My New 2001 Kawasaki W650 Bike

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2001 Kawasaki W650 motorcycle parked in my driveway.
The Kawasaki W650 moments after bringing it dwelling.

One other Machine within the Storage

Anybody following my weblog or YouTube channel is aware of I’ve been eager about getting some type of motorbike for cruising the backroads of Central Pennsylvania. The Triumph Bonneville has lengthy been in view. However after using a Bonneville and a Road Twin I dominated them out. Don’t get me unsuitable, they’re wonderful bikes. However they only didn’t set off the emotions whereas using that I used to be after.

I had just about targeted on the Royal Enfield Traditional 350. It had the basic normal motorbike look I used to be after, had a subdued engine, and appeared excellent for the meandering I appreciated to do. Pace and energy have been simply not a priority.

So, how did I find yourself with a 2001 Kawasaki W650 motorbike?

2001 Kawasaki W650 parked at a motorcycle dealership.
My first assembly with the Kawasaki W650.

Serendipity

The Kawasaki W650 was not on my radar. I solely had a obscure recognition of its existence based mostly on a suggestion in a remark that I ought to contemplate it. How I got here to purchase one is a narrative of probability, serendipity, and a coincidence of fine fortune.

I had taken my Royal Enfield Himalayan to the Kawasaki seller just a few miles down the street from my home to have them do the annual Pennsylvania Security Inspection. After the mechanic took it for a check journey she informed me it was an fascinating motorbike. She had by no means seen one earlier than. Whereas speaking I informed her I used to be taking a look at presumably shopping for a Triumph Bonneville to cruise the backroads however wasn’t totally comfy with the load and energy.

After which she says she has a 2001 Kawasaki W650 that she’s planning to promote if I’m . She confirmed me just a few footage on her telephone and I informed her I might give it some thought. At this level I used to be nonetheless leaning in the direction of a Triumph and I didn’t actually know something a few W650.

2001 Kawasaki W650 parked near Coyler Lake.
My check journey.

Falling for a Bike

A few month later, just a few days earlier than my 69th birthday, I texted the mechanic asking if I may take it for a check journey. Preparations have been made for her to journey it to work and I may cease by and take it for a spin.

Once I arrived she was busy changing the wheel bearings on an enormous Indian motorbike so she tossed me the keys and mentioned have enjoyable. A couple of miles later I used to be winding down the backroads towards Coyler Lake with an enormous grin on my face. The Kawasaki W650 was precisely what I used to be searching for.

This motorbike ticked the bins for the issues I used to be fascinated by — simplicity, styling, efficiency, and that elusive feeling I’ll name the “Zen expertise.” From the analog gauges to the twin carbs the W650 exuded simplicity. I beloved how a lot the motorbike regarded like a 1968 Triumph Bonneville. And on the street it was calm, subdued, however had loads of energy for any state of affairs I may think about. And most significantly was the “Zen expertise.” I felt instantly at dwelling using it.

This was the motorbike.

2001 Kawasaki W650 on a rural road.
On the street with my Kawasaki W650.

Completely satisfied Birthday to Me

I informed the mechanic, Julia, that I might have to consider it. I’ve realized to not instantly leap on choices that I knew have been proper. Primarily as a result of expertise has proven that they aren’t all the time what I feel they’ll be.

My spouse knew I wished one other motorbike. Not being a rider, and customarily not fascinated by scooters and bikes, she didn’t actually perceive why I want one other. However she knew it was necessary and mentioned if I wished it then purchase it.

A couple of hours later, on my birthday, we have been at AAA transferring the title and earlier than I knew it I had added a 2001 Kawasaki W650 to my small fleet of scooters and motorbike.

Together with the motorbike got here a pair rear racks, the unique headlight, and some different odds and ends together with the Kawasaki service handbook for the bike. And I bought a LongRide Small Traveler bag to hold meals, water, instruments, and cameras.

I’m prepared for journey!

The video under will provide you with an thought of the way it sounds and what it’s prefer to journey.

The expertise of using my 2001 Kawasaki W650 motorbike.



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