Leftover Kawasaki W800 cafe

[kingoffleece]

Last I checked a Kawa dealer in Nashville had a few W800's on sale.

[dguzzi]

I'd need to be able to 'soup it up'...part of the personalization process.

[SteveRivet]

Motorcycle Classics did an eval of one an issue or two back.  They seemed to want to like it, but there were a lot of problems they couldn't overlook.

Steve

[twowheeladdict]

Motorcycle Classics did an eval of one an issue or two back.  They seemed to want to like it, but there were a lot of problems they couldn't overlook.

Steve

I can't find it online.  What kind of problems?

Finally found it.  Didn't read about any problems.  Just opinions.

https://www.motorcycleclassics.com/classic-japanese-motorcycles/classic-kawasaki-motorcycles/2019-kawasaki-w800-cafe-zm0z20jfzhur

[Tom]

Motorcyclist moto-journalist Adam Waheed does a test ride commute to his office in SoCal.  Almost same route.  He's 6' under 200lbs.  Rides how I ride in SoCal.  Watch both and compare.  He has a GoPro on his helmet.  Sorry I couldn't find a V750 ride, only a V85TT.  I didn't include it because it's a different style of bike.  I did a virtual test ride by watching it again and turning off the sound.     Between the two, I'd pick the RE because of the price.  (Guzzi content)


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iujTSxepzLg&t=938s  Kawasaki W800 Cafe.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kO4AztiYIC0  Royal Enfield Continental GT 650.

[kirkemon]

I used to ride a lot of cafe bikes, but now after an hour, I have to get off.
My T120 and other standards like the V7 are ok for longer rides. I rode a W650 here in L.A. for 10 years, great, but 50hp just isn't enough sometimes.
http://cycle-ergo.com/

[Tom]

No slouching while riding.  That's seems to be the root of most back problems when riding a motorcycle.  My favorites are cafe styles.  I also "pop" my back before riding a bike.     Slide your butt to the bumstop and push in with stomach to stretch the spine.    

[SIR REAL ED]

I am heading out here in a few minutes to do a side by side comparison of the Continental GT and the W800 Cafe.

The dealer I am going to carries both Kawasaki and Royal Enfield. 

Not sure if the owner is going to allow test rides though so we shall see.  At least I can compare the fit and finish for now. 

I have my mask, gloves, and hand sanitizer.  Will put in a 150 mile ride taking the circuitous route to get there.

What's the verdict?  Enquiring Minds want to know!!!!

[twowheeladdict]

What's the verdict?  Enquiring Minds want to know!!!!

The bikes I am interested in.

W800.  Both the Cafe and the 2020 street in red.
Continental GT
Triumph Scrambler or street scrambler.

Bikes I rode.

Royal Enfield Interceptor 650.  It was the demo bike so I could at least feel everything about the bike except riding position of the GT.  From a cost to buy, cost to insure, and cost to accessorize this bike is really nice.  Just not sure I want two Royal Enfields in the garage at the same time.  The fit and finish is reflected in the price.

W800 Cafe.  The bike only had 2 miles on it so couldn't push it too hard in the corners.  Fit and finish is amazing!  Not an orange peel to be found in the paint.  The engine has a little more vibration than the V7, but I grew accustomed to it by about mile 20.  The front brake was strong and responsive.  The sound was pleasing.  The ergonomics were too aggressive for me.  I could see myself owning the 2020 red one at the right price.

Used 2017 street twin.  Since there are no close by Triumph dealers, I rode this bike to experience the ride to determine if I want to look for a Street Scrambler.  Of course it felt the most modern out of the bikes I rode.  I did not like the factory tires.  Felt like it wanted to wash out when pushed over, but maybe because the edges of the tires were kind of blocky.  I don't really want to go back to liquid cooled, but I will say Triumph did an outstanding job hiding the plumbing and the radiator blends in well.

2020 V7 Racer LE.  Beautiful bike, and great ergonomics for a Cafe bike. 

I am now thinking about turning my bike into a Cafe, but retain the ability to go back when wanted.

Then wait for a good deal on a red 2020 W800, or if an '18 Street Scrambler in matte green at the right price pops up.