Kawasaki Reveals New Ninja H2 Series

While little changed from last year, Kawasaki's ultra-performance Ninja H2 series returns in limit numbers, still very fast and still expensive.

By: Tod Rafferty

Sep 5, 2017 at 12:39pm ET

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Kawasaki just released the new supercharged 998cc Ninja H2 models, and they are some extremely fine looking machines.

“Kawasaki set out to create a factory-built motorcycle, where Kawasaki engineers were able to pursue unadulterated performance without the limitations of street or racing homologation," said a Team Green press release. "The first four-stroke, supercharged motorcycle from a major manufacturer, the Kawasaki Ninja H2R produces once unheard of power for a factory-built motorcycle. It’s truly Built Beyond Belief.”

Factory built in their motorcycle-building factory, the new Ninja H2 shares engineering from the H2R to create a version that is not only street legal, but also “street capable.” The H2 Carbon, produced in limited quantities last year, returns in the same category for 2018.

“This incredible trio shares many of the technologically advanced components, including the 998cc inline four-cylinder engine, proprietary supercharger, trellis frame, compact superbike dimensions, aerodynamic bodywork, single-sided swingarm, powerful Brembo brakes and much more.”

The Kawasaki Ninja H2R is a limited-release, closed course production motorcycle available in select markets for a short period of time. In order to reserve the world’s most powerful supercharged production motorcycle, buyers must complete an order form and make a deposit at their local authorized Kawasaki dealer no later than November 30, 2017. Reservations are taken on a first-come, first-served basis and secured only with a deposit.

The standard Kawasaki Ninja H2, a limited-release but street legal production motorcycle, is also available in select markets for a short period of time. buyers must visit their dealership no later than November 30, 2017. And the same terms apply to the Ninja H2 Carbon, which, the company advises,

“has extremely limited production availability.”

The standard H2 lists for $28,000, the Carbon goes for $31,000, and the full-tilt boogie H2R has an MSRP of $55,000.

Ninja H2 Specifications:

Engine: Type 4-Stroke, 4-Cylinder, Liquid-Cooled, DOHC, 4 Valve Cylinder Head, Supercharged

Displacement: 998cc

Bore & Stroke: 76.0 x 55.0 mm

Maximum Torque: 98.4 lb.-ft @ 10,500 rpm

Compression Ratio: 8.5.1

Fuel System: DFI with 50mm Throttle Bodies (4) and Dual Injectors

Ignition: TCBI with Digital Advance

Transmission: 6-Speed, Dog-Ring

Final Drive: Sealed Chain