Kawasaki revives Ninja 300, updates W175 LTD for 2026

MANILA: Kawasaki Motors Limited has brought back the Ninja 300 ABS, marking the return of one of the most popular entry-level sportbikes to its lineup from the Japanese manufacturer.

Likewise, the Akashi, Hyōgo-headquartered motorcycle company has updated the W175 LTD, which is one of its smooth, stylish, and enjoyable motorbikes. 

Here is a quick look at the said models: 

Other stories: Gumande LY-02 now in PH Yamaha PH Racing Team progresses further at 2026 ARRC campaign New Ducati Panigale V4 debuts at PSBK with win for Access Plus Racing

Kawasaki Ninja 300 ABS

Powerplant 

True to its moniker, the Kawasaki Ninja 300 ABS packs a 296 cubic-centimeter (cc) liquid-cooled, parallel-twin engine, which, according to the manufacturer, blends strong performance with everyday usability.

It uses lightweight pistons with flat crowns that maximize combustion efficiency, as well as a compression ratio that helps reduce piston operating temperatures for improved reliability. 

Further, the powerplant benefits from a sleeveless, die-cast aluminum cylinder with plated bores. The said component, which is similar to that found on Kawasaki’s high-performance Ninja ZX-10R and Ninja ZX-6R models, features an open-deck design for excellent heat dissipation.

Chassis, suspension

With respectable performance, the Kawasaki Ninja 300 ABS is still able to deliver a smooth ride, thanks to appointments like a balancer shaft, partial rubber engine mounting, and a carefully designed crank web.

Chassis stability comes from a strong yet lightweight steel-tube diamond frame that delivers the durability and stability expected from a high-performance sportbike.

It is made out of high-tensile steel main tubes reinforced with gusseting to provide excellent longitudinal rigidity, which is ideal for either cornering or navigating city streets.

Suspension-wise, the Kawasaki Ninja 300 ABS packs a 37 millimeter (mm) telescopic front fork tuned to balance comfort and performance. At the rear, Kawasaki’s Uni-Trak linkage-equipped suspension system ensures consistent stability across a wide variety of road conditions and operating levels.

Stopping power comes from 290 mm petal disc brakes at the fore with a dual-piston caliper that delivers strong stopping power and a natural feel at the lever. At the rear, a 220mm petal disc paired with a two-piston caliper ensures balanced, dependable braking.

Fit, finish

The fairings of the Kawasaki Ninja 300 ABS carry forward the unmistakable styling language of Kawasaki’s Ninja family, which gives the motorcycle a true “big bike” appeal, despite having an approachable displacement size.

At the front is a sharp cowling with a floating-style windscreen, mounted cleanly. Front and center is its aggressive dual headlamp cluster. 

Viewing the bike from the side makes the supersport-style fuel tank (which is flared and forward-slanting) more noticeable.

Its rear flaunts a short-style muffler, minimalist tail cowl, and a wide tire — giving the Kawasaki Ninja 300 ABS a more muscular stance.

Kawasaki W175 LTD

Engine

In betwixt the rider’s thighs is a 177 cc air-cooled, single-cylinder engine that is tuned for strong low to mid-range torque, making it ideal for urban exploration, as well as some back road riding.

The engine is paired with a five-speed transmission designed to maximize the engine’s torque. 

Unlike the aforementioned Kawasaki Ninja 300 ABS, the W175 LTD has an open engine, which plays a key role in its aesthetics.

Frame, ride dampening

Supporting the engine is a highly rigid semi-double cradle frame that forms the foundation of its confident, laid-back riding character.

Dampening of road imperfections, which is common in urban areas, is facilitated by 30 mm telescopic forks with 110 mm of stroke. At the rear, dual shock absorbers provide 65 mm of stroke and feature five-way preload adjustability, allowing riders to fine-tune their setup for solo or two-up riding.

Smooth deceleration and quick halts are possible by way of a 270 mm front disc brake paired with a two-piston caliper, as well as a drum brake at the rear, which contributes to the motorcycle’s vintage-inspired aesthetic while providing dependable braking support.

Classic styling

Neo-vintage styling is achieved thanks to a round chrome-rimmed headlamp and an elegantly shaped fuel tank. Likewise, an analog-style instrumentation reinforces its vintage appeal.

The bodywork flows smoothly from the fuel tank to the stepped seat, which features a gently sloping design for a distinctive cruiser-like silhouette. 

At the back, the Kawasaki W175 LTD uses a taillight reminiscent of the W800, as well as a W-style rear fender, and an easy-to-grip passenger grab bar.

Pricing, availability 

Currently, the said models are available in the United States, with the Kawasaki Ninja 300 ABS sporting a starting price of USD4,999 (approximately P302,104), while the W175 LTD gets an entry price of USD2,999 (around P181,253).

Also read:

Kawasaki takes lion’s share of PH tricycle market in 2025

Kawasaki PH launches new ATV

Kawasaki PH expands lifestyle line-up

Connect with us through our various social media pages:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ZigWheelsPhilippines

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zigwheelsph/

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@zigwheels

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@ZigWheelsPhilippines/