Kawasaki W800: All the pictures, specs and details of the newest retro

The Kawasaki W800 brings the 1960s right into the Kawasaki’s 2020 model line-up with its modern interpretation of the original W Series models from the 1960s.

Joining the Kawasaki W800 Street and CAFÉ in the new three-strong W Series line-up, the W800 is regarded as the more faithful rendition of the classic W1 from 1966, albeit with all the modern-day attributes to ensure it is as forward-thinking as it is harking back.

This is everything you need to know about Kawasaki newest retro motorcycle.

Design

While the Kawasaki W800 shares its design language with today’s W800 Street and CAFÉ – which in turn hark back to the vintage models - this is considered the ‘truest’ rendition of the original W Series.

A polished silver exposed engine represents a notably nod to the past, while chrome finishing on the bevel gear cover, front and rear fender, handlebars and headlamp brackets represents more intricate detailing than the W800’s siblings. 

Riding

Designed for riding pleasure, the Kawasaki W800 features a 19” front wheel and a more relaxed riding position, while the model-specific handlebar is intended to turn focus towards a more relaxed form of touring.

Kawasaki promises more ‘classic handling’ with the W800 courtesy of that larger front-wheel, which should ensure lighter turning and straight-line stability, providing a more unhurried riding style compared with the sportier focused W800 Street and CAFÉ.

Complementing the 773cc vertical twin is an assist and slipper cutch to eliminate rear-wheel hop on down changes, plus new ABS disc brakes front and rear.

Kawasaki W800 engine

• 773cc vertical twin four-stroke
• Fuel injection
• 48PS @ 6,000rpm
• 62.9Nm @ 4,800rpm

Equipment

Available in metallic Dark Green, the Kawasaki W800 will be offered with a range of official accessories to allow a broad range of customising options for personalisation. Prices will be announced closer to sale.

Kawasaki W800 (2020) specification