Kawasaki W800 showcased at a dealership to gauge response

Remember earlier this week, the discussion on the auto corridor, the arrival of the Kawasaki's retro-styled motorcycle W800 in India. What lent credence to the discussion was the sighting of the model at a Pune dealership.

The images of the Kawasaki W800 from a dealership has been doing the rounds on the internet and now what we understand is that the motorcycle has been showcased at the dealership to gauge the response of the customer before its launch in the country. Although reports suggest that Kawasaki will bring the W800 to India soon, the launch is likely to be depending on the demand for the model. Kawasaki has not revealed any time lime for the launch of the W800. However, rumours indicate that the launch is likely to happen in early 2017.

To be powered by 773cc V-twin air-cooled engine, the W800 will compete against the likes of Triumph Bonneville range in India. The engine can churn out 47bhp and 60Nm of torque mated to a five-speed transmission. In terms of dimensions, Kawasaki W800 measures 2,190mm in length, 790mm in width, and 1,075mm height. It features 1,465mm wheelbase and 125mm ground clearance and comes with a 14-litres of fuel tank capacity. Based on the double-cradle and high-tensile steel, the W800 features 39mm telescopic fork up front and five-way adjustable twin shocks at the rear. Braking power comes from 300mm disc twin-piston caliper at the front and 160mm drum brake at the rear.

While it is not clear whether the motorcycle will be brought to India as completely knocked down (CKD) or completely built unit (CBU), rumours are rife that the bike is likely to carry a price tag of around Rs 10 lakh. The W800, which started its journey in the global market in 2007 is expected to be phased out of European market next year.