The Kawasaki W175 has carved a niche in the entry-level motorcycle market, blending retro charm with modern practicality. As Kawasaki’s most budget-friendly offering, it appeals to new riders and seasoned enthusiasts alike, delivering a stylish yet functional ride. With recent updates including new variants, fresh color options, and a significant price drop, the W175 continues to strengthen its foothold in the competitive retro motorcycle segment.
Powering the W175 is a reliable 177cc single-cylinder air-cooled engine, producing 12.9 horsepower at 7,500 rpm and 13.2 Nm of torque at 6,000 rpm. Paired with a five-speed gearbox, this engine offers smooth, manageable power ideal for city commuting and relaxed weekend rides. Known for its fuel efficiency—averaging 40-45 kmpl—it’s an economical choice for daily use, appealing to riders who value both performance and savings at the pump.
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The W175’s design is a standout feature, channeling classic motorcycle vibes with a round headlamp, chrome accents, and a minimalist instrument cluster featuring an analog speedometer and a small LCD display. Its ergonomics prioritize comfort, with a low seat height of 786.5 mm (in the Street variant), making it accessible to riders of all sizes. The fuel tank, accented with Kawasaki’s iconic badging, enhances its retro appeal while providing ample capacity for longer trips.
Kawasaki has recently refreshed the W175 lineup, introducing the W175 Street variant alongside the standard model. The Street version swaps out the standard’s spoke wheels and tube tires for alloy wheels and tubeless tires, offering a modern look and practical benefits like easier maintenance and better puncture resistance. Color options have also expanded: the standard W175 now comes in Ebony, Candy Persimmon Red, Metallic Ocean Blue, and Metallic Graphite Grey, while the Street variant offers Candy Emerald Green and Candy Moondust Grey.
A major highlight is the price reduction for the standard W175, slashed by up to Rs 25,000. It now starts at Rs 1.22 lakh for the Ebony shade, topping out at Rs 1.31 lakh for Metallic Ocean Blue. The W175 Street is priced at Rs 1.35 lakh (ex-showroom). This positions the W175 as a strong contender against rivals like the Yamaha FZ-X, which starts at Rs 1.36 lakh, making it a compelling option for budget-conscious buyers.
Here’s a quick comparison of the two W175 variants:
| Variant | Wheels | Tires | Colors | Price (ex-showroom) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | Spoke | Tube | Ebony, Red, Blue, Grey | Rs 1.22 lakh – Rs 1.31 lakh |
| Street | Alloy | Tubeless | Green, Grey | Rs 1.35 lakh |
The W175’s suspension—telescopic forks up front and dual rear shock absorbers—is tuned for a comfortable ride across diverse road conditions. Braking comes via a front disc and rear drum setup, enhanced by single-channel ABS for added safety. While effective for most scenarios, some riders suggest dual-channel ABS could elevate its stopping power, particularly in emergencies.
Feedback from riders leans positive, with praise for the W175’s smooth engine, comfy ergonomics, and head-turning retro style. Its classic look often sparks admiration on the road. However, there’s room for improvement—some call for a brake upgrade and a wider service network to support its growing user base.
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Maintenance is a breeze thanks to Kawasaki’s reputation for reliability. The W175’s straightforward design keeps servicing simple and costs low, with parts easily sourced through authorized dealers. This practicality adds to its long-term appeal.
The Kawasaki W175 shines as a versatile pick in the retro motorcycle world. Its mix of timeless design, updated features, and wallet-friendly pricing caters to a broad audience—whether you’re new to riding or seeking a chic, dependable companion. With these latest enhancements, the W175 is poised to remain a favorite among motorcycle lovers for years to come.