Updated Kawasaki W175 Set for Launch At India Bike Week 2023

In a recent teaser on social media, Kawasaki has provided a glimpse into the anticipated unveiling of an upgraded W175 under the enigmatic title 'The Original Icon.' The cryptic caption, "The 1965 Legacy," references the esteemed W series, originating in that year. Speculation points towards a special edition, with a particular focus on the most economically accessible member of the Kawasaki lineup – the W175.

The teaser suggests changes are coming for the W175. It might get alloy wheels, wider tyres, and even a different paint scheme. This aligns with Kawasaki's plan to give the W175 a more modern look. The edition of the W175 that went on sale in India didn’t just look old-fashioned but really, really old. So, this update could prove to be a smart move by the brand. These changes aim to contemporise the W175's visual identity without compromising its distinctive character.

There is no expected change to the engine. We anticipate the Kawasaki W175 to retain its 177 cc air-cooled engine, producing 13 bhp and 13 Nm of torque. This bike is notably underpowered, as even bikes like the Yamaha FZ-S Fi or the Bajaj Pulsar 125 generate nearly the same power with smaller displacement motors. The bike features a 12-litre fuel tank.

If you're excited about the new W175, be ready for a bit higher price, around ₹ 15,000 more than the Candy Persimmon Red version, which is priced at ₹ 1,49,000 (ex-showroom India). The base W175 is at ₹ 1,47,000 which is a difficult place to be. It goes against the Yamaha FZ-X but at the same time it tries to rival the Royal Enfield Bullet 350 in terms of old school charm. Modern upgrades are the only thing that might make this bike stand out in the market.