It makes you slow down. It makes you take the long way home. It makes strangers walk up to you at gas stations and say, “What year is that?” When you tell them it’s from the late 90s, they won’t believe you.
If you can find a clean one (prices range from $3,000 to $5,500 depending on condition and location), buy it. You won’t lose money on depreciation, and you will struggle to find a bike that makes you smile more at 45 mph. kawasaki+estrella+250+review
At 70 mph (indicated; actual speed is likely 65 mph), the single cylinder starts to buzz. The mirrors blur. Your hands feel a gentle tingle. It’s not uncomfortable, but it’s a firm reminder that the Estrella is happiest on twisting B-roads, not the interstate. It makes you slow down
However, slowness is the point . The engine is thumpy and torquey. You can chug along at 30 mph in 4th gear, roll on the throttle, and the bike will gently pull you forward without vibrating your fillings loose. The sweet spot is between 45 mph and 65 mph. On backroads, it is bliss. If you can find a clean one (prices
The handlebars are swept back quite far. For riders over 6 feet tall, you might feel slightly cramped. It fits a 5’8” rider like a tailored suit.