W800 STREET(773cc)Owner: Fuku Mimi
This article introduces one MY BIKE submitted to Webike Community every week. The model introduced this time is KAWASAKI "W800 STREET" and the owner is "Fuku Mimi".
The W800 is the only, and possibly the last, large air-cooled two-cylinder engine among the current machines. There are no surprisingly high specs or convenient state-of-the-art electronic controls, but the simple, motorcycle-like styling has remained unchanged since its launch in 2011. Its roots are in the Kawasaki 500 Meglot K2 launched in 1965, and the lineup includes a variation, the Meglot K3, which commemorates this model. Also available from 2019 is the sporty W800 CAFE, with its bikini cowl and low handlebars, and the easy-handling W800 STREET, with contrasting upright handlebars and 18-inch wheels front and rear.
These models are fun for riders with a variety of tastes.
Fukumimi's W800 featured here is a 2021 W800 STREET in metallic matte graphite gray. At first glance, the graphics appear to be a matte silver color, but the top of the tank is a chic model with a racy orange line painted on it. The basic style of the W800 STREET is frankly cool and suits the tastes of Fukumimi, who says she doesn't like to stick to retro or British styles! Although the air-cooled engine means that there are some points to be aware of, such as engine overheating, the W800 is a must for riders who are attracted to the silhouette of a traditional bike.
The W800 has been in the lineup since 2011. Although production was discontinued once in 2016, it will return in 2019 with variations in tow.
The revived W800 has a 19-inch front wheel for more relaxed handling, but the STREET remains at 18 inches. The STREET retains the conventional feel of the W800.
This is the only large air-cooled engine produced in Japan today. Although its output of 52 PS at 6,500 rpm is not very high, its rich feeling is favored by many fans.
The exhaust, which produces a crisp sound as described by Zubaba and Fukumimi, is a classic cabuton style.
The graphics are in the colors adopted for 2021, with a single color of silver when viewed from the side, but with a lacy orange line on the top of the tank.
MYBIKE COMMENT
Motive for purchase
Changed to a new bike when he moved to a new house.
Used for relaxing and leisurely touring.
Comparison "W800 Standard" and "Triumph Speed Twin
Advantages
Basic style, pleasant exhaust sound, retro world view, and satisfaction.
I like touring down the road, looking for good scenery, taking pictures, and taking side trips, so the upright riding position, the torquey ride at low and medium speeds, and the pleasant exhaust sound of the 360-degree crankshaft, etc., all suit my sensibilities.
I didn't go for the W800 Standard or the Triumph Speed Twin because I didn't think I would fit in with the retro style or the British style, so I went for the more natural riding style of the Basics "Street".
So, let's go with it!
Disadvantages
Why don't these bikes have a center stand? It's hard to maintain, isn't it?
The air-cooled engine is not easy to overheat in traffic.
Advice for prospective buyers
This is not a bike to be ridden based on catalog specs or other people's evaluations.
I think it is better to look at the actual bike, ride it, let it run, and decide whether or not it suits your sensibilities. It is a bike that you have fallen in love with, so you can't help it! It's a bike for you, so don't worry about what other people say!
Check out user reviews for W800 STREET
>Read user reviews of W800 STREET here.
Average owner satisfaction 4.04
Number of people evaluated: 60 people
Average price of the new model: (approx.) 8423 USD
Average used model price:(approx.) 7242 USD
