Kawasaki India has launched the W175 in India at Rs 147,000 (ex-showroom, Delhi). At this price-point, the Kawasaki W175 takes over from the Ninja 300 as the company's most affordable motorcycle in India.

The W175 is on sale in two models: Standard (black) priced at Rs 147,000 and Special Edition (red), which costs Rs 149,000.

The Kawasaki W175 borrows design cues from elder sibling W800 as seen in the round headlight, tear-drop-shaped fuel tank and boxy side panel. There is also the similar looking curved fender at the rear, with the tail-light and indicators attached to it.

The ergonomics of the motorcycle appear to offer a relaxed, upright position while the 790mm, single-piece seat itself looks well padded. The bike sports a simple analogue speedometer and six tell-tale lights – neutral, high beam, turn indicators and a couple of warning lights.

The Kawasaki W175 is powered by a 13hp, 13.2Nm, 177cc air-cooled single-cylinder engine – now fed by fuel-injection to meet BS6 norms – that’s paired to a 5-speed gearbox. The power and torque figures may seem modest, but what should help the W175's case when it comes to performance is its 135kg kerb weight.

The W175's underpinnings are pretty simple. The bike employs a tubular semi double-cradle frame that's suspended by a telescopic fork and twin shock absorbers. The rear suspension travel is only 65mm and it remains to be seen how the newest Kawasaki rides over monsoon- ravaged roads in India.

Braking duties are handled by a single disc at the front and a drum at the rear. The absence of a disc brake at the rear is disappointing, considering the price point.

The Kawasaki W175 is available at all authorised dealerships and deliveries are expected to begin soon. Bookings open tomorrow and deliveries are scheduled to begin in December 2022. In the April-August 2022 period, India Kawasaki Motors has sold a total of 1,318 units, up 1.46% year on year.