MODERN WINE

A modern classic from the land of the rising sun, but with a British vibe

- Janak Sorap

This classic motorcycle business is like having a bottle of wine. Rush into it too soon and you are probably not going to enjoy it even a bit. All you are bound to eventually notice are the headaches. I am sure many of you might disagree with me, but unfortunately, that has been my experience on more than a few occasions with classic motorcycles. And wine, too. However, if said wine has aged well, the entire concept takes a 180-degree turn to an experience that I think I know but am still too young to savour.

But then, does that mean that I am not fit to ride a classic motorcycle? Thankfully, the answer to that question comes in the form of modern classic motorcycles that have existed for about two decades now. Yes, that is a lot of time gone unnoticed. But just like any good wine, the genre has only gotten better. There are plenty of examples of modern classic motorcycles that look all old school and pack modern machinery often accompanied by electronic aids. No doubt these are fantastic motorcycles to ride, but they do make the experience probably a bit too hassle-free. And that is exactly the point at which the Kawasaki W800 steps in. This motorcycle is an oxymoron, considering what a bike maker like Kawasaki is capable of doing with motorcycles, but that’s what is truly needed if one wants to enjoy a modern classic the correct way.