Description
This motorcycle is Lot 410 to be auctioned by Bonhams at The Autumn Stafford Sale (The Classic Motorcycle Mechanics Show) on 12 & 13 October, please see the Bonhams website for full details.
Auction Timings:
Lots 1 - 176 are to be sold from 11:00 on Saturday 12th October 2024.
Lots 201 - 429 are to be sold from 11:00 on Saturday 13th October 2024.
Public Viewing:
Available 12th & 13th October 2024 from 09:00 until 17:00, at The Stafford County Showground (The Classic Motorcycle Mechanics Show).
Lot 410
1999 Kawasaki W650
Registration no. T453 LEC
Frame no. JKAEJ650AAA007187
Engine no. EJ650AE007225
With the growing popularity of nostalgia-inspired 'retro' styled motorcycles, it was entirely predictable that Kawasaki would reprise its iconic Z1/ 900/ 1000 range in the form of the Zephyr. What no one expected was that the Japanese manufacturer would look back even further - to the W1 of the 1960s - and produce an updated version of one of the first big four-strokes to be badged as a Kawasaki. Introduced in October 1965, the W1 was inspired by the BSA A10 650 twin but differed considerably in internal detail. Although it remained an air-cooled vertical twin, the W650 departed even further from the original BSA conception, boasting a shaft-driven overhead camshaft, electric starter and disc-braked cycle parts. Brilliantly styled and well equipped, it appealed to those who craved 1960s style but had no time for the oil leaks, dodgy electrics and general unreliability associated with British bikes of the period.
This W650, which has had 6 owners from new, was recently acquired by the current vendor and has been used sparingly since then. It has been well maintained, with a recent oil and filter change and having a fresh MOT until April 27, 2025. Documentation included with the vehicle are a V5C registration document, owner's manual, warranty book, and workshop manual, along with two sets of keys.
All lots are sold 'as is/ where is' and Bidders must satisfy themselves as to the provenance, condition, age, completeness and originality prior to bidding. Visit the Bonhams Motorcycles website for all pertinent auction information.
