Kawasaki’s new W230 joins the easy-to-ride 250cc class! As a classic model, it’s meticulously crafted down to the last detail, featuring a carefully designed engine, wire-spoke wheels, and front and rear steel fenders, embodying a nostalgic feel with modern technology. Its lightweight body, weighing just 143kg, also contributes to its ease of handling.
A long-awaited air-cooled single-cylinder engine with a classic look that lets fans enjoy authentic classic style in the 250cc class.
Everyone has their own preferences when it comes to motorcycles, and they narrow down their potential models based on various factors, such as specs, styling, practicality, and maintenance costs, before making a purchase. The W230, which Kawasaki is releasing this time, is a naked model with a classic style that is immediately recognizable at a glance. As it bears Kawasaki’s traditional “W” name, it is characterized by being crafted to satisfy fans down to the smallest detail. From its appearance, it may seem to be aimed at classic-oriented users, but inside it pursues the essence of motorcycle life, making it a vehicle that can be recommended to a wide range of users.
First, let’s look at the key points that influence styling. That doesn’t mean that all round-head naked bikes are classic. The composition of every component, including the frame structure, suspension type, front and rear wheels, and the texture of the exterior parts, contributes to the vehicle’s image. For example, the spoke mesh wheels, a classic feature of classic bikes, are made of cast aluminum if productivity and rigidity are important, but the bold decision to use them was a no-brainer. The front and rear fenders are not made of lightweight, cost-effective plastic, but are made of steel and painted in the same color as the tank, emphasizing texture. The meter also has a retro feel, with two analog displays in an era when LCD displays were in their heyday. This style will satisfy anyone who likes classic bikes from the carburetor era, even in a modern injection-fueled bike.
Pursuing the rich flavor of an air-cooled single-cylinder engine in an injection vehicle that is easy to ride and safe!
The W230 is not just about looks, it’s also about the ride quality. The engine is based on the KLX230 series’ air-cooled 4-stroke SOHC 2-valve single-cylinder, but by using a heavier flywheel it is set to have a gentle and sticky feel. The ECU settings stabilize the engine rotation even in the low rpm range, realizing smooth throttle response when accelerating from a standstill or making U-turns.
Speaking of the engine, the exterior has also been refined with a classic feel, with attention paid to every detail in keeping with the image of the “W”, including the crankcase with its many curved surfaces, the cylinder head with large rounded fins, and the exhaust port with a slender exhaust pipe laid out on the right side. The muffler is also a genuine stainless steel cabton type, and is of high quality, with a buffed finish. It has been tuned with a focus on the sound during acceleration and partial throttle, so even those who are interested in customization will likely be satisfied with the stock version.
And what’s especially noteworthy is the vehicle weight of just 143kg! This lightness, approaching that of a 125cc class bike, benefits everything from riding performance to handling, making it easy for anyone to ride, from beginners to veteran riders considering downsizing.
In recent years, the popularity of the 125cc class, with its low maintenance costs, has led to an increase in returning riders. Once they actually start riding, they rediscover the appeal of touring itself, rather than the specs of the motorcycle, and it seems that they are enjoying motorcycle life as an adult hobby. However, motorcycles under 125cc cannot be used on highways, and their range of movement is inevitably limited in terms of time. The arrival of the W230, which solves the dissatisfaction of the 125cc class while offering equal or even greater ease of handling and satisfying ownership, is the perfect model for those stepping up from the 125cc class. The W230 will look great in snapshots of your travels and will surely be a wonderful companion.
The classic horizontal silhouette is a timeless and beloved bike. It is not influenced by trends and is sure to add color to your motorcycle life forever. The fact that it is equipped with a smart SOHC head air-cooled engine, rather than pursuing short-term specs, shows the designer’s good taste.
ADVERTISEMENT
Based on the same air-cooled SOHC 2-valve single-cylinder engine as the KLX230, it features a special head with the exhaust pipe positioned on the right side. Its large, rounded air-cooling fins and beautifully curved crankcase cover are a design aesthetic that matches the W230. Its power output is characterized by a flat torque characteristic that is easy to handle even at low rpm.
It features large round turn signals that match the traditional style. The headlights are LED with low and high lights split into upper and lower sections, but by equipping both with position lamps, the entire light appears to be lit even when they are lit separately.
The brakes are a 265mm single disc with a dual piston caliper in the front and a 220mm disc with a single piston caliper in the rear, ensuring sufficient stopping power. The ABS is constantly monitored by sensors placed on the front and rear wheels.
The muffler is a stainless steel Cabton type with a buffed surface for a meticulous finish. The O2 sensor and secondary air chamber are hidden behind the muffler, contributing to the elegant silhouette.
ADVERTISEMENT
The large taillights are mounted on the steel fenders with classic light stays. The design is reminiscent of Kawasaki models of the past, without being overly modern, and gives a sense of security.
The MEGURO S1 (left) was released at the same time as the W230 (right) as a sibling car. It is a custom model with different branding and the design of various parts of the body is different. Let’s take a look at the unique features of the W230.
The tank shape is the same as the MEGURO S1, and it is equipped with a unique three-dimensional “W” emblem. By adding the genuine optional knee pads (16,500 yen), you can pursue an even more classic look.
The meter is an easy-to-read analog twin-lens type. The black base with the iconic “W” logo matches the classic atmosphere. The LCD display on the left is minimal in size so as not to disrupt the atmosphere, and can be switched to display the odometer, trip meter, and clock.
ADVERTISEMENT
The seat has a wadding pattern on the top, with white accents on the sides and piping. Its design contrasts with the simple seat of the MEGURO S1. The 5mm difference in seat height is thought to be due to the unevenness of this wadding pattern.
The metallic ocean blue x ebony color was not available at the time of the photo shoot. The contrast between the deep color and the plated parts is beautiful. The seat is completely black, giving it a more mature impression.
Main specifications
Overall length: 2,125mm Overall
width: 800mm Overall height:
1,090mm
Seat height: 745mm
Seating capacity: 2 people
Displacement: 232cc
Vehicle weight: 143kg
Engine: Air-cooled 4-stroke SOHC 2-valve single cylinder
Maximum output: 13kW (18ps) / 7,000rpm
Maximum torque: 18Nm (1.8kgf・m) / 5,800rpm
Transmission: 6-speed return type
Fuel tank: 11L
Brakes: Front disc, rear disc
Tire size: Front 90/90-18M/C 51S, rear 110/90-17M/C 60S
Manufacturer’s suggested retail price (including 10% consumption tax): 643,500 yen
