Kawasaki W175

Detailed Review by Maxabout Team

Overview

For the first time, the Kawasaki W175 was spotted on Indian roads in November 2020. W175 has now been launched in India for about two years. The W175 is Kawasaki's smallest capacity retro-themed bike, available in Asian markets such as Indonesia, Thailand, and the Philippines. It's also sold in Latin American countries like Mexico, Uruguay, and Bolivia.

In Indonesia, three models are available: the standard W175, the W175 Cafe, and the W175 TR. As of now, only the standard variant is available in the Indian market. W175 is produced locally, which has helped to keep costs low.

Kawasaki W175 Design and Style

2023 Kawasaki W175 takes design cues from its bigger brother, the W800. The Kawasaki W series has a long history that dates back more than 50 years. W1, the first bike in this series, was introduced in 1966. Continuing on that theme, the Kawasaki W175 has an appealing old-school profile with features like a round headlamp and rearview mirrors, fork gaiters, a teardrop-shaped fuel tank, quilted single-piece saddle, and wire-spoke wheels. Ebony and Special Edition Red will be the two colour options. While the former is essentially an all-black theme, the latter is a red and black dual-tone colour option. The majority of the components in both have been blacked out, including the front suspension, headlight casing, engine, swingarm, and exhaust pipe.

The instrumentation is straightforward, with a speedometer, odometer, trip metre, and turn signals. W175 represents pure riding pleasure with no distractions such as Bluetooth connectivity and app-based functions. The bottom section of the instrument console and the fuel tank features signature W branding.

Kawasaki W175 Engine and Gearbox

A 177cc air-cooled, single-cylinder engine comes mated with a 5-speed transmission system on the new Kawasaki W175. This BS6-compliant engine produces a maximum power of 13 HP at 7,500 rpm and a peak torque of 13.2 Nm at 6,000 rpm. While the numbers may not appear impressive, the W175 can still deliver optimal performance due to its light weight of only 135 kg.

A 177cc single-cylinder with a displacement advantage over the 150cc class. Ample torque makes it simple to operate, providing a stress-free experience that allows riders to concentrate on the ride. A 5-speed transmission and an engine balancer that dampens unwanted vibrations add to the fun and comfort of the ride.

Kawasaki W175 Suspension, Brakes and Tyres

2023 Kawasaki W175 hardware is simple, with a double cradle frame integrated with telescopic front forks and dual rear shock absorbers. The riding position is very comfortable because the bike supports the rider's natural position. The bike has a 270mm front disc brake with single-channel ABS and a rear drum brake. Both ends have 17-inch wheels that are wrapped in 80/100 front and 100/90 rear tyres.

The front and rear suspension work in tandem with the rigid frame to provide good shock absorption for a comfortable ride while still allowing for fun riding. Fork boots protect the fork inner tubes and add to the retro look of the W175, as does the dual shock rear suspension.

Key Features of Kawasaki W175

A semi-double-cradle frame that is highly rigid and contributes to the W175's unhurried handling character. The semi-double cradle configuration is a product of function and form. It also complements retro styling and its simple design allowing for customization. The W175 follows in the footsteps of Kawasaki's other authentic retro models, with a traditional, simple design. And, with the materials and fit-and-finish of a machine in a higher class, the W175 stands out from the crowd.

The 60W headlamp is as bright as those found in higher-end models, outshining competitors (which feature 35W headlamps).

The bright headlamp provides excellent visibility at night. The W175 has 17" spoke wheels front and rear, as befits a retro model. The tyre tread pattern also adds to the bike's retro appearance. A 30 mm telescopic fork in front is supported by dual shocks in the rear. The peashooter-style muffler on the W175 adds to the retro vibe. The curved header pipe of the exhaust complements the engine design. The clear, crisp exhaust note of the muffler adds to the rider's enjoyment.

Simple instrumentation includes an odometer, trip metre, and indicator lamps, as well as an asymmetric semi-digital-retro style speedometer. A "W" emblem on the speedometer face, like on the other models in the W family, adds a classy touch. A ø270 mm front disc brake with a single channel ABS provides dependable stopping power. A drum brake slows the rear while also adding to the retro appearance.

Kawasaki W175 Colour Options

Kawasaki offers the new W175 in two colour options: Ebony costs Rs.1,22,000 and Candy Persimmon Red costs Rs.1,24,000.

Kawasaki W175 Competitors

There are no direct competitors to Kawasaki W175 but it could pose a challenge to Honda CB350, Jawa Classic, Royal Enfield Hunter 350, Yamaha FZ-X, and Yezdi Roadster in the Indian market.

Conclusion

India's most affordable Kawasaki motorcycle the new W175 has arrived at a price of Rs. 1.22 lakh ex-showroom. Bookings for the Japanese brand's latest motorcycle are now being accepted at Kawasaki dealers across the country. The Deluxe trim of the motorcycle has a red paint scheme and costs Rs. 2,000 more. Deliveries will begin in December 2022, and test rides are now available at Kawasaki dealerships throughout India.