Imagine a motorcycle that blends timeless aesthetics with modern functionality. That’s the essence of the Kawasaki W175 Street. Unlike its sibling, the W175, the Street variant boasts alloy wheels and tubeless tires, catering to riders who prefer a sportier touch. But is this difference just skin deep, or does the Street offer a distinct riding experience? We took the W175 Street for a spin around Mumbai and a quick dash to Pune to find out. Buckle up for a detailed review!
First Impressions: A Blast from the Past
Admittedly, upon receiving the W175 Street, I wasn’t struck by any groundbreaking design elements. It has a classic silhouette – a round headlight, a slim build, and a straightforward structure. However, to my surprise, the bike garnered quite a bit of attention on the streets. Passersby stopped to admire it, some even clicking pictures. The reason? The W175 Street evokes a sense of nostalgia, reminiscent of the iconic Bajaj-Kawasaki Boxer. Kawasaki has undeniably captured the essence of retro charm with this offering.
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Beyond the Looks: Build Quality and Functionality
The W175 Street prioritizes simplicity. This translates to a lightweight frame, a user-friendly design, and ease of maintenance. The simple bodywork also minimizes potential damage in case of a minor mishap. The overall quality feels decent – the paint job, plastic panels, and switches are on par with other commuter motorcycles. However, a couple of niggles did emerge. The fuel tank felt loosely mounted, wobbling slightly even with minimal pressure. Additionally, the rear number plate assembly rattled within the first few hundred kilometers, and the seat cover lacked grip. These aspects fall short of the premium finishing Kawasaki is known for.
Comfort and Handling: A Relaxed Ride
The W175 Street prioritizes a relaxed riding posture. The combination of a single-piece seat, flat handlebar, and center-set footpegs allows for an upright and comfortable position. You can ride with your back straight, hands comfortably placed on the handlebar, and your legs naturally gripping the tank for stability. The seat width offers good under-thigh support while remaining narrow enough for easy flat-footing. The seat foam is decent, providing comfort for hour-long rides. However, longer journeys might necessitate adjusting your position to avoid fatigue. The suspension setup, with soft springs at the front and rear, absorbs bumps effectively, even during hard landings.
Table: Key Specifications of the Kawasaki W175 Street
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | 177cc, Single-cylinder, Air-cooled |
| Power | 13 PS @ 7,500 RPM |
| Torque | 13.2 Nm @ 6,000 RPM |
| Transmission | 5-speed gearbox |
| Brakes (Front) | Disc |
| Brakes (Rear) | Drum |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 12 liters |
| Weight (Kerb) | 135 kg |
Performance and Power: A Gentle Giant
The W177cc, single-cylinder engine powering the W175 Street might not be a powerhouse, but it delivers a smooth and predictable performance. It’s perfect for navigating city traffic and cruising on leisurely rides. The 5-speed gearbox offers smooth gear shifts, making maneuvering through city streets effortless. The engine remains surprisingly quiet even at higher speeds. While the W175 Street isn’t designed for adrenaline-pumping acceleration, it maintains a steady pace on highways, making the Pune trip a comfortable experience.
Fuel Efficiency: Kind on Your Wallet
The W175 Street boasts impressive fuel efficiency, delivering a claimed mileage of around 45 kmpl. This translates to significant cost savings, especially for everyday commutes. During our test rides, the fuel efficiency figures were close to the claimed value, making it a budget-friendly option.
Safety Features: Essentials Covered
The W175 Street comes equipped with basic safety features. The front disc brake provides decent stopping power, while the rear drum brake complements it effectively. While ABS (Anti-Lock Braking System) is not offered, the overall braking setup is sufficient for controlled stopping in city conditions. However, for highway riding or aggressive riding styles, the presence of ABS would be a welcome addition.
Verdict: A Nostalgic Ride with Modern Touches
The Kawasaki W175 Street is a motorcycle that prioritizes simplicity and classic aesthetics. It offers a comfortable ride, decent performance for everyday needs, and impressive fuel efficiency. While the build quality could be improved in certain aspects, the overall package
