The W800 Street is Kawasaki’s idea of a modern-classic motorcycle.
It is a successor to the Kawasaki W1 that was sold during the ‘60s and is an exact replica of that motorcycle in terms of styling. Since chrome is the untold norm of retro-inspired motorcycles, Kawasaki has given the W800 Street’s headlamp cowl, turn signals, handlebar, exhaust pipes, wheels and rear suspension the chrome treatment. Moreover, the fuel-tank, single-piece seat with a ribbed pattern, round mirrors and fork gaiters complete the W800’s retro appeal.
While the W800 Street is mostly retro in its appeal, it does get some modern touches to put it on par with current times. The bike’s round headlamp cowl houses full-LED lighting. The turn signals and tail lamp also have LED lighting. Furthermore, the W800 Street sports a twin-pod instrument cluster that features a small LCD display that shows information like trip meter, fuel-gauge, odometer and clock, but only on demand. Lastly, Kawasaki has added a safety net to the W800 Street in the form of a dual-channel ABS.
The W800 comes powered by a 773cc, parallel-twin engine that produces 47bhp of power and 62.9Nm of torque. It comes mated to a five-speed gearbox and slipper clutch. Braking on the motorcycle is handled by 320mm disc up front and a 270mm disc at the rear with a dual-channel ABS. Meanwhile, to keep things as retro as possible, Kawasaki has equipped the W800 Street with telescopic forks up front and a twin shock setup at the rear.
Currently, Kawasaki is offering the W800 Street in one colour option in India as well as global markets. It is available in a black with grey dual-tone paint only. In terms of competition, the W800 Street goes up against the Triumph Street Twin and the Ducati Scrambler Icon.