Beginning with the 650cc W1 in the mid-sixties, the W flame was relit in 1999 with the launch of the W650, a machine mixing modern technology with Kawasaki’s time-honoured approach to craftsmanship and engineering.  

The W family is not encased in a time capsule however and successive models bring things up to date with the launch of the 2022 W800. Sporting its traditional air-cooled parallel twin engine harnessing a precision engineered bevel drive system, the much-admired Euro5 compliant machine includes a host of rider-friendly technology including fuel injection, dual throttle valves and advanced ABS braking. It also sports an assist and slipper clutch easing the pressure on the riders’ clutch hand while pulling on the handlebar lever and making downshifts via the gear lever seamless.

Bringing night rides into sharp focus, the W800 relies on an LED headlamp leaving the rider to revel in the sonic response of the 360-degree phased crankshaft delivering instant and predictable pulling power while encouraging engaging weekend rides.

Shop windows are ideal to reflect on the W800’s appeal at standstill with chrome tank emblems, a tuck and roll seat (which is available in two heights as part of Kawasaki’s Ergo-Fit accessory program) plus the aesthetic and handling benefits of 19inch front and 18inch rear wire laced wheels as standard.

One look at the traditional styled meters and a comforting reach to the ergonomically compliant handlebars convinces the rider that Kawasaki has produced the most complete mechanical and technical W package yet for the 2022 season which is available in both full power and A2 compliant form.  

Modern traffic flows and pollution controls demand a modern approach, and the 2022 W800 answers these needs with ease but not at the sacrifice of heritage looks and the sort of engineering ancestry that other manufacturers dream of but are seldom, if ever, able to match.

Available in Candy Fire Red/Metallic Diablo Black for 2022, the original icon in the Kawasaki stable is ready and willing to reveal its thoroughbred nature.