2020 Kawasaki W800 Cafe Guide

2020 Kawasaki W800 Cafe

2020 Kawasaki W800 Cafe 2020 Kawasaki W800 Cafe 2020 Kawasaki W800 Cafe 2020 Kawasaki W800 Cafe 2020 Kawasaki W800 Cafe

2020 Kawasaki W800 Cafe : RETRO STYLE ICON.

2020 Kawasaki W800 Cafe.

The W800 CAFE captures the look and feel of Kawasaki’s original, iconic W1 model of 1966. The W800 CAFE motorcycle has been thoroughly modernized and is for riders who prefer a leisurely ride to the pulse and throaty roar of the retro air-cooled vertical twin engine.

First introduced in 1965, the iconic W is back, now reborn in the all-new 2019 W800. All the swagger of the original resounds in the throb of the Vertical Twin engine churning out heaps of torquey power, the throaty roar of the crafted dual exhausts, and the characteristic handling that comes from a sturdy frame with large-diameter wheels. Turn heads and earn the respect of fellow riders and pedestrians alike aboard this stunningly styled classic.

The 1960s spirit runs deep in the Kawasaki W retro-classic lineup with class-leading authentic styling, sound and feel. A true throwback to the iconic W1, modern W800 motorcycles are meticulously crafted to pay homage to the past, all while thoughtfully incorporating modern technology and features.

For 2020, Kawasaki brings class-leading authentic styling, sound, and feel to the category of retro motorcycles. In building the W800, Kawasaki has meticulously crafted one of the most authentic retro bikes in appearance and design, paying homage to the past, all while tastefully incorporating modern technology and features. With the arrival of the W800, riders in search of a taste of history can now enjoy two flavors of W, the W800 and the W800 CAFE.

Developed for riders in search of a well-rounded bike that is not only rich in history and character, but also packed with modern technology, the W800 is powered by an air-cooled 773cc vertical twin engine, and features an updated modern double-cradle frame design and modern suspension components that bring an unmatched level of authenticity and performance to the retro motorcycle category.

The sleek sweeping contours and meticulous fit and finish of the W1 redefined the standards of motorcycle design in the 1960’s Kawasaki has applied the same meticulous attention to detail in building the W800, from the iconic appearance of the air-cooled bevel gear driven vertical twin engine to the elegant gas tank and muffler design, all the way down to the retro themed wheels.

The W800 motorcycle is packed with plenty of modern technology, such as the clean running engine, ABS brakes, Assist and Slipper Clutch, Kawasaki advanced analysis designed frame, and an LED headlamp.

 

 

Highlights of the 2020 W800:

  • Retro café-racer styling
  • Disc brakes with ABS
  • Sculpted fuel tank
  • Round LED headlamp
  • Café-racer front cowl
  • Clubman-style handlebar
  • Black alumite rims
  • Café-racer seat

 

 

 

2020 Kawasaki W800 Cafe Totalmotorcycle.com Key Features
  • ICONIC VERTICAL TWIN ENGINE WITH BEVEL GEAR DRIVE CAMSHAFT
  • CRAFTED EXHAUST NOTE EMITS HEARTY ROAR
  • MODERN ASSIST AND SLIPPER CLUTCH
  • LED HEADLIGHT
  • VINTAGE RIDING POSITION
  • TRADITIONAL INSTRUMENTATION

 

Iconic, Powerful Vertical Twin Engine & Transmission

The W800 motorcycle features a 773cc air-cooled, fuel injected, SOHC, vertical twin-engine configuration, with a bore and stroke of 77.0 mm x 83.0 mm, which offers plenty of low-mid range performance and torque. The engine utilizes a heavy-flywheel that was chosen to create the strong low-mid range torque character. The fuel injection offers precise fuel delivery to the engine, clean emissions, as well as easy starting. A pair of 34 mm throttle bodies have been arranged to ensure a straight line from the airbox to the cylinders. Long, slim intake funnels deliver enhanced low-mid range performance. The engine also utilizes sub-throttles that aid in reduced noise emissions and help ensure ideal engine response. To ensure broad, widespread, responsive power a bevel gear cam drive and SOHC four-valve per head configuration was chosen. A slick-shifting five-speed transmission has a gear for any occasion a rider may encounter.

The classic, retro muffler design is comprised of smooth curves and long, straight flowing lines. The peashooter-style silencers with slim chambers and long tailpipes contribute to the bike’s classic look. The mufflers emit the throaty exhaust note for which parallel twin engines are famous. The twin mufflers were carefully tuned to bring out the engine note of the vertical twin 360-degree crankshaft configuration, which was also used in Kawasaki’s original W1 to create a hearty roar that complements every twist of the throttle.

In building the W800, creating a beautiful engine was a key concept when designing the air-cooled vertical twin. The classic-styled engine is lightweight, playful, simple and a joy to behold. The iconic bevel-gear-driven cam adds beauty to the cylinder head while also contributing to the engine’s classic retro styling and appearance. The chrome bevel-gear cover on the mostly silver engine of the W800 draws attention to the engine’s classic form and inherent beauty. The fuel injection components have been cleverly concealed, giving the engine bay a clean, uncluttered appearance. The rich appearance and character of the engine are nicely complemented when coupled with the strong bottom-end response, enhancing the timeless pleasure derived from riding a classic motorcycle.

 

Assist & Slipper Clutch

Complementing the transmission is an Assist & Slipper Clutch, race-inspired technology that offers both a light feel at the lever as well as a back-torque limiting function.

The assist function is noticed by the lighter pull at the clutch lever, helping to reduce rider fatigue especially in stop and go traffic situations.

The slipper function is noticed when excessive engine braking occurs as a result of quick or accidental downshifts. The slipper cam comes into play, forcing the clutch hub and operating plate apart, which relieves pressure on the clutch plates to reduce back-torque and help reduce rear wheel hop or skidding.

 

Chassis

The double-cradle frame design is reminiscent of that of its predecessor, and was designed using Kawasaki’s advanced dynamic analysis software to determine the  rigidity required for each piece of tubing to ensure optimized performance. Then, while keeping the pipe outer diameters unchanged, the pipe thicknesses were adjusted as necessary.

The double-cradle frame configuration uses a sturdy, 50 mm square-section backbone to give the W800 a very confident ride quality and well-balanced overall design. Complementing the 50 mm square-section backbone, round downtubes were chosen to enhance the retro appearance. Gussets and brackets were kept to a minimum for improved aesthetics and reduced weight.  Round tubes with a smooth finish and minimum welds and gussets contribute to the high-quality appearance. A highly rigid swingarm design further enhances handling qualities while minimizing weight.

 

Suspension

Staying true to the retro appearance while incorporating modern handling, the W800 motorcycle is equipped with a large diameter front fork with stiff springs, a highly rigid lower triple-clamp and sturdy dual shocks to complement the more rigid new frame.

A telescopic front fork features 41mm tubes that easily soak up bumps on well-travelled city streets. The dual rear shock absorbers with adjustable spring preload offer a smooth ride and clean look.

 

Brakes & Wheels

Handling the stopping duties of the W800 is a full disc brake setup featuring modern ABS. The strong and responsive stopping power comes via a large-diameter 320 mm front disc paired with a 270 mm rear disc.

To maintain the classic appearance as well as handling of a true vintage machine, large 19” front and 18” rear wheels were chosen, providing a balance of relaxed, light turning and straight-line stability. The large front wheel contributes to a characteristic unhurried steering feeling. The sturdy, lightweight aluminum rims are highly resistant to corrosion. The spokes and nipples are treated with a coating which allows dirt and grime to be simply wiped off. Tube-type tires offer a traditional tread pattern and plenty of traction.

 

Ergonomics

The W800 features a relaxed riding position, more upright than the sporty, forward leaning position of the W800 CAFE. The W800 also features a long, comfortable tuck and roll seat with thick, ribbed padding and offers plenty of room for both the rider and a passenger. The front of the seat was shaped to facilitate the reach to the ground and the seat features piping around the edge. For increased rider comfort, the W800 has been equipped with a five position adjustable clutch lever and four position adjustable front brake lever to enable riders to fine-tune lever position.

 

Styling

The W800’s engine features a raw aluminum look, drawing attention to its classic form and inherent beauty. The engine’s iconic bevel-gear cover is finished in chrome, adding a sparking highlight, while the steel piece throttle body cover is finished in a rich black paint.

The chassis of the W800 follows the design concept of simplicity, functionality, and elegance. Large diameter, spoked wheels and a traditional steel double-cradle frame create a well-balanced package with classic proportions. On the fuel tank, chrome tank emblems complement the lustrous paint and knee pads feature the same design as the W800 CAFE.

The faces on the classic dual-dial instrumentation feature model-specific typeface, reflecting the classic character of the W800. Large, 170 mm LED round turn signals have been fitted with orange lenses, adding to the classic styling. Chrome turn signal bodies contribute to the motorcycle’s high-quality looks.

Front and rear fenders are formed from steel and are chrome-plated for long life and great looks, utilizing traditional styling. Several other chrome parts have been added to highlight the W800’s brilliant paint, including: the handlebar, headlamp brackets, mirrors, chain cover, shift lever, brake pedal and oil filter cover. A buff and clear-coat finishing treatment on the fork outer tubes and engine’s crankcase cover also contribute to the W800’s high-quality appearance. The bright pieces help give the bike a lighter, more nimble look.

 

Instrumentation

The W800 is equipped with traditional instrumentation, which includes an 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 include: FI warning lamp, dual turn signal indicators, low fuel level indicator, high beam indicator, neutral indicator, and oil pressure warning lamp. Compact switchgear, designed to add a vintage touch, gives the handlebars a light, uncluttered appearance, but beneath the retro-styled exterior, modern internals ensure the reliable performance of the W800.

 

Accessories

A number of Kawasaki Genuine Accessories (KGA) will allow riders to personalize the looks of their W800 or offer added comfort or convenience. Those include grip heaters, helmet lock, tie-down hooks, chrome small engine guard, chrome rear carrier, chrome large tandem grip, chrome throttle body cover, and chrome taillight bracket. The seats from other W800 models are interchangeable, making the CAFE seat an easy option for riders looking to personalize their ride.

 

 

 

 

2020 Kawasaki W800 Cafe Totalmotorcycle.com Features and Benefits

ENGINE

Long-stroke 773cc engine is tuned for low-mid range performance and delivers plenty of torquey power.

360-degree crankshaft provides a signature engine pulse.

Balancer shaft helps dampen vibration.

Heavy flywheel contributes to the engine’s strong torque feel.

Iconic bevel gear driven single overhead camshaft activates four valves per cylinder. A silver bevel gear cover on the blacked-out engine adds to the classic looks.

Long, slim intake funnels enhance low-mid range performance.

 

Digital Fuel Injection (DFI®)

Fuel injection offers precise fuel metering, clean emissions and easy starting.

34mm throttle bodies are arranged to provide incoming air a straight path from the airbox to the cylinders. Sub-throttles are used to ensure ideal engine response as well as reduce noise.

 

Crafted Exhaust Note

Traditional mufflers emit the throaty exhaust note for which parallel twin engines are famous.

The twin mufflers were carefully tuned to bring out the characteristic note of the engine’s 360º crankshaft configuration, creating a hearty roar to complement every twist of the throttle.

The simple, elegant muffler design utilizes smooth curves and long, straight lines. Peashooter-style mufflers with slim chambers and long tailpipes contribute to the classic look.

Muffler internals (chamber arrangement, diameter/length  of  baffle pipe and trans-chamber pipe, and large honeycomb catalyser) were designed to deliver mid-high range performance while contributing to strict modern exhaust and noise emissions regulations.

Assist & Slipper Clutch

The assist and slipper clutch(KP) is compact and it’s operating plates help reduce lever pull for an extremely light feel at the lever. A wide engagement range helps make it easier to control.

Using the rotational forces of the clutch hub and pressure plate, the clutch is forced together during acceleration (assist function) so that fewer and lighter clutch springs can be used for a lighter feel at the lever. During high back torque, such as when too low of gear is selected during downshifting, the slipper function allows some clutch slippage to help prevent rear wheel hop and stalling due to engine lock-up.

 

 

CHASSIS

  • Double-cradle frame uses a sturdy, 50mm square-section backbone to give the W800 motorcycle a stable ride quality and well-balanced overall design.
  • Complementing the 50mm square-section backbone, round pipe downtubes contribute to the classic look. Gussets and brackets were kept to a minimum for improved aesthetics and reduced weight.
  • Round tubes with a smooth finish and minimum welds and gussets contribute to the quality appearance.
  • Kawasaki advanced dynamic analysis used to determine the exact required rigidity for each piece of tubing to ensure optimized performance with minimal weight.

 

SUSPENSION

  • A 41mm front fork with stiff springs, rigid lower triple-clamp, stiff swingarm and stiff rear shocks complement the rigid frame.
  • Rubber fork boots help protect the fork tubes and fork seals while adding to the retro appearance.
  • Dual rear shocks with adjustable spring preload add to the retro look.

 

BRAKES

  • Large-diameter 320mm front disc paired with a 270mm rear disc provide excellent response and strong stopping power.
  • ABS assists braking under certain conditions for added rider confidence.

 

WHEELS/TIRES

  • Front and rear 18-inch spoke wheels contribute to sporty handling while maintaining the vintage ride feel of a true classic machine.
  • Aluminum rims are corrosion resistant, while the spokes and spoke nipples are treated with a coating that helps shed dirt and grime when cleaning.
  • Tube-type bias ply tires have a traditional tread pattern and high grip.
  • Relaxed, vintage-style riding position.
  • M-shaped clubman-style handlebar contributes to a sporty, forward lean.
  • Five-way adjustable clutch lever and four-way adjustable brake lever enable riders to fine-tune lever position.
  • Stylish two-person cafe seat designed for comfort and sporty good looks.
  • Compact swithgear is designed to add a vintage tough and gives the handlebars a light, uncluttered appearance. Underneath the retro- styled exterior are modern internals for reliable performance.

 

INSTRUMENTATION

  • Traditional instrumentation includes individual speedometer and tachometer with classic display.
  • A multi-function LCD screen incorporates an odometer, tripmeter, 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.

 

LED Headlight  

  • Large 170mm LED headlamp casts a bright, white light for great night- time visibility.
  • Features six chambers – four for low-beam and two more for high- beam. Position lamps in the high-beam chambers ensure the whole lamp appears lit, like a retro-style bulb headlamp.
  • Convex lens and chromed headlamp ring add to the high-quality, classic design.

 

Model Variations

FEATURE W800 W800 CAFE
733cc Vertical Twin Engine 4 4
Engine color All silver Black/Silver
Wheel size 19”/18” 18”/18”
Wheel rim color Silver alumite Black alumite
Handlebar Standard handlebar, chrome Clubman-style handlebar, black
Seat Standard seat Cafe seat
F/R fender design Standard, chrome Model-specific design, painted
Turn signal design Large, round, orange Compact, clear*
ABS 4 4

 

 

 

2020 Kawasaki W800 Cafe – Totalmotorcycle.com USA Specifications/Technical Details
US MSRP Price: $9,799 USD
Canada MSRP Price: $11,499 CDN
Europe/UK MSRP Price: £ GBP (On The Road inc 20% Vat)

POWER
Engine 4-stroke, vertical twin, SOHC, 8 valves, air-cooled
Displacement 773cc
Bore x Stroke 77.0 x 83.0mm
Compression Ratio 8.4:1
Fuel System DFI® with 34mm throttle bodies (2)
Ignition Digital
Transmission 5-speed, return shift
Final Drive Sealed chain
PERFORMANCE
Front Suspension / Wheel Travel 41mm Telescopic fork/5.1 in
Rear Suspension / Wheel Travel Twin shocks with spring preload adjustability/4.2 in
Front Tire 100/90-19
Rear Tire 130/80-18
Front Brakes Single 320mm petal-style disc with 2-piston calipers, ABS
Rear Brakes Single 270mm petal-style disc with 2-piston caliper, ABS
DETAILS
Frame Type Double-cradle high tensile steel
Rake/Trail 26.0°/3.7 in
Overall Length 84.1 in
Overall Width 32.5 in
Overall Height 44.7 in
Ground Clearance 5.1 in
Seat Height 31.1 in
Curb Weight 489.5 lb**
Fuel Capacity 3.4 gal
Wheelbase 57.7 in
Color Choices Metallic Matte Fusion Silver/Metallic Spark Black
Warranty 12 Month Limited Warranty
Kawasaki Protection Plus™ (optional) 12, 24, 36 or 48 months
**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.

 

 

 

2020 Kawasaki W800 Cafe – Totalmotorcycle.com  Canadian Specifications/Technical Details

ENGINE

Displacement 773cc
Type 4-stroke, Vertical Twin
Bore and stroke 77 x 83 mm
Cooling Air-cooled
Compression ratio 8.4:1
Valve system SOHC, 8 valves
Fuel system Fuel injection: 34 mm x 2 with sub-throttles
Ignition Digital
Lubrication Forced lubrication, wet sump

BRAKES

Front: type Single 320 mm disc
Front: calipers Dual Piston
Rear: type Single 270mm disc
Rear: calipers Single-piston

DIMENSIONS

Overall length 2135 mm
Overall width 825 mm
Overall height 1135 mm
Wheelbase 1,465 mm
Ground clearance 130 mm
Seat height 790 mm
Curb mass** 222 kg (489.4 lbs.)
Fuel capacity 15 litres

DRIVETRAIN

Transmission 5-speed, return
Final drive Chain
Primary reduction ratio 2.095 (88/42)
Gear ratio: 1st 2.353 (40/17)
Gear ratio: 2nd 1.591 (35/22)
Gear ratio: 3rd 1.240 (31/25)
Gear ratio: 4th 1.000 (28/28)
Gear ratio: 5th 0.852 (23/27)
Final reduction ratio 2.467 (37/15)
Clutch Wet multi-disc, manual

FRAME

Type Double-cradle, high-tensile steel
Wheel travel: front 130 mm
Tire: front 100/90-18M/C 56H
Wheel travel: rear 107 mm (4.2 in.)
Tire: rear 130/80-18M/C 66H
Caster (rake) 26°
Trail 94 mm
Steering angle (left/right) 35º / 35º

SUSPENSION

Suspension, front 41 mm telescopic fork
Suspension, rear Twin shocks with spring preload adjustability

DETAILS

Warranty 12 months warranty

 

 

 

2020 Kawasaki W800 Cafe – Totalmotorcycle.com European Specifications/Technical Details

 

 

 

 

Manufacturer Specifications and appearance are subject to change without prior notice on Total Motorcycle (TMW).

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