Black is a beautiful contrast for the Kawasaki W800 SE Black Edition. This latest form of Kawasaki's retro delivers classic motorcycling without much of the chrome, or the pain.
The 773cc fuel injected engine, with its gear-driven overhead cam and multi-valve head provides relaxed performance and fuel-efficiency. All whilst the ghost of BSA wafts past your subconsious.
The W800 is all the more wonderful all black, with lashes of crinkle, polished, matte, and chrome finishes. Indeed the finish needs a mention here. Some may question the black pipes, and elect for custom ones. However, as it stands, Kawasaki have nailed the concept of the classic parallel twin integrating modern elements of design without losing the feel of the original machine - which is one hell of a balancing act.
The cosmetic details are outstanding, from the wire spoked, black anodised rims, crinkle black pipes, black chrome tank badge, classic instruments and old school switchblocks which all harken back to the days of yore. Passers by most often accusing it of being a resto, or a British bike of some kind. All achieved without leaking a drop of oil. So authentic in many ways, with the charm of yesteryear, yet with the convenience and performance of a modern motorcycle, this black jack, could just be the ace of spades.