Kawasaki W800 : Kawasaki has finally brought its iconic W800 retro roadster to India, teasing enthusiasts with glimpses of this classic beauty just ahead of its official launch.

Marking the 60th anniversary of the legendary W-series, the bike blends timeless styling with modern reliability, positioning it as a premium contender in the growing retro segment.

Teaser Buzz and Launch Scoop

Kawasaki India dropped a cryptic teaser on social media recently, showcasing the W800’s unmistakable silhouette against a backdrop of heritage vibes.

This move comes right on the heels of the W175’s success, signaling Kawasaki’s push into higher-displacement classics.

Fans are buzzing, especially since the W800 fills a gap in Kawasaki’s lineup—no other model quite matches its blend of nostalgia and punch.

Expect a full reveal soon, possibly at an auto expo or standalone event, with deliveries kicking off by mid-2026.

Priced around Rs 8-9 lakh ex-showroom (based on past imports adjusted for updates), it targets buyers tired of the usual suspects.

Classic Design Meets Modern Polish

Picture this: a teardrop fuel tank gleaming under chrome accents, round headlamp staring back like it’s from the ’60s, and those signature peashooter exhausts promising a throaty rumble.

The W800’s bodywork screams authenticity, from the tuck-and-roll seat to the polished engine cases that catch every ray of sunlight.

Subtle updates for 2026 include silver alumite rims and refined chrome fenders, keeping the retro charm intact while adding durability for Indian roads.

The upright handlebar and relaxed riding position make it feel like slipping into a time machine—comfortable for daily jaunts or weekend spins.

It’s not just looks; the double-cradle steel frame ensures stability, paired with 18-inch front and rear spoked wheels shod in grippy 100/90 and 130/80 rubber. At 224kg wet, it’s hefty but balanced, begging you to lean into corners with confidence.

Heart of the Beast That Air-Cooled Twin

Under the skin beats a 773cc air-cooled, vertical twin engine—a nod to Kawasaki’s W1 from 1966. Tuned for low-end grunt, it dishes out around 48-52 PS at 6500rpm and 60-62.9Nm from as low as 2500rpm, perfect for effortless cruising.

Fuel injection keeps it BS6-compliant and smooth, mated to a slick 5-speed gearbox with an assist-and-slipper clutch that makes shifts buttery.

Fire it up, and the 360-degree crank delivers a distinctive burble-roar, evoking British twins without the oil leaks.

No liquid cooling here—Kawasaki trusts air flow for that authentic thump, and testers report it stays composed even in city heat.

Top speed hovers near 170-180kmph, but it’s the mid-range torque that shines for overtakes and highways.

Ride Dynamics That Surprise

Twist the throttle in traffic, and the W800 glides forward with linear power—no jerky surges, just pure relaxation.

The slipper clutch lightens shifts, while the 41mm telescopic forks up front and preload-adjustable twin shocks rear handle potholes decently, though watch that 130mm ground clearance on speed breakers.

On twisties, it’s neutral and predictable; a nudge on the bars tips it in eagerly, with the long 1465mm wheelbase holding steady mid-corner.

Braking comes via a 300mm front disc and 160mm rear (drum in some specs), backed by dual-channel ABS for confident stops.

Fuel tank holds 14 liters, promising 20-25kmpl in mixed riding—enough for 280-350km range. It’s no racer, but for soul-stirring rides, it excels, outpacing sedate commuters while sipping fuel better than thirstier rivals.

Rivals in the Rearview RE Interceptor and Beyond

In India, the Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 looms large at Rs 3.2 lakh—cheaper, lighter (196kg), and punchier in roll-ons thanks to its 270-degree crank.

But the W800 counters with superior refinement, better build, and that premium Japanese edge—no vibes, sharper handling.

Triumph Bonneville T100 (Rs 9.5 lakh+) offers similar vibes but at a steeper price; the Kawasaki undercuts it while matching chrome-laden appeal.

For Delhi riders like us, the W800’s air-cooled simplicity suits humid summers better than oil-cooled foes.

Mileage edges to RE (23kmpl vs 21kmpl), but W800’s extra displacement means less gear-shifting on highways. It’s the choice for those craving exclusivity over mass appeal.

Why It Fits India Perfectly

India’s retro craze is booming—cafes in Delhi’s Hauz Khas, rides through Rajasthan’s forts— the W800 slots right in.

Its low-rev torque suits our chaotic traffic, while ABS and EFI make it hassle-free for long tours. Service network is growing, with parts availability solid via Kawasaki’s 200+ touchpoints.

Potential downsides? Weight and price might deter beginners, and no traction control keeps it old-school. Yet, for mature riders seeking character over spec sheets, it’s gold. Imagine rumbling past Jantar Mantar at dusk, heads turning—that’s the W800 magic.

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Kawasaki W800 Swing for the Classic

Kawasaki nailed it with the W800—a bike that doesn’t chase headlines but steals hearts. At expected Rs 8.25 lakh on-road in Delhi, it’s premium but justified by quality and joy.

If retro’s your poison, park one in your garage before stocks vanish. Who’s ready to rev up history?