The Royal Enfield does also have a slip/assist clutch - my mistake when I was compiling the spec. Service intervals will be covered in a future video (hit subscribe!) The Enfield does need valve clearances doing very regularly, but I'm going to wait until I can speak to a mechanic and find out exactly what's involved and what it costs. Cheers, John

@michaelhayward7572

4 жыл бұрын

They are both comfortably easy for home mechanics. The Enfield could not be simpler with adjuster/locknut like in the old days. The Kawasaki has an ingenious, superior bucket and shim design, without needing cam removal to change a shim. Both simple home mechanic capability.

@saathm8742

4 жыл бұрын

No the enfield does not require valve adjustment anymore than any other bike I'm not sure why people keep saying this .....

@Bulletpunjab

4 жыл бұрын

kzread.info/dash/bejne/lYJ3t6WRmdC0ftY.html

@bennettsbikesocial

4 жыл бұрын

@@michaelhayward7572 That pushing aside the follower is pure genius! I wish my ZX-6R had that... would have saved me a lot of trouble! John

@konark11

4 жыл бұрын

Here in India the w800 is 3 times more expensive than the i650

I narrowed my choice down to the Enfield Interceptor and the Kawasaki W800 Classic. Of course I looked at the price difference at the time and took my time pondering. When it came down to it I was just smitten with that W800, it is such a quality piece of kit and it really has the correct look and yes that 19 inch front wheel belongs there, it visually does make a difference. I was surprised how many guys actually mentioned that without me pointing it out. The W800 has such a rich sound and stunning looks, it draws compliments every time I go out and I just love riding this bike. In 35 years of riding I have never been so pleased with a bike purchase. She is a keeper.

@frenchenstein

Жыл бұрын

I bought a W800 too. Very pleased with it. As for the vibration: for one you don't notice it after a couple of miles, and two I fitted a different front sprocket with one extra tooth. All in all an excellent excellent motorcycle 👌🏽

@AdamB5000

11 ай бұрын

I just picked up a leftover 2022 this past weekend (in the U.S.A.). I haven't ridden in 20 years and consider myself very much a novice. I have a lot to relearn. But after taking it up and down the road, only getting up to maybe 30-35mph, it was smooth. Initial impressions are good from a noobie. I look forward to getting more acclimated with the bike. I agree with you about styling. I was between a W800 and a Guzzi V7. I just kept circling back to the W800 until I realized it was the one. The price I paid made it easier. The dealer had three leftover 2022s (two now remain) and apparently wanted to get rid of them. It's sad they don't sell well around here, but the silver lining is a cheaper new bike and also a unique piece that most people don't even know exists. These bikes are most certainly not a dime a dozen in the U.S. When I was looking for a bike, I brought up the W800 to my brothers (I found out about it from a KZread comment!). Both said they had never heard of it, despite enjoying looking at used motorcycles quite often for fun. The W800 was news to them! They are certainly a hidden gem.

@kdxmandownunder

Ай бұрын

⁠Hi , I also have a w800 cafe 2019 You mentioned the bigger front sprocket I love this bike but just think it needs another gear A year on are you happy the way it performs with the larger front sprocket Cheers Paul

Thank you guys, nice to see the Enfield compared to something other than a Triumph. 👍

@fernandomagalhaes2957

4 жыл бұрын

I would like it to be compared with a Moto Guzzi V7 III.

@stevec6427

2 жыл бұрын

Comparing it with the Triumph seemed unfair. The Bonneville is much more expensive and has a bigger, more powerful engine

@kdsowen2882

2 жыл бұрын

@@fernandomagalhaes2957 It has been done a few times, RE won hands-down, but both are great

@kdsowen2882

2 жыл бұрын

What's a Triumph ?

I have owned my (2013) W800 for a few years now, from new. Was an old stock I bought new in 2015. It has been absolutely brilliant and I will never sell it (and I have owned over 35 bikes, so that says something). Tomorrow I'm picking up my new Royal Enfield Himalayan, that is totally different from the w800 but still an exiting bike. The W800 is underrated, people know nothing about these bikes but have strong opinions. They are 100% quality, made in Japan and it shows in everything. I trust it completely and have ridden it trough Europe without any preparations, just rolled it out the garage and went. I would not do this with any other bike. I do love the Intercepter though, beautiful bike, but too similar to the w800 for me to consider it. Oh and fun fact : out of all my bikes the w800 gets the most attention. People wave me down, or ask about it at the gas station, even get compliments from car drivers at trafic lights.....never had that before with any bike I have owned.

@zhukie

3 жыл бұрын

I get the same thing re attention with my W650, but then the kickstart also helps so people are less likely to think its a Triumph (although they still do lol 😁 )

@adeelm9028

3 жыл бұрын

How does it ride? a lot people seem to be complaining which is putting me off it as the enfield is getting a lot of praise

@slash502

2 жыл бұрын

​@@adeelm9028 w800 rides brilliantly. Royal Enfield is spending big on marketing, their main competitor being triumph and kawasaki. Take these youtubers and especially paid RE posters in the comment sections with a grain of salt. Their job is to make sure no one buys the w800. I think youd be happy with either bikes, W800 being more quality and more real classic. 360 degree and air cooled. that bevel gear is amazing to see. the RE twins need more work design wise, some of the engine shapes and proportions are not there yet, W800 design is perfection, pure art.

@veralau7801

2 жыл бұрын

Even the youngest brother W175 gets the attention-thingy you were mentioning. I have that bike and honestly, it has not let me down so far. I love it.

@5533851

2 жыл бұрын

@@slash502 The 360 degree crank is interesting in that sounds like a boxer or aircraft engine, but few people would say it sounds better than a 270 setup. Overall, I think Kawasaki have been asleep at the wheel with the W800. RE have proven that. No question the W800 is the higher quality machine, but RE have taken the best ideas from a few bikes and tweaked them for enhanced appeal while remaining completely classic looking. I'm not sure why Kawasaki haven't done the same with the W800, but it's become a rather boring machine compared to the RE650 bikes.

I have the Continental GT650. Read the Cycle World 2019 article of the GT vs. w800 Cafe. The GT is on the cover of that issue. Bottom line for 3,000 or 4,000 dollars or pounds, you can add the S&S Cam, Ohlins Suspension, no Cat Silencers , and a S&S big bore kit. The R.E. 650 is a basically a purpose built 750cc engine, with thicker cylinder sleeves and smaller pistons, remember she broke the land speed record and was over 120hp running Nitrous. They blew 2 engines doing it, but it still broke the record for the class. A2 compliant is the reason for the detune. An S&S modified 650 to a 750 will rip the skin off that w800. A 750 RE Flat Tracker will race this year in American Flat Track. I’ll be watching. Built Like a Gun since 1901!

@michaelhayward7572

4 жыл бұрын

There's a guy in Germany who has done crazy stuff with the W650-800's for years. More than double the bhp. Both bikes are detuned and over engineered.

@brookcampbell2940

4 жыл бұрын

Jesus H Christ Don’t see Kawi with the balls to race that junk motor in American Flat Track production twins class.

@brookcampbell2940

4 жыл бұрын

Michael Hayward of course there is a “guy”, but at what cost?

@hameedhularshadh8288

4 жыл бұрын

@Jesus H Christ you can mod the re 650 heavily and it will still be nearly as expensive as a stock w800. I think re 650 is a smart choice

@michaelhayward7572

4 жыл бұрын

@@brookcampbell2940 prolly the same as your 3-4k. He is very well respected. Hey i'm just saying. I've got no dog in this shitfight.

Thanks gentlemen. This is impressively comprehensive! I want to put a good word in for the Kawasaki. Someone who worked near my old office had a W650 and I ogled it for over a year and always wanted one, but they are very hard to find here in the States because they were only brought over for 2000 and 2001. I kept my eye out but never found one. When they re-introduced the W series to the U.S. market last year, I was very excited. I liked the "Street" model but unfortunately for me they had it in Canada but not the U.S. Then when I saw they were introducing the basic W800 for the U.S. 2020 MY, I was SUPER psyched. So psyched in fact that I got one as soon as the weather got warm enough to drive it home from the dealership, which was late March (days before the Covid lockdown started, as it happened). I've been using it as an in-town commuter, and I really love this bike! The handling in city traffic is sublime. It rides like a dream. I couldn't be happier with the bike.

I'm looking at that Enfield like wow I might be able to afford a new bike that I like!

@rich.dodd1

4 жыл бұрын

Go for it, I got an orange crush last month, love it, great smooth bike.

@KevinofWessex

4 жыл бұрын

i got a black one ... no regrets love it

@ashishojha4877

4 жыл бұрын

Take my word buddy.. you will not regret

@martinowl

4 жыл бұрын

I bought one 12 months ago for the same reason. A new bike that was getting good reviews or a six year old bonnie or w650/800. After a test ride it was no contest, & I still feel I made the right choice.

@alechappy2070

4 жыл бұрын

Why spend 30 G when the same fun can be done for under 10

RE for me, every day of the week. Every time they bring out a new model I think 'I wouldn't mind one of those'. Whoever's doing the R&D and design for these bikes is an absolute genius.

One thing I like about both these bikes is the lower compression engines can last a long time when made well. Also they run on regular gas (petrol) rather than premium gas. If you keep your bike a long time that adds up.

Just found your channel. Excellent! Very enjoyable listening to you fellows talk it all over.

As a Luddite, Brit bike fiend, former Meriden specialist Triumph shop owner, if someone is looking at a modern parallel twin retro, be it RE, Kawa or Triumph, the Kawasaki wins all day long on looks, feel, quality and authenticity. The only bike available that still runs a 360 degree crank, just as importantly, is an actual long stroke, not short stroke, and does not have a cheapo chain driving the cam(s). It also has a wonderful unique, easy home workshop valve adjustment design. Comfortably the highest quality parallel twin on the market if you are not worried about performance. No i don't own one, nor any of them, far too modern, smooth and soulless for my liking, but you get my point.

@raycollington4310

4 жыл бұрын

That valve rocker slide feature to allow shim replacement without removing the camshaft is brilliant. I would buy this bike just to get the engine with bevel drive, sod everything else!

@jacobjose7827

4 жыл бұрын

Wot bike fo you own man

@dougfielding8215

4 жыл бұрын

Michael Hayward, thanks so much for your comment. I've been waiting for Meridan efficianodos to speak up about the W800s or W650s. I bought my W800 because it is by far the closest modern bike to your legendary steeds. I do find my W800 Street is not soulless though. It has character (maybe not quite as much character as as an Amal carbed Meridan Bonnie). I also find the torque on the W800 makes for plenty of get up and go.

@5533851

2 жыл бұрын

@@dougfielding8215 I feel the W800 is let down by it's low 8.5:1 comp ratio or thereabouts. There seems no need for it to be that low, even when air-cooled, using engine management, it should be at least capable of running 9.5:1. Also, is just me or does the W650 seem to have a slightly more 'soul' to it? As if 650 was the magic, perfect size.

@dougfielding8215

2 жыл бұрын

@@5533851 The low compression does allow for regular octane gas, which I'm pleased with. I find it really goes when you crack the throttle. Check the Dino's Vault KZread video on the W800.

I'm definitely not interested in buying either of them but I just liked the format of you guys just sitting down and talking about them. Felt so natural

@bennettsbikesocial

4 жыл бұрын

Thanks! There's another coming shortly...

This style of comparing bikes is great. Please do more of it.👍

@bennettsbikesocial

4 жыл бұрын

Cheers! More to come, but until then, try this: kzread.info/dash/bejne/lK5sy6SgmZXTmqw.html

In india the kawasaki costs 776,000INR (699,000 ex showroom) and the interceptor costs 304,000INR (265,000). that's a big price gap. and I'm amazed how much value for money interceptor has, even in European market. anyways great video.

@dotdashdotdash

3 жыл бұрын

but the Kawa doesn’t start rusting a week after you buy it.

@naws69

3 жыл бұрын

@@dotdashdotdash ok buddy

Great review. The vibration issue is probably because the W800 is a 360 degree crank, both pistons up and down simultaneously, whereas the Royal has a smoother 270 degree crankshaft.

@paulbunyon6324

Жыл бұрын

That is it exactly, that is what I like about the W800, the vibration comes in and is noticeable between 3500-4500 rpm but it isn't bad. Modern bike engines are smoother but they don't deliver the character that the 360 degree crank does. The older Brit 650's were much more harsh in that respect.

@michaelstein4608

Жыл бұрын

Just got into the video which is a brilliant comparison between the two bikes. Concerning the vibrations of the Kawasaki I do suppose it depends on the tolerances of the certain bike you run into. Having driven four different W800s I can say that each one had different vibration characteristics ranging from "my hands fall of" to "now that´s very acceptable". My current one is absolutely accepable but you cannot discuss the vibrations away. All in all it can depend on the example you get.

@kdsowen2882

Жыл бұрын

@@michaelstein4608 I have the 03 W650 , I don't even notice the vibration but have had comments about it . Interestingly , none of them had actually ridden one (W) and few people realise that they were actually 'designed-to-vibrate' because that is what the Japanese-Domestic-Market wanted . They were originally Only produced for that market and 'Pressure' from kawasaki-Agents World-Wide led to exports . The Prototype showed they could dial-in whatever vibration they wanted, from zero upwards . Having grown-up with British bikes and old Ducati's etc , the bike feels normal to me . Dave NZ

@750triton

Жыл бұрын

It's actually down to the way the cranks are balanced and to what percentage of reciprocating parts. The vibration can be made more comfortable by increasing the percentage, which moves the vibration from vertical to horizontal. This is something Edward Turner studied and developed and why you'll see classic BSA's "bounce" at tickover and Triumphs front wheel nods back and forth. The way the cranks are balanced makes a difference too. Since I had my cranks dynamically balanced (most of the classic factories used static balancing) they feel like they vibrate less. By taking out rocking couple, life of crank components is improved too

@AdamB5000

11 ай бұрын

@@michaelstein4608 I'm a novice and just bought a W800. I took a quick spin (only made it to 30-35mph) and my two bros also took it out for a brief spin. I didn't even notice vibration and they didn't comment on it either. But the bike only has 6 miles now (3 from the dealer test after bike prep), so we have a lot to learn. But after getting up to 3rd and 4th gear at 30mph+, I only thought about vibrations the next day when I realized I didn't notice anything. Bikes feeling different based on tolerances makes sense.

just for Info: the Interceptor has also an slipperclutch

@bennettsbikesocial

4 жыл бұрын

Dammit you're right! Well that explains the lighter action then. I've added a card that links to our launch report at that point in the video, and put it in the pinned comment. John www.bennetts.co.uk/bikesocial/reviews/bikes/royal-enfield/royal-enfield-interceptor-650

@MarmiteTheDog

4 жыл бұрын

Does the W800 have braided steel brake lines like the RE has?

@bennettsbikesocial

4 жыл бұрын

@@MarmiteTheDog No, it doesn't. Cheers, John

As much as I like the Royal Enfield, the W800 has my vote! it is absolutely fantastic. Wish this was the Cafe vs GT

Thanks John, looking forward to your report on the upgraded rear shocks. Cheers, Andy.

I looked at the RE and Triumph's and bought the Kawasaki W800 Street. I am insanely happy with it. The quality of the fit and finish is top notch and definitely seemed to be a notch better than the Interceptor. W800s are still made in Japan when most Japanese bikes are made in Thailand. The small amount of vibration at some revs doesn't feel bad to me and the bike feels quite smooth (besides, the engine gets smoother with more miles). The clutch pull is very light. Love the bevel driven top end, the sound of the pea shooter exhaust and the looks and function of the headlight. Where I live, in the Rocky Mountain foothills of Canada, there was only $1000 difference in price. I keep my bikes for a very long time and the W has a proven track record going back to the 1999 W650. I felt no need to buy an extended warranty.

@bennettsbikesocial

4 жыл бұрын

Brilliant! It is a beautiful bike, and I love that we all enjoy different things in motorcycling! Cheers, John

@dougfielding8215

4 жыл бұрын

@@bennettsbikesocial Thanks John, the review was well done.

@-thirteen

4 жыл бұрын

Nice. How long is your season where you live?

@dougfielding8215

4 жыл бұрын

@@-thirteen The words "bugger-all" comes to mind. If you're lucky, 7 months. In 2 months of riding my W800 Street I've put on over 4000km. riding in the foothills of Alberta. You take advantage of every chance you can and you don't want your scoot in the shop for extended periods of time due to any issues.

@-thirteen

4 жыл бұрын

@@dougfielding8215 we get less here in NY usually

I ride mostly with my wife as a pillion. As much as I thought we'd be buying an Interceptor, she hated the cramped position predicated by the upswept exhausts. We test rode the W800 and we both loved the position it put us in. So we bought it. My first bikes were in the 70s and were 360 degree parallel twins. None of them were anything like as good as the RE or Kawasaki. So you are correct - it really is up to the individual, their style and needs.

I have an early W800: No. 273 off the line. It's currently at 90,000 km. No ABS, no LED headlight. One of the "eaters" rusted out of an exhaust, so that had to be replaced, but that's the only problem I've had. A dream to drive. In town, 2500 rpm = 50 kmh in 3d, 60 kmh in 4th: speed check by pitch! Great for rhe passes here in CH; great for leisurely tours in decent weather. It's been from the North Sea to the Med. Can you tell? I LOVE THIS BIKE !!!

Love these reviews from you guys even though not my kind of bikes. Please keep them coming love the information.

Great review, thoroughly enjoyed, thumbs up!

@bennettsbikesocial

4 жыл бұрын

Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks, John

Great video, John. Tons of info, with lovely slick production value. I really enjoyed this.

@bennettsbikesocial

4 жыл бұрын

Thanks! And all credit to the editor of this one, Dom Read-Jones. I usually edit my own, but Dom was the man here!

@bighorizons

4 жыл бұрын

@@bennettsbikesocial Yes. Not easy to make a 35-minute video feel consistently engaging (even with your insightful commentary... Lol).

Thank you very much for this The W800 as had very little coverage unlike the RE 650 that has been reviewed by a hell of a lot of people

@bennettsbikesocial

4 жыл бұрын

It's a beautiful bike, and I'd strongly recommend a test ride to anyone interested in it; that vibration just spoilt it for us. Many might love it for that though!

@gbreslin6635

4 жыл бұрын

I said to my brother that the W800 feels like a late '60's Honda 350 physically (loosely speaking) but with power. I said to him that the W800 feels gutless against a modern multi but powerful in ordinary traffic (where we spend our time) and he totally agreed. And he doesn't have to :)

Got my self a Baker express INT 650 it’s been wonderful riding it

@ThiefOfNavarre

2 жыл бұрын

I've got the Sunset strip, the inverse colour scheme. Brilliant bike, I love it!

Given the number of KZread reviewers who appear, shall we say influenced, you guys are in a different category here and very good. Many thanks for the great content and perspective.

@bennettsbikesocial

4 жыл бұрын

Thanks Ray! We're in an incredibly fortunate position - we do have some ads on the site, and we even got sponsorship to help pay for this video's edit, but we're not reliant on adverts. We've also been in the industry so long that we know most of the manufacturers well and they accept that some bikes and kit get good reviews, some don't (my boss and I both worked at RiDE magazine many years ago when editorial was king, so we could ignore the screams from the ad teams). We don't have to give glowing praise to know we'll be able to continue to work with brands, so I just try to make content based on the advice I'd give my closest - and most skint - mate. Cheers, John

W800 any day of the week. Looks better, higher quality build and I'd trust the reliability over the Enfield.

@danielkerr4100

10 ай бұрын

Looks are subjective and as for reliability enfield are amazing

Great video chaps. Very enjoyable. The interceptor will most definitely be my first bike. Can't wait! 👍😋

@bennettsbikesocial

4 жыл бұрын

Have fun! John

@sidmallya7421

2 жыл бұрын

Hi Gary! Have you got that RE yet?

Get the interceptor, spend a grand on stripping the budget parts and you’ll have the best bike and £2k in your pocket.

@UberKvlt

4 жыл бұрын

शिरीष ರಾಮಾಯ hi mate, was wondering what country you are in? Is that $650 in US dollars?

@WildlifeMoto

4 жыл бұрын

@शिरीष ರಾಮಾಯ Obviously you don't spend money taking parts off, you spend the money replacing the parts.

@885wc

3 жыл бұрын

@शिरीष ರಾಮಾಯ I would not do S&S, almost no real world advantage. I'd change both the suspensions, change the brake pads, add a Brembo caliper and master cylinder, change the exhaust, perhaps the throttle body for more snap if it were a weekender and retain the ability to wring the thing like a madman. Out of pocket would be about as much as a pre owned A3 Bonnie.

@dotdashdotdash

3 жыл бұрын

Sorry, I’d just get a slightly used W800 and enjoy a bike that doesn’t start rusting a week after it leaves the showroom.

@ThiefOfNavarre

2 жыл бұрын

@@dotdashdotdash Stupid comment. Do you own a 2018 Interceptor 650? They are made in india where they have a humid climate.

You forgot to mention the 'Harris' frame on the Enfield, plus an engine tear-down, wear-comparison , 3 bikes, same k's, same-servicing (youtube) Showed RE had best tolerance, least-wear, W800 a close second and miles behind was Triumph . They were expecting W ist, Triumph 2nd and RE a further-back 3rd..it could be that REs tooling was newer/better , that would account for some of it .

Excellent review, most enjoyable.

I would love to get the kawasaki, it is honestly one the best built motorcycles on sale today, full stop. But the price really makes it dificult to justify... Here in Portugal I can get an Interceptor for 6450 euros, a street twin for 9200 euros or W800 for 10300 euros. The thing is, you can sometimes get awsome deals on the kawasaki. A couple of years ago i saw a left over 2017 model W800 for sale, brand new, for 4250 euros but couldn't buy it at the time...

Nice in-depth video guys! As a new rider currently doing my DAS i've got my eyes set on the Interceptor and i'm already making note of the modifications i'd like to make to it. I'm really looking forward to entering the biker community with such a universally positively-reviewed bike as my first :)

@bennettsbikesocial

4 жыл бұрын

Great to hear! John

I've recently bought the W800 classic after looking at the RE. I got a discount on the W of approximately £800, none offered on the RE. Future values will come into it also, the W will hold its value better than the RE.

@xocoyotl4

2 жыл бұрын

Does this still hold true?

@johnbellamy5970

2 жыл бұрын

@@xocoyotl4 don’t know

@canttellyoumate

2 жыл бұрын

@@xocoyotl4 I would say it does, even 6 year old W800s are down only around 20% on RRP, whereas the REs are down that much after 2 years.

@fragu123

2 жыл бұрын

W800 is a much better crafted machine with a lot of detailing and technology features like the OHC drive by shaft…. RE is nice too but you see, feel and realise where the difference in money has gone…

@kdsowen2882

Жыл бұрын

The W's seem to hold their value exceptionally-well, but not-so in NZ (my good-fortune 4-8k NZD ) where soft-old-guys constantly bitch about the 'vibes' .You can also pick-up low-k Continental GT's and interceptors for as little as 7.5k NZD on a regular-basis . I suspect the W650's at-least , will climb in value as many of the Aussie-ones (just over the-ditch) have been Douched (EX-Machina ) and people here follow that a fair-bit Dave NZ

In the Western United States it's not uncommon to find gas stations 100 miles apart for instance Barstow to Ludlow or Ludlow to Needles

It’s been 9 months and I still love my 650. Only regret I have, I bought orange crush, but now I like baker express more.

@lovesmuscumani

4 жыл бұрын

I got the Baker Express last week.:)

@trimmytrish

4 жыл бұрын

@@TheMissendenFlyer you get everywhere TMF!! The last 3 to 4 video's I watched I've noticed you've commented 😂. I've just finished watching your video on the 5 things you 'hate'. I have to agree the rear light unit spoils the look slightly for me. Still a cracking looking machine thought nonetheless.

@mattfisher2513

4 жыл бұрын

I’m in the same boat! Gonna give it a few more months and then buy the Baker Express tank from RE to swap it out and have a new look 💪🏼

@iwandaniabdulmuis683

4 жыл бұрын

The Orange Crush version has a few extra ponies and the highest top speed 🤣

@stimgaze

4 жыл бұрын

@@iwandaniabdulmuis683 of course it does. Everyone knows that 😉

Thoroughly enjoyable! You guys are fun to watch....

@bennettsbikesocial

4 жыл бұрын

Thanks so much! John

Not that I've tried but I wonder what the chances of getting a demo on a W800 from a Kawasaki dealer are? The RE dealer chucked me the keys of both 650"s for an hour and I signed for one straight away. The Japanese makes don't seem as keen to support their dealers with demo's as I couldn't find a Suzuki dealer with a demo SV650 in the whole state of Victoria. The RE Distributor in Australia is also very active behind the brand in supporting events and the like and the 650 is forming a real community. We already have 550 members on our Australian Facebook page. With the £3000 you're part way to buying a GT650 for when you want a sportier ride 😉

@TheInterloafer

4 жыл бұрын

Back in March I got a demo on a 2019 W800 Cafe from a dealership in New York State. I was already pretty enthusiastic about the bike to begin with, and was so impressed that I bought the basic W800 a week later.

@amraceway

4 жыл бұрын

@@TheInterloafer The one I rode had shocking vibrations.

@dougfielding8215

3 жыл бұрын

Paulus - I bought my Demo W800 Street at a dealer in Canada. It's the dealer's that choose their demos, not the manufacturer.

@dougfielding8215

3 жыл бұрын

@@TheInterloafer Are you finding that you are choosing one over the other more often?

@dougfielding8215

3 жыл бұрын

@@amraceway I never found it annoying and it lessens a lot after 4000km. I find the bike delivers smooth torque at speed.

Test rode both bikes extensively here in Australia, and the Kawasaki came out on top all the way. The quality in every single area is clear, the design is very well thought out, as a bike to use, not a show pony. The W800 is made to use for all types of road riding, touring, commuting, twisties. The Enfield requires a lot more maintenance which isn't really an issue for me as I do my own, but it could be for a newer rider who doesn't want the extra expense. I suppose the ticket price saves them some though.

@kdsowen2882

Жыл бұрын

I agree and I've owned over 50-bikes in my close-to 70yrs ,I went the W650-way and love it , they come 'alive' when you push-them through the twisties . For more-adrenalin, I ride my old XV1000 (TR1) , after much 'fettling' , it's close to 70hp and very torquey . Dave NZ

Fantastic informative entertaining, please do more in this format

@bennettsbikesocial

4 жыл бұрын

Thanks, will do! Here's another: kzread.info/dash/bejne/lK5sy6SgmZXTmqw.html

Thank you for an excellent, helpful and honest review

@bennettsbikesocial

4 жыл бұрын

Thanks, glad you liked it! John

One of the best analysis, I am glad that I bought interceptor 650

nice breakdown guys - enjoyed watching it! FYI the enfield does sport a slip and assist clutch :)

@bennettsbikesocial

4 жыл бұрын

Yes - sorry about that. I added a card at the point we talk about it, and put it in the pinned comment. Cheers, John

Take the Interceptor for what it is. A cool, good looking bike, awesome for leisure riding. And you have the best value in the market.

Really enjoyed this format, I'd like to see more!

@bennettsbikesocial

4 жыл бұрын

Cheers Rob... hit subscribe then because the bikes are already booked for the next one. Until then, try this: kzread.info/dash/bejne/lK5sy6SgmZXTmqw.html

@robbikebob

4 жыл бұрын

@@bennettsbikesocial I already am subscribed and am watching with baited breath.....

This is a superb cross analysis, thanks!

@bennettsbikesocial

4 жыл бұрын

Thanks! John

Wow, spectacular review and super interesting format

@bennettsbikesocial

Жыл бұрын

Thanks very much! All the best, John

I love the cost analysis that you did here. Putting £3k into tangible terms is really useful.

Both great bikes but think I'll stick with my 2013 Triumph Bonneville T100 been problem free and easy to maintain by myself, only thing missing is ABS but apart from that 67 bhp & 50ftlbs does the job

Love that trumpet music in between 😂 Nice comparison

Congrats on a really good,informative vid gentlemen! I've become jaded with the whole vlog/jouno thing of late but enjoyed this! The Interceptor seems great value,always thought the Bullet way overpriced for what it is.

@bennettsbikesocial

4 жыл бұрын

Thanks! John

@fernandomagalhaes2957

4 жыл бұрын

I'm not sure if you know in practice what is about the Bullet, independly of the price. I have one and the considerations contained in this video don't made me run to any of the dealers.

I watched your whole video and was captured by the bikes and the manner in which you calmly compared them. What I find interesting is as a 17 year old in high school I rode a 175 and parked beside a 650 Bonny which looked at the same time massive and unobtainable. Now at 65 I ride a Harley Touring bike and look at these two bikes as little put puts. Maybe there is room in the shed beside my Harley for one of these as well :)

@bennettsbikesocial

4 жыл бұрын

There's always room for one more! John

The w800 looks alot more premium than they interceptor.

Great review, thanks a lot!

@bennettsbikesocial

3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching! Cheers, John

Cool video! Keep up the good work

Kawasaki build quality is exceptional, RE you get what you pay for. W800 is designed to be authentic as possible - vibrations? Yes mate, 60s bikes vibrated, just put some gloves on.

@dotdashdotdash

3 жыл бұрын

I’d never buy a bike that was built with worn out Third World tooling. Kawasaki for me.

@wisedesi442

3 жыл бұрын

@@dotdashdotdash criticizing is Ok but racism not. Hope you are not working for Kawasaki.

That side on view of the Kawasaki is superb. Really love that retro look. However, I really enjoyed your honest appraisal of the two bikes. If I was going to choose, clearly I would go for the RE. Oh, I like the Interceptor's headlight better.

Both bikes are definitely amazing machines! If I have to make a final decision i would go with the W800 street 👍 but this machine is a bit to much for me and my garage at the moment 😅 Have a great weekend

@bennettsbikesocial

4 жыл бұрын

Cheers! You too!

@frankmarkovcijr5459

2 жыл бұрын

The Kawasaki engine is inherently Superior because of the bevel Drive campaigns are cheap and nasty way of driving and when they snap they destroy your engine all of my Hondas died from cam chain disease Ash B of adjusting them regularly my CX500 died at 10 years old and 250 thousand miles my 883 Sportster with Gear Drive is still running at 350,000 MI Gear Drive is the way to go and worth the money if you're going to keep the bike forever and as for the cake on the British 650 twin Yamaha XS650 twin and the Kawasaki kz750 twin are both inherently Superior bikes to the Royal Enfield

Great video. I’m picking up a brand new W800 café Monday 23rd August for £6499. Reduced from £9099 as the new 2022 model is due. The Kawasaki is the true original classic as it has a 360 degree crank. The vibes dissipate as the engine breaks in & as long as the break in is done correctly. I can’t wait for Monday.

@bennettsbikesocial

2 жыл бұрын

Brilliant... enjoy! Cheers, John

What a fantastic and detailed comparison ! Even though I’m a Kawi Fanboy and own a Kawi, I’ll never buy a W800 since it costs thrice of Interceptor which is made locally here in India. Please compare Street Twin with these bikes.

@bennettsbikesocial

4 жыл бұрын

Hit subscribe and I promise we will! John

@sathishrao7926

4 жыл бұрын

Bennetts Bike I did !

Regardless I'd still go for the kawasaki, personal choice. Lovely review guys 👍. Do this yearly or more, as a long term comparison between the two machines.

Brilliant comprehensive detailed analysis. RE650....all tha way.....Intercepter bang on budget. Thanks guys for the analysis

Nice work Sirs. Don't be deterred by that comment below re review length ..... If a job is worth doing, it warrants a proper bullet point by bullet point comparison, as indeed you have justly done. I've got the W, and coming from singles (mostly) I don't find the vibes a problem at all, more charismatic I'd say. Thankyou and kind regards.

@bennettsbikesocial

4 жыл бұрын

Fantastic, thanks! John

Great video guys. Could you do one with RE vs. Street Twin please.

@bennettsbikesocial

4 жыл бұрын

Hit that subscribe button and I promise it'll come... John

Excellent review! Before watching this, I purchased a RE 650 Interceptor about 13 months ago. It now has 5,000 very happy miles on it! At 5' 8" I am a bit short, and did put lower shocks, Power Booster temperature sensor, DNA air filter and the RE short flyscreen on the bike. For the money I saved, I can spend more on other things now...plus fuel. I did test ride the W800. And though I really liked it, I found the same vibration between 3500-4500 rpm and a bit of difficulty finding a good gear for 30 mph....always either too low rpm or too high! Thanks for this great review....My wife has a Moto Guzzi V7iii....fortunately I did not have to choose between the RE and the MG!

When it comes down to it, it is personal preference. Personally , I like the Interceptor.

@ThiefOfNavarre

2 жыл бұрын

Both are great bikes, I've been lucky enough to ride both. But I own the Interceptor! The test ride sold it

I really enjoyed how uou do a comparison. very thorough! I subscribed because i want to see more of this! One piece of constructive criticism though: please dont refer to them as "this one" or "that one". I had to rewind 10 seconds several times to figure out what bike you were making a statement about becuse you said "the clutch on this one is lighter" so I had to try and figure out which one yiu were pointing to. Please say "i found the Kawasaki clutch lighter" or whatever. This would be quite helpful! Overall though i loved it and cant wait to watch more!

@bennettsbikesocial

6 ай бұрын

Thanks, and good point! Cheers, John

Good Comparison content, that clear my doubt which one i need to go for - RE

God review 👍 I just bought a new bike (dec 2020), I was going back and forth between the two bikes, couldn’t decided witch one to buy 🤔 I chose to spend the money on the 2019 Kawasaki W800 cafe 👍 looking forward to get it delivered in March 😁

@adeelm9028

3 жыл бұрын

How's it riding pal?

2020 Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 with 37,000 miles and I still LOVE My Royal Enfield! Checking valves is very easy. Service manual says to remove the tank, which is also easy, but doesn't have to be removed. 4 bolts, slide the cover to the right, check left side, slide left, check right side. It is easier to adjust the valves with tank & cover off but not impossible. All the maintenance is easy for the average gearhead. Being a full time traveler my only wish is that it was belt drive so I wasn't stopping all the time to clean, lube & adjust.

You gottta be kidding me.... the W800 is on another level, and will last you 200k miles ..... will any Enfield ever last that long? Btw, I do own both. Since the reviewers are both British.... guess the outcome was kinda predictable...... been riding for 30 years, dozens of bikes. Kawasaki is the best brand, full stop. This is like compaing a lamborghini with a fiat.

@jonathanhansen3709

2 ай бұрын

As far as reliability, I will always choose a Japanese bike over anything built anywhere else.

Nicely done!👍🏽

Great review again, thanks. Possibly consider include service intervals on next review. As the service intervals on the RE is deterring me.

@bennettsbikesocial

4 жыл бұрын

Cheers! Yes, servicing is coming in a future video when I've been able to speak to a mechanic and see what's fully involved, and to get the prices. John

@tailtidy8185

4 жыл бұрын

@@bennettsbikesocial Lovely thanks John. You and the team are doing a fantastic job. Keep well.

@bennettsbikesocial

4 жыл бұрын

Cheers!

Really enjoyed the video. I wished you didn't use the yellow filter for the riding footage so we could see the bikes

Oh, also, the interceptor now has a pure glass headlight and not the old patterned Lucas style. I have a 20 plate so assume they updated this.

With a substantial price difference I think the RE is the clear choice

I owned a 2020 W800 café for a year, rode it for 4500 miles. Bought a '22 RE INT650, rode it for 7000 miles. Loved both! But I got the W-café heavily discounted, so the price difference was not that much. ...And now I just bought a leftover '21 (blue) W800, also heavily discounted. Very excited to be back on a W. If one likes classic, air-cooled twins, I think you'll be happy with either of these bikes...so look for the little extras that matter to you...perhaps the color options for the INT, or maybe it's the bevel-drive of the W. Fun considerations!

I think the whole heritage aspect to verticle twin production, is a furphy, because all motorcycle manufacturers never had one until they made their first. Those manufacturers could not look back to any other bike except for a verticle single. It is interesting to note that the German manufacturer Horex produced a verticle twin in 1932 several years before Triumph, so when people talk about the British tradition, of vertical twins for motorcycles it is as if they are blind to what ever is being made elsewhere for bikes and cars. The french and italians have had a long history of aircooled verticle twins being used in vehicles. And look we could go on all day and say out pride or conceite that well at least Triumph was the first British marque to make a parallel twin, but we forget the company was started by germans. So lets keep it real. Incidetally the W1 and W2 all came out with twin carbs. They also developed this engine from a 500cc twin, boring it out gradually until they reached a capacity, where there was no vibration throughout the rev range....that being 624cc. I had two of these that l both bought in 1984. I would still have one if it had electric start, and if the spare parts were easy to get hold of. There are tons for sale in japan even now. They1973 model was the best, with a disk brake front end, even though they used twin leading shoe front brakes from the bigining of production When did the brits start using those?

I have the W800, so how is the vibration compared to the new V7 Moto Guzzi?

W800 is made in Japan so there is no comparison, w800 wins

Just bought the enfield. Need to take it back for servicing at 300 miles. Luckily it's a nice ride. Love the bike. I'm also 5'6" and it is a bit tall and the reach is just a hair too far. Hitchcock's will fix that. Its heavy. Backing it out while sitting on it at 5'6" is not happening unless on smooth flat. Seems to rev nicely but for the 1st 1000 miles nothing above 4k rpm so I'll have to wait to push it. Overall, early on I can say I'm extremely happy

I think they are both beautiful bikes. I like the look of the Kawasaki a bit more. But I think, for the money, the Enfield is the better choice.

Great video chaps😁👍🏻

@bennettsbikesocial

4 жыл бұрын

Thanks 👍

Interceptor manufactured after October 2019 gets clear lens headlight with the halogen bulb and reflectors on front forks.

@chrisgraham5186

4 жыл бұрын

I'm pleased mine's (bought May ’19) got the earlier headlight glass. It's easier to mask with tape at the Channel crossing for changing over to riding on the right in Europe. The blocking on the glass acts as guide for a wedge of black tape (my van's clear headlamps are a pain in the arse to mask accurately when I go to France). Besides… the older style lens looks so much better that the ugly new type.

Well this has made my “other” bike choice even harder. Thanks 😊

@bennettsbikesocial

3 жыл бұрын

It's a good problem to have though! Cheers, John

Awesome review guys. Which bike do you think would be better for carrying a pillion and luggage do you think. Thanks

@bennettsbikesocial

4 жыл бұрын

There's little in it to be honest - I'll be doing a pillion opinion shortly of the Interceptor, but best bet is to get your partner out o the test rides. Cheers, John

The music really hits the 70s era. Nice vid! I love the W800 but may get the Continental GT 650

@bennettsbikesocial

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks very much! Cheers, John

I was comparing these two bikes and didn’t buy either. The W800 is a special bike, and it’s what I would buy regardless of being a lot more money than the Enfield. It’s worth the difference.

that gentleman who says the interceptor does not handle does not know that the GT version of it won the cafe racer championship race against BMW and Triumphs. it was bored out to 865cc using the SnS kit.

After years of touring and super sport touring bikes I chose a leftover 2022 W800 as my retirement ride. I am very happy with her ease of handling and smooth power band. Such a pleasure to ride. I no longer ride interstate highways. I prefer a bike with a large bullet proof wind screen due to flying debris for any regularity of highway trips.

Nice review ! please suggest the soft luggage bags you have put on both the bikes. Also the site from where i cangetthose shipped.i have an interceptor. Will either of the bags fit on it ?

@bennettsbikesocial

4 жыл бұрын

They're thr Legend bags from SW Motech... sw-motech.com/cgi-bin/cosmoshop/lshop.cgi

I owned a 2019 W800 Cafe for about a year and thought it was an excellent bike except for a few significant problems - one pointed out by you guys - the vibration issue at certain revs. It was almost as if it would be better to change DOWN to 4th gear at 100-110 kmph to eliminate that annoying vibration! It totally smooths out above about 120 kmph (in fifth gear) - but 100-110 is a real pain. I own a 51 year old Triumph and I am used to motors that vibrate and personally I did not find it an enjoyable vibe on the W800 - others might. But that's just me. Another obvious negative is NO 6th gear - come on Kawasaki - it's 2020! This would be a huge improvement in my humble opinion and make the bike very capable of touring on one up. FINALLY do NOT make my mistake and fool yourself into thinking that the Cafe version of the W800 will be OK for your (old) back. It is lower than it looks. There is very little adjustment. Repeat there is very little adjustment. WORST of all to change the bars you need to change all the electric cables, brake cable and clutch cable etc BECAUSE they are only JUST long enough for the stock bars on the bike. That is an expensive operation ($1000 CAD plus). So my advice is buy the non Cafe version if you have any suspicion whatsoever that you will not handle those low bars. The reviews of the Cafe seem to consistently gloss over just how low they really are. You have been warned! (Anyway that new Street version looks nicer than the Cafe in my view - it was not available when I bought my W800). oh, if you are wondering I traded the W800 Cafe for a 2019 Kawasaki Verseys LT 650 - a different kettle of fish altogether but MUCH more comfortable - and a GREAT all round touring bike. I still have my old Triumph, which I ride almost daily and love dearly.

@bennettsbikesocial

4 жыл бұрын

Thanks Mark! Also, great choice with the Versys 650 - I had one for a year and absolutely loved it. John

@oliverwaters761

Жыл бұрын

Thank you for that comment, I have been looking at a W800 and convincing myself (despite being sensitive to vibration) it would fine, and if I needed to change the bars, no big deal.....wow thank you for taking the time to write. The RE is looking like the bike for me and the assessories are relatively cheap!!

That W1 looks like a Yamaha YDS3 with a motor transplant. The tank and headlight cowl take me way back. I worked for a Triumph / Yamaha dealer in my youth, and often thought that if I couldn't get my favourite 1971 Triumph 650 any longer, at least I could buy its equivalent from Kawasaki, but this is quite enlightening, and the Enfield is sticking its nose in. As things stand, I think I'll just stick with my VT750, it's not worth spending the extra dough for so little gain, at my age.

Royal Enfield every time. Just brilliant.

@rich.dodd1

4 жыл бұрын

I agree, I test rode one last year, saved over winter and bought one in may. I love it.

@utkarshsingh3541

4 жыл бұрын

dude enfield is sexy i have drove classic 350 and thunderbird....i like the torque

@vivek3366

4 жыл бұрын

@@utkarshsingh3541 Never liked their singles, but I found a love for this Interceptor 😍

@utkarshsingh3541

4 жыл бұрын

@@vivek3366 bro cool..yaar ....do ride a lot?

@vivek3366

4 жыл бұрын

@@utkarshsingh3541 not much nowadays. The last ride was in Oct 2019 around 450 km in a day

I live in America and what I noticed about these two is that the Royal Enfield sells for basically MSRP. The Kawasaki W800 isn't selling or isn't selling well and there are some great deals to be had on a leftover one. That said, I wouldn't imagine resale to be as good on the Kawasaki, since the bikes are slow sellers and discounted at the manufacturer dealership. We just recently got the W800 "street" all we had previously was the café.

@pinkyfinger9851

3 жыл бұрын

Re is really good for msrp, imagine it's 40% cheaper in India and Americans are just paying a lot of taxes

good video, one topic for long term ownership might be considered. Is the Enfield valve adjustment really 3K miles?

@bennettsbikesocial

3 жыл бұрын

I'm on it... will be speaking to mechanics shortly. John

I've ridden interceptor and it's amazing.

I think this video was very useful, thank you! Several RE Classic owners bear witness on YT that their bikes vibrated much less as miles went by. Could that be expexted also of a W 800 do you think? The reviewed specimen was almost unused.

@bennettsbikesocial

4 жыл бұрын

That could be the case - it had done several hundred miles by the time we'd done with it, but we can only go by what we managed to borrow; this is a demo machine that had been out of action due to lockdown. Cheers, John

As a proud owner i can safely say that interceptor is a lovely bike but there are some issues that can can be fixed like you mentioned in the video, the seat is too narrow for long ride which can be replaced, replacing the exhaust will reduce the weight a lil for maneuvering, there are small rusting issues in the weld joints and exhaust tip though for me, The fuel gauge of interceptor is not all accurate it has a mind of its own 23:57, interceptor also has slipper clutch 26:25. but you pay mainly for that beautiful engine.

@bennettsbikesocial

4 жыл бұрын

Yes - sorry, I missed it out when compiling the spec. John