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Kawasaki W175: The Forgotten Neo-Retro Motorcycle In India
India's Neo Retro segment is getting all the attention after the launch of the Yamaha XSR 155. But we already have a bike, the Kawasaki W175, which has remained in the shadows for many years. So, what does Kawasaki offer with this bike, and why has it been unnoticed all these years?
Kawasaki W175 Features
Plain and Simple Design
The W175's design is simple and plain, giving a feeling of an early 2000s commuter bike. It comes with just two colour options: Candy Emerald Green and Metallic Moondust Grey. The design is not for those who want something extraordinary, but it is decent.
Decent Engine
The Kawasaki W175 gets a 177cc single-cylinder, air-cooled engine. The engine power output is decent, with 13 PS of power at 7,500 rpm and 13.2 Nm of torque at 6,000 rpm. It gets a 5-speed transmission and chain drive. People may feel the power output level is very low for a 175cc bike, but it is enough for daily city commutes.
Lightweight and nimble
The W175 is small, lightweight and nimble as it is built on a double-cradle steel frame. The total weight is just 135 kg, which is enough and more comfortable for urban rides. The seat height is also 785mm, allowing even shorter riders to handle the bike very easily.
Mechanically Good
For braking, it is equipped with a 270mm disc at the front, featuring single-channel ABS and a drum brake at the rear. Suspension includes a front telescopic fork and a 5-way spring preload adjustable swingarm.
Practical Features
The bike doesn't offer features like Bluetooth connectivity or LED headlights. It gets a semi-digital retro-style speedometer, 60W Halogen headlamps, and cast wheels with tubeless tyres, which is enough for daily riders.
Pricing and Verdict
The W175 is priced at 1.25 lakhs (ex-showroom). It competes against bikes such as the Yamaha XSR 155, the Royal Enfield Hunter 350 and the TVS Ronin 225. For this price, competitors offer a lot more features and value. Additionally, Kawasaki's showrooms are fewer in number compared to its competitors.
However, Kawasaki W175 delivers decent performance, enough for city rides. It may not appeal to everyone, but for those who prefer a unique and simple retro bike, the Kawasaki W175 is definitely worth considering. At last, if you are a true Kawasaki fan, this is the cheapest Kawasaki bike that you can buy in India.
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