The Kawasaki Z H2 is the Japanese brand's proposal for the hypernaked segment

With the Kawasaki Ninja H2, the Japanese brand laid the foundations for future high-performance models that would touch on various segments, as we saw with the H2 R version aimed at intensive track users and the H2 SX SE, geared toward those who want a high-performance touring motorcycle. Now these characteristics extend into the hypernaked segment, also expanding the offering in Kawasaki’s prestigious Z family.

The new Kawasaki Z H2 combines aggressive styling that showcases the design philosophy the brand calls Sugomi, but on this occasion taken to its maximum expression to make the Z H2 the standard-bearer of the Z family. This blends perfectly with the superior technical features of the H2 family, most notably its supercharging system. Precisely because of the position it occupies on the motorcycle, we find an asymmetric design for the air intake.

The frame of the Kawasaki Z H2 adopts a multi-tubular design, a solution the brand has already applied to other models in the Z family and which has also been extended to other models from the brand. At the rear of the Z H2 we find a double-sided aluminium swingarm, a technology inherited from the ZX-10R, which was SBK world champion. Moreover, according to its construction, it manages to increase rigidity while reducing weight.

For the Z H2’s suspension, the brand has opted for Showa, using an electronically adjustable BPF inverted fork and a rear monoshock, also adjustable, from the same brand. In the braking section, Kawasaki has fitted Brembo M4 calipers with four-piston floating callipers on the front axle, which undoubtedly helps guarantee powerful braking in line with the high performance of this motorcycle.

These high performance figures of the Kawasaki Z H2 are provided by the turbocharged 998 cc four-cylinder engine, which delivers 200 CV that will be delivered in a completely docile manner as long as we don’t unleash the beast hidden inside. In this engine, as in the other H2 models, no intercooler system is used, so the oil circuit is exploited instead, resulting in a reduction in size and weight. The exhaust line has been redesigned to meet Euro 5 regulations, with a larger catalytic converter installed, which also achieves a better response at low and mid-range levels.

Kawasaki models usually boast a technological arsenal that provides a high level of control in any situation, and the Z H2 is no exception. We therefore find elements such as KTRC traction control, the KCMF system for cornering assistance, an ABS system, anti-wheelie, Launch Control for controlled starts, and the IMU inertial unit signed by Bosch. We must not forget the quick shifter, which allows gear changes without using the clutch, both up and down, along with three engine maps and four riding modes.