Kawasaki Z H2 – The Supercharge
After weeks of teasing, the replacement for the already excellent Kawasaki Z1000 has finally been released, Tthe much anticipated Z H2, the first ever supercharged streetfighter, and by far the most powerful naked bike Kawasaki has ever built.
Based on the acclaimed and excellent Kawasaki H2 SX this bike brings in truly staggering numbers to the table. 200PS of peak power at 11000rpm and mind bending 137Nm of torque available at as little as 8500RPM. Forget about convention, this motorcycle throws the rulebook out of the window and diales up the madness to 11/10.
With the power figures on par with ZZR1400 at 30kg less weight, this motorcycle needs more than just cutting edge chassis to allow to fully and safely utilize and appreciate its performance. This is where the latest electronic rider aid systems come in.
Armed with Kawasaki’s proprietary dynamic modelling program, input from the IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit) enables even more precise chassis orientation awareness. This allows the KTRC (Kawasaki TRaction Control) KIBS (Kawasaki Intelligent anti-lock Braking System) and the fantastic chassis to work together to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for the rider in any situation, in the city, on the track, in the twisties. Whatever the weather. And with the addition of an electronically operated Cruise Control, also on the motorways.
If what you see is enough to convince you to reserve one for early next year, the order book is open. Give us a call on 01508 471919 to discuss.
All the lights – including the headlamp, taillight as well as turn signals and license plate lamp – are equipped with LED bulbs. Low power consumption and high durability improve maintainability while providing high-light intensity and high illumination. The light’s vivid colouring contributes to excellent visibility from the surroundings, significantly contributing to enhanced night riding safety.
The frame mounted headlamp also influences the styling around the front and creates an innovative look that is different from previous naked models.
Kawasaki’s cruise control system allows a desired speed to be maintained with the simple press of a button. Once activated, the rider does not have to constantly apply the throttle. This reduces stress on the right hand when travelling long distances, enabling relaxed cruising and contributing to a high level of riding comfort. Operation of the Electronic Cruise Control is conveniently activated from the left handle.
The assist cam reduces the clutch spring load for lighter clutch lever operation, which helps reduce rider fatigue in city riding situations like stop & go traffic or traffic jams. The slipper clutch relieves pressure from back-torque to help prevent the rear tyre from hopping and skidding when downshifting.
Manageable Power Delivery at all speeds thoroughly pursued to achieve a power unit that enables you to experience the high output of 200 PS. When displacement is increased in order to gain more power, this usually results in increased size and weight, which diminishes the merit of any power gained. The Z H2 eliminates this problem by using a supercharged engine. The DOHC 16-valve 998 cm3 In-Line Four Balanced Supercharged Engine generates a high maximum power of 147Kw (200 PS) while also being lightweight and compact. It produces intense acceleration unlike anything a naturally aspirated engine can provide.
The Z H2’s advanced electronics package includes numerous electronic control systems such as KTRC, KCMF, and KIBS, as well as an IMU that provides chassis orientation feedback to KIBS and KTRC. These rider-support systems offer the peace of mind to handle the power of the supercharged engine, while providing a wide range of information. In addition, Electronic Cruise Control and KQS further enhance riding convenience.
In addition, a choice of three Power Modes, and integrated Riding Modes that link KTRC and Power Mode are extremely easy to operate, allowing riders to focus on their ride.
The instrument panel comprehensively displays various information on the full-colour TFT LCD screen. It also has functions that can help you manage daily vehicle operating status and schedule for long distance riding. Display functions include a digital speedometer, gear position indicator, shift indicator, odometer, dual trip meters, fuel gauge, remaining range, current/average fuel consumption, outside temperature, coolant temperature, clock, Economical Riding Indicator, IMU indicator, KIBS indicator, boost pressure and boost temperature.
This model is equipped with a smartphone connectivity function, which enables connection via Bluetooth. Since the system can be accessed via Bluetooth technology, there is no need to connect cables, which means that convenience is dramatically improved. In addition to checking machine information and recording and downloading logs, settings such as Riding Mode can be prepared remotely.
A Bluetooth chip built into the instrument panel enables riders to connect to their motorcycle wirelessly. Using the smartphone application “RIDEOLOGY THE APP,” a number of instrument functions can be accessed, contributing to an enhanced motorcycling experience.
Mounted on the strong, supple fat-type handlebar, left and right handle switches let riders make setting and display changes without releasing the grips. The left handle switch is used to operate the Electronic Cruise Control, make meter display changes, and update settings, while the right handle switch is used to access to the machine setting menus.
To be easy to ride at low and medium speeds, as well as high speeds, the Z H2 needed a brake system that matches its performance. The front brakes are gripped by Brembo M4.32 monobloc calipers. Machined from cast aluminium blocks, their highly rigid one-piece structures boast strong braking force. The calipers are radially mounted, further contributing to their high performance.
The Nissin master cylinder, fine-tuned with Kawasaki original settings, offers functionality perfectly matched to the Z H2’s character, enabling riders to not only control deceleration from various speed ranges, but also to use the brakes to initiate weight transfer to change the bike’s posture on corner entry.
The styling of the Z Series flagship Z H2 was shaped according to its SUGOMI & Minimalist design concept. Its dynamic crouching form, which calls to mind a predator poised to attack, and the asymmetric Ram Air intake on its left side are elements of its fiercely intense and highly individualistic SUGOMI design. Its compact chassis is the product of a minimalist design philosophy, with all functional parts shown simply, without flourish, and made as small as possible. Conversely, the prominent display of the new steel trellis frame its aluminium pivot plate only underscores their importance – both functionally and as styling elements. Finally, when discussing the Z H2’s styling, the significance of the Kawasaki River Mark emblem displayed on the headlamp cowl should not be forgotten. Its use, an honour permitted only for machines powered by supercharged engines, confirms the Z H2 as a flagship model.
At engine speeds (rpm) above 2,500 min-1, KQS enables clutchless upshifts and downshifts. Complementing the powerful engine and dog-ring transmission, the quick shifter is a convenient feature that can be used not only for sports riding but also for city riding and touring. It enables quick upshifts and downshifts, facilitating smooth acceleration and deceleration.
During acceleration, the system detects that the shift lever has been actuated, and sends a signal to the ECU to cut ignition so that the dog-rings can smoothly engage the next gear without having to use the clutch.
During deceleration, the KQS system automatically controls engine speed, allowing you to downshift without operating the clutch.
The system uses a contactless-type sensor, contributing to its high reliability.
Able to harness the full power of the supercharged engine, the Z H2’s specially designed frame offers a combination of high-speed stability and light handing that facilitates control when riding in the city or on twisty roads – seemingly contrary characteristics. The compact frame, an ideal basis for the form of a naked model, has a high-level balance of stiffness and flexibility, allowing a wide range of riding situations to be tackled.
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