Paired with a lightweight, semi-double cradle frame, relaxed, upright riding position and low 29.3” seat height, 37mm telescopic fork, large-diameter spoked wheels, W-family style brake components equipped with ABS, and traditional instrumentation with modern functionality.
Review – Key Features – Features & Benefits – Specifications
2026 Kawasaki W230 ABS: AUTHENTIC RETRO STYLING.
Introducing the 2026 Kawasaki W230 ABS…
The original icon.
The latest member of Kawasaki’s W series, the W230 ABS, marks a significant expansion into the popular 250cc category, offering a 233cc retro sport motorcycle that combines timeless style with modern accessibility. The W230 ABS is powered by a 233cc air-cooled 4-stroke SOHC, single-cylinder engine that delivers a delightful, rumbling performance designed to cater to a broad range of riders. It’s paired with a lightweight, semi-double cradle frame, relaxed, upright riding position and low 29.3” seat height, 37mm telescopic fork, large-diameter spoked wheels, W-family style brake components equipped with ABS, and traditional instrumentation with modern functionality. It’s available in a Metallic Matte Dark Green colorway
This member of the W family nods to the past but rides full throttle into the future. With design inspired by the 1965 650-W1 model, the W230 motorcycle packs a modern punch with Kawasaki’s proven 233cc fuel-injected 4-stroke engine. The original icon continues with a light weight, low seat height, and friendly power character that opens ‘60s design to more riders than ever before.
2026 Kawasaki W230 ABS Totalmotorcycle.com Key Features
- 250cc class
- Retro sports model
- Authentic Retro Styling
- 233cc AIR-COOLED FUEL-INJECTED 4-STROKE ENGINE
- LIGHTWEIGHT SEMI-DOUBLE CRADLE FRAME
- ESTIMATED DRY WEIGHT OF 293.2 LB*
- RELAXED, UPRIGHT RIDING POSITION, LOW SEAT HEIGHT
- ICONIC W1-INSPIRED STYLING
- Engine balancer for reduced vibrations and refined ride quality
- Telescopic front fork and twin rear shocks for supple ride and composed handling
- Classic-style teardrop fuel tank with 3D “W” emblem
- Large round LED headlight
- Round, retro-style gauges with LCD display
- Peashooter muffler with fine-tuned exhaust note
- Disc brakes with ABS
- Painted steel fenders
- Large-diameter spoked wheels (18-in front/17-in rear)
- Chrome-plated handlebar
- Compact switchgear gives handlebar uncluttered appearance
AVAILABLE COLOURS
Candy Persimmon Red x Ebony
Metallic Matte Dark Green x Ebony
KAWASAKI ANNOUNCES FALL RELEASE OF 2026 STREET MOTORCYCLES
No matter what type of motorcycle you’re looking for, Kawasaki’s 2026 lineup has the model for you as it welcomes the return of several naked, retro, touring, adventure, cruiser, and EV models to its street motorcycle lineup. These 2026 model-year motorcycles are set to arrive in Kawasaki dealerships during the fall months so that riders can continue to “Let the Good Times Roll.”
2026 Kawasaki W230 ABS Totalmotorcycle.com Features and Benefits
Chassis Management Technology
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)
RETRO STYLING
BLAST FROM THE PAST
From fuel tank to instrumentation, the W230 retro-styled motorcycle delivers modern performance in true ’60s form.
TOPPING OFF ON STYLE
A teardrop shape fuel tank and a specially designed 3D emblem work together to make this bike an instant classic.
CUE UP THE CLASSICS
A silhouette inspired by the original W1 makes this motorcycle undeniably W. The classic seat, steel fenders, and spoked wheels make the W230 look like it’s riding in from 1965.
REMINISCE IN LUMINANCE
Everything about the lighting is designed to take you back. The large, round LED headlight features 2 chambers with position lamps—a modern iteration of the bulb headlight. Large turn signals and a highly stylized taillight work together to achieve an iconic W look.
TODAY’S TECH. VINTAGE STYLE.
The W230 motorcycle brings the best of both worlds: a modern LCD display with round, vintage-style gauges.
POWER AND PERFORMANCE
LOOK GOOD. FEEL GOOD.
Built with the power and performance of today’s standards, this retro-style motorcycle is built to stay on the streets.
CALM, AIR-COOLED, COLLECTED.
The fuel-injected 233cc air-cooled 4-stroke engine is at the core of this W230 motorcycle’s confidence-inspiring power character. It provides all the fixings for modern feel in vintage form—acceleration is strong, torque is smooth, and the engine is reliable and compact. The rumble of the engine is a testament to the approachable riding character.
SMOOTH OPERATOR
A 6-speed transmission delivers fun acceleration and easy cruising on the highway. The Kawasaki positive neutral finder makes it easy to find neutral at stops and the clutch pull is light, providing smooth engagement.
SOUNDS LIKE A CLASSIC
The header pipe flows elegantly from the engine, ending in a peashooter-style silencer reminiscent of early W design. Taking off, the muffler delivers a deep rumble and pulsing sensation. Cruising, the note is level with the wind, providing a pleasant feel.
CRUISE IN CONFIDENCE
With an estimated dry weight of 292.3 lb*, the W230 enters the category as one of the lightest in class, which means the retro motorcycle also boasts strong power-to-weight ratio. This frame is slim, compact, and lightweight, and the seat height is low, resulting in a well-balanced chassis that offers smooth, natural cornering performance and predictable handling.
RIDE YOUR WAY
A conventional 37mm telescopic fork complements twin rear shocks with a 5-step preload adjustment so you can fine-tune your suspension settings.
STOP IN STYLE
Up front, a single round 265mm front brake disc pairs with a dual-piston caliper for ample stopping power and iconic W style. In the back, a 220mm round disc operated by a single-piston caliper supports the stopping power. Kawasaki ABS (Anti-lock Brake System) is standard equipment that delivers precise braking control to help prevent wheel lockup. This adds rider reassurance that leads to greater riding enjoyment.
ERGONOMICS AND COMFORT
SIT BACK AND RELAX
Comfort and confidence ride hand in hand. The W230 retro-style motorcycle sets you up on all fronts with its approachable, rider-friendly design.
COMFORT COMES FIRST
The seat’s low height and slim profile provide a relaxed reach to the ground, while upright riding position delivers more ride comfort and easy cruising. Plus, the sculpted fuel tank offers a natural, comfortable place for knees to grip during the ride.
OH, SO SMOOTH
Rubber and vibration-absorbing weights placed strategically around the motorcycle leave you with a pleasant, pulsating ride.
FORM AND FUNCTION
On the surface, the compact switchgear gives the handlebars an aesthetic appearance. Underneath, modern internals deliver reliable performance.
2026 Kawasaki W230 ABS – Totalmotorcycle.com USA Specifications/Technical Details
US MSRP Price: $5699 USD
Canada MSRP Price: $ TBA CDN
Europe/UK MSRP Price: £ TBA (On The Road inc 20% Vat)
Japan MSRP Price: ¥ 665,500 YEN
POWER
| POWER | |
| Engine | 4-stroke, single-cylinder, SOHC, 2 valves, air-cooled |
| Displacement | 233cc |
| Bore x Stroke | 67.0 x 66.0mm |
| Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 |
| Maximum Horsepower | 17 hp¹ @ 7,000 rpm |
| Maximum Torque | 14.0 lb-ft @ 5,800 rpm |
| Fuel System | DFI® with 32mm throttle body |
| Ignition | TCBI with Digital Advance |
| Transmission | 6-speed, return shift |
| Final Drive | Sealed chain |
| Electronic Rider Aids | Anti-lock Brake System |
PERFORMANCE
| PERFORMANCE | |
| Front Suspension / Wheel Travel | 37mm telescopic fork/4.6 in |
| Rear Suspension / Wheel Travel | Twin shocks with spring preload adjustability/3.7 in |
| Front Tire | 90/90-18 |
| Rear Tire | 110/90-17 |
| Front Brakes | Single 265mm disc with 2-piston calipers, ABS |
| Rear Brakes | Single 220mm disc with 1-piston caliper, ABS |
DETAILS
| DETAILS | |
| Frame Type | Semi-double cradle, steel |
| Rake/Trail | 27.0°/3.7 in |
| Overall Length | 83.6 in |
| Overall Width | 31.4 in |
| Overall Height | 42.9 in |
| Ground Clearance | 5.9 in |
| Seat Height | 29.3 in |
| Estimated Dry Weight | 293.3 lb** |
| Curb Weight | 315.3 lb* |
| Fuel Capacity | 3.1 gal |
| Wheelbase | 55.7 in |
| Color Choices | Metallic Matte Dark Green |
*Curb weight includes all necessary materials and fluids to operate correctly, full tank of fuel (more than 90 percent capacity) and tool kit (if supplied). When equipped, California evaporative emissions equipment adds approximately 2.2 lb.
**Dry weight does not include all necessary materials and fluids to operate correctly, full tank of fuel (more than 90 percent capacity) and tool kit (if supplied).
¹This vehicle’s HP was measured according to ISO standard 4106. This ISO standard measures HP differently than the SAE standards by which the horsepower of many cars is measured, and as a result the referenced HP measurement may be higher than if it were measured by an SAE standard.
KAWASAKI CARES: Read Owner’s Manual and all on-product warnings. Always wear a helmet, eye protection and proper apparel. Never ride under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Adhere to the maintenance schedule in your Owner’s Manual. ©2025 Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A.
Specifications subject to change.
2026 Kawasaki W230 ABS – Totalmotorcycle.com Canadian Specifications/Technical Details
NA
2026 Kawasaki W230 ABS – Totalmotorcycle.com European Specifications/Technical Details
NA
2026 Kawasaki W230 ABS – Totalmotorcycle.com Japan Specifications/Technical Details
Power unit and drive system
| Maximum power | 13kW (18PS) / 7,000rpm |
| Maximum torque | 18N･m (1.8kgf･m) / 5,800rpm |
| Engine type | air-cooled 4-stroke single cylinder |
| Total displacement | 232cm³ |
| Inner diameter x stroke | 67.0mm x 66.0mm |
| Compression ratio | 9.0:1 |
| Valve Type | SOHC 2 valve |
| Fuel supply method | Fuel injection (ø32mm x 1) |
| Ignition method | Battery & coil (full transistor ignition) |
| Starting method | Electric Starter |
| Lubrication method | Forced lubrication system / wet sump |
| Engine oil capacity | 1.3L |
| Transmission Type | Constantly engaged 6-stage return |
| Primary reduction ratio | 2.870 (89/31) |
| Gear ratio 1st gear | 3.000 (39/13) |
| Gear ratio: 2nd gear | 2.066 (31/15) |
| Gear ratio: 3-speed | 1.555 (28/18) |
| Gear ratio: 4-speed | 1.260 (29/23) |
| Gear ratio 5-speed | 1.040 (26/25) |
| Gear ratio 6-speed | 0.851 (23/27) |
| Secondary reduction ratio | 2.714 (38/14) |
| Clutch type | Wet multi-plate / manual transmission |
| Power transmission method | chain |
Driving performance and chassis
| Frame Format | Semi-double cradle |
| Suspension method (front) | ø37mm telescopic fork |
| Suspension method (rear) | Swingarm (spring preload adjustable) |
| Wheel travel (front) | 117mm |
| Wheel travel (rear) | 95mm |
| caster | 27.0° |
| Trail | 99mm |
| Steering angle (left/right) | 40° / 40° |
| Tire size (front) | 90/90-18M/C (51S) |
| Tire size (rear) | 110/90-17M/C (60S) |
| Brake type (front) | Single disc (outer diameter 265mm) |
| Caliper (front) | Dual Piston |
| Brake type (rear) | Single disc (outer diameter 220mm) |
| Caliper (rear) | Single Piston |
Dimensions and weight
| Total length x width x height | 2,125mm x 800mm x 1,090mm |
| Center distance | 1,415mm |
| ground clearance | 150mm |
| Seat height | 745mm |
| Vehicle Weight** | 143kg |
| Fuel tank capacity | 11L |
| Fuel used | Unleaded regular gasoline |
| Fuel consumption rate (value reported by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism) *1 | 48.4km/L (60km/h, constant speed, with two passengers) *2 |
| Fuel consumption rate (WMTC mode value) *1 | 40.5km/L (Class 2-1, 1 occupant) *3 |
| Minimum turning radius | 2.6m |
| Passenger capacity | 2 people |
| Country of origin | Kingdom of Thailand |
| Model | 8BK-BJ230A |
| Manufacturer’s warranty | 2 years |
| Release date | September 15, 2025 |
*1: Fuel consumption rates are values under specified test conditions. They may vary depending on various conditions, such as the customer’s usage environment (weather, traffic congestion, etc.), driving method, vehicle condition (equipment, specifications), and maintenance status. *2: The constant fuel consumption value is the fuel consumption rate based on actual measurements taken while driving at a constant vehicle speed. *3: The WMTC mode value is a calculated value based on the results of exhaust gas tests measured in a driving mode that is an international standard and includes starting, accelerating, and stopping. Driving mode classes are classified according to engine displacement and maximum speed.
**The vehicle weight (maintenance weight) is the weight when the necessary maintenance for running (cruising) is performed. The weight includes oils, greases, battery fluid, etc.
The riding (sailing) images were taken by professional riders in a controlled environment. Please wear appropriate equipment and always be mindful of safety when riding (sailing).
Specifications, dimensions, and prices are subject to change without notice.
Manufacturer Specifications and appearance are subject to change without prior notice on Total Motorcycle (TMW).
