EICMA 2010: Kawasaki W800 Retro

Japanese manufacturer Kawasaki recently took the wraps off the successor of the popular W650 classic bike, and now it has just released a video of the new retro motorcycle, which shows the machine in action. As said, the newly released W800 is the successor of the W650, launched in 2004 and later retired in 2006.

Poised to become a threat for Triumph’s Bonneville range, the new W800 is powered by a parallel 2-cylinder 800 cc engine with fuel injection that replaces the old carburetor system, capable of producing around 70 horsepower and the maximum torque offered at 2,000 rpm. The power is transmitted to the wheels via a 5-speed gearbox.

The air-cooled engine develops "loads of torquey feel-good power" according to Kawasaki, along with "the characteristic handling that comes from a sturdy frame with large-diameter wheels".

The lightweight classic-styled engine has been built by using the new air-cooled Vertical Twin concept, while featuring a bevel-gear driven cam, reminiscent of the original Ducati Desmo. In building the W800, the engineers at Kawasaki also used lightweight double-crade frame, telescopic fork at the front and dual shock absorbers with adjustable preload.

The bike’s instrumentation includes individual speedometer and tachometer with classic display. A multi-function LCD screen incorporates an odometer, tripmeter, and clock. A full range of indicator lamps includes an FI warning lamp, dual turn signal indicators, low fuel level indicator, high beam indicator, neutral indicator, and oil pressure warning lamp.

Other highlights of the new W800 include a 216kg kerb mass, a 790mm high seat and rubber knee pads on the lovingly-designed 14 liters fuel tank.