Made In India, Sold In America: Kawasaki W175 Launched In US Market

Kawasaki has launched the India-made W175 motorcycle in the US market. This retro-styled motorcycle is manufactured in India and will be sold in the United States as a Completely Built Unit (CBU).

Retro-styled motorcycles continue to enjoy strong popularity worldwide, especially in India. Royal Enfield has played a major role in popularising this segment through its heritage-inspired designs, accessible pricing, and distinctive riding experience.

Following this trend, Kawasaki introduced the affordable W175 as an entry-level retro motorcycle. However, the model has struggled to gain significant traction in India, where it faces strong competition from Royal Enfield, the Honda CB350 range, and Jawa/Yezdi motorcycles.

Kawasaki Launches India Made W175 In the US

Despite its modest performance in the Indian market, the W175 has gained recognition globally as an affordable and approachable retro motorcycle. Kawasaki has now introduced the India-made W175 in the US market at a price of $2,999, targeting new riders and urban commuters.

This move also highlights India's growing role as a global manufacturing hub for motorcycles. The W series has built a strong reputation worldwide for combining classic styling with solid performance and everyday usability. In the US, Kawasaki currently sells the W230 and W800. With the addition of the W175, the W lineup now expands to three motorcycles.

W175 Specs and features

The Kawasaki W175 is powered by a 177cc air-cooled single-cylinder engine paired with a 5-speed gearbox. Key features include a semi-double cradle frame, comfortable ergonomics, relaxed riding posture, low seat height, pea-shooter-style exhaust, single-channel ABS, 17-inch alloy wheels, telescopic front forks, twin rear shock absorbers, a classic round halogen headlamp, and a semi-digital instrument cluster.

Kawasaki already has a strong presence in the US motorcycle market, and the W175 is expected to appeal to riders looking for a simple, lightweight, and reliable retro motorcycle alongside the W230 and the W800.

Indian expectations for Kawasaki

For Indian buyers, however, the introduction of the W230 and W800 could be more appealing, particularly as the mid-capacity retro motorcycle segment continues to grow. The W230, powered by a 233cc air-cooled single-cylinder SOHC engine, could emerge as an interesting alternative to the popular Royal Enfield Hunter 350.