Back in Black: Kawasaki W650 Scrambler

2001 Kawasaki W650 from WKND Customs…  

The Triumph Bonneville may get the lion’s share of the attention as the world’s most popular “neo-classic” roadster, but we have a soft spot for the Kawasaki W650. This retro model, built from 1999-2007, reinterpreted the great British twins of the 1960s…without the hassle. In fact, the W650 was inspired by the Kawasaki W series (W1, W2, W3) of 1965-1974, which were based heavily on a licensed version of the BSA A7. 

Unlike the pushrod-actuated OHV design of the old British machines — or chain-driven OHC design of the modern Triumphs — the Kawasaki W650 (and W800) featured a bevel gear-driven overhead camshaft that resembled the iconic bevel-drive Ducatis of the 1970s. The result is one of the handsomest engines of the post-2000 era. It was widely lauded by moto-journalists and owners alike.

“It is a pure, basic motorcycle, and that’s what I want. There’s no pretense about it. It may be a copy of a copy (the original ’60s Kawasaki W1 was a copy of a period BSA), but it’s all about function and reliability. The last ride I took on my Norton 850 Roadster resulted in it jettisoning a piece of its sidestand and almost losing a float bowl. That would never happen on the Kawasaki.” -“Matt the Ratt,” Motorcyclist

The custom W650 you see here comes from our old friend Sérgio Almeida of Porto, Portugal’s WKND Customs. As the name implies, the workshop began as a weekend endeavor until word got out, orders came in, and Sérgio took on a part-time art director role to free up more time in the shop. Last year we showcased WKND’s “Yasuke” Yamaha XT600 street tracker.

Yasuke: Yamaha XT600E Street Tracker

Now Sérgio is back with this 2001 Kawasaki W650 scrambler / roadster, which had something of a kismet start.

“The project started when the owner contacted me after seeing a Kawasaki KZ400 I had built some years ago. After a few conversations, he bought a Kawasaki W650 and asked me to make a few changes. We soon discovered that we were practically neighbours, which made the whole process much easier.”

As time went on, the project became more and more extensive until, ultimately, the bike was stripped down for a full rebuild that included a refresh of every major component. Many of the bike’s custom parts were designed in-house and laser-cut, including the skid plate, fork brace, luggage rack, and a new set of tank pads. Meanwhile, Daytona sponsored the build with a suite of their electronic goodies: speedo, bar switches, grips, USB charger, EZ Relay module, and more.

“What began as a modest list of upgrades evolved into a complete reinterpretation of the W650, a modern scrambler that remains faithful to the original motorcycle while introducing a sharper, more aggressive personality.”

The overall result is one of the sleekest, cleanest, coolest Kawasaki W bikes we’ve ever seen. Bravo to Sérgio for another outstanding job. Below, he gives us the full story in his own words, including a rundown of the various custom parts, the paint scheme, and the thought that went into the design.

In the Builder’s Words…

The first stage was simple: I built a custom short seat so he could enjoy the bike through the summer with a cleaner look and improved comfort. Once winter arrived, we started discussing a few more upgrades. One idea led to another, and what was meant to be a light refresh slowly evolved into a much more comprehensive build. Even so, the goal remained clear: to create a modern scrambler while preserving the character of the W650 without major frame modifications.

The initial direction was defined through a render I prepared: a clean, dark scrambler combining premium aftermarket parts with custom-made components.

The transformation began with an LSL flat-track handlebar, a Purpose Built Moto headlight, and compact Shin Yo turn signals. As the build progressed, the bulky factory brackets and tabs started to feel out of place, so they were removed to further simplify the bike’s appearance.

The cockpit received significant attention. A Daytona digital speedometer was integrated into a modified top triple clamp, complete with a hidden neutral warning light, while the ignition switch was relocated beneath the tank.

Daytona also sponsored the project, supplying the speedometer, handlebar switches, grips, USB charger, mirror plug bolts, and their EZ Relay module. Having worked on my own control units in previous builds, where each bike usually brings new issues to solve, I moved to their system as a compact, reliable, and affordable solution that simplified the entire electrical setup.

To complete the bodywork, I reshaped and fitted aluminium fenders, installed a matching Purpose Built Moto taillight, and added custom air vents to the side panels.

Many of the bike’s parts and brackets were designed in-house and laser-cut. Highlights include the skid plate, fork brace, luggage rack, and a new set of tank knee pads.

A set of universal crash bars was modified to fit tightly between the engine and exhaust, providing protection while maintaining a clean and compact appearance without the bulky look often associated with off-the-shelf solutions.

Although the project wasn’t initially intended to be a full rebuild, the bike was eventually stripped down completely to address rust and refresh every major component. As the owner is a big fan of matte black, I wanted to avoid the typical all-matte-black look and introduce more depth and contrast.

The frame, wheels, and selected parts were powder-coated in textured black, while other components received a satin-black finish to break up the surfaces. All hardware was re-zinc plated or replaced with stainless steel. The engine was rebuilt, refinished in metallic silver, and left exposed as a focal point.

The suspension, brakes, and carburettors were rebuilt, while the rear shocks were upgraded to black YSS units. The wheels were relaced with black spokes and contrasting silver nipples, then fitted with Heidenau K60 tyres. Biltwell foot pegs and throttle tube added further refinement, while a pair of black Leo Vince silencers completed the bike’s stance and sound.

The final paint scheme combined satin black and textured black surfaces, separated by a subtle silver pinstripe. Custom laser-cut aluminium Kawasaki emblems and detailing were added on the tank, while mesh inserts were fitted to the side covers.

What began as a modest list of upgrades evolved into a complete reinterpretation of the W650, a modern scrambler that remains faithful to the original motorcycle while introducing a sharper, more aggressive personality.

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