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24.g. 2001 Kawasaki EJ 650 a.k.a. W650 (retro cafe style)

1-12-13 Wyndham Street Races

 

With the booming popularity of nostalgic-styled motorcycles, Kawasaki drew from the vaults of history to create the W650. This addition to Kawasaki's line-up is reminiscent of the styling and technological design features of the Kawasaki W1 and W1SA parallel twin-cylinder motorcycles of the late '60s and early '70s. Swing a leg over it and experience some Good Times.

 

Improved comfort and handling for this classic remake.

 

Kawasaki drew from the vaults of its own history when it created the W650. Reminiscent of the styling and technological design features of the Kawasaki W1 and W1SA parallel twin-cylinder motorcycles of the late ’60s and early ’70s, the W650 piqued the interest of enthusiasts everywhere.

 

It only gets better in 2001. A new seat and redesigned tank pads enhance rider comfort, while revised steering geometry and front suspension changes improve handling.

 

The W650’s twin cylinder, air-cooled 676cc engine churns out plenty of responsive low- and mid-range power, due in part to its long-stroke 360 degree crankshaft that has both pistons rising and falling together. A modern four-valve cylinder head helps give the W650 a healthy top-end, too. The valves are actuated by a single overhead camshaft that is driven by a hypoid gear, where the bevel shaft is offset to one side of the gears for less noise and friction, and increased durability.

 

The pair of constant velocity carburetors are equipped with the Kawasaki Throttle Responsive Ignition Control (K-TRIC) throttle position sensor. Connected to the Digital Ignition system, K-TRIC varies ignition timing according to throttle position and engine rpm so that the ignition compensates for differing engine loads for crisp throttle response and better fuel efficiency.

 

Other modern engine features include a lightweight and compact rare-earth magnet generator rotor, wet sump, balancer shaft to help eliminate vibration, pushbutton electric starting and a slick-shifting five-speed transmission with Kawasaki’s Positive Neutral Finder that makes shifting into neutral when stopped a breeze. The W650 also runs much cleaner than the machines that inspired its design due to the Kawasaki Clean Air (KCA) system. Fresh air is fed into the exhaust just beyond the exhaust valves for reduced emissions.

 

The W650’s chassis design is clean and simple. A traditional double-cradle frame uses a hefty square-section backbone for rigidity. A half-degree increase in the steering angle plus a 2mm larger axle and new front hub featuring larger bearings improve handling. A steel swingarm and twin shocks with adjustable preload provide the rear suspension, while the ride up front has been improved with new fork springs and revised rebound and compression damping. Braking power is supplied by a 300mm front disc and rear drum.

 

This machine is finished off in classic Kawasaki W-model styling. A shapely gas tank features high quality paint and chrome with redesigned rubber knee pads that are thinner, lighter and have smoother edges. The shape of the long seat was slightly altered and padded ribs added to make it more comfortable. It still has plenty of room for both rider and passenger, plus it’s finished with a retro-looking white bead. A wide, chromed handlebar helps put the rider in an upright, natural position. Modern instrumentation that is re-angled toward the rider for better visibility includes a liquid crystal display for the odometer and trip meter.

 

The Kawasaki W650 recalls the great machines that helped to lay the foundation of Kawasaki performance. While its styling is a trip into the past, its modern features have the W650 pointed directly into the future.

 

2001 W650 FEATURES

 

Parallel-Twin 676cc Engine with Balancer

 

Broad torque at low- and mid-range

 

Smooth and reliable

 

Balancer smoothes vibration

 

Engine rubber-mounted in chassis for greater rider comfort

 

Durable bevel cam drive

 

Four Valves Per Cylinder

 

Better breathing for more power and low end torque

 

Single overhead cam design is simple, lightweight, and practical

 

Five-Speed Transmission

 

Ratios designed for great acceleration and relaxed highway cruising

 

Exclusive Positive Neutral Finder

 

34mm CVK Carburetors With Kawasaki Throttle Responsive Ignition Control (K-TRIC)

 

A position sensor monitors throttle position so that its micro-computer can determine the best ignition timing for more power and better fuel economy

 

Double Cradle Frame with Square Section Backbone

 

Compact and stable

 

Riding Comfort

 

Long seat for two-up riding

 

Traditional styling offers upright seating position

 

Kawasaki Clean Air (KCA) Exhaust System

 

Feeds air into exhaust port to reduce emissions

 

Front Disc Brake

300mm front disc brake with dual piston caliper provides sure stops

 

Centerstand

 

Simplifies servicing, cleaning or parking

 

Maintenance-free Battery

 

Longer lifespan, hassle free

 

Spin-on Oil Filter

 

Automotive spin-on style simplifies oil changes

 

Revised for 2001:

Double Cradle High Tensile Steel Frame

Comfortable Riding Position

Electronic Instrumentation

39mm Conventional Front Forks

Plated Wire-Spoked Wheels

 

New for 2001:

Pearl Boulogne / Pearl Ivory

 

Specifications:

Model

EJ650-A3

 

Engine Type

4-stroke, air-cooled

 

Displacement

676 cc.

 

Bore x Stroke

72 x 83 mm.

 

Compression Ratio

8.6:1

 

Valve System

SOHC, 8 valves

 

Carburetion

Keihin CVK34 x 2

 

Ignition

Digital with K-Tric

 

Starting

Electric and kick starter

 

Transmission

5-speed

 

Frame type

Double-cradle, high tensile steel

 

Rake

27 degrees

 

Wheelbase

57.1"

 

Suspension, Front

39 mm conventional front fork

 

Suspension, Rear

Dual hydraulic shocks with 5-way preload adjustment

 

Tire Front

100/90-19

 

Tire Rear

130/80-18

 

Brakes, Front

Single 300 mm. disc with two-piston caliper

 

Brakes, Rear

160 mm. drum

 

Seat Height

31.5"

 

Fuel Capacity

4.0 gallons

 

Dry Weight

434 pounds

Source: www.totalmotorcycle.com/photos/2001models/2001models-Kawa...

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Uploaded on December 15, 2013
Taken on December 1, 2013