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The 1966 Kawasaki W1 650 and 1966 Triumph Tiger TR6 are both iconic 1960s standards that defined their respective markets.
The 1966 Kawasaki W1 650 from Japan was powered by a 624cc OHV vertical twin producing 50hp at 7000rpm. Weighing 200.0kg (441 lbs) and with a seat height of 800mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1966 Triumph Tiger TR6, hailing from United Kingdom, by contrast offered 649cc of OHV twin power, delivering 40hp at 6500rpm. Tipping the scales at 175.0kg (386 lbs) with a top speed of 170km/h (106 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1960s motorcycles capture the era of cultural revolution and racing heritage. Iconic models from this decade are among the most desirable classics.
The 1966 Kawasaki W1 650 from Japan was powered by a 624cc OHV vertical twin producing 50hp at 7000rpm. Weighing 200.0kg (441 lbs) and with a seat height of 800mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1966 Triumph Tiger TR6, hailing from United Kingdom, by contrast offered 649cc of OHV twin power, delivering 40hp at 6500rpm. Tipping the scales at 175.0kg (386 lbs) with a top speed of 170km/h (106 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1960s motorcycles capture the era of cultural revolution and racing heritage. Iconic models from this decade are among the most desirable classics.
Specifications Comparison
| 1966 Kawasaki W1 650 | 1966 Triumph Tiger TR6 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 624 cc | 649 cc |
| Power | 50 hp | 40 hp |
| Torque | 49.0 Nm | 48.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 170 km/h | 170 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 200.0 kg | 175.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 215.0 kg | 188.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 790 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 15.0 L | 14.0 L |
| Gears | 4 -speed | 4 -speed |
The Verdict
These two standards are remarkably well-matched. With 50hp versus 40hp, the performance difference is marginal. The choice between them comes down to brand loyalty, aesthetics, and riding preference.
About the 1966 Kawasaki W1 650
Kawasaki released the 1966 Kawasaki W1 650 in 1966 with a 624cc OHV vertical twin powerplant making 50hp — a definitive standard motorcycle.
Full 1966 Kawasaki W1 650 Profile →About the 1966 Triumph Tiger TR6
The 1966 1966 Triumph Tiger TR6 is a 649cc twin-cylinder standard motorcycle that became one of Triumph's most memorable motorcycles of the 1960s.
Full 1966 Triumph Tiger TR6 Profile →