The Kawasaki Ninja H2 is the ultimate supercharged sportbike that can satisfy the needs and desires of any rider who loves speed, power, technology, and style. If you are looking for a superbike that can deliver mind-blowing performance, stunning design, and cutting-edge technology, then you might want to check out the Kawasaki Ninja H2. This is a 998cc supercharged beast that can reach speeds of over 300 kmph and produce a whopping 310 PS of power. In this blog post, we will review the Kawasaki Ninja H2 and see what makes it one of the most impressive motorcycles in the world.
The Kawasaki Ninja H2 is not just a motorcycle; it’s a force of nature, a roaring testament to cutting-edge engineering and raw, unbridled power. This supercharged beast is more than just a pretty face; it’s a track-taming monster disguised in a street-legal package, designed to leave you breathless and exhilarated. But before you jump on and unleash its fury, let’s see into the soul of the Ninja H2, exploring its specifications, performance, features, and everything in between.
A Legacy of Speed: The H2 Family
The H2 isn’t the first Kawasaki to wear this legendary badge. The original Ninja H2R, introduced in 2015, was a track-only monster, boasting a mind-blowing 300 horsepower and a claimed top speed of 400 km/h (249 mph). This untamed beast paved the way for the street-legal Ninja H2 in 2019, offering a slightly detuned version of the engine while maintaining the aggressive design and cutting-edge technology. In 2022, the H2 family expanded further with the introduction of the Ninja H2 SX, a touring-oriented version that offered more comfort and practicality while retaining the H2’s signature performance.
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Specification
The Kawasaki Ninja H2 is powered by a liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, in-line four-cylinder engine with a supercharger. The engine displacement is 998 cc and it has a compression ratio of 8.3:1. The engine generates a maximum power of 310 PS at 14000 rpm and a maximum torque of 165 Nm at 12500 rpm. The engine is mated to a six-speed manual transmission with a quick shifter and a slipper clutch. The fuel tank capacity is 17 liters and the claimed mileage is 15 kmpl.
The Kawasaki Ninja H2 has a trellis frame with a single-sided swingarm. The front suspension is a 43 mm inverted fork with rebound and compression damping and spring preload adjustability. The rear suspension is a Uni-Trak gas-charged shock with piggyback reservoir, compression and rebound damping and spring preload adjustability. The front brake is a dual semi-floating 330 mm discs with radial-mount Brembo monobloc calipers and ABS. The rear brake is a single 250 mm disc with Brembo caliper and ABS.
The Kawasaki Ninja H2 has a wheelbase of 1450 mm, a seat height of 830 mm, and a ground clearance of 130 mm. The kerb weight of the bike is 216 kg. The bike has tubeless radial tyres with alloy wheels. The front tyre size is 120/600 R17 and the rear tyre size is 190/650 R17.
Highlights of Specification
- Engine: Supercharged 998cc inline-4, four-stroke
- Power: 231 PS (172 kW) @ 11,500 rpm (H2), 310 PS (230 kW) @ 11,000 rpm (H2 Carbon)
- Torque: 141.7 Nm (104.4 lb-ft) @ 11,000 rpm (H2), 165 Nm (121.7 lb-ft) @ 10,500 rpm (H2 Carbon)
- Transmission: 6-speed with quickshifter
- Chassis: Aluminum twin-spar frame, trellis subframe
- Suspension: Showa fully adjustable fork, Ohlins TTX36 rear shock
- Brakes: Brembo Stylema® calipers, dual 330mm discs (front), Brembo single-piston caliper, 250mm disc (rear)
- Weight: 238 kg (525 lb) (H2), 216 kg (476 lb) (H2 Carbon)
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 17 liters (4.5 gallons)
Engine Performance
The heart of the H2 pulsates with a supercharged 998cc inline-four, breathing fire through a two-speed centrifugal supercharger. This potent combination unleashes a mind-boggling 231 PS, but with Ram Air assistance, that figure skyrockets to a staggering 300 PS. The power delivery is nothing short of electrifying, pinning you to the seat with its ferocious acceleration and leaving you breathless with its exhilarating top speed of 322 km/h. However, remember, this untamed power demands respect and responsible riding.
The Kawasaki Ninja H2 is not just a superbike, it is a supercharged superbike. The supercharger is a device that forces more air into the engine, increasing its power output. The supercharger in the Ninja H2 is designed by Kawasaki itself and it can spin up to 130000 rpm, creating up to 2.4 times more air pressure than normal atmospheric pressure. This results in an incredible acceleration and top speed that can leave other bikes behind.
The engine of the Ninja H2 also has some advanced features that enhance its performance and efficiency. For example, it has electronic throttle valves that control the fuel injection and airflow, ensuring optimal combustion and smooth response. It also has dual injectors per cylinder that provide finer atomization of fuel and more precise fuel delivery. Moreover, it has variable valve timing that adjusts the intake camshaft timing according to the engine speed and load, optimizing the engine performance across the rev range.
The Ninja H2 also has some sophisticated electronic aids that help the rider control the bike’s immense power. For instance, it has Kawasaki Launch Control Mode (KLCM) that limits the engine output in the first two gears to prevent wheel spin and wheelies during hard acceleration. It also has Kawasaki Traction Control (KTRC) that monitors the wheel speed and slip ratio and adjusts the engine output accordingly to maintain traction. Furthermore, it has Kawasaki Intelligent anti-lock Brake System (KIBS) that modulates the brake pressure according to the speed, lean angle, acceleration, and deceleration of the bike, preventing wheel lock-up and enhancing stability.
Kawasaki Ninja H2 Top Speed
Kawasaki Ninja H2: Kawasaki states a claimed top speed of 183 mph (322 km/h) for the street-legal H2. This figure reflects a balance between performance and safety considerations for everyday riding.
Chassis and Suspension
The Kawasaki Ninja H2 has a lightweight and rigid trellis frame that provides excellent handling and stability at high speeds. The frame is made of high-tensile steel tubes that are welded together in a geometric pattern. The frame also incorporates the engine as a stressed member, reducing the weight and increasing the rigidity.
Taming the H2’s power requires a rock-solid chassis and suspension setup. Kawasaki delivers with a trellis frame crafted from high-tensile steel, offering exceptional rigidity and stability. The suspension, featuring fully adjustable Showa Balance Free Fork and Showa Balance Free Rear Shock, provides exceptional control and feedback, even under extreme riding conditions. The Brembo Stylema® calipers and semi-floating discs ensure precise and powerful braking, crucial for managing the H2’s immense stopping power.
The single-sided swingarm of the Ninja H2 is also made of high-tensile steel and it has an elegant design that showcases the rear wheel. The swingarm is mounted on a pivot shaft that runs through the frame, creating a direct link between the frame and the rear suspension. This improves the feedback and response of the rear suspension.
The suspension system of the Ninja H2 is fully adjustable and it can be tuned according to the rider’s preference and riding conditions. The front suspension is an inverted fork from KYB that offers superb damping performance and stability at high speeds. The fork has rebound and compression damping adjusters on each leg as well as spring preload adjusters on top of each leg.
The rear suspension is a Uni-Trak gas-charged shock from KYB that delivers smooth and progressive damping. The shock has a piggyback reservoir that increases the oil capacity and reduces the oil temperature. The shock also has rebound and compression damping adjusters as well as a remote spring preload adjuster.
Design and Build
The H2’s design is a head-turner, a futuristic blend of aggression and elegance. The aggressive aerodynamic fairing, inspired by the Ninja H2R track machine, slices through the air with minimal drag. The intricate LED headlights and taillights add a touch of modern flair, while the premium paintwork exudes quality and attention to detail. The build quality is equally impressive, with top-shelf materials and meticulous craftsmanship evident throughout.
The Kawasaki Ninja H2 has a striking and aerodynamic design that reflects its supercharged nature. The bike has a sharp and aggressive front fascia that features a dual LED headlight, a ram air intake, and a chin spoiler. The headlight has a low-beam projector and a high-beam reflector that provide excellent illumination and visibility. The ram air intake is located at the center of the front fairing and it feeds the supercharger with fresh air. The chin spoiler is designed to reduce the lift force at high speeds and improve the stability.
The side profile of the Ninja H2 is sleek and muscular, with a sculpted fuel tank, a compact tail section, and a single-sided swingarm. The fuel tank has a capacity of 17 liters and it has an ergonomic shape that allows the rider to grip it with the knees. The tail section has an integrated LED taillight, a rear fender, and a license plate holder. The single-sided swingarm has a clean and elegant look that exposes the rear wheel.
The Ninja H2 also has some unique features that make it stand out from other bikes. For example, it has a mirror-coated matte spark black paint that changes its color depending on the light angle and intensity. The paint also has a self-healing property that repairs minor scratches and scuffs. Moreover, it has a trellis frame that is painted in Kawasaki’s signature green color, creating a contrast with the black bodywork.
Riding Comfort
The Kawasaki Ninja H2 is designed to offer a comfortable and exhilarating riding experience. The bike has a sporty riding posture that puts the rider in an aggressive and confident position. The handlebar is wide and flat, providing good leverage and control. The footpegs are rear-set and high, allowing the rider to tuck in and lean into corners. The seat is firm and supportive, offering good cushioning and grip.
While the H2 prioritizes performance, it doesn’t completely sacrifice comfort. The riding position is more aggressive than a typical sportbike, but the well-padded seat and adjustable handlebars offer a surprising degree of comfort for short bursts. However, long-distance touring is not this bike’s forte. Remember, the H2 is built for adrenaline, not leisurely cruises.
The bike also has some features that enhance the riding comfort and convenience. For example, it has an analog-digital instrument cluster that displays vital information such as speed, rpm, gear position, fuel level, odometer, trip meter, clock, temperature, etc. It also has an LCD screen that shows additional information such as boost pressure, boost temperature, KTRC mode, KLCM mode, KIBS mode, etc. The instrument cluster also supports smartphone connectivity via Bluetooth and the Rideology app. The app allows the rider to access various functions of the bike using their smartphone, such as adjusting the settings, checking the status, logging the data, etc.
The bike also has an aerodynamic windshield that protects the rider from wind blast and noise. It also has an adjustable clutch lever and brake lever that can be set according to the rider’s hand size and preference. Furthermore, it has an immobilizer system that prevents unauthorized use of the bike by requiring a coded key for ignition.
Technological Features
The H2 boasts a plethora of cutting-edge technology, making it a true marvel of engineering. Kawasaki’s Intelligent anti-lock Brake System (KIBS) ensures optimal braking performance, while the traction control system (KTRC) and launch control system (KLCM) offer an extra layer of safety and control. The instrument cluster is a fully digital masterpiece, displaying a wealth of information clearly and concisely.
The Kawasaki Ninja H2 is a bike that is packed with advanced technology that enhances its performance, safety, and convenience. Some of the technological features of the Ninja H2 are:
- Supercharger: This is a device that compresses air and forces it into the engine, increasing the power output and efficiency.
- Electronic Throttle Valves: This system controls the fuel injection and air intake for optimal performance.
- Ram Air Intake: This system increases the air pressure and density as the speed increases, resulting in more power.
- Kawasaki Launch Control Mode (KLCM): This mode limits the engine output to prevent wheel spin and wheelies during launch.
- Kawasaki Traction Control (KTRC): This system monitors the wheel speed and slip ratio and adjusts the engine output to maintain traction.
- Kawasaki Intelligent Anti-lock Brake System (KIBS): This system monitors various parameters such as brake pressure, wheel speed, throttle position, engine rpm, etc., and modulates the brake pressure to prevent wheel lock-up.
- Kawasaki Engine Brake Control (KEBC): This system allows the rider to adjust the amount of engine braking according to their preference.
- Kawasaki Quick Shifter (KQS): This system enables clutchless upshifts and downshifts for faster gear changes.
- Kawasaki Cornering Management Function (KCMF): This system integrates the KTRC, KIBS, KEBC, and KQS systems to provide optimal control during cornering.
- Riding Modes: These modes alter the engine output, traction control, ABS, and other settings according to the riding conditions.
- Smartphone Connectivity: This feature allows the rider to access vital information about the bike using their smartphone and even tweak them if need be.
- TFT Instrument Cluster: This display shows various information such as speed, rpm, gear position, fuel level, odometer, trip meter, clock, etc.
- Digital Display: This display shows the boost pressure, oil temperature, battery voltage, etc.
- LED Lights: These lights provide better visibility and durability than conventional bulbs.
- Mirror-Coated Matte Spark Black Paint: This paint gives the bike a unique and futuristic look by reflecting light in different angles.
Service
The Kawasaki Ninja H2 requires regular service and maintenance to keep it in optimal condition. The service interval for the bike is every 6000 km or 12 months, whichever comes first. The service cost for the bike may vary depending on the service center, location and parts required. However, an approximate service cost for the bike is around Rs. 15,000 to Rs. 20,000 per service.
The service includes oil change, oil filter change, air filter change, spark plug change, coolant change, brake fluid change, chain adjustment and lubrication, tyre pressure check and adjustment, brake pad check and replacement if needed, clutch adjustment if needed, throttle body synchronization if needed, valve clearance check and adjustment if needed and general inspection of the bike.
The bike also requires periodic replacement of some parts such as battery, tyres, brake pads, brake discs, chain and sprockets etc. depending on the usage and wear and tear. The replacement cost of these parts may vary depending on the availability and quality of the parts.
Customization
The Kawasaki Ninja H2 is already a remarkable machine, but if you want to make it even more unique and personalized, you can opt for some customization options. Some of these include:
- Performance Upgrade Kit: This kit boosts the power output of the Ninja H2 from 231 PS (227 hp) to 242 PS (238 hp) by adding a new ECU, air filter, spark plugs and exhaust system. The kit also includes a carbon fiber upper cowl and an Akrapovic logo plate.
- Carbon Edition: This edition adds carbon fiber parts to the Ninja H2, such as the front fender, upper cowl, side cowls, chin spoiler and rear fender. The carbon fiber parts reduce the weight of the bike by about 2 kg (4.4 lb) and give it a more aggressive look.
- Accessories: You can also choose from a range of accessories to enhance your Ninja H2 experience, such as a tank pad, knee pads, seat cover, frame sliders, radiator guard, oil filler cap, rear stand hooks, GPS bracket, helmet lock and more.
Ninja H2 Price
The Kawasaki Ninja H2 is not a cheap bike by any means. It is a premium and exclusive product that comes with a hefty price tag. The base model of the Ninja H2 costs $29,500 in the US, £28,000 in the UK, and ₹34.99 lakh in India. The performance upgrade kit adds another $2,500 to the price, while the carbon edition costs $32,500. For the ultimate sportbike experience, you can also opt for the track-only Ninja H2R, which has a staggering price of $55,000.
Competitors
The Kawasaki Ninja H2 is a one-of-a-kind motorcycle that has few rivals in its class. However, some of the bikes that can compete with it in terms of performance, features and price are:
- Suzuki Hayabusa: The Hayabusa is a legendary sportbike that is known for its speed, power and comfort. The latest version of the Hayabusa has a 1,340 cc engine that produces 197 PS (194 hp) and 150 Nm (110 lb-ft) of torque. The bike also has a sophisticated electronic package that includes traction control, ABS, cruise control, launch control and more. The Hayabusa costs $18,599 in the US, £16,499 in the UK, and ₹16.40 lakh in India.
- BMW S 1000 RR: The S 1000 RR is a superbike that offers a balanced combination of performance, handling and technology. The bike has a 999 cc engine that delivers 207 PS (204 hp) and 113 Nm (83 lb-ft) of torque. The bike also has a comprehensive electronic system that includes riding modes, traction control, ABS, wheelie control, shift assist and more. The S 1000 RR costs $16,995 in the US, £15,570 in the UK, and ₹18.50 lakh in India.
- Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP: This legendary machine offers razor-sharp handling and a unique inline-four engine, making it a formidable competitor for the H2 on the track.
Conclusion
The Kawasaki Ninja H2 is not just a motorcycle; it’s a statement. It’s a testament to technological prowess, pushing the boundaries of what a street-legal machine can achieve. Owning one is a privilege, an experience reserved for those who crave adrenaline and demand the absolute best. If you have the budget, the skill, and the unwavering thirst for speed, the H2 awaits. But remember, with great power comes great responsibility. Ride responsibly, respect the machine, and most importantly, never underestimate the beast you’re taming.
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