VS
The 1966 Kawasaki W1 650 and 1973 Triumph T140 Bonneville both compete in the standard segment, offering riders distinct interpretations of the formula.
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 1973 Triumph T140 Bonneville, hailing from United Kingdom, by contrast offered 744cc of OHV twin power, delivering 49hp at 6200rpm. Tipping the scales at 185.0kg (408 lbs) with a top speed of 175km/h (109 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 1973 Triumph T140 Bonneville, hailing from United Kingdom, by contrast offered 744cc of OHV twin power, delivering 49hp at 6200rpm. Tipping the scales at 185.0kg (408 lbs) with a top speed of 175km/h (109 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 | 1973 Triumph T140 Bonneville | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 624 cc | 744 cc |
| Power | 50 hp | 49 hp |
| Torque | 49.0 Nm | 54.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 170 km/h | 175 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 200.0 kg | 185.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 215.0 kg | 198.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 790 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1420 mm | 1410 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 15.0 L | 14.0 L |
| Gears | 4 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure standard performance, the 1973 Triumph T140 Bonneville has the edge thanks to a higher top speed and lower weight. The 1966 Kawasaki W1 650, however, excels when all-round versatility and everyday riding is the priority. Parts availability is moderate for the 1966 Kawasaki W1 650 and good for the 1973 Triumph T140 Bonneville — an important factor for any restoration project.
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 1973 Triumph T140 Bonneville
Born in 1973, the 1973 Triumph T140 Bonneville is a 744cc twin-cylinder standard motorcycle producing 49hp from Triumph.
Full 1973 Triumph T140 Bonneville Profile →