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The 1966 Kawasaki W1 650 and 1967 BSA A50 Royal Star 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 1967 BSA A50 Royal Star, hailing from United Kingdom, by contrast offered 499cc of OHV twin power, delivering 34hp at 7000rpm. Tipping the scales at 175.0kg (386 lbs) with a top speed of 155km/h (96 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 1967 BSA A50 Royal Star, hailing from United Kingdom, by contrast offered 499cc of OHV twin power, delivering 34hp at 7000rpm. Tipping the scales at 175.0kg (386 lbs) with a top speed of 155km/h (96 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 | 1967 BSA A50 Royal Star | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 624 cc | 499 cc |
| Power | 50 hp | 34 hp |
| Torque | 49.0 Nm | 36.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 170 km/h | 155 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 | 1380 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 15.0 L | 14.0 L |
| Gears | 4 -speed | 4 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure standard performance, the 1966 Kawasaki W1 650 has the edge thanks to more power (50hp vs 34hp) and a higher top speed. The 1967 BSA A50 Royal Star, however, excels when all-round versatility and everyday riding is the priority and offers a lighter package.
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 1967 BSA A50 Royal Star
Born in 1967, the 1967 BSA A50 Royal Star is a 499cc twin-cylinder standard motorcycle producing 34hp from BSA.
Full 1967 BSA A50 Royal Star Profile →