The Kawasaki W175 stands as a unique offering in the Indian motorcycle market, blending retro charm with modern engineering to cater to riders who value simplicity and nostalgia over high-octane performance. Launched by Kawasaki India as their most affordable model, this bike appeals to enthusiasts seeking a lightweight, easy-to-ride machine with a classic aesthetic. Introduced in 2022, the W175 embodies the spirit of the iconic Kawasaki W series, which includes models like the W800 and W650, but it scales down the power and price to suit entry-level riders and urban commuters. With its minimalist design, teardrop fuel tank, and vintage-inspired styling, the W175 evokes memories of a bygone era while incorporating just enough modern technology to meet contemporary needs.
Designed primarily for city riding and short highway stints, the W175 targets a niche audience—those who prioritize comfort, fuel efficiency, and a relaxed riding posture over speed and aggression. In a market dominated by performance-oriented bikes from brands like Royal Enfield, Yamaha, and TVS, the W175 carves its own space as a modern classic. Available in multiple variants and colors, it offers flexibility for buyers looking for personalization without breaking the bank. However, its modest power output and lack of advanced features have sparked debates about its value proposition, especially when compared to competitors in the same price range. This detailed exploration dives into the technical specifications, variants, pricing, and an in-depth analysis of the Kawasaki W175, alongside its standing against close rivals in India.
Technical Specifications
The Kawasaki W175 is powered by a modest yet reliable engine, paired with a lightweight chassis and basic features that align with its retro ethos. Below is a comprehensive breakdown of its technical specifications in tabular format, sourced from reputable platforms like BikeDekho and BikeWale as of April 2025.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | Air-cooled, 4-stroke, single-cylinder |
| Displacement | 177 cc |
| Max Power | 12.8 bhp @ 7,500 rpm |
| Max Torque | 13.2 Nm @ 6,000 rpm |
| Bore x Stroke | 65.5 mm x 52.4 mm |
| Compression Ratio | 9.1:1 |
| Fuel System | Fuel Injection (India-spec; carburetor in some international markets) |
| Transmission | 5-speed, return shift |
| Mileage | 45 kmpl (claimed), 40 kmpl (expert-reported average) |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 12 liters |
| Dimensions | Length: 2,005 mm, Width: 805 mm, Height: 1,045 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1,320 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 165 mm |
| Seat Height | 790 mm |
| Kerb Weight | 135 kg |
| Frame | Semi-double cradle steel frame |
| Front Suspension | 30 mm telescopic fork, 110 mm travel |
| Rear Suspension | Twin shock absorbers, preload adjustable, 64 mm travel |
| Front Brake | 270 mm disc, single-channel ABS |
| Rear Brake | 110 mm drum |
| Tyre Size | Front: 80/100-17, Rear: 100/90-17 (tubeless in Street variant) |
| Wheel Type | Spoke (Standard variants), Alloy (Street variant) |
| Headlamp | 60W halogen bulb |
| Instrument Console | Semi-digital (analogue speedometer with digital odometer and tripmeter) |
These specifications highlight the W175’s focus on simplicity and practicality, making it an approachable motorcycle for beginners and seasoned riders alike who prefer a no-frills experience.
Variants
The Kawasaki W175 is offered in multiple variants in India, each with slight differences in styling, features, and wheel types. Below is a table summarizing the available variants as of April 2025, based on data from BikeWale and BikeDekho.
| Variant Name | Key Features | Color Options |
|---|---|---|
| W175 Ebony | Spoke wheels, base model | Ebony |
| W175 Candy Persimmon Red | Spoke wheels, retro color scheme | Candy Persimmon Red |
| W175 Metallic Graphite Grey | Spoke wheels, metallic finish | Metallic Graphite Grey |
| W175 Metallic Ocean Blue | Spoke wheels, premium color | Metallic Ocean Blue |
| W175 Street | Alloy wheels, tubeless tires | Candy Emerald Green, Metallic Moondust Gray |
The Street variant stands out with its alloy wheels and tubeless tires, enhancing convenience and aesthetics, while the standard variants retain the classic spoke-wheel design for a true retro feel.
Price in Metro Cities
Pricing for the Kawasaki W175 varies slightly across metro cities in India due to differences in RTO charges, insurance, and local taxes. The following table provides the ex-showroom and on-road prices (approximate) as of April 2025, sourced from BikeWale.
| City | Variant | Ex-Showroom Price (₹) | On-Road Price (₹) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delhi | W175 Ebony | 1,22,000 | 1,43,827 |
| W175 Street | 1,35,000 | 1,58,128 | |
| Mumbai | W175 Ebony | 1,22,000 | 1,50,500 |
| W175 Street | 1,35,000 | 1,65,000 | |
| Bangalore | W175 Ebony | 1,22,000 | 1,59,107 |
| W175 Street | 1,35,000 | 1,74,966 | |
| Hyderabad | W175 Ebony | 1,22,000 | 1,48,707 |
| W175 Street | 1,35,000 | 1,63,528 | |
| Kolkata | W175 Ebony | 1,22,000 | 1,47,000 |
| W175 Street | 1,35,000 | 1,61,500 |
These prices reflect a recent reduction of up to ₹25,000 announced by Kawasaki India in late 2023, making the W175 more competitive in its segment.
About the Kawasaki W175
Design and Aesthetics
The Kawasaki W175’s design is its standout feature, drawing heavily from the brand’s W lineage, which has long been associated with retro styling. The motorcycle sports a teardrop-shaped fuel tank, a circular halogen headlamp, and a minimalist body that avoids the clutter of modern gadgetry. The chrome accents on the engine and exhaust pipe add a touch of elegance, while the peashooter-style muffler enhances the vintage vibe with its crisp exhaust note. Available in six striking colors—Ebony, Candy Persimmon Red, Metallic Graphite Grey, Metallic Ocean Blue, Candy Emerald Green, and Metallic Moondust Gray—the W175 offers ample scope for personalization. The Street variant elevates the look with alloy wheels, giving it a slightly contemporary edge over the spoke-wheel models.
The bike’s lightweight construction, with a kerb weight of just 135 kg, makes it incredibly easy to handle, especially in urban environments. Its low seat height of 790 mm ensures that riders of varying statures can plant their feet firmly on the ground, boosting confidence for beginners. However, some critics argue that the build quality could be improved—reports of loose fuel tank fittings and rattling number plates have surfaced in road tests, suggesting that Kawasaki may have cut corners to keep costs down.
Engine and Performance
At the heart of the W175 lies a 177 cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder engine, a departure from the carbureted units found in some international markets, as the India-spec model uses fuel injection to comply with BS6 Phase 2 emission norms. Producing 12.8 bhp at 7,500 rpm and 13.2 Nm of torque at 6,000 rpm, the engine prioritizes refinement over raw power. Paired with a 5-speed gearbox, it delivers smooth power delivery, ideal for cruising at speeds of 60-80 kmph. The top speed hovers around 110 kmph, though pushing it to this limit feels strained, as noted in reviews from BikeWale.
The W175’s tall gearing means it takes time to build momentum, with the first gear capable of reaching 30 kmph and the fifth gear suited for relaxed highway rides. An engine balancer minimizes vibrations, ensuring a comfortable experience, though some riders report a slight buzz at higher revs. Fuel efficiency is a strong suit, with a claimed mileage of 45 kmpl and real-world figures averaging around 40 kmpl, making it an economical choice for daily commuting. The 12-liter fuel tank provides a decent range of approximately 480-540 km, depending on riding conditions.
Ride and Handling
The W175’s semi-double cradle steel frame strikes a balance between rigidity and simplicity, contributing to its unhurried handling character. The front suspension features a 30 mm telescopic fork with 110 mm of travel, while the rear employs twin shock absorbers with 64 mm of travel and preload adjustability. This setup absorbs bumps adequately, offering a plush ride over city roads and moderate potholes. However, the soft springs may feel less composed on aggressive cornering or high-speed runs, aligning with the bike’s laid-back persona.
Braking duties are handled by a 270 mm front disc with single-channel ABS and a 110 mm rear drum, a combination that provides predictable stopping power. The front brake lacks sharpness, feeling spongy at times, while the rear drum can lock under hard pressure—a trait some riders enjoy for playful brake slides. The 17-inch wheels (spoke or alloy, depending on the variant) paired with tubeless tires in the Street model enhance stability and ease of maintenance. With a 165 mm ground clearance, the W175 navigates speed breakers and uneven roads without scraping, though it’s not built for off-road adventures.
Features and Comfort
The W175 keeps things simple in terms of features, aligning with its retro ethos. The semi-digital instrument console combines an analogue speedometer with a digital inset displaying the odometer, tripmeter, and fuel level. A “W” emblem on the speedometer adds a classy touch, but the absence of a tachometer or gear position indicator might disappoint tech-savvy riders. The 60W halogen headlamp outshines competitors with 35W units, offering excellent nighttime visibility, while conventional bulb indicators maintain the classic look.
Comfort is a priority, with an upright riding posture facilitated by a flat handlebar, center-set footpegs, and a well-cushioned single-piece seat. The seat provides decent support for rides up to an hour, though longer journeys may require occasional adjustments. The bike’s lightweight frame and neutral ergonomics make it a breeze to maneuver through traffic, appealing to both newbies and older riders seeking a practical commuter.
Market Positioning and Reception
Priced between ₹1.22 lakh and ₹1.35 lakh (ex-showroom), the W175 is Kawasaki’s entry-level offering in India, aimed at capturing a slice of the growing retro motorcycle segment. Its 2023 price cut of up to ₹25,000 reflects Kawasaki’s intent to boost sales in a competitive market. While the bike has garnered praise for its retro charm, smooth engine, and fuel efficiency, it has faced criticism for its lackluster performance and premium pricing relative to its features. Owners appreciate its low maintenance and reliability, but some report issues like engine knocking and costly servicing, as noted in user reviews on BikeDekho.
Close Competitors
The Kawasaki W175 competes in a crowded segment where retro styling meets commuter practicality. Here’s an in-depth look at its close competitors in India:
Yamaha FZ-X
The Yamaha FZ-X is a direct rival, blending retro-inspired design with modern features. Priced around ₹1.36 lakh (ex-showroom), it boasts a 149 cc air-cooled engine producing 12.2 bhp and 13.3 Nm, slightly less displacement but comparable torque to the W175. The FZ-X offers a digital cluster with Bluetooth connectivity, LED headlamps, and a more aggressive stance, appealing to younger riders. Its mileage of around 45 kmpl matches the W175, but its superior build quality and feature set give it an edge at a similar price point.
Royal Enfield Hunter 350
The Royal Enfield Hunter 350, priced from ₹1.50 lakh (ex-showroom), targets the premium retro segment with a 349 cc engine delivering 20.2 bhp and 27 Nm. While more powerful and muscular, it sacrifices fuel efficiency (around 36 kmpl) for performance. The Hunter 350’s robust build, dual-channel ABS, and commanding presence overshadow the W175’s simplicity, though it comes at a higher cost and weight (181 kg). It appeals to riders seeking a bold retro experience over the W175’s understated charm.
TVS Ronin
The TVS Ronin, starting at ₹1.35 lakh (ex-showroom), bridges retro and modern with a 225.9 cc engine pumping out 20.1 bhp and 19.93 Nm. Offering features like a fully digital cluster, Bluetooth, adjustable levers, and dual-channel ABS, it outclasses the W175 in technology and performance. Its mileage of 40 kmpl is competitive, but its higher power and premium positioning make it a stronger contender for riders willing to stretch their budget slightly beyond the W175 Street.
Honda CB350
The Honda CB350 (H’ness variant) starts at ₹2.10 lakh (ex-showroom), positioning it as a premium alternative with a 348.36 cc engine producing 20.8 bhp and 30 Nm. Loaded with features like a digital-analogue console, Honda Selectable Torque Control, and a refined ride, it targets buyers seeking sophistication over the W175’s minimalism. Its mileage of 35 kmpl lags behind, but its superior engineering and brand reliability justify the higher price for those who can afford it.
Comparative Analysis
Against its competitors, the W175 stands out for its lightweight design and fuel efficiency, making it ideal for city commuting and cost-conscious buyers. However, it falls short in power output, with its 12.8 bhp paling in comparison to the 20+ bhp offerings from Royal Enfield, TVS, and Honda. The lack of advanced features like LED lighting, dual-channel ABS, or connectivity options further limits its appeal in a tech-driven market. Priced competitively after the reduction, it undercuts the Hunter 350, Ronin, and CB350, but the FZ-X offers a compelling alternative with better features at a marginal premium.
The W175’s retro styling is a double-edged sword—while it wins hearts for its classic look, it lacks the aspirational appeal of Royal Enfield’s thump or TVS’s modern-retro fusion. Its handling and comfort shine in urban settings, but highway performance is underwhelming, restricting its versatility. For buyers prioritizing simplicity and affordability, the W175 makes a case, but those seeking performance or tech may find better value elsewhere.
Final Thoughts!
The Kawasaki W175 is a motorcycle that dares to be different in a market obsessed with power and features. Its retro charm, lightweight frame, and efficient engine cater to a niche of riders who value the joy of riding over raw speed. With variants offering aesthetic flexibility and a price range of ₹1.22 lakh to ₹1.35 lakh, it’s an accessible entry into the Kawasaki brand. However, its modest performance, basic features, and occasional quality niggles temper its appeal, especially when stacked against rivals like the Yamaha FZ-X, Royal Enfield Hunter 350, TVS Ronin, and Honda CB350.
For urban commuters, beginners, or retro enthusiasts on a budget, the W175 delivers a delightful, no-nonsense experience. Yet, its premium pricing for what it offers raises questions about its competitiveness. Ultimately, the W175 is a love letter to simplicity—a bike that thrives in its own lane, inviting riders to slow down and savor the ride. Whether that’s enough to stand tall in India’s dynamic motorcycle landscape depends on what each rider seeks from their two-wheeled companion.
