In a market where style meets practicality, the retro commuter segment is heating up. Two major players — Kawasaki W175 and Yamaha FZ-X — are drawing attention from enthusiasts who crave old-school charm without breaking the bank.
While both bikes offer a blend of vintage design and modern reliability, they cater to slightly different audiences. Here’s a closer look at this budget-friendly retro face-off.
Design Language: Classic vs Neo-Retro
The Kawasaki W175 sticks to a more traditional British-era design. It has a simple round halogen headlamp, minimal bodywork, and spoke wheels that remind riders of timeless motorcycles from the past. Its tank design, flat seat, and upright handlebars complete the look of a proper old-school commuter.
In contrast, the Yamaha FZ-X leans towards a neo-retro design. It borrows cues from its FZ sibling but adds unique touches like LED headlamps with DRLs, a muscular fuel tank, and a bronze finish on certain color variants. It’s more modern than the W175 but still retains enough vintage appeal to attract the younger crowd.
Engine and Performance
Under the hood, both bikes serve the urban commuter, but with different heartbeats.
- Kawasaki W175 is powered by a 177cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder engine that produces around 13 PS of power and 13.2 Nm of torque. It is mated to a 5-speed gearbox. The bike’s performance is linear, tuned for smooth city rides.
- Yamaha FZ-X comes with a 149cc, air-cooled, fuel-injected engine that churns out 12.4 PS and 13.3 Nm. It also features a 5-speed gearbox. Though slightly underpowered on paper compared to the W175, its refinement and throttle response make it suitable for city traffic.
In terms of performance, the W175 feels a tad livelier, but the FZ-X wins on engine refinement and fuel efficiency.
Ride and Comfort
The Kawasaki W175 offers a lightweight frame and a more upright riding position. Its suspension setup (telescopic front and twin rear shocks) is tuned for comfort, but its lack of features and basic ergonomics may feel outdated for some riders.
The Yamaha FZ-X comes equipped with front fork gaiters, a mono-shock at the rear, and a wider seat, making it more comfortable for longer rides. It also offers Bluetooth connectivity (Y-Connect), digital instrument cluster, and a side-stand engine cut-off — features missing in the W175.
Features and Technology
This is where the Yamaha FZ-X pulls ahead. It brings modern-day tech into the retro world:
- Full digital display
- Bluetooth smartphone connectivity
- LED lighting
- Side-stand engine cut-off
The Kawasaki W175, on the other hand, keeps things basic — no digital dash, no LED lighting, and minimal electronics. It appeals to purists who prefer a ride that feels like the good old days.
Price Comparison
Here’s how both bikes stack up in terms of pricing (ex-showroom, India):
| Motorcycle | Price (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Kawasaki W175 | ₹1.47 Lakh |
| Yamaha FZ-X | ₹1.37 Lakh |
The FZ-X undercuts the W175 slightly and offers more features for the price. However, some buyers might still lean towards the Kawasaki for its exclusivity and pure retro vibe.
Also Read:- Yamaha XSR155 vs Kawasaki W175 – Classic Style Meets Modern Engine
Final Verdict
If you’re someone who values raw simplicity, old-school charm, and classic looks, the Kawasaki W175 is a strong contender. It’s ideal for riders who want a basic, no-fuss motorcycle with vintage appeal.
On the flip side, if you’re a city rider looking for a mix of style, comfort, and features, the Yamaha FZ-X makes a compelling case. With modern tech, better ergonomics, and a more refined engine, it offers greater value in the urban jungle.
