Kawasaki has officially launched its new retro-styled W230 motorcycle in global markets. The bike, which shares its engine with the KLX230, offers a blend of classic design and modern performance. Following its unveiling, the W230 has been introduced overseas, with potential for future releases in other regions.
The 2025 Kawasaki W230 has been introduced in the USA at a price of $5,599, positioning it slightly above the Ninja 500. While the price may seem high for a relatively simple air-cooled motorcycle, it doesn’t necessarily reflect what the bike might cost if Kawasaki decides to bring it to India.
The W230 features a 233cc air-cooled engine, similar to the KLX230 dual-sport bike, which will be launching in India soon. Kawasaki has localized the KLX230 to keep its price competitive in the Indian market, increasing the likelihood that a localized W230 could also be introduced. The company already sells the W175 in India, a locally manufactured model, though the W175 is quite different from the new W230.
Staying true to Kawasaki’s retro design language, the W230 draws inspiration from its larger sibling, the W800. Its classic styling includes a circular LED headlight, dual analogue gauges with a digital display, and chrome accents on various parts of the bike. The engine casings also carry a vintage look, distinguishing it from the KLX230, though both share the same internal bore and stroke dimensions of 67x66mm. The official USA website does not list power figures, but the W230’s torque output of 18.98Nm is slightly higher than the KLX’s 17.89Nm.
The W230 is designed for easy handling, with a low 745mm seat height and a light 143kg kerb weight. This makes it about 40 kilograms lighter than competitors like the Royal Enfield Hunter 350, while offering similar power, estimated at around 20hp.
It remains unclear if Kawasaki India plans to localize the W230 for the Indian market. On one hand, the bike has the potential to succeed as it offers more power than the W175, making it a serious competitor to Royal Enfield models. If localized, the W230 could be priced similarly to the Hunter 350.
However, Kawasaki’s previous investment in the W175, which did not perform well in the market, might make the company hesitant to undertake another similar project.
