The David Plant Collection, 2004 Kawasaki 676cc W650

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.

Since their introduction, the W650 and successor W800 have proved immensely popular with customisers, not least because, arguably, the Kawasakis look more like 1960s Triumphs than the British firm's current offerings.

This W650 currently displays a total of 5,988 miles on the odometer. The machine is in very presentable condition, though with some deterioration visible to the engine cases, and overall the chrome, paintwork and upholstery remain in excellent order. The motorcycle is offered with its owner's manual and warranty/service record booklet. A pre-delivery inspection was stamped October 2004, followed by a service in November 2004 at 766 miles and a further service in February 2006 at 3,956 miles. There are no additional stamps in the service booklet. Also included is an Isle of Man tax disc dated September 2007, together with a handwritten record of mileage covered as of December 2004. The file also contains sales literature and brochures, together with the original pre-delivery inspection documentation and purchase invoice.

It should be noted that the Isle of Man registration 'MN 290' displayed is being retained by the vendor. A suitable replacement Isle of Man registration will be issued, with the registration number to be confirmed. If purchased by a UK resident, the Isle of Man Registration Document will need to be submitted with a DVLA application (V55/5), along with a valid MOT certificate to the DVLA to obtain a UK Registration Certificate.

Following a period of inactivity, this motorcycle will require recommissioning and/or restoration to a greater or lesser extent before returning to the road and thus is sold strictly as viewed (the engine turns over). Prospective purchasers should satisfy themselves with regard to this motorcycle's completeness, history, authenticity, originality and mechanical condition prior to bidding.
Offered with key