Kawasaki W650 Review: A Timeless Ride That Still Holds Up 25 Years Later

There’s a certain kind of motorcycle that doesn’t chase trends, horsepower wars, or cutting-edge technology. Instead, it leans into something more elusive and enduring—character. The Kawasaki W650 is, without a doubt, one of those machines.

Imported into the USA and Canada for the 2000 and 2001 model years, the W650 was Kawasaki’s answer to a question many riders didn’t even realize they were asking: what if you could have a vintage British-style motorcycle, but with “modern” reliability? I put modern in quotes because it’s been 25 years since these machines rolled off of the production line. They are equipped with 2 carburetors. If the bike has sat for any length of time, the carburetors may need to be rebuilt before you get to ride anywhere.

Decades later, the W650 has quietly built a loyal even cult following. It never dominated sales charts, and it didn’t redefine the industry. It was only available in the states for 2 years. But for those who’ve ridden one, it offers something rare, a mix of authenticity and usability that few bikes ever achieve.

First Impressions: Classic Done Right

At a glance, the W650 looks like it rolled straight out of the 1960s. The sculpted fuel tank, spoked wheels, peashooter exhausts, and upright riding position all echo the golden age of motorcycling. It’s not trying to look retro—at this point, twenty five years later, it IS retro.

Unlike many modern “retro-inspired” bikes, the W650 avoids over-stylization. There’s no forced nostalgia here. The design is clean, proportionate, and understated. It’s based on tried and true stuff from the British marque, Triumph. Even small details, like the bevel-drive tower on the engine, add to the sense that this bike was built with genuine respect for its predecessors.

The fit and finish hold up impressively well, even by today’s standards. Chrome accents are tastefully applied, and the paint quality is durable. It’s the kind of bike that looks better the longer you own it, the longer you look at it, the longer you ride it.

Engine and Performance Metrics

The heart of the W650 is a 676cc air-cooled parallel twin. On paper, it doesn’t sound particularly exciting. It produces modest horsepower compared to modern middleweight bikes, and it won’t win any drag races against anything these days. These days we share our roads with minivans that have 300 horsepower for heck’s sake.

Up here at altitude, a W650 would be lucky to make 50hp on a dynomometer, not that I’ve ever dynoed one, but I’m just guessing. Riding it, it feels like a heavy, 50hp bike. It feels exactly like riding a Triumph of similar vintage.

But numbers don’t tell the whole story.

The engine delivers power in a smooth, predictable way that feels perfectly suited to real-world riding. There’s a gentle pull off the line, followed by a steady build through the midrange. It’s not aggressive, but it’s engaging. It’s more than enough to keep up with and even hold its own in traffic. This is a proper motorcycle, after all.

What really sets the engine apart is its character. The 360-degree crankshaft gives it a distinctive feel and sound, more like vintage British twins than modern parallel engines. There’s a rhythm to it, a mechanical heartbeat that makes even short rides enjoyable.

And then there’s the bevel-driven camshaft system, a rare feature that adds both visual appeal and mechanical charm. It’s not just for show. It contributes to the engine’s unique personality.

Ride Quality and Handling from a Bygone Era

Throw a leg over the W650, and you immediately notice how approachable it feels. The seat height is low, the handlebars are wide, and the riding position is upright and relaxed.

This is not a bike that demands aggression. It encourages you to slow down, take in your surroundings, and enjoy the ride.

On the road, the W650 is stable and predictable. The chassis isn’t designed for high-speed corner carving, but it handles twisty roads with confidence as long as you keep your expectations realistic. It leans willingly, tracks well through corners, and feels composed at moderate speeds. If you’ve ever ridden a Triump Bonneville of any vintage, it rides like that, and you know what I’m talking about here. It does everything you need, much of what you want, and nothing you don’t want it to do.

The suspension is soft, which works well for cruising but can feel a bit vague when pushed hard. Still, that’s not what this bike is about. Buy a real sport bike and take it to the track if you want to go fast and push it to the limit!

Braking performance is adequate, though not exceptional. A single front disc and rear drum setup reflect the bike’s retro philosophy. It gets the job done, but it requires a bit more planning and foresight when compared to modern braking systems. This bike was made before ABS was commonplace even on the smallest motorcycles. There is no ABS, and ABS was never an option on these vintage bikes.

Everyday Usability

One of the biggest advantages of the W650 is how easy it is to live with.

Unlike many vintage motorcycles, it starts reliably, idles smoothly, and doesn’t demand constant tinkering, assuming the carburetors are in good nick.

You get the look and feel of a classic bike without the headaches that often come with owning one. That’s assuming your example is in good condition.

These bikes are OLD and many have been sitting for far too long. If your bike doesn’t start reliably, it likely needs its carburetors gone through. At this point in time, 20 or more years after your bike has been made, your carburetors may need to be rebuilt if your bike has sat for any length of time.

Maintenance is straightforward, thanks to the bike’s simple design. Routine maintenance tasks are manageable for most riders with basic mechanical knowledge and a good set of tools.

Parts are still available. I had no issues getting new airbox boots, new bowl gaskets (Mikuni CVK carbs are fairly universal), float needles, and a new accelerator pump and o-ring for this example. The carburetors swing out from the left side once the airbox boots are accordioned inwards. If you ever get the chance to remove the carburetors from a W650, you will find out first hand out easy a bike it is to work on!

Fuel efficiency is another strong point. The W650 sips gas, making it an excellent choice for commuting or weekend rides.

It’s also surprisingly comfortable for longer distances. The seat is well-padded, and the upright ergonomics reduce fatigue. While it’s not a touring bike, it can handle extended rides without issue.

Build Quality and Reliability

Kawasaki has a reputation for building durable machines, and the W650 is no exception.

Owners consistently report high levels of reliability, even after decades of use. The air-cooled engine is understressed, which contributes to its longevity. There are no complex electronics or high-strung components to worry about here.

That simplicity is part of the bike’s appeal. It’s a machine you can trust, whether you’re heading out for a quick ride or a longer journey.

Of course, like any older motorcycle, condition matters a lot. A well-maintained W650 will serve you far better than a neglected one. But that’s true for any motorcycle, regardless of age. Overall, the W650 is a solid and dependable platform to buy into.

Downsides to Consider

No motorcycle is perfect, and the W650 has its limitations. Performance is the most obvious one. If you’re looking for speed, aggressive acceleration, or cutting-edge handling, this isn’t the bike for you. The braking system, while functional, feels dated compared to modern setups. Riders accustomed to dual discs and ABS may need time to adjust.

Suspension feels soft, especially for heavier riders or folks who like to push their bikes harder than normal.

And while the simplicity is a strength, it also means fewer modern conveniences. There’s no fuel injection, no advanced electronics, and no rider aids. Two carburetors feed two cylinders, and you have to use good gas and make sure to not let the bike sit for too long between rides. I highly recommend finding and using a source of ethanol-free fuel in all carbureted motorcycles, including the Kawasaki W650.

For some riders, that’s part of the appeal. For others, it may be a drawback. What was considered convenient 25 years ago may not be considered convenient today with respect to a motorcycle’s usability.

Who Is the W650 For?

Like all great bikes, the W650 isn’t trying to be everything to everyone. It was built for a purpose, for a particular kind of rider.

It’s best suited for riders who value character over performance, simplicity over complexity, and overall riding experience over speed. At this point, it’s not meant for fussy riders who expect a truly modern riding experience equipped with all the bells and whistles of the modern age. It’s an old bike, after all. I keep saying that probably because I still can’t believe it. I remember when these bikes were new and seeing them on the showroom floor, back when I used to frequent showroom floors.

If you appreciate classic motorcycle design but don’t want the maintenance demands or parts headaches of a true vintage bike, the W650 hits a sweet spot regardless of how “old” they’ve become over the years. Find a good one, buy it, and enjoy it!

It’s also a great choice for riders who enjoy working on their own machines. The straightforward design makes the W650 accessible for DIY maintenance, potentially adding another layer of satisfaction to ownership for scrappy new owners.

Final Verdict

The Kawasaki W650 is a reminder that motorcycling doesn’t have to be complicated to be enjoyable.

It’s not the fastest, the most advanced, or the most powerful bike on the road. But it offers something just as valuable: a genuine, engaging riding experience that stands the test of time. If you look up “motorcycle” in the dictionary, there’s a good chance you’ll find a picture of a Triumph Bonneville. The W650 was Kawasaki’s version of that, and they did a good job on it.

For the right rider, the W650 isn’t just a motorcycle, it’s a motoring companion. One that encourages you to slow down, enjoy the journey, and reconnect with the simple pleasures of riding. And in today’s world, that might be exactly what makes it so special.