With futuristic prototypes on display, Kawasaki India is preparing to return to retro and classic motorcycles with the potential launch of the W175. It is almost certainly the brand's next product, based on Kawasaki's 'Block Your Date' invite for September 25 and the leaked brochure. They might manufacture it in India in order to keep the costs low.
Kawasaki W175 was supposed to be released a long time ago as we saw the test mules several times in India around 2020 but everyone thought it to be postponed indefinitely. Currently, Kawasaki is popular for its multi-cylinder engines in India and they have a history of selling budget commuters like the Boxer in India with Bajaj.
But the W175 will enter the premium commuter market and will be available in countries like Indonesia. W175 recently received an update in Indonesia. It comes in three variations: TR (scrambler), TRSE (roadster), and Cafe Racer. Only one standard model will be available in India, with two colour options: Ebony and Special Edition Red.
We expect India-made Kawasaki W175 to have an analogue speedometer, odometer, trip metre, halogen headlight, halogen turn indicators, and taillights. It might come with spoked wheels, a clean and minimal design, and fewer body panels.
A 177cc single-cylinder engine powers the Kawasaki W175. It is an air-cooled motor with a 5-speed gearbox that produces around 13 bhp at 7,500 RPM and 13.2 Nm at 6,000 RPM. Kawasaki W175 features a double-cradle chassis, traditional telescopic suspension in the front with 110mm travel and dual shock absorbers in the rear. Braking hardware comes with only front disc brakes and drum brakes in the rear.
Kawasaki W175 doesn't have many direct rivals but in terms of premium retro bikes, we have the Yamaha FZ-X, Honda, Jawa, Royal Enfield, and Yezdi models. The price tag of Rs 1.50 lakh has sparked speculation, given Kawasaki's premium image and the low 135 kg weight it appears to be a good buy.
