Kawasaki has made big waves at the Japan Mobility Show 2023 with the introduction of its 40th anniversary Ninja lineup. Enthusiasts have reacted positively to this revival of a beloved vintage paint and graphics scheme. Motorcycle fans love the nostalgia for historic moto design high points.
In addition to the Ninjas, Kawasaki has also unveiled a few other bikes at the Japan Mobility Show 2023. It’s not clear yet if these bikes will be released in other markets. Let’s take a closer look at all three models.
Kawasaki Meguro S1
Kawasaki filed a trademark application for the name ‘Meguro’ back in 2019. Meguro comes from one of the companies that merged to form Kawasaki back in 1964. The Kawasaki Meguro K3, introduced in December 2020, was based on the W800. However, it was unlikely to come to the US since the W800 was already available there.
Now, in October 2023, Kawasaki has unveiled the new Meguro S1 at the Japan Mobility Show 2023. While full specs have not been released, Kawasaki claims that this bike is powered by an air-cooled, 250cc single-cylinder engine. It is considered the proper successor to the 1964 Kawasaki 250 Meguro SG.
Many markets in Asia, Europe, and Latin America have a love for retro-styled, air-cooled, small-displacement singles, making the Meguro S1 a potential candidate for those regions. However, in the US, street bikes in the 250cc range are not as popular. The US market tends to prefer higher displacements for street bikes. Therefore, it is unlikely that the Meguro S1 will be released in the US at this point.
Kawasaki W230
The W230 is another addition to Kawasaki’s vintage motorcycle collection. It shares design elements with the W800 but in a smaller package. The Kawasaki W230 features an air-cooled, single overhead cam single-cylinder engine and a steel double cradle frame that exudes classic motorcycle style. Similar to the Meguro S1, it is more likely to be introduced in markets that appreciate smaller-displacement bikes rather than in the US.
2024 Kawasaki KLX230
The KLX230, a popular dual sport bike, is already available in various markets, including the US. Kawasaki unveiled the updated 2024 KLX230 at the Japan Mobility Show 2023. This new model features changes to the frame, suspension, wheel travel, headlights, and seat thickness. While full specifications are not yet available, Kawasaki confirms that the 2024 KLX230 will have switchable ABS and smartphone connectivity. It’s expected to be released in markets where the previous model was available, suggesting that it will make its way to the US.