When Kawasaki’s original W, the W1, appeared in 1966 it was the largest-displacement Japanese model of its time. Not only did it mark Kawasaki’s first step in becoming a manufacturer of large displacement motorcycles, its design goal of becoming the fastest bike in the world was a precursor to Kawasaki’s Quest for Speed and led to the birth of legendary machines like the Z1, Ninja, ZZR1100 and Ninja H2/H2R. By today’s performance standards the W1 would not be considered a fast bike, but in its day simply riding a big bike was enough to turn heads and earn the respect of fellow riders and pedestrians alike. For riders who prefer a leisurely ride at low speed, with the throbbing pulse and throaty roar of an air-cooled Vertical Twin engine playing counterpoint, Kawasaki is proud to present the new model that was designed to capture the look and feel of this iconic bike from yesteryear. The new W800 CAFE is the latest evolution of a brand that spans 50 years. With numerous parts updated compared to the W800 SE, the W800 CAFE the retro models have been thoroughly modernised to deliver rider-friendly machines with easy handling and good stability on the highway. But not all of the changes are visible – Kawasaki’s dedication to preserving the image of the original model can be seen in the air-cooled Vertical Twin engine that meets strict modern emissions standards, the double-cradle frame with completely revised rigidity care of thicker pipe walls, and the carefully crafted exhaust sound of a Vertical Twin with a 360° crankshaft. For a taste of history, look no further than the W800 CAFE.
Iconic bevel-gear-driven cam and the clean, classic lines of this beautiful air-cooled Vertical Twin make it a key styling element of the W800 CAFE’s design. Long-stroke engine tuned for low-mid range performance delivers plenty of torquey feel-good power. The rich engine pulse reminds riders that they are piloting a Twin engine machine. Fuel injection delivers clean, efficient, hassle-free operation.
Traditional instrumentation includes individual speedometer and tachometer with classic display. A multi-function LCD screen incorporates an odometer, trip-meter, and clock. A full range of indicator lamps includes an FI warning lamp, dual turn signal indicators, low fuel level indicator, high beam indicator, neutral indicator, and oil pressure warning lamp.
The voluptuous curves of the fuel tank naturally draw the eye, making it another key styling element. Its larger volume (increased from 14 litres to 15 litres) gives it more presence, creating a more powerful impression than its predecessor.
The W800 CAFE features a stylish two-person cafe seat designed for comfort and sporty good looks.
Stronger stopping power comes care of a larger-diameter 320 mm diameter front disc paired with a 270 mm diameter rear disc (previously a drum-type brake). ABS is standard for the 2019 Model W800 CAFE.
The black wider aluminium rims add to the W800 CAFE’s composed highway handling and style. Lightweight aluminium rims are highly resistant to corrosion. The spokes and nipples are treated with a special finish that allows dirt to be simply wiped off. Tube-type bias tyres offer a traditional tread pattern
Simple front and rear fenders contribute to the bikes’ sporty looks, while their simple design provides an excellent base for customisation.
On the W800 CAFE, a cafe-racer-image front cowl contributes to racy looks. modern designs, the large ø170 mm LED headlamp casts a bright, white light or great night-time visibility. It features six chambers (four for low-beam, two for high-beam). Position lamps in the high-beam chambers ensure the whole lamp appears lit, like a retro-style bulb headlamp. Details like a convex lens and chromed headlamp ring add to the high-quality, classic design.
While the double-cradle frame looks unchanged from its predecessor, it is in fact all new. The required rigidity of each and every piece was re-evaluated. Then, while keeping the pipe outer diameters unchanged, the pipe thicknesses were adjusted as necessary. Round tubes with a smooth finish and minimum welds and gussets contribute to the quality appearance.
The addition of an Assist & Slipper Clutch offers both a much lighter feel at the lever, as well as a back-torque limiting function that helps prevent rear-wheel hop when downshifting.
A larger front fork with stiffer springs, more rigid lower triple-clamp and stiffer rear shock complement the more rigid new frame. Telescopic front fork features stiff, 41 mm tubes and easily soaks up bumps on well-travelled city streets
The handlebars and seat on the W800 SE18MY and the W800 CAFE result in very different riding positions. While both afford relaxed, vintage-style riding positions that accommodate a wide range of riders, the W800 SE 18MY offers a more upright, “classic bike” style position, where the W800 CAFE’s sporty position is more forward-leaning. Also compact switch-gear, designed to add a vintage touch, gives the handlebars a light, uncluttered appearance. But beneath the retro-style exterior, modern internals ensure reliable performance.
The W-Brand is one of the Original Kawasaki Icons from the start in 1965.
Click Here to be transported to the Kawasaki Global W-Brand website. On this website you can learn more about the heritage of the W-Brand.
*This website does show models that are not available in Australia.
| Engine | |
|---|---|
| Model | 2019 W800 CAFE EJ8000CKF |
| Engine Type | Air-cooled, 4-stroke Vertical Twin |
| Displacement | 773 cm³ |
| Bore X Stroke | 77.0 x 83.0 mm |
| Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 |
| Valve System | SOHC 8 valve, Bevel Drive |
| Fuel System | DFI 2 X 34 mm with Sub Throttles |
| Ignition | TCBI with Digital Advance |
| Starting | Electric |
| Transmission | 5-speed with Positive Neutral Finder |
| Frame | |
|---|---|
| Wheel Travel Front | 130 mm |
| Wheel Travel Back | 107 mm |
| Tyre | |
|---|---|
| Front | 100/90-19M/C 57H 130 |
| Rear | 130/80-18M/C 66H |
| Suspension | |
|---|---|
| Front | 39 mm telescopic fork |
| Rear | Twin rear shock with 5-way adjustable spring preload |
| Brakes | |
|---|---|
| Front | 320 mm diameter single disc with twin piston caliper, ABS |
| Rear | 270 mm diameter single disc with twin-piston caliper, ABS |
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| L x W x H | 2,135 mm x 825 mm x 1,135 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1,465 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 130 mm |
| Seat Height | 790 mm |
| Curb Mass | 223 kg |
| Fuel Capacity | 15 litres |
| Performance | |
|---|---|
| Max Power | 35kW @ 6,500 rpm |
| Maximum Torque | 60.0 N.m @ 2,500 rpm |
| Colour/s | Ebony |
| Warranty | 24 Months Unlimited Kilometres |