Kawasaki W650 vs Bsa Gold Star 650
Side-by-side comparison for used motorcycle buyers
Performance at a Glance
Green = winner per metric · Bars are relative to the higher value
Kawasaki W650
Bsa Gold Star 650
Horsepower (hp)
50 hp
45 hp
Torque (Nm)
56 Nm
55 Nm
Top Speed (km/h)
175 km/h
180 km/h
Weight (kg) — lower is better
202 kg
222 kg
Type
Classic
Classic
Horsepower
50 hp @ 7,500 rpm
45 hp @ 6,500 rpm
Torque
56 Nm @ 6,000 rpm
55 Nm @ 4,000 rpm
Top Speed
175 km/h
~180 km/h (estimated)
Weight
202 kg (wet/curb weight)
222 kg (wet/curb weight)
Fuel
3.8 L/100km (approx. 26 km/L typical real-world average)
Estimated 4.5–5.5 L/100km (18–22 km/L) — NOTE: Limited real-world data available as of 2023
Fairing
No
No
Individual Reviews
Kawasaki W650
8.0/10
"The most honest classic twin money can currently buy used."
Pros
+Bulletproof engine reliability
+Stunning bevel-gear soundtrack
+Timeless classic styling
Cons
−Carb diaphragms crack regularly
−Fork seals fail prematurely
−Parts availability patchy
Bsa Gold Star 650
6.5/10
"Beautiful but buy carefully — early examples need thorough pre-purchase inspection."
Pros
+Stunning retro visual presence
+Tractable low-down torque
+Light and easy handling
Cons
−Early ECU fuelling problems
−Patchy parts availability
−Cheap switchgear quality