such as the insulators on the muffler mount, also the front sprocket, when worn they cause a lot of vibration; ask me how I know of these things😆
hey just getting back into biking after a long time and been looking closely at a W650 or a newer W800 original 2020 some advise would be appreciated, yes please do more vids
Hi Stanley, Cant go wrong with either a W650 or W800. I would say if you want the 800 to go for the 1st gen of bikes 2012 to 2016. I test rode a new 2019 model and thought that it lacked the character of the older models. Prices of the 650 & 800 are on the rise but a well cared for example of either can still be found for less than 4k.
Yes both 360 cranks. I guess it has to do with the 650 being carb driven. I had a W800 with the same Motad exhaust as this 650 and it didnt sound anywhere near as good.
Hi Angof!!! Love the w800 bits and pieces...we have a lot in common with our bikes... similar red on black, with black being the thing, except for the engine, superbrace, black headlight and mudguards, lucas taillight, W bevel cover, ... I was also checking that seat out, but the way it does not hide thee frame totally, killed it for me... hence I did one myself and got it upholstered. Mine is a 1999 and it took a hell of a weather. beating when she was living in UK. Don't have the money to give it a overall... but really would love to make it look prime again...
Hi JP, Enjoyed your little video, been following your bike for ages on "The Lonely Ones" it looks ace. My engine was looking the same as yours but over lock down I repainted it. Found a good match for the engine silver and black stove paint for the fins. Looks almost new again now, Repainted the parts of the frame that needed doing at the same time. I shall look forward to more videos from you.
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yeah.. I recognized you from the lonelies also :)...can you put a picture of the paints you used, that is if you still have the cans lying around?
Hey do you know size of front sprocket nut size is it 27mm/32mm, have tried to get off and have put back together, looking at getting a special socket but couldn't remember which size was 33mm/37mm or 27mm/32mm?
Never having owned a bike with FI, I was interested to hear you say the W800 lacked character because of it and the W650 is the better bike. Could you elaborate further, since there are tempting W800's on fleabay going cheap and only a few years old?
Hi Matt, The W650 is like a feral farm cat all snarls and showing its teeth, The W800 is like a fat castrated house cat, looks the part but is never going to surprise you. Im not trying to slate the W800 but its was the first FI bike I tried and ive since tried others and felt the same about those so I think its just like I like the way carbs work as opposed to the way FI works.
@@angof Ok, I think I get it. The local bike shop has a W800 in, so I might get a test ride once the vaccine is out and I don't have to shield my son anymore. FI aside, would the 800 ride the same as the 650?
@@mattcc6603 Yes same riding position, power, suspension etc. Dont be put off by my thoughts on the 800, would be great if you knew someone with a 650 to try them both.
@@angof Thanks for this help. No W650's hereabouts, but I'll be keeping a weather eye out! Bennett's buying guide advises, "Improvements in 2001 included revised steering geometry and front suspension changes to improve the handling", but no specifics🤪 Go for a 2001 or later then?
@@mattcc6603 Matt, I have the 2019 W800 and I feel like I won the lottery. It has plenty of character. Kawasaki also adjusted the frame tubing thicknesses and upgraded the suspension with front 41mm forks as apposed to the W650s and earlier W800s 39mm. I'm light at 145lb and the stock suspension is perfect for me with the rear shock set at its lightest setting. They also enlarged the front brake (lots of bite) and gave the bike a rear disc brake. The stock exhaust has been reworked by Kawasaki and now sounds great. This bike will exceed your expectations!
For those of us who have this beautiful bike on their wishlist, it's great to get a long term review from a committed owner. The upgrade info is an added bonus. Many thanks.
Your welcome Matt
For real tho
I’m in Japan, and had a Yamaha SR 400. Great little bike, but I needed a bit more power, so I was on the lookout. I spied a parked W650. I thought it was the best looking bike I’ve ever seen. Unless my research uncovered a bike that is a mechanical disaster, I knew I would have it. I’ve owned one for several years now. Very reliable and enjoyable bike. With the Givi luggage system, it’s also practical. I thought about checking out the W800, but without the kick and carbs, I also feel like it is not as desirable.
Same here. I am also in Japan. Had an SR, wanted to ride further so bought a W650.
She's a beauty. I have one of the Green/ Creme versions but had a new silver and blue one back in the day. Both US versions. Honestly, the nicest bikes I've ever owned out of several hundred.
I just picked one up, Going to spend the winter here in Canada polishing and making her my own. I haven't driven it on the roads yet, so I can not wait for that!!!!
Hi Brian, welcome to the dub club :)
😄Some is looking for a W with low mileage to buy, and some is afraid of when problems may appear. Don't bother! My bike (registerred spring 2000) has made 278oookm now. Exept replace oil and filter regularly, spark plugs, chain and sprocket when needed and some other maintenance from time to time. What parts is replaced?: 3 sets of front brake pads, 3main bulbs and one cluthwire, thats it. Adjusted 3 valves up to 60k and no more since then, nothing else in engine is touched.
Bike is like when it left factory except I drive on Bridgestone Batlax BT-45 and changed rear tire to 120/90, smother into curves and some higher speed through curves before muffler hits the tarmac. I live in Norway, 11 times I've been to W-meet (W-treffen) in Germany, and they say my bike is the quality reference in Europe!
Id love to go to the W meet sometime :)
@@angof You will love this meeting, its not like any other bike meet I`ve joined. Approx. 60-70 partissipants and you will be treated like a family member.
She’s a beauty! Tastefully modified and sounds proper (especially in the tunnel) 👌🏼😊
Thanks SB :)
Very well done, both the video and especially the bike. Have recently been looking at the W650, here in the US, as a candidate for a new/old bike. Just turned 70 and its time to find something a little lighter than my Harley Fatboy. Love the retro British look which takes me back to the 1970s and my long gone "72" Yamaha 650xs. Thank you for all the upgrade ideas, I had no idea they were so customizable. I will save this video for future reference.
Glad you enjoyed it. The W650 is the best of the modern retros imo.
Thanks for your review, I just found one locally and now I have to come up with a way to get it
Enjoyed that ! I was in the motorcycle trade as a mechanic from the early 70s to the late 80s. A Meriden Triumph/BSA man at heart. I worked at Paul Smart's Kawasaki Paddock Wood business in the 70s which was a Triumph dealer too. We had two W1s part exed during that period, which I fell in love with and had the use of one for a summer period, an up graded BSA A7/10 which didn't leak, no mechanical defects and reliable electrics. Looked great too. I'm now looking at W650s/W800s as they look and sound like late 60s Triumphs, more so than the Hinckley Bonnies I've owned. Great video. Thanks.
Thanks, Ive just installed the big brake it and boy she stops on a penny now :)
Looks like fun. I've always loved retro 650's. I owned an 82 yamaha 650 xs . A bike that size feels good, like a motorcycle should.
Its the best one I've seen. Love the black fenders , headlamp and handlebars .Looks proper . I'm really interested in your front suspension. There was a Japanese company that made that piece on the top of the fork for further adjustability. I have an 2001. Love it. Love the tank paint scheme. I'll be watching this video a lot. Thank you sir !!
Thanks, took me a few years to get her to where she is now but im very happy with both the looks and performance. The cartridges in the forks are probably a little overkill for a bike like the W ( as are the Nitron shocks) but I like i say in the video I`ll be keeping her forever. If I was to advise somebody looking to upgrade the suspension on a W id say go with Bitubo shocks and springs.
Thank you sir, more questions to follow!
Your review certainly helped me make the decision to buy a 2003 W650, not arrived yet, but so excited ! Dave NZ
Congrats, your gonna love it :)
@@angof I am enjoying it, surprisingly 'tractable' engine and the bike only needs the suspension-upgrades to take it further . Dave NZ
I also live in Auckland, just bought an 01 650w seen you’re also from NZ
@@crossfire7463 Hope it's going-well for you . Mine seems to go better the-more I ride it and it definitely responds-well to 'spirited-riding' . I will experiment with heavier fork-oil next summer and a fork-brace if I can source something realistically-priced .
Nice bike.I have a 2001 green tank. Corbin seat and rack other than that bone stock.
I love mine. Also bought a new rear fender because they crack. It’s not on yet.
Keeper for sure!!
Hi Dave, I like the 01 green colour. Ive also got a spare rear mudguard stashed away.
Very well equipped W !! Bike is in pristine condition good vid !
Cheers
Hi from The Netherlands, more W videos, please! 😉
Good presentation leaving me to agree perhaps the W650 would pleasure better over the W800. I roll upon with a 1983 Yamaha SX650 limited special Heritage 653cc. It is an odd bike by what they did to them starting in 1981. They started their run in 1969. Beginning In 1981 to 1985 replaced the 18 inch rear with a 16 inch rear wheel and went with a step seat and drawn back handle bars. I believe I have figured out why Yamaha would have done that perhaps for straight line riding. Very strong and handsome motor.
Thanks for a very informative video was undecided upon which one to go for the 650 or 800, your video decided it ! 650 it is!
Either are great but for me the 650 is by far the better bike to own.
I will like to keep my W650 forever too!!!! She is perfect!
Yes whats not to love about the W650 :)
They're about $5000 to $6000. Us with low mileage. I been wanting one a long time. Yea. Everyone thinks it's a triumph but it ain't got oil under it
Your mods are very tasteful. I like the black painted fenders and handlebars. Ruby is a beauty! Definitely a keeper.
Many thanks Doug.
Love the bike…these will go up in value. I changed my 19” front wheel to a 18” thinking it would improve the handling, but what you said about the suspension makes me think I was barking up the wrong tree. (But it’s black so it’s cool and comes off the w800 cafe) Mines a keeper too.
Hi Tommy, Ive been toying with the idea of black rims i must admit :)
I've just bought a very nice w650 1999, been riding an 81 sr500 for 24 years, never driven a car, thought it's about time I had a 'new bike', just watched the vid and thought that level crossing looks familiar, my wife's sister lives in pendarves road, and you passed her house, nowt special about that, but i live in south staffs, around 295 miles away. Small world.
Beautiful bike. I love that paint job. I'm always on the look out for a cheap used W650. I'd love to use one as a starting point to build something cool.
Great bike,had mine from new (2005 model bought in 2006) still with me and it has that hint (or DNA) of BSA not Triumph, even the Mot tester want's to buy it, sorry mate, it's not for sale 😉
lovely honest review of your ruby
Thanks Bro :)
Ruby is beautiful, nice work. I find so many people don't "get" the Ws. Those that do, it's like belonging to a Secret society. I can't stay off of my 2019 W800 Street in the foothills of Alberta, Canada. Many rider's here have never seen one. I can't see myself ever selling my bike, (we know what we have, and it's quite special).
Yep thats pretty much sums it up. Planning on doing any riding vids on yours ? would love to see some Canada by W.
I love my w650 scrambler, go on exit and put in Kawasaki scrambler,it’s the black with gold highlights with massive wheels and tyres ,a great totally underrated bike,yours is lovely and sounds great
Thanks Mickey.
Beautiful machine! :)))
Love it…
Cheers :)
Love these bikes - best looking of this type of bike. Great modifications - well done.
Thanks Thomas
Congratulations, beautiful bike.
lovely job you've done there, red and black tank especially
Thanks, local friend of a friend did the tank for me. I was very happy with the result.
Well Polglase sent me here!
I just found a 2000 with 5000 miles on her for $5000 US. Love your video!
Thanks and enjoy your W :)
Great video! I'm one of those still thinking. My shortlist is basically down to the W650 (the 800 is no option for me as well - it has no real advantages but the kick starter is missing) and the RE Interceptor 650. The problem with the W is, that they are very rare and hard to find with low mileage, at least where I live.
Thanks, Yes getting harder to find now but they are still out there to be found :)
The RE is equally-cool ! RE and W both have plus's and minus's , if you are a more aggressive-rider, go for the RE, like-wise if you want to increase HP. If you are more into 'tootling-along' and happy with 50HP in a beautiful reliable machine, perfect for city-riding etc, go for the W..
Do you tend to use the kickstart all the time, as if she were a true 60's Brit..? That kickstart is what sets this beauty apart from the modern classics, as real men need to kick start their bikes, right?? :)
Great review, and interesting to hear your thoughts on the W800; think I did right by getting the 650: I swapped my Royal Enfield Himalayan for one, and it was love at first sight by looks, and love at first mile when I rode it home. I actually like all the chrome, but I don't live on the coast, which I imagine rots the hell out of bikes if you use it all year round. All the best 🙂
Thanks Oscar, I happen to have a Himalayan as well and think its great. Congrats on the W :)
@@angof thank you! I'm sure I'll regret getting rid of the Himalayan, but for the meantime the love affair will continue 😄
Beautiful classic look. Love it. Cheers, 👍🇨🇦
Thanks Dan
Love your Bike Angof. So nice to see it. Hear it..
Cheers Steve :)
Angof...i love yer bike I have a w650..i would like to know the name of your bar mirrors or even a link to them n i like the fact buying Britsh...thanks John In Scotland
Hi John, Mirrors are by Oberon. heres the link to the website. www.oberon-performance.co.uk/adjustable-mirrors/adjustable-mirror
SIMPLY BEAUTIFUL !
Thank you
Great looking bike with some tasteful mods. I agree the finish is good and the suspension not so but my 2003 W650 will stay stock.
Greetings from across the pond. Beautiful and informative vid. I have a 2019 w800 and was wondering what year w800 did you have. I tried to buy a w650 but they are rare in the states.
I had a 2011 W800, They are great bikes even if i seem to rag them in my vids. Its just I think the W650 is a purer bike.
8:22 First off, great review of a very nicely put-together W-650. I recently picked up a 5,000 mile 2000 W650 here in the states that I’m going to do some customizing to. Question for you. I would like to change over my fenders (mud guards) and headlight can to black examples. Where again did you source the ones you have fitted to your bike please? I appreciate your help - Doug
Hi Doug the Fenders and the headlight bowl are from the later drum brake version of the W800, 2015 special edition I think. I know you didnt get that bike in the states so not much help. You could of course buy the headlight bowl from ebay and just swallow the import cost and get your current fenders blasted and powder coated black. Enjoy the bike & maybe I will do an update video soon as ive done a lot of different things to her now.
@@angof thank you for the info. I would love to see what else you’ve done to your bike. Hope you do another video soon. Cheers!
OhmyGawd that’s a gorgeous bike ..!!
Thanks :)
@@angof I owned a 1972 Yamaha XS650, it was a great bike and I wished I’d never sold her ..
The W650 is a timeless classic, the perfect size bike for the type of riding I love ..
So I’m saving up the cash for one ..!!
great video, bike looks and sounds a treat. really like the rear mudguard/fender. do you remember where it was from? I lie one for mine which currently has none and looks cool but not very practical. Thanks for sharing.
Rear mudguard is the original mudguard cut down. A W800 one will fit if you cant find a W650 one.
Really nice, and a proper old-school twin sound - 360 degree crank phasing is the right sound. I don't like the current trend for 270 degree cranks, they just sounf like a V-twin.
I concur :)
Nice bike. I am thinking of buying one. How often do you have to clean the carbs and balance the cylinders?
Nice bike ,thank's for review :)
Thanks :)
Your Bike looks Fantastic.. I love it..
Thx :)
Top video .. gotta say that bike looks and sounds lovely..... haha - "get old, put it in the house and stare at it with a cup of tea" Love it :)
Cheers Dan
Nice PolglaseInHD sent me
The thumbnail is a cool drawing.
With one of these retro bikes surely an open face lid is a must?
I did try open faced but a bumble bee in the face at 40mph put me off a bit.
Hi mate, very nice upgrade made! Beautiful bike is done.
Can you please give a link or name of mirrors you installed.
Thank you, mirrors are made by Oberon you can view them on ebay. Item number 312772924032
Beautiful Bike! I was thinking about getting either a 650 or 800! TY
Either both are great but the 650 edges it for me.
Here in the States they only ever sold these lovely W650s for two years. I'm led to understand Kawasaki got shy and nervous when Triumph brought out their new line of Bonnie twins, and pulled them from our salesrooms. Yet even as a longtime fan of British bikes, I've long thought these old Nipponese retro-twins, based it is said, at least partly, on some BSA-designed model of yore built by Kawasaki way back when under license, could have held their own. I suppose they've since seen the error of their ways, and introduced a revamped W800. But like you said, they just aren't as "character-full" are they? Thing is, they may be very reasonable over there in Blighty, where they enjoyed a far longer run, but over here in the Land of the Plastic Spork there's a serious "hipster upcharge" to those W650 models, with semi-decent examples asking and getting upwards of $10,000 (about 7500 quid). As for me, I mostly poke around nowadays on one of those original "Iron Barrel" model Royal Enfield Bullet 500 singles in green "Military' trim made in India, just the way the English had taught 'em to do back in 1954--though mine's actually a 2005. If you want a super-affordable classic design just like "Grandad's Bike", there you go. I adore mine. Reliability-wise it's little different than any other actual '60s British bike I've ever owned. So take those brand naysayers with a pinch of salt. Often enough I've found they've never even ridden, let alone owned one. They just heard something from a bloke...
Ive always loved the look of the RE classic 500. Im sure one will come into my garage before to long. And id also go for the military green as they look just prefect in that trim. Thanks for watching the vid and taking time to leave me a comment. :)
@@angof They're not for everybody, but if you're OK with cruising in the 50s and tinkering and fettling now and then a nice old original Iron Barrel single has its own unique virtues. The newer model Unit Construction Engine Bullets (post 2009 or so) are much the same, if perhaps just a few mph swifter, but come with too many modern electro-fripperies like electronic fuel injection for my elderly tastes, my attitude being "gimme a carb, 'cause gravity always works". But if you like twins, which you obviously do, go take a test ride on one of their newish 650s. They ain't bad at all in case you've a buddy looking for something new with a bit of "character" for only about half the price of a Bonnie. Their similar-generation new Meteor 350s are promising too, though I've only yet seen a single one "in the wild". Very "substantial" it seemed. I'd expect it might be a very fine first bike or perhaps a fine lady's mount--possibly a fair touring match to your W650 or a gentleman on one of their 650s.. Though I'd guess really anyone not routinely setting off the speed cameras or causing sensitive women at roadside to clutch their pearls might happily ride a Meteor forever.
I love it. Do you think it's a good beginner s bike? I'm in between this or a suzuki tu250x. Theyre both the same price range.
Hi, yes its a great beginner bike. easy to ride and work on.
Hi, nice exhaust. Can you give a link to it?
Or full name of model.
Thank you
The exhaust is a Motad full stainless system. Unfortunately the company has gone bust so not being made any more. They come up on ebay from time to time.
take those steering dampers off and get into the 100 m/hr tank slappers , make a great youtube video . Goodlookin bike mate nice ..regards MT01 rider from down under .
Dont need to being doin anywhere near the tonne for a tankslapper on these :P
Must be sweet to have your forever bike,.
I have other bikes but yes nice knowing i`ll keep the W forever.
Nice bike/review 👍
I have just (dec. 20) bought a 2019 W800 cafe to take delivery I March, when the snow is gone 😬
Here in Denmark 🇩🇰 there is also far between / you see a W650 or a W800 🤔
Enjoy your new W800. Theres a good forum for the W`s at thelonelyones.co.uk/index.php
Don’t suppose you have the original Kawasaki W650 chrome high bars for sale lying in your shed ?
Sorry Mike but no I dont
she sounds well buddy
Really enjoyed your long term report. I have a W800, and I agree with you about the staring option😊
Do you still have the chrome headlamp, I would prefer that to my black headlamp bowl (paradoxically!)
PM me if a sale can be agreed.
All the best - Paul, North Wales
Hi Paul, I do still have the chrome bowl but no plans to part with it im afriad.
@@angof No problem. Enjoy your W; I'm so happy with mine. Take care.
Another query on your upgrades: where did you source your steering damper? Cheers 🙂
Webike Japan but I recently saw another W with one fitted and it was just a universal one from fleabay.
Can you big bore kit the 650? The kick starter part is epic.
Beautiful bike. I have been looking for a steering damper online for a W800 but not easy to find so was wondering where you got your setup from.thanks
Hi, the steering damper came from a website called wemoto based in Japan. Had one fitted on my W800 as well. Heres the link. japan.webike.net/KAWASAKI/W650/Steering+Dampers/434/1041/mc/p.b=498/
@@angof thanks so much
They only imported these to the U.S. 2000-2001. I found the more desirable ‘01 with 4,000miles on it only 45mins from my house. Very clean and never dropped for $4,800US. Can’t find them over here for 3,500£ but for just over £4k , not bad. Anyone have an opinion on that price? Thanks in advance.
Yeah the W didnt seem to take off over the pond, so I guess those who bought them looked after them. 4.8K US seems a good price to me :)
@@angof Hey , thank you for replying. Good , I’m buying it.
Hello. If you're still reading comments, ... what brand was/is your steering damper? I'm buying a W650 and wish to follow your setup. I'm in California.
Hi the damper is made by NHK. I got it from Webike Japan. It was about £100 or thereabouts.
Nice bike fella!
Nice bike Sir. Sounds lovely - does it have a 360 deg crank?
270 I believe
Angof:The crank is 360 degree like the old Triumphs, BSAs and Nortons. That's why it sounds so good. Have a 2022 red and black standard W800 and love it. Bob in Canada
Is there a joining pipe in between the exhaust pipes as the standard bike or two separate pipes ?
Nice video and bike☮🇹🇷👍
Thanks :)
where did you get the tank badges and what are they off ?????
ebay jobbies - www.ebay.co.uk/itm/114295607410?hash=item1a9c8c9072:g:rf8AAOSwwvNfByGg
@@angof how did you bend them to fit take it you stuck them on
@@simonbedden3026 bent them around a lamp post outside the house, warmed them with a hairdryer and just bent them a little at a time till they fitted perfectly. stuck on with car trim tape which is what the original badges are stuck on with. cut the heads off four countersunk screws that fitted the holes, painted them satin black and glued them in the badge before fitting.
@@angof Masterstroke of ingenuity and great that you're sharing, because I for one probably wouldn't have got the lampost part!
Any vibration issues Angof ?, I’m getting some vibrations through the handlebars when opening her up.
I’ve tried bar end weights which improved slightly.
Hi Mike, tbh I cant say that the vibrations thru the handlebars has ever bothered me. Certainly didnt cause me any issues on a trip this summer doing 300 mile days.
Check items such as the insulators on the muffler mount, also the front sprocket, when worn they cause a lot of vibration; ask me how I know of these things😆
hey just getting back into biking after a long time and been looking closely at a W650 or a newer W800 original 2020 some advise would be appreciated, yes please do more vids
Hi Stanley, Cant go wrong with either a W650 or W800. I would say if you want the 800 to go for the 1st gen of bikes 2012 to 2016. I test rode a new 2019 model and thought that it lacked the character of the older models. Prices of the 650 & 800 are on the rise but a well cared for example of either can still be found for less than 4k.
@@angof thanks really appreciate your advise, very now and then a nice one pops up late low mileage one is what i will start looking for
@@stanleylawson9015 which one did you go for in the end pal?
Sir, why does the W650 seem to sound better than the W800? They are both 360 degree cranks, yes?
Yes both 360 cranks. I guess it has to do with the 650 being carb driven. I had a W800 with the same Motad exhaust as this 650 and it didnt sound anywhere near as good.
What'll she do, Mister?
Whatever you want ;)
@@angof Good answer!
Hi I considering buying one but was wondering what it's like on the highway and 2up. Does it have enough power. Thanks.
will sit at 80mph two up without complaining.
Hi Angof!!! Love the w800 bits and pieces...we have a lot in common with our bikes... similar red on black, with black being the thing, except for the engine, superbrace, black headlight and mudguards, lucas taillight, W bevel cover, ... I was also checking that seat out, but the way it does not hide thee frame totally, killed it for me... hence I did one myself and got it upholstered. Mine is a 1999 and it took a hell of a weather. beating when she was living in UK. Don't have the money to give it a overall... but really would love to make it look prime again...
Hi JP, Enjoyed your little video, been following your bike for ages on "The Lonely Ones" it looks ace. My engine was looking the same as yours but over lock down I repainted it. Found a good match for the engine silver and black stove paint for the fins. Looks almost new again now, Repainted the parts of the frame that needed doing at the same time. I shall look forward to more videos from you.
yeah.. I recognized you from the lonelies also :)...can you put a picture of the paints you used, that is if you still have the cans lying around?
@ Yes no problem, I`ll PM you on Lonely ones :)
nice bike!, how is it 2p?
Hi, its just fine with two people.
Another question for you , have you changed the front 15 tooth sprocket . .?
no joining pipe on the Motad and I havnt felt the need to change to a 15 tooth front sprocket.
@@angof Hi thanks for taking time to reply , the standard one is 15, I meant if you had changed to a 16. I probably leave it as you.
Have you ever had any issues with the bevel cam drive, eg backlash / bevel gear bearing wear affecting the valve clearance shimming ?
No problems with the bevel drive so far, shims where checked at 15k and all within spec.
@@angof Impressive, thank you.
Hey do you know size of front sprocket nut size is it 27mm/32mm, have tried to get off and have put back together, looking at getting a special socket but couldn't remember which size was 33mm/37mm or 27mm/32mm?
27mm. Impact gun will spin it off no probs.
haha love the 1 more time through the tunnel :)
Thanks bro, little Easter egg for those watching till the end. :)
Feel the same about my bikes. Just throw them in the 6ft. hole with me.
Hi, just about to buy one , will it run on E10 fuel?
Yes but I tend to use E5 when I can. No probs when ive had to fill with E10
@@angof What fuel, in your opinion suits the W650 the best ?
Is this bike ok fo a tall person 193 cm?
yes plenty of leg room
Never having owned a bike with FI, I was interested to hear you say the W800 lacked character because of it and the W650 is the better bike. Could you elaborate further, since there are tempting W800's on fleabay going cheap and only a few years old?
Hi Matt, The W650 is like a feral farm cat all snarls and showing its teeth, The W800 is like a fat castrated house cat, looks the part but is never going to surprise you. Im not trying to slate the W800 but its was the first FI bike I tried and ive since tried others and felt the same about those so I think its just like I like the way carbs work as opposed to the way FI works.
@@angof Ok, I think I get it. The local bike shop has a W800 in, so I might get a test ride once the vaccine is out and I don't have to shield my son anymore. FI aside, would the 800 ride the same as the 650?
@@mattcc6603 Yes same riding position, power, suspension etc. Dont be put off by my thoughts on the 800, would be great if you knew someone with a 650 to try them both.
@@angof Thanks for this help. No W650's hereabouts, but I'll be keeping a weather eye out! Bennett's buying guide advises, "Improvements in 2001 included revised steering geometry and front suspension changes to improve the handling", but no specifics🤪 Go for a 2001 or later then?
@@mattcc6603 Matt, I have the 2019 W800 and I feel like I won the lottery. It has plenty of character. Kawasaki also adjusted the frame tubing thicknesses and upgraded the suspension with front 41mm forks as apposed to the W650s and earlier W800s 39mm. I'm light at 145lb and the stock suspension is perfect for me with the rear shock set at its lightest setting. They also enlarged the front brake (lots of bite) and gave the bike a rear disc brake. The stock exhaust has been reworked by Kawasaki and now sounds great. This bike will exceed your expectations!
Your roads are so narrow you would love America roads except for pot holes