That 650 looks great. I wouldn't worry about build quality - Kawasaki built military aircraft before WWII and still builds everything from oil tankers to motorcycles. I think they've figured it out.
That’s a nice looking bike. In the online reviews, there’s a lot of use of the words “harkens” and “homage.” The engine sounds a lot like my old F800ST’s and F800GT. Very grunty, but with less torque and hp. For $8999, I imagine they’ll sell a boatload.
I like stuff that harkens. Harkens means it will remind you of the classic, but it's fuel injected so it will start.
I like this bike. A lot. And I am sure build quality is just fine. I could live with the exhaust but that giant lumpy radiator puts me off completely. And I am no fan of those golden wheels. I think I would go for the Guzzi.
(02-18-2022, 06:39 AM)bioman_imp Wrote: [ -> ]I like this bike. A lot. And I am sure build quality is just fine. I could live with the exhaust but that giant lumpy radiator puts me off completely. And I am no fan of those golden wheels. I think I would go for the Guzzi.
The V7 would definitely usher in the vibe of a classic era of motorcycling and an engine pulse that would flutter yer eyes and always touch the soul.
I really like the looks, but those chunky radiators makes me want to keep my CB1100 and Bonneville, the last of the air-cooled bikes. Like my manual transmission car.
RNineT, W800, and V7 are still air-cooled. I imagine there are others as well.
For me, a typical modern classic motorcycle must have some classic look, a 1-6 cyl inline engine, not necessarily air-cooled.
(02-18-2022, 10:32 AM)peterbaron_imp Wrote: [ -> ]For me, a typical modern classic motorcycle must have some classic look, a 1-6 cyl inline engine, not necessarily air-cooled.
... inline single, eh?
I just can't do watercooled bikes.