Kawasaki W175

The Kawasaki W175 continues the esteemed legacy of the iconic W1 from 1966, renowned for its impressive displacement and global acclaim. Embracing a retro style and sharing its DNA with the W800 and W250, the W175 now emphasizes the Standard type. Its power comes from a 4-stroke, SOHC, air-cooled 177cc engine, providing 13 PS of power and 13.2 Nm of torque. Keeping the classic concept intact, the bike is equipped with a 5-speed manual transmission and Mikuni VM24 carburetor. Notable features include a round headlight, analog-style speedometer, and the distinctive "W" emblem. Moreover, the W175 ensures a comfortable and secure ride with its front and rear suspensions and brakes.

The design of the Kawasaki W175 pays homage to its esteemed "W" model lineage, tracing its roots back to the iconic W1 introduced in 1966. It exudes seamless elegance, with its round headlights and straight seats as standout features. The spoke-wheels retain a classic, timeless look, showcasing an absence of modernization. Even the mirrors match the vintage style, adding to the overall retro character of the bike. The classic analog speedometer and old-school shaped odometer further reinforce its timeless appeal.

As the younger sibling of the W800 retro motorcycle, the W175 aims to offer a more budget-friendly option while maintaining the charming retro experience. The design elements, such as the round, chrome-trimmed halogen headlight, teardrop-shaped fuel tank, boxy side panel, curved fenders, and simple tail-light, all harken back to the classy W800. Although some may find the W175 to appear slightly smaller and more minimalistic, its simplicity possesses a unique beauty. The bike's black color option, while straightforward, leaves room for appreciation of the Candy Persimmon red paint alternative, which features striking gold detailing. In essence, the Kawasaki W175 captures the essence of its heritage with a design that exudes timeless allure.

The Kawasaki W175 features a 177cc air-cooled single-cylinder engine, delivering 13.05 hp at 7,500 rpm and 13.2 Nm of torque at 6,000 rpm. It offers smooth up and down shifts with its 5-speed gearbox and minimal vibrations even at high speeds due to its lightweight design. Despite its modest power, the W175 performs well in city conditions.

The highly rigid frame of the W175 is tuned to enhance its relaxed handling characteristics. This sturdy frame not only contributes to the bike's unhurried and steady handling but also ensures excellent durability, reflecting the hallmark of quality expected from Kawasaki products. The semi-double cradle configuration of the frame adds to the retro styling while also allowing room for customization, appealing to riders looking to personalize their bikes.

The well-considered swingarm length enhances the W175's classic proportions and plays a role in its unhurried and composed handling.

The Kawasaki W175 is designed with a strong emphasis on providing a comfortable and enjoyable riding experience. The soft seat and upright functional design showcase the commitment to rider comfort. Thoughtfully positioned footpegs complement the slim handlebar angle, ensuring a comfortable riding position for the rider. The engine's smooth power delivery adds to the seamless ride, eliminating any roughness or jolts, especially at lower revs.

Once seated on the approachable 790mm throne, riders will find themselves in a commuter-oriented position. The upright seating posture with an easy reach to the handlebar enhances overall comfort. However, some aspects may pose challenges for extended rides. The narrow seat with shallow padding may cause discomfort over time, leading to pressure points. Additionally, the compact dimensions of the bike may not be as accommodating for taller riders, potentially resulting in a cramped feel. Despite these considerations, the Kawasaki W175 remains dedicated to providing a pleasant and relaxed riding experience for most riders.

The Kawasaki W175 comes equipped with standard safety features, although it may not boast extraordinary performance in this regard. Notably, it lacks advanced features like an Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) or thick tires. However, the bike relies on disc brakes both at the front and rear for its main braking capability, ensuring reasonable stopping power.

Regarding its suspension system, the W175 features a ø30 mm telescopic fork at the front and dual shocks at the rear. These components work harmoniously with the rigid frame to provide a comfortable ride with efficient shock absorption. The damping is firm enough to enable enjoyable and confident handling during rides. Additionally, the fork boots serve not only as protection for the fork inner tubes but also contribute to the W175's retro aesthetics, along with the dual shock rear suspension.

While the Kawasaki W175 may not have all the bells and whistles in terms of safety and modern features, its braking system and suspension setup work together to offer a satisfactory riding experience, focusing on comfort and functionality.

The Kawasaki W175 is a stylish and swag-filled retro model that appeals to riders looking for nostalgic charm. While it lacks a direct rival, it offers a perfect alternative to bikes like the FZi and TFX 150. With its premium and retro character, the W175 justifies its higher price compared to other motorbikes in its class. Overall, the W175 boasts a unique blend of style and performance, making it an attractive choice for riders seeking a distinct and enjoyable riding experience.