As Kawasaki’s W Series looks forward to the 60th anniversary of the introduction of its first model, the 1965 650-W1, the new W230 retro sport model brings the rich heritage of classically styled machines with tried-and-true performance to the 250cc class. Complementing the traditional styling and classic ride feel inspired by the models of yesteryear, the W230’s light weight and low seat height give it an accessibility that opens the experience to an even wider audience of authentic motorcycling enthusiasts.
FEATURING:
60 YEARS OF W HERITAGE
AUTHENTIC RETRO STYLING
JAPANESE CRAFTSMANSHIP AND BUILD QUALITY
SLIM, COMPACT AND LIGHTWEIGHT CHASSIS: 143 kg (133 kg DRY)
For both the looks from the outside and the feel when riding, the W230’s engine delivers a vintage character. Special care was given to the design to produce classic looks in a modern engine, with sculpted engine parts including large, rounded fins on the cylinder head.
TIMELESS BEAUTY
Regal W-Family Proportions
The machine’s overall proportions are well-balanced, with a classic-looking silhouette inspired by the original W and its older siblings in the W series.
TIMELESS BEAUTY
Classic-Style Teardrop Fuel Tank with 3D Emblem
The fuel tank’s teardrop shape contributes to the timeless beauty of a W model, while a specially designed 3D emblem catches the eye and distinguishes this model within the category.
TIMELESS BEAUTY
Traditional Instrumentation
Round, retro-style gauges with a built-in LCD display offer the best of both worlds: classic,easy-to-read looks with the added information a modern LCD display.
TIMELESS BEAUTY
Retro-Style Lighting
Retro-style headlight and taillight feature round housings reminiscent of the original W models.
TIMELESS BEAUTY
Vintage Look and Feel
Details like a classic seat design, steel fenders, and spoked wheels contribute to the machine’s timeless beauty and a vintage feel that riders will notice when they first sit on the machine.
The W230 carries on the proud tradition of the W series with styling touches that have been in-style since the original W. The W230 possesses a simple, timeless beauty that lovers of classic motorcycles will appreciate.
CLASSIC W RIDE FEEL
Pleasant Ride Feel at Low Speeds
When riding, the engine offers a pleasant pulsating sensation thanks to the crankshaft’s high moment of inertia. Ample torque from the initial twist of the throttle provides a fun, engaging ride quality—especially in the low-to mid-rpm range.
CLASSIC W RIDE FEEL
Large-Diameter Spoked Wheels
Spoked 18” front and 17” rear wheels lend the W230 a distinguished, stylish look and feel that contributes to smooth handling as well as a big-bike appearance.
CLASSIC W RIDE FEEL
Elegant Muffler with Fine-Tuned Exhaust Note
The header pipe flows elegantly from the engine and ends in a peashooter-style silencer to recreate the beautiful look of early W models for true classic styling. The exhaust note was fine-tuned to produce a deep bass sound and pulsing sensation when accelerating. When cruising, the exhaust volume is approximately the same level as wind noise, contributing to a pleasant ride feel.
CLASSIC W RIDE FEEL
Relaxed Riding Position
Position of the handlebar, seat and footpegs put the rider in a relaxed, upright position that facilitates control of the bike.
Special attention was given to ensuring that the W230 has a pleasant, rumbling character when twisting the throttle at low- to mid-rpm. The classic riding position, rhythmic pulse, and fine-tuned exhaust note add to rider enjoyment.
LIGHTWEIGHT CHASSIS FOR HIGH ACCESSIBILITY
Slim, Compact Chassis
The chassis is slim with compact proportions for smooth, easy handling for a wide range of riders. The slim design also contributes to a relaxed reach to the ground for the rider’s feet.
LIGHTWEIGHT CHASSIS FOR HIGH ACCESSIBILITY
Light Weight, Light Handling
The W230 is one of the lightest models in the 250cc retro sport category at 143 kg (133 kg dry), which facilitates handling and enhances rider confidence. An excellent power-to-weight ratio is another benefit.
LIGHTWEIGHT CHASSIS FOR HIGH ACCESSIBILITY
Low Seat Height
With one of the lowest seat heights in its class, the W230 is suited to a wide range of riders,bringing the W heritage to a broader audience and making this W one of the most accessible machines in the 250cc class.
LIGHTWEIGHT CHASSIS FOR HIGH ACCESSIBILITY
Predictable Handling Character
Steering was designed to be unhurried like the machines of yesteryear, with the machine reacting predictably to the rider’s inputs and flowing smoothly into turns.
Comfortable cruising and light, predictable handling
The W230’s frame is slim, compact and lightweight, and the seat height is low, facilitate handling for a wide range of riders and making it highly accessible for both for new and returning riders. The result is a compact, well-balanced motorcycle chassis.