2025 Kawasaki W230 – First Look
New retro sport traces lineage back to the 1965 Kawasaki W1
Kawasaki made a big splash this week, announcing the new Ninja 1100SX and Versys 1100SX, both models getting a displacement bump to 1,099cc for 2025. But there was another Kawasaki bike announced this week that falls on the other end of the displacement spectrum that also deserves some attention: the new W230 ABS retro sport model.
The W230 is a classically styled roadster that adds to a lineage that races back to 1965 with the Kawasaki W1. Like the W1, as well as the W800 which continues to be part of Kawasaki’s current lineup, the W230 draws its styling inspiration from classic British motorcycles like the BSA A7.
While those British bikes were typically Twins, the W230 is powered by a 233cc SOHC air-cooled Single. The engine is likely based on the Single from the KLX230S and KLX230SM, with the same 67.0 mm bore and 66.0 mm stroke, and fuel injection system with dual 32mm throttle bodies. The crankcase covers differ from the KLXs, offering a classic look resembling the W1.
At 9.0:1, the W230 has a smaller compression ratio than the 9.4:1 ratios found on the KLX models, because it is designed to prioritize torque and low-to-mid-range pull and more relaxed riding than the dual-sport and supermoto models.
Kawasaki optimized the intake duct length, intake port and intake valve for quick intake airflow for smooth acceleration. The ECU programming is also tailored to optimize throttle response during initial acceleration, while the flywheel has a heavy mass to reduce throttle sensitivity and to make it less likely to stall when opening the throttle at slow speeds. These changes should make it easier for beginners to gain confidence and develop their riding skills.
The exhaust system runs under the engine to a catalytic converter positioned at the bottom of the frame directly in front of the rear wheel. A heat shield below the right foot peg covers this small detour and provides the illusion of a straight pipe leading to the peashooter silencer.
The engine is paired with a six-speed transmission, just like the KLX230 models, though it is worth noting that the W800 still only has a five-speed gearbox.
The semi-double cradle frame is optimized for rigidity and lightweight, which helps contribute to the W230’s 315.2 pound claimed curb weight.
Up front, the W230 is equipped with a non-adjustable 37 mm telescopic fork offering 4.6 inches of travel. The swingarm is directly connected to dual shocks with adjustable spring preload and 3.7 inches of wheel travel. The 18-inch front wheel is matched with a single 265 mm rotor and a dual-piston caliper, while the 17-inch rear wheel uses a single-piston caliper and 220 mm rotor. ABS comes standard.
Other features include an LCD multi-function display, low 29.3-inch seat height, relaxed, upright ergos, and a Metallic Ocean Blue/Ebony color scheme with a red 3D W tank emblem.
The 2025 Kawasaki W230 will arrive in showrooms in Winter 2025, carrying a $5,599 price tag.
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Dennis has been a part of the Motorcycle.com team since 2008, and through his tenure, has developed a firm grasp of industry trends, and a solid sense of what's to come. A bloodhound when it comes to tracking information on new motorcycles, if there's a new model on the horizon, you'll probably hear about it from him first.
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A non-retro bike for beginners that isn't Indian junk (looking at you RE). I'm all for it! And this is a great looking bike. Unfortunately, it is price way too high. You can get a Z500 for the exact same price! I don't see this bike selling well at this price and then it'll be discontinued in no time.
After looking at the frame, this thing has potential for other models like a scrambler. IF they can get the price low enough to generate sales in order to keep this bike around.
Cheap, but not as cheap as it should be, its likely a more upscale, better finished than a real cheap bike like the CSC SG250. I like air cooled bikes for the simplicity and aesthetic but there are other, better bikes at the same price range.