The new Kawasaki Z H2 marks a milestone among hypernakeds

The new Kawasaki Z H2 marks the start of a new era in hypernakeds. The brand takes a step forward with the most radical Z, the most technically advanced and the most powerful to date: the Z H2. Drawing on the experience of the Ninja H2 and Ninja H2R, the Z H2 shows the motorcycling world a new direction.

Most of the attention will focus on the formidable 998cc inline four-cylinder engine, developed and manufactured to incorporate a supercharger. With a maximum output of 200 CV, this engine’s strengths are power that is fully controllable yet vigorous, growing with the assistance of the Ram Air, and a friendly character that makes riding fully manageable. The Z H2 will appeal to more experienced riders, while its great manageability makes it accessible to a wider audience.

The new ZH2 is a fresh interpretation of the Sugomi style, with updates as visible as the LED lighting, including indicators and licence plate light. The easy-to-read TFT display, and on closer inspection, reveals semi-automatic up and down gear shifting as well as cruise control, along with all the most advanced electronic riding aids. The tubular steel trellis frame is complemented by Brembo M4 brake calipers anchored to a Showa BPF fork, showcasing the high specification of this Z.

Kawasaki’s engineers have worked hard to ensure a dynamic balance between performance and reliability, making a supercharged streetbike an exotic yet practical reality at the same time. With a slipper clutch and a gearbox with synchronizers, the intelligent use of oil as a coolant eliminates the need for a heat exchanger and showcases a key use of oil injectors. Kawasaki’s engineers have been able to combine reliability with manageability in a way only they know how.

All the electronic aids managed by Bosch’s IMU, traction control, the intelligent brake system, cornering assist function, selectable riding and power modes, and wheelie control are adapted to the lightest technology via Bluetooth connection with the Kawasaki Rideology app, allowing the rider to interact with the machine and learn more about their riding and the condition of the motorcycle, all on their phone screen. In addition to practical information such as fuel saving and details of each ride, there are other features such as the lean angle meter, which will surely be popular.

From its asymmetrical air intake to the LED headlight on one side, with the embossed “Supercharged” logo on the engine, its aggressive Sugomi attitude and the spectacular colour of the tubular trellis frame, the Z H2 is a symphony of sensations. Highly anticipated, probably the most awaited of the Hypernaked machines of 2020, the Z H2 is here, ready to lead the Z family and champion the naked segment.

Source: Kawasaki