The 2021 Kawasaki W800 is a Modern Take On a True Japanese Classic

Kawasaki’s 2021 W800 is currently the only offering of a sport heritage motorcycle designed from one of Japan’s big four, Kawasaki. Designed to replicate the look and feel of the 1960’s Kawasaki W1, it uses a 773 cc, SOHC, air cooled parallel-twin that produces 51 HP and 44 lb-ft of torque. Of interest, Kawasaki designed the W800’s engine to have a slightly offset firing sequence, giving the bike the same exhaust rumble as its storied predecessor.

For 2021, only one version of the W800 is available, and is packed with modern sport motorcycle technology while keeping the retro vibe. The W800 comes standard with dual-zone ABS, an assist and slipper clutch, and digitally controlled fuel injection. As well, the 2021 W800 adopts the tuck-and-roll seat styling of the W1, finished in well padded leather.

The 2021 Kawasaki W800 starts at $9,199 USD / $11,299 CAD.

On this page: we’ve curated specs, features, news, photos/videos, etc. so you can read up on the new 2021 Kawasaki W800 in one place.

2021 Kawasaki W800


Model Overview

General Info

  • Price: $9,199 USD / $11,299 CAD
  • Key Features:
    • Retro styling, modern technology
    • Throaty and powerful 773cc engine
    • Classic exhaust styling with baffle tubes

Main Specs

  • Engine Type: 773cc SOHC air-cooled parallel twin
  • Horsepower: 51 HP
  • Torque: 44 lb-ft
  • Wet Weight: 496 lbs (225 kg)
  • Seat Height: 31.1 inches (790 mm)

2021 Kawasaki W800


2021 Kawasaki W800 Specifications

From Kawasaki

ENGINE

Engine 773cc SOHC air-cooled parallel twin
Power 51 hp
Bore x Stroke 77.0 x 83.0mm
Compression Ratio
8.4:1
Fuel System DFI®with 34mm throttle bodies (2)
Starter Electric
Lubrication

DRIVETRAIN

Clutch
Transmission 5-speed, return shift
Final Drive Sealed chain

CHASSIS

Suspension Front 41mm telescopic fork with/5.1 in
Suspension Rear Twin shocks with spring preload adjustability/4.2 in
Brakes Front Single 320mm petal-style disc with 2-piston calipers, ABS
Brakes Rear
Single 270mm petal-style disc with 2-piston caliper, ABS
Tires Front 100/90-19
Tires Rear 130/80-18
Fuel Tank Capacity 4.0 gal
Color
 Metallic Ocean Blue

ELECTRICAL

Ignition TCBI w/digital advance
Spark Plugs
Headlight LED
Tail Light LED

DIMENSIONS

Overall Length 86.2 in
Overall Width 31.1 in
Overall Height 42.3 in
Wheelbase 57.7 in
Ground Clearance 4.9 in
Seat Height 31.1 in
Curb Weight 496.1 lb

WARRANTY

Warranty 12 Month Limited Warranty
Kawasaki Protection Plus 12 / 24 / 36 / 48 months

2021 Kawasaki W800


2021 Kawasaki W800 Features

Assist & Slipper Clutch

Based on feedback from racing activities, the Assist & Slipper Clutch uses two types of cams (an assist cam and a slipper cam) to either drive the clutch hub and operating plate together or apart.

Under normal operation, the assist cam functions as a self-servo mechanism, pulling the clutch hub and operating plate together to compress the clutch plates. This allows the total clutch spring load to be reduced, resulting in a lighter clutch lever feel when operating the clutch.

When excessive engine braking occurs – as a result of quick downshifts (or an accidental downshift) – the slipper cam comes into play, forcing the clutch hub and operating plate apart. This relieves pressure on the clutch plates to reduce back-torque and helps prevent the rear tire from hopping and skidding. This race-style function is particularly useful when sport or track riding.

Sound Tuning

Kawasaki has long had a reputation for building great-sounding bikes – a characteristic inherent in the Kawasaki engine architecture – but it is only recently that effort has been put into crafting a specific auditory experience through careful sound tuning of either the intake or exhaust system.

Designed specifically to allow riders to enjoy their motorcycles aurally as well as physically, the carefully crafted auditory notes can be the key components of the street riding exhilaration offered by models that have benefitted from sound tuning. Sound tuning can include conducting sound research, designing intake and exhaust system components based on an acoustic test carried out in a sound room, and careful consideration of every detail of a system’s components to ensure a balance of performance and the desired sound.

ABS (Anti-lock Brake System)

Kawasaki ABS systems use front and rear wheel sensors to constantly monitor wheel speed. Should information from either of the sensors indicate that wheel lock has occurred, the ABS ECU directs the pump in the ABS unit to modulate brake fluid pressure (releasing and reapplying pressure so that traction can be regained) until normal operation resumes. ABS offers rider reassurance that contributes to greater riding enjoyment.


2021 Kawasaki W800 Photos


2021 Kawasaki W800 Videos

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1 Comment

  1. Marvin
    March 4, 2022
    Reply

    I want one, I just can’t find one in my local area to go look at. Area code 32068.

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