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 1986 Yamaha SRX600 by contrast offered 608cc of SOHC single power, delivering 45hp at 6500rpm. Tipping the scales at 156.0kg (344 lbs) with a top speed of 165km/h (103 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 | 1986 Yamaha SRX600 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 624 cc | 608 cc |
| Power | 50 hp | 45 hp |
| Torque | 49.0 Nm | 48.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 1 |
| Top Speed | 170 km/h | 165 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 200.0 kg | 156.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 215.0 kg | 170.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 790 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1420 mm | 1395 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 15.0 L | 13.0 L |
| Gears | 4 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
These two machines serve fundamentally different purposes. The 1966 Kawasaki W1 650 is built for all-round versatility and everyday riding, while the 1986 Yamaha SRX600 targets spirited café-racer style riding. On paper, the 1966 Kawasaki W1 650's 50hp trumps the 1986 Yamaha SRX600's 45hp, but raw numbers don't tell the whole story in such different segments. Choose the 1966 Kawasaki W1 650 if you value all-round versatility and everyday riding; pick the 1986 Yamaha SRX600 for spirited café-racer style riding.
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 1986 Yamaha SRX600
The 1986 1986 Yamaha SRX600 packs a 608cc SOHC single engine with 45hp into a cafe racer package from Yamaha.
Full 1986 Yamaha SRX600 Profile →