Kawasaki W175 : There’s something undeniably charming about the Kawasaki W175 that pulls you in, like stumbling upon a well-preserved classic car in your grandfather’s garage.
This little retro roadster from the Japanese giant has carved out a loyal following in India since its debut, blending old-school style with reliable everyday usability.
Even as we hit 2026, it refuses to fade away, holding strong against flashier newcomers with its no-nonsense appeal.
A Design That Whispers Nostalgia
Spot a Kawasaki W175 zipping through Chandigarh’s bustling streets, and you’ll do a double-take.
Its teardrop fuel tank, rounded fenders, and that iconic circular halogen headlamp scream vintage without trying too hard – it’s straight out of the 1960s W-series playbook, downsized for modern riders.
The ribbed tuck-and-roll seat adds to the café racer vibe, while spoke wheels wrapped in tubed or tubeless tires keep things authentic. What sets it apart in India’s crowded two-wheeler scene is the subtlety.
No aggressive graphics or LED bling here; just clean lines in shades like Ebony, Candy Persimmon Red, Metallic Graphite Grey, and Ocean Blue that age gracefully.
It’s the kind of bike that turns heads at traffic signals not because it’s loud, but because it looks like it belongs in a black-and-white movie.
Kawasaki’s India-made unit ensures this charm reaches riders without the premium import tax, making retro accessible.
Heart of the Machine Simple, Sturdy Power
Underneath the polished exterior beats a 177cc air-cooled, single-cylinder engine that’s all about effortless cruising.
Fuel-injected for BS6 compliance, it churns out 13 PS at 7,500 rpm and 13.2 Nm of torque at 6,000 rpm – modest figures that prioritize low-end grunt over top-end thrills.
Paired with a slick 5-speed gearbox, it slips through city gears like butter, perfect for dodging auto-rickshaws or cruising NH44.
Riders rave about the linear power delivery; no jerky surges, just smooth progression up to around 110 kmph.
Mileage hovers at a respectable 45 kmpl in mixed conditions, stretching that 12-liter tank far on long hauls from Delhi to Jaipur.
It’s air-cooled simplicity means fewer things to go wrong, though some note it warms up in bumper-to-bumper heat – a small price for that mechanical purity.
Ride Quality Light, Nimble, and Forgiving
Swing a leg over the W175, and at just 135 kg kerb weight, it feels featherlight, almost eager to lean into corners.
The semi-double cradle frame, telescopic front forks, and twin rear shocks handle pothole-ridden Indian roads with surprising composure, offering a plush ride that’s comfy for solo spins or pillion duties.
Ground clearance of 150mm keeps it out of scrapes, while the upright ergonomics suit riders from 5’4″ to 6-footers without fuss.
Braking duties fall to a 270mm front disc with single-channel ABS and a rear drum – confident stops without drama, though hard-charging types might crave more rear bite.
In real-world tests, it’s a joy in traffic, flicking through gaps effortlessly, and holds its own on highways until vibes creep in past 80 kmph. One rider put it perfectly: “It’s like the bike reads your mind in the city.”
Pricing and Ownership Value in Every Mile
Kawasaki prices the W175 aggressively for what it offers – starting at around ₹1.13 lakh ex-showroom for base variants, climbing to ₹1.35 lakh for the Street with alloys and tubeless tires.
On-road in Chandigarh? Expect ₹1.3-1.5 lakh, including insurance and RTO, making it a steal compared to pricier neo-retros.
Service intervals are standard, though some gripe about costs hitting ₹2,800 early on – par for premium brands. Build quality shines through; paint holds up, and the two-year warranty adds peace of mind.
Fuel efficiency and low maintenance keep running costs down, ideal for enthusiasts who want Kawasaki badge bling without breaking the bank. It’s not the cheapest commuter, but for style and reliability, it’s a smart buy.
Standing Tall Against the Competition
In India’s retro wars, the W175 spars with heavyweights like the Royal Enfield Hunter 350, TVS Ronin, and Jawa 42 – bikes with more power but heavier builds.
The Hunter edges in torque, but the W175’s lighter weight and Japanese finesse make it nimbler for urban jaunts. Ronin brings modern touches like Bluetooth, yet lacks the W175’s pure analog soul.
What wins fans? That unfiltered riding experience – no rider aids, just you, the road, and a thumping single. It’s for those tired of plastic commuters, craving something with character.
Drawbacks? Limited top-end pull and no frills like USB ports, but that’s the point.
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Why the Kawasaki W175 Still Turns Heads in 2026
Even with whispers of a US-bound LTD variant, the W175 remains India’s retro darling – a bike that doesn’t chase trends but starts them.
Owners gush about its comfort on long rides, head-turning looks, and that satisfying engine note echoing off flyovers. Sure, it’s not a speed demon, but in a world of overcomplicated machines, its simplicity is refreshing.
If you’re scouting for a daily with soul – light enough for beginners, cool enough for café stops – the Kawasaki W175 delivers.
Head to a dealership, twist the throttle, and feel why this little legend endures. It’s not just a bike; it’s a statement on wheels.