VS
The 1972 Honda CB350 Four and 1966 Kawasaki W1 650 both compete in the standard segment, offering riders distinct interpretations of the formula.
The 1972 Honda CB350 Four from Japan was powered by a 347cc SOHC inline-4 producing 34hp at 9500rpm. Weighing 172.0kg (379 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1966 Kawasaki W1 650 by contrast offered 624cc of OHV vertical twin power, delivering 50hp at 7000rpm. Tipping the scales at 200.0kg (441 lbs) with a top speed of 170km/h (106 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1970s bikes from the Japanese superbike revolution are increasingly sought after. Clean, original examples have seen significant value appreciation.
The 1972 Honda CB350 Four from Japan was powered by a 347cc SOHC inline-4 producing 34hp at 9500rpm. Weighing 172.0kg (379 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1966 Kawasaki W1 650 by contrast offered 624cc of OHV vertical twin power, delivering 50hp at 7000rpm. Tipping the scales at 200.0kg (441 lbs) with a top speed of 170km/h (106 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1970s bikes from the Japanese superbike revolution are increasingly sought after. Clean, original examples have seen significant value appreciation.
Specifications Comparison
| 1972 Honda CB350 Four | 1966 Kawasaki W1 650 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 347 cc | 624 cc |
| Power | 34 hp | 50 hp |
| Torque | 28.0 Nm | 49.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 155 km/h | 170 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 172.0 kg | 200.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 185.0 kg | 215.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 790 mm | 800 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1375 mm | 1420 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 13.0 L | 15.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -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 1972 Honda CB350 Four, however, excels when all-round versatility and everyday riding is the priority. Parts availability is good for the 1972 Honda CB350 Four and moderate for the 1966 Kawasaki W1 650 — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1972 Honda CB350 Four
Honda released the 1972 Honda CB350 Four in 1972 with a 347cc SOHC inline-4 powerplant making 34hp — a definitive standard motorcycle.
Full 1972 Honda CB350 Four Profile →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 →