Naked Motorcycles

2012Kawasaki W800 Special Edition

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The 2012 Kawasaki W800 Special Edition is a retro-styled middleweight twin that appeals to riders seeking classic aesthetics with modern reliability. Powered by an air-cooled 773cc parallel-twin engine with fuel injection, it delivers approachable performance ideal for both experienced enthusiasts and those rediscovering motorcycling. Known for its timeless design and manageable handling, the W800 Special Edition captures vintage charm without sacrificing contemporary engineering.

Capacity: 773.0 ccm
Engine: Parallel Twin, four-stroke
Gearbox: 5-speed
Wet weight: 216.0 kg
Seat height: 790 mm
Power: 48.0 HP (35.8 kW)

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How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail10%

Cornering45%

City riding65%

Daily riding60%

Touring40%

Two-up35%

Track10%

Best for: It is built for leisurely retro-styled cruising and short-to-medium rides where style and character matter more than speed.
Built for: It has the soul of a vintage British-style twin, with a slow-revving, torquey engine and classic looks over modern aggression.
Not ideal for: This is not the bike for riders seeking high-speed thrills, aggressive cornering, or serious off-road capability.

Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.

Will it fit you?

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Your height

Inseam (optional)

Units

At 790mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2012 Kawasaki W800 Special Edition, with a relaxed knee angle of around 120 degrees and a forward-leaning riding position.

Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated. This is an approximation from category-typical geometry, not a measurement of this bike or of you - sit on one before you buy.

More bikes at 751-820 mm — Middle Ground →

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Full specifications

Engine

Capacity: 773.0 ccm
Power: 48.0 HP (35.8 kW)
Engine type: Parallel Twin, four-stroke
Power/weight ratio: 0.2222 HP/kg (wet)
Bore x stroke: 77.0 x 83.0 mm
Compression: 8.4:1
Cooling system: Air
Fuel system: Injection
Starting: Electric
Ignition: Digital
Valves per cylinder: 4
Lubrication system: Forced lubrication, semi-dry sump
Torque: Not on record - add it

Transmission

Gearbox: 5-speed
Transmission type: Manual
Final drive: Chain
Clutch: Wet multi-disc, manual

Dimensions & weight

Wheelbase: 1465 mm
Overall length: 2180 mm
Overall width: 790 mm
Overall height: 1075 mm
Seat height: 790 mm
Wet weight: 216.0 kg
Fuel capacity: 14.00 litres
Ground clearance: 125 mm
Dry weight: Not on record - add it

Chassis & suspension

Frame: Double-cradle, high-tensile steel
Front suspension: 39 mm telescopic fork
Rear suspension: Twin shocks with 5-way adjustable preload (Adjustable ride height)
Front wheel travel: 130 mm
Rear wheel travel: 105 mm
Rake (fork angle): 27.0°
Trail: 108 mm