2018 Kawasaki Ninja H2 SX – Supercharge Your Journey

(NOVEMBER 13, 2017)- The supercharged Ninja H2 was created to offer riders something they had never experienced.

But Kawasaki’s answer to the “ultimate” motorcycle was merely the opening act. Now, for our second supercharger challenge Kawasaki brings the unique sensory experience of a supercharged engine to the sport tourer category with the new Ninja H2 SX and Ninja H2 SX SE.

Where the Ninja H2 – and the sensational Ninja H2R upon which it is based – were born from a pure pursuit of performance, the new Ninja H2 SX was designed from the beginning for real-world applications. Its Balanced Supercharged Engine was developed for everyday street-riding situations, offering an output stronger than the H2 in the low-mid range combined with superb fuel efficiency. Its versatile engine character enables relaxed longdistance riding, easy manageability at slow speeds, and – when called upon – the exhilarating acceleration that only a supercharged engine can deliver.

The all new Ninja H2 SX comes in two model variants: the standard Ninja H2 SX and the Ninja H2 SX SE. Focused as being ultimate in class, the SE model comes equipped with an impressive array of additional quality features such as Kawasaki’s first TFT LCD display on screen, lean angle sensitive LED cornering lights and a quick shifter for seamless up and down gear selection.

KAWASAKI NINJA H2 SX
Thanks to its light weight, the Ninja H2 SX has a striking power-to-weight ratio while the sporty riding position, superb ride comfort, reassuring high-speed stability and agile handling all contribute to the touring aspect of the Supercharged Sport Tourer. To complete the picture, the Ninja H2 SX features much advanced technology and electronic rider aids such as Kawasaki’s latest IMU-equipped electronics package, cruise control, Kawasaki Cornering Management Function and many more.
Moreover, Ninja H2 SX riders will be able to share their experience with a passenger thanks to a highly revised Ninja H2-derived trellis frame that is equipped to carry a formidable 195kg payload.
Kawasaki engineers made sure that riders can still make use of the supercharged engine when riding with passenger or panniers by developing this new rigid chassis with a longer wheelbase and an altered steering angle that ensures stability and confidence at high speeds.

STREET-FOCUSED SUPERCHARGED ENGINE
Designed to offer both power and fuel efficiency, the Balanced Supercharged Engine delivers a maximum power of 200 PS. But a mission to offer everyday usability in street-riding situations rather than outright performance meant that tuning could focus on the low-mid range, helping to achieve the engine’s superb fuel efficiency. While the engine looks the same on the outside, it is essentially new: the impeller and intake system were completely redesigned; the pistons, cylinder head, cylinder, crankshaft and camshafts are new; throttle bodies are new; exhaust system is new; and gear ratios were revised.

• Everyday Usability & Supercharged Acceleration
Achieving an engine that could deliver superb fuel efficiency and gratifying acceleration at street-riding speeds started with increasing the compression ratio in order to increase the engine’s thermal efficiency. From there, the supercharger, combustion chamber, cams, and intake and exhaust components were all redesigned. The result is a versatile engine character that enables relaxed long-distance riding, easy manageability at slow speeds, and – when called upon – the exhilarating acceleration that only a supercharged engine can deliver.
• Superb Fuel Efficiency
The Ninja H2 SX’s superb fuel efficiency represents a significant increase over the supercharged engine of the Ninja H2, and is on par with that of the Ninja 1000 and Versys 1000. Combined with its 19 litre fuel tank, this gives the Ninja H2 SX a substantial cruising range.
• Cooler Running & Lighter Weight
The more efficient engine also generates less heat than that of the performance-hungry Ninja H2, whose base engine construction needed to handle the more than 300 PS of the mighty Ninja H2R. Less heat translates to greater rider comfort. And unlike the Ninja H2 with its voracious appetite, the engine flows less air, meaning quieter operation and the possibility of a lighter exhaust system – less air in means less air out, so smaller exhaust volume to be quietened. In total, the new engine, including the exhaust system, is approximately 3 kg lighter.

SPORT TOURING PERFORMANCE
Complementing the everyday usability and supercharged acceleration of the highly efficient Balanced Supercharged Engine, the Ninja H2 SX offers reassuring stability at highway speed, superb ride comfort, numerous convenience features and a host of sport tourer equipment ensuring that it is the mightiest sport tourer on the market.

• New Trellis Frame: Tandem-, Pannier-Capable
The Ninja H2 SX features an innovative trellis frame like the Ninja H2, but to be able to accommodate a passenger and luggage, the frame needed to be completely redesigned. Its 195 kg payload is comparable to that of the Ninja 1000. And
increased rigidity and a longer wheelbase deliver the stability for riding at highway speed with panniers, while a 30° steering angle facilitates low-speed manoeuvres.
• Full-Fairing: Sportiness & Wind Protection
Full-fairing bodywork contributes to both wind protection and the Ninja H2 SX’s sporty looks. The full fairing was possible thanks to the highly efficient engine, which gives off significantly less heat than that of the high-performance Ninja H2. The bodywork strategically shields the rider without being too large, balancing rider comfort and aerodynamics. On the SE model, a large windscreen further protects the rider from windblast, offering even greater touring comfort.
• Fully Adjustable Suspension
Supersport-sourced suspension delivers a combination of ride comfort and sport performance ideal for street riding and touring. Both front and rear suspension are fully adjustable, allowing riders to make adjustments to suit riding style and conditions. And a remote rear preload adjuster greatly facilitates making changes to accommodate a passenger and/or luggage.
• Relaxed, Sporty Riding Position
The riding position for the Ninja H2 SX was designed with both sport riding and comfort in mind. Not as far forwardleaning as the Ninja ZX-14R, and not as upright as the Ninja 1000, the Ninja H2 SX’s riding position offers a more relaxed bend for both the elbows and knees. Realizing high-speed performance with an upright riding position is difficult to achieve, but thanks to the Ninja H2 SX’s superb wind protection the riding position more comfortable. The position is comfortable for both in-town riding and long touring, while still enabling the rider to enjoy sporty riding in the hills.
• Seats Designed for Comfort
Both the front and rear seats deliver the comfort you would expect of a sport tourer. In fact, two front seats were designed: a Comfort Seat that offers a relaxed knee bend and thicker urethane cushioning; and a Low Seat (15 mm lower) that prioritises an easy reach to the ground. The rear seat, wider and flatter than on the Ninja 1000, ensures pillion comfort.
• Clean-Mount Pannier System
The mounting system for the accessory panniers allows the panniers to be attached and removed very simply, contributing to increased convenience. Seamlessly integrating the panniers with the rear of the bike, the clean-mount system positions the panniers close to the bike centreline, and, thanks to its clean clutter-free design, ensures the rear of the bike still looks good with the panniers removed. High-speed testing on Germany’s Autobahn ensures stable operation with panniers.

HIGH-TECH EQUIPMENT
Befitting a flagship model, the Ninja H2 SX is loaded with high-tech equipment. In addition to the highly advanced IMU-equipped electronics package, it also features numerous Kawasaki firsts,including LED cornering lights (on the SE model), Kawasaki’s first TFT LCD instrumentation (on the SE model), and 100% LED lighting.
• Kawasaki’s First LED Cornering Lights (SE)
Lights built into each side of the fairing help illuminate the road when cornering at night. Each of the three lights has a fixed direction and is activated based on lean angle. As the bike leans over, the lamps come on in order (10°, 20°, 30°) creating a wider path of light in the direction the bike is heading.
• High-Class Instrumentation: Multi-Function TFT Colour LCD Meter (SE)
The advanced, high-tech design of the instrumentation contributes to the Ninja H2 SX’s flagship-level quality. The analogue-style tachometer is complemented by a full digital LCD screen (STD model), or Kawasaki’s first use of a high-grade full colour TFT LCD screen (SE model). The SE model’s screen enables information to be displayed graphically. Two selectable display modes (Touring, Sport) allow riders to prioritise the information they want to see depending on the kind of riding they are doing at the time.
• Electronic Cruise Control: First for a Kawasaki Sport Tourer
Kawasaki’s latest 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 traveling long distances, enabling relaxed cruising and contributing to a high level of riding comfort.
• KCMF (Kawasaki Cornering Management Function): IMU-Equipped Total Engine & Chassis Management Package
Using the latest evolution of Kawasaki’s advanced modelling software and feedback from a compact Bosch IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit) that gives an even clearer real-time picture of chassis orientation, KCMF monitors engine and chassis parameters throughout the corner – from entry, through the apex, to corner exit – modulating brake force and engine power to facilitate smooth transition from acceleration to braking and back again, and to assist riders in tracing their intended line through the corner.

On the Ninja H2 SX, KCMF oversees the following systems:
-KTRC (including traction and wheel lift control)
-KLCM (SE model)
-KIBS (including pitching and corner braking control)
-Kawasaki Engine Brake Control
• KTRC (Kawasaki TRaction Control)
Three modes cover a wide range of riding conditions, offering either enhanced sport riding performance or the peace of mind under certain conditions to negotiate slippery surfaces with confidence. Kawasaki’s advanced modelling software, complemented by feedback from the IMU, delivers precise control.
• KLCM (Kawasaki Launch Control Mode) (SE)
Designed to assist the rider by optimising acceleration from a stop, KLCM electronically controls engine output to prevent wheelspin and minimise wheel lift when launching. KLCM should only be used under closed-course conditions; do not use KLCM during everyday riding.
• Kawasaki Engine Brake Control
This system allows riders to set the level of engine braking according to preference.
• Power Mode: Full, Middle, Low
Riders can set power delivery to suit conditions and/or preference, choosing from Full, Middle, or Low mode.
• KQS (Kawasaki Quick Shifter) (SE)
Dual-direction quick shifter allows both clutchless upshifts and downshifts. Designed for effective sport riding, street-optimised settings enable operation at rpm above 2,500 min

Leave everything you thought you knew about sports touring behind with the supercharged Ninja H2 SX. Surge across continents, along autobahns and through mountain passes. Go further, go faster.

Ninja H2 SX – Supercharge Your Journey

KAWASAKI NINJA H2 SX
Color: Metallic Carbon Gray/Metallic Matte Carbon Gray
MSRP: $21,899
Availability: Now
KAWASAKI NINJA H2 SX SE
Color: Emerald Blazed Green/Metallic Diablo Black
MSRP: $25,299
Availability: Now

ABOUT KAWASAKI: Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd. (KHI) started full-scale production of motorcycles over a half century ago. The first Kawasaki motorcycle engine was designed based on technical know-how garnered from the development and production of aircraft engines, and Kawasaki’s entry into the motorcycle industry was driven by the company’s constant effort to develop new technologies. Numerous new Kawasaki models introduced over the years have helped shape the market, and in the process have created enduring legends based on their unique engineering, power, design and riding pleasure. In the future, Kawasaki’s commitment to maintaining and furthering these strengths will surely give birth to new legends.
Kawasaki’s tagline, “Let the good times roll.®”, is recognized worldwide. The Kawasaki brand is synonymous with powerful, stylish and category-leading vehicles. Information about Kawasaki’s complete line of powersports products and Kawasaki affiliates can be found on the Internet at www.kawasaki.ca.

Canadian Kawasaki Motors Inc.
101 Thermos Rd, Toronto, ON M1L 4W8
Tel: 416-446-4178 I www.kawasaki.ca