Reliving the Past with the Classy Kawasaki W230
The Kawasaki W230 is a timeless classic, boasting strong acceleration capabilities.
Step back in time with the Kawasaki W230, a throwback to when Japanese motorcycles first took over the global market. This retro beauty, priced at €5,245, is Kawasaki's nod to its German roots, echoing the style of the 1966 650W1 that introduced Kawasaki to the German market.
Reminiscent of the past, the W230 boasts metallic mudguards, protective gaiters for the telescopic fork, and classic shock absorbers made of steel. The round headlight, turn signal housings, and mirrors, along with the continuous and straight seat, hark back to a simpler era. Dawdling 74.5cm above the ground behind its antler-like curved handlebar, the W230 offers a sense of security, though taller riders may find the knee position on the forward-mounted footpegs a bit uncomfortable.
Start the 233cc single-cylinder engine with a press of the starter button – cooling comes from the wind rather than water or oil coolers. Despite its humble size, the W230 moves smoothly and easily, even in heavy city traffic, with the tachometer showing a noticeable and perceptible climb in the rev range.
Filling a surprising sporty role, the W230 offers delightful dynamics despite its modest 18 horsepower. Weighing just 143kg, it effortlessly darts through curves, offering a fresh, unexpected take on the concept of "effortless handling". The motorcycle's handlebar encourages riders to engage with their surroundings, making for an exhilarating ride that quickly blows away stress and worries.
Experience Affordable Joy
The butter-soft clutch and short, crisp six-speed gearbox contribute to a sense of classic sportsmanship. However, the W230's power leaves much to be desired, especially on steep inclines, where the lack of a few more horsepower becomes noticeable. On the straights, the engine is electronically limited to 113 km/h. Despite its low power, the W230's fuel consumption is respectable, clocking in at 2.5 liters per 100 kilometers.
While the small engine produces noticeable vibrations due to the lack of a balance shaft, it never becomes boring. The motorcycle's lightweight design, narrow traditional spoke-wheeled tires, and nimble handling make it a joy to ride, whether navigating city traffic or winding country roads.
While it may lack in power compared to its ancestors, the modern W230 outshines its predecessors with better braking and stability, as it is now equipped with a dual-piston floating caliper in the front wheel and disc brakes with ABS. This combination proves significantly more manageable than the 50 horsepower controlled by drum brakes found in the original 1965 model.
Riders who spend an hour or more on the W230 report feeling grounded and refreshed, making this nostalgic ride an affordable time machine, allowing us to revisit the past without breaking the bank.
References:- Thilo Kozik, sp-x (2021), ntv.de- Various
To learn more about Kawasaki's rich history and future innovations, check out our upcoming article, "Top 10 Motorcycle Innovations of the 2025 Season". Stay tuned for all the latest news and snazzy rides from Aprilia to Triumph.
- Embracing the past with a touch of modern lifestyle, the Kawasaki W230 amalgamates technology into its classic design, offering a unique blend of nostalgia and sporty performance for motor vehicle enthusiasts.
- Besides its exhilarating handling, the W230's shape and form entwine beautifully with the contemporary sports scene, making it a ubiquitous sight amidst other lifestyle pursuits, much like how it was in the 1960s.
