In the new Ninja H2 SX SE, Kawasaki combines an ultra-powerful supercharged engine with the latest assistance systems, including distance radar. This is unique so far. Driving report, data, price.
- Powerful engine
- Technically, the Kawa sets standards
- Very user-friendly and comfortable
This year, Kawasaki is making a statement in the exclusive sports tourer segment : in the H2 SX SE model, the Japanese are combining an ultra-powerful compressor engine with the most modern driver assistance systems for the first time in the world. The drive, which has been known for several years, now complies with the current Euro 5 environmental standard and thus demonstrates perfect emissions behavior.
At the same time, the engine delivers an impressive 147 kW/200 hp. The H2 SX SE, which can reach speeds of 299 km/h, offers space for two people and two side cases at a price starting at 27,145 euros (ex works). The combination of top performance and a full range of comfort features with numerous electronic assistance systems is currently unique.
Table of Contents
Impressive 200 hp engine
The heart of the Kawasaki Ninja H2, which is available in several versions, is the supercharged four-cylinder in-line engine with a displacement of 998 cubic centimeters. Thanks to extensive tuning work by the engineers, the engine can deliver smooth performance between 1500 and 11,000 revolutions . The driving style can be finely controlled from moderate to dynamic, there is no jerking or twitching. However, self-control is required: the available engine power is so exorbitant that cautious use of the throttle is essential.
Front and rear radar
Kawasaki has managed to discreetly accommodate both the front and rear radars. The front radar is located under the centrally positioned headlight, which is now designed as an LED unit. This unit provides the data for the adaptive cruise control (ACC) as well as for the collision warning system, which is also integrated .
The rear radar is hidden in the rear fender cover; it detects all road users who are diagonally behind the motorcycle and therefore in the blind spot . The danger of careless lane changing is indicated by a yellow triangle lighting up in the rear-view mirrors.
More security is not possible
The driver assistance systems developed by Bosch as a cooperation partner work excellently . The extremely flexible Kawasaki four-cylinder supercharged engine is perfectly suited for combination with an ACC because it is almost never necessary to change gear when accelerating in sixth gear after previously reducing speed due to traffic. But the electronic equipment of the super Ninja includes even more: The semi-active chassis system KECS with electronically controlled rebound and compression damping at the front and rear is integrated, as is the Skyhook technology for vehicle stabilization from Showa.
There is also a keyless engine start system. An additional brake light function called ESS has also been developed: in the event of heavy braking, the brake light flashes at a high frequency, alerting following road users. An electronic hill start assist has been installed for the first time on a Kawasaki ; it is activated by pulling the handbrake lever, but acts on the rear wheel brake. It goes without saying that a six-axis sensor provides all the data to make all control systems sensitive to lean angles.
A new TFT display presents all relevant information in the cockpit of the Ninja H2 SX SE. It measures 6.5 inches, is clearly structured and easy to read. Smartphone integration is possible, and special apps can also be used.
The contours of both the driver and passenger seat cushions have been changed to increase comfort. And: instead of the good Bridgestone S22, the much more maneuverable S23 has been fitted for the first time. The machine, which is by no means light at 267 kilograms with a full tank , now seems more agile than before, especially when turning into corners.
Technical data Kawasaki H2 SX SE
| Manufacturer’s Component | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Engine/transmission | Liquid-cooled four-cylinder in-line engine with compressor, transversely mounted, 998 cc displacement, four valves per cylinder, DOHC, 147.1 kW/200 hp at 11,000 rpm, 137.3 Nm at 8500 rpm; injection, 6 gears, chain |
| Performance and consumption | Top speed 299 km/h, standard consumption 5.4 l/100 km, range approx. 300 km |
| Chassis | Steel tubular frame; front semi-active 43 mm USD fork with electronically controlled rebound and compression damping, spring base mechanically infinitely adjustable, 120 mm travel; rear cast aluminum single-sided swing arm, semi-active central spring strut, electronically controlled rebound and compression damping, spring preload electronically adjustable, 139 mm travel; light alloy cast wheels; tires front 120/70 ZR 17, rear 190/55 ZR 17; 320 mm double disc brake front, 250 mm single disc brake rear |
| Dimensions and weights | Wheelbase 1480 mm, seat height 835 mm; weight ready to drive 267 kg, payload 195 kg, tank capacity 19 l |
| Assistance systems | Lean-angle capable ABS, dynamic traction control, adaptive cornering lights, adaptive cruise control, blind spot warning, collision warning, engine drag torque control |
| Colors | Green, Gray, Black |
| Price (plus delivery) | 27,145 euros |
Conclusion: Convincing sports tourer
With a price of over 28,000 euros including delivery, the Kawasaki Ninja H2 SX SE is in the top price segment. There are no real competitors for this technologically almost over-equipped motorcycle . Nevertheless, when driving it, you wonder why Kawasaki has not implemented the last equipment extras. Such as backlighting for the numerous switches and buttons on the handlebars and a self-resetting indicator.
Nevertheless, the H2 SX SE is a convincing combination of unbridled but perfectly controllable power and fine driving and operating comfort down to the last detail.
