Since last autumn, Kawasaki has been showcasing the new classic models W 230 and Meguro S1 in Asia at various events.
The motorcycles are essentially identical, as has been the case with the Meguro brand for some time, and they are expected to be on sale by the end of 2024 and then as the 2025 model year to replace the current 175 cc.
Although the technical specifications have not been disclosed yet, we can safely speculate about these two sophisticated models dedicated to those who want a motorcycle with a perfectly classic look and absolutely affordable in terms of cost, management, and performance. The engine could derive from a unit already known, the one that equips the Kawasaki KLX 230, although with different crankcases.
Undoubtedly a four-stroke single-cylinder with air cooling, it would have two valves with a single camshaft and an almost square ratio between the stroke and the bore: 66 mm in the first case and 67 mm in the second. The compression, in the case of the KLX, is 9.4:1, the declared maximum power is 19.5 hp at 7600 rpm and the maximum torque is 20 Nm at 6100 rpm. The KLX gearbox is six-speed, but in the W it could have longer ratios and be five-speed, as is the case with its larger sister, the W 800, which, however, we remember, has a dedicated and very special mechanism.
Obviously, the frame of the Kawasaki W 230 and the Meguro S1 is as classic as one could wish for, with a double cradle frame and a tubular steel swingarm, a pair of rear shocks and a conventional telescopic fork with gaiter at the front. The wheels are spoked and are 18″ at the front and 17″ at the back. On both axles there are disc brakes with ABS.
We will keep an eye on all the news from the Japanese manufacturer.
