KAWASAKI Japan unveiled the world premiere of the new W230 model at the Japan Moto Show 2023. It is a retro sport with a cabuton-style exhaust system and an orthodox air-cooled OHC engine. The new "MEGURO S1" of the MEGURO series was also unveiled at the same time, based on the W230 and equipped with high-class chromium parts and special fuel tank emblems.
"W" is back in the middle class! Pursuing retro-sport styling
The "W" series, KAWASAKI's beloved retro-sports model, ceased to be offered in the regular motorcycle class in 2008, with only the W800 currently in the lineup. The W230 is a new retro sports model that carries on the lineage of the W series.
The engine is an air-cooled 4-stroke SOHC single-cylinder, with a steel double-cradle frame, round single-light headlight, "ESTRELLA"-style teardrop fuel tank, dual analog meters, spoked wheels, steel fenders, and cabuton-style exhaust system. It also features a long, retro-patterned seat, a design typical of the youngest siblings of the "W" series. Although figures have not yet been released, the model is said to be easy to handle due to its low seat height and lightweight chassis, and it is certain to be a friendly model for women and beginners.
The W230, shown for the first time in the world, with detailed specifications yet to be announced, but the retro-sport styling is typical of the W Series itself.
Based on its shape, the engine to be installed is believed to be a 232cc air-cooled single-cylinder similar to the KLX230. The W series in the standard motorcycle class was revived!
100th anniversary of MEGURO brand! MEGURO is also new to the middle class
KAWASAKI is launching the MEGURO K3, a variation of the W800, in 2021 to commemorate its partnership with MEGURO, and the MEGURO brand, which began in 1924, will celebrate its 100th anniversary in 2024. The new MEGURO S1 was introduced to commemorate this occasion.
Although the base model seems to be the same as the W230, the specifications of this model carry on the lineage of the MEGURO SINGLE as "the legitimate successor to the Kawasaki 250 MEGURO SG launched in 1964. The air-cooled engine, black and chromium fuel tank with a classic but luxurious feel, and spoked wheels are all well balanced to carry on the craftsmanship of the MEGURO. The price and release date have not yet been determined, but this new model is expected to bring the MEGURO experience to the middle class!
MEGURO S1, announced at the same time as the W230, is positioned as the successor to the MEGURO SINGLE.
Basic equipment and specs appear to be the same as the W230, with air-cooled OHC engine, steel fenders, and cabuton-style exhaust system.
The fuel tank and side covers will have the MEGURO emblem and prints as on the MEGURO K3. The beautiful black and silver styling is distinctive.
A 1964 MEGURO SG on display at the Moto Show 2023. Its sophisticated design was inherited by the MEGURO S1!
