India-Made Kawasaki W175 LTD Enters the US Market

• Announced in the US at $2,999
• W175 platform has Make in India roots through India Kawasaki Motors

Kawasaki W175 LTD has been announced for the US market with an MSRP of $2,999. It is a small retro-style commuter which will aim at new riders, students and city users. The W175 is closely tied to Kawasaki’s India operations by further expanding Indian manufacturing capabilities for the global market. Kawasaki is also depending on how this little single commuter is good enough to support the company’s global model plans, even when the brand is usually seen selling premium motorcycles.

Kawasaki India had earlier described the W175 as a complete Make in India project and said most parts were designed and developed by teams at India Kawasaki Motor’s R&D technical centre in Pune, Maharashtra. The company also stated that the W175 Street was developed and manufactured at a factory in India using Japanese technology. That is a strong official base to connect the W175 family with Indian development and production, even though the US release itself focuses on the product rather than its manufacturing origin.

In its US-spec version, W175 LTD comes with a 177cc air-cooled SOHC fuel-injected single-cylinder engine with a five-speed transmission. It is one of the most approachable members of the W family with a compact dimensions, lightweight feel, low seat, relaxed riding position and retro styling. The motorcycle will be available in two colour options, Ebony and Candy Emerald Green in the US market.

For American riders, the W175 LTD is built for commuting to campus, running across town, café rides and quick weekend escapades. Its pullback handlebar, stepped seat, 30.7-inch seat height and friendly engine tune make it less intimidating than larger entry-level motorcycles.