- To go on sale in Japan in the coming months
- Features a proper old-school styling
- Powered by a 233cc single-cylinder engine
Kawasaki is set to launch a new retro bike in the quarter-litre segment, the W230. Similar to other W series motorcycles in the Japanese bikemaker’s lineup, this one is also a thoroughbred old-school offering. Here is a close look at it.
The W230 has a very simple appearance and features elements like a round LED headlight, twin analogue consoles with a digital inset, and loads of chrome parts including the headlight bezel, pea-shooter exhaust, handlebar, and more.
It gets a base paint of white all over with a black stripe on the fuel tank, and a two-tone seat cover. Even the spoke wheels get a chrome finish, and the Kawasaki W230 dons a proper retro look.
Powering the Kawasaki W230 is a single-cylinder 233cc single-cylinder engine but its output figures are yet to be revealed. It will get a six-speed gearbox.
It rides on gaitered telescopic front forks, and dual rear shocks, and gets a front and rear disc with dual-channel ABS. These are mounted on an 18-inch front and 17-inch rear spoke wheel setup.
The Kawasaki W230 looks charming and would appeal to a slightly mature audience, especially those looking for an old-school bike. India has a big market, and the sales numbers for the Royal Enfield Hunter 350 and Classic 350 speak for themselves. However, Kawasaki bikes are infamous for their high asking price. For example, the W175 Street. It costs Rs. 1.35 lakh and offers the bare basic features, hardware, and questionable build quality too.
That said, if Kawasaki India plans to bring the W230 to India, it will have to be priced aggressively since the competitors in the segment will be known names like the aforementioned Royal Enfield twins, Honda Hness 350, and a few more.
