There’s no denying that Indians have associated the Japanese bike manufacturing outfit Kawasaki with their Ninja Sports bike models for a long time. However, many are not aware that when the company first stepped into the market, back in the mid-1960s, Kawasaki developed the 1966 W1- their first big capacity machine. Moreover, the W1 engine draws inspiration from the BSA A7. While it is convenient to hit Google for a detailed narration on the definitive history of Kawasaki, bike enthusiasts must realize that the W800 pays homage to the W1. For many, the iconic motorcycle manufacturing outfit has done a stunning job with that.

KAWASAKI W800 BLACK EDITION Motorcycle

One glance at the Kawasaki W800 will remind every bike aficionado of the clichéd sentiment, i.e., keeping it simple. The bike model manages to hold its own despite the minimalistic approach- something that all other bike designers do to hog attention. But what you get with the W800 is no over-the-top razzmatazz, thereby giving off retro vibes.

Authentic Retro

The bike has been skillfully designed with an eye-popping exterior finish. The large fuel tank comes with a deep matte black coloring and a matte grey side panel. While the black metal fenders are expertly integrated for a close look, the tail lamp is traditionally installed of the stubby rear fender, which is a direct shout-out to the bikes of the’60s and ’70s.

As mentioned already, the bike as a whole draws a great deal of inspiration from the 19566 W1. However, it also involves a ting of modern-day styling with the blacked-out engine and handlebar that strike a contrasting combination with the chrome wire-spoke wheels and the pea-shooter exhaust pipes. All said and done; the LED headlamp is one element that goes against the overall retro theme of the bike.

More than Skin-Deep

There’s no denying that the W800 gives major retro vibes with original exterior features. However, one must not let go of the powerful engine in the vehicle. This is another significant section that has directly replicated the brilliance of the W1. The bike comes with a 773 CC, air-cooled twin-cylinder unit. Furthermore, it also features a tube drive with beveled gears for the SOHC and eight-valve head.

Moreover, the bike also has the fabled 360-degree crank, meaning both pistons rise and fall together- a signature Kawasaki retro move. This has been accepted positively among the more prominent bikers’ community. This is since the overall setup of the W800 provides an authentic old-school bike riding experience.

If the rider presses the tiny starter button, the exhaust note out of the pea shooters automatically produces thrummy noise. It is essential to mention that the noise only builds with the revs climbing, thereby contributing to heartwarming joy. The bike engine is well-known for producing 52hp at 6,500rpm and 62.9Nm of torque at 4,800rpm. Furthermore, the vehicle can reach 0-60kph sprint within a mere 2.84sec, while 100kph is available within 6.12sec only. This is sufficiently quick for a bike that weighs about 224kg. If you can maintain the motorcycle in ideal conditions, you will see the motorcycle quickly hit the 160-170kph mark much quickly, without any hassle.

Rides like A Charm

W800 is skillfully designed with the classic motorcycle setup, i.e., 41mm telescopic fork, the basic double-cradle frame, and preload-adjustable twin shocks at the rear. They contribute exceptionally to the overall performance of the bike model. For an intelligent understanding, the suspension settings will impress the rider and the soft absorption against bad roads, thereby preventing inconvenience over undulations.

It is essential to mention that the low rear suspension travel (107 mm) may lead the shocks to struggle over challenging potholes. Lastly, riders must also keep in mind the 130 mm ground clearance. If the preload is set up correctly, with the presence of a pillion, the rider will be well set to get through the rough stuff while not exposing the belly.