Ninja H2

Ninja H2R
2017
 Kawasaki motorcycles Representing a unique engineering heritage and a wealth of
technological expertise combined with passion, performance
are a distillation of and individuality, Kawasaki motorcycles are not just about
high performance. They are a crystallisation of advanced
the most advanced technology arising from the collective efforts of the Kawasaki

technology the world

Heavy Industries Group, whose activities span a wide range
of business domains including Land, Sea and Air Transporta-

has to offer. tion Systems, Energy & Environmental Engineering and

Industrial Equipment.
CORPORATE HERITAGE

RIDEOLOGY
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Ninja H2 & Ninja H2R

Ninja H2 & Ninja H2R

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Kawasaki motorcycles possess both power and grace so are often recognised as being different to other bikes. This results
from certain guiding principles adopted at the design stage. Rideology is Kawasaki’s rider-centric development philosophy fo-
cused on how the riding experience offered by a Kawasaki is crafted, ensuring that our machines are fun to ride and rewarding
to control. This approach has been the force behind many of our legendary machines, and in our pursuit of all possibilities it will
continue to guide the future creation of Kawasaki motorcycles.
 In 1971, Kawasaki’s H2 road bike took the
world by storm. Its 748 cm3 2-stroke In-
Line Triple engine delivered the world’s
fastest, most intense acceleration, causing
a great sensation among riders.

REDEFINING
THE NORM
That sensation is set to be repeated with a new pinnacle road sports model whose design
colours outside the lines in the pursuit of performance. Resurrecting the legendary H2 name
from Kawasaki’s illustrious history, the Ninja H2 will once again redefine the standards by
which motorcycles are judged.
REDEFINING THE NORM

For 2017, an upgraded Ninja H2 benefits from numerous updates, including Kawasaki’s
most advanced electronics package, and suppler suspension action care of a high-grade
Öhlins TTX rear shock. Further, the standard model is joined by the Ninja H2 Carbon, a
limited edition model featuring a carbon-fibre upper cowl. Ninja fans can look forward to
an even more exhilarating experience.

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Ninja H2 & Ninja H2R

Ninja H2 & Ninja H2R

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 BUILT BEYOND
BELIEF
A machine apart, the new Kawasaki Ninja H2 and H2R are the embodiment of Kawasaki’s
passion for performance, for the search for technical excellence and desire to achieve road
riding perfection. Equipped with a Supercharger designed and constructed entirely in-house,
the Ninja H2 and H2R will delight connoisseurs with a visual feast of craftsmanship details
plus a new standard of road bike acceleration.
BUILT BEYOND BELIEF

BUILT BEYOND BELIEF

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Ninja H2 & Ninja H2R

Ninja H2 & Ninja H2R

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 FUNCTIONAL
BEAUTY
Dissimilar to any other motorcycle from the past, the Ninja H2 and H2R’s exceptional
form evolved as a result of a focused mission to gain any possible high speed riding
advantage. Whether for reducing wind resistance, generating downforce, directing
fresh air towards the engine, helping hot engine air escape, or lightening the
burden on the rider - the shape of every piece of its bodywork has a reason.
In a perfect example of form following function, the Ninja H2 and H2R’s
stunning new design was sculpted for performance.
FUNCTIONAL BEAUTY

STYLING
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Ninja H2 & Ninja H2R

Ninja H2 & Ninja H2R

Ninja H2R Ninja H2 Ninja H2 Carbon
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 SHAPED
FOR SPEED
As speed increases, wind resistance increases exponentially. To be able to operate in
the ultra-high speed range, a combination of high power and slippery aerodynamics
was needed. With power requirements taken care of by the supercharged engine,
the next step was to design bodywork that both minimised drag and added
control when riding at ultra-high speed. Assistance from Kawasaki’s Aero-
space Company was enlisted in creating the aerodynamically sculpted
bodywork to ensure maximum aerodynamic efficiency.
SHAPED FOR SPEED

AERODYNAMICS
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Ninja H2 & Ninja H2R

Ninja H2 & Ninja H2R

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 DOWNFORCE
GENERATION
In order to maintain both straight-line stability and the control to change direction
while running at high speed, the Ninja H2 and H2R feature a number of aerodynamic
devices to ensure the front wheel has strong contact with the ground.

The chin spoiler incorporated in the upper cowl design is not a cosmetic flourish;
the downforce it creates contributes to high-speed stability. Also contributing
to the downforce and high speed stability are the mirrors on the Ninja H2
and the “Vortex down control wings” on the H2R which are designed by
Kawasaki’s Aerospace Company.
DOWNFORCE GENERATION

AERODYNAMICS
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Ninja H2 & Ninja H2R

Ninja H2 & Ninja H2R

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 THE QUEST
FOR POWER
In order to be able to offer intense acceleration and a top speed in a range that most
riders have never experienced, it was essential that the engine be able to produce big
power. While a large-displacement engine could easily provide a high engine output,
to ensure a lightweight, compact overall package a compact engine was also desired.

Using a supercharged engine enabled both of these engine design requirements

to be met: the Ninja H2 has a maximum output of 215 PS and its engine size
is on par with other supersport litre-class power units. Aside from minor
differences in the engine unit, and intake and exhaust systems tailored
for street use to ensure it meets noise and emissions standards, the
supercharged engine is essentially the same as the 326 PS engine
of the closed-course Ninja H2R, delivering an intense acceleration
unlike anything you can experience on a naturally aspirated bike.
THE QUEST FOR POWER

Designed in-house, the immense potential of the highly

compact, highly efficient engine is a testament to the tech-

POWERPLANT
nology possessed by the KHI Group.

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Ninja H2 & Ninja H2R

Ninja H2 & Ninja H2R

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 1. The top injectors spray fuel onto stainless
steel nets positioned over the intake funnels.
This has an ordering effect, creating a more uni-
form fuel-air mixture as the fuel is sucked into the in-
take funnel. The net also promotes fuel misting, which
helps to cool the intake air and increases filling efficiency.

2. The Supercharger is driven by a planetary gear train,

which runs off the crankshaft. Designing the gear train using
technology from Kawasaki’s Aerospace Company resulted in a
very compact unit, with minimal power loss.

3. While the intake valves are stainless steel, the exhaust valves needed
to be able to handle the supercharged engine’s high-temperature ex-
haust gases. They are formed from two materials, friction-welded at the
centre: inconel --an extremely heat-resistant alloy --is used for the head and
lower half of the stem; heat-resistant steel is used for the upper half.

4. Cast pistons offer better strength than forged pistons for the very high tempera-
tures generated by the high-performance engine. A unique casting process (similar
to forging process) sees unnecessary material removed and hollows created to achieve
MECHANICAL ADVANCES

the ideal thickness. This enables a light weight on par with forged pistons.

TECHNOLOGY
1 2

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The impeller is formed from a forged aluminium block using a

5-axis CNC machining centre to ensure high precision and high
durability. The 69 mm impeller features 6 blades at the tip,
expanding to 12 blades at the base. Grooves etched into
the blade surfaces help direct the airflow. The impellers
pumping capacity is over 200 litres/second, with intake
air reaching speeds of up to 100 m/s. After passing
through the supercharger, air pressure is increased
to as much as 2.4 times atmospheric pressure.

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Ninja H2 & Ninja H2R

Ninja H2 & Ninja H2R

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 HIGH-SPEED
STABILITY
The objectives for the Ninja H2’s chassis were to ensure unflappable composure at ultra-
high speeds, offer cornering performance to be able to enjoy riding on a circuit, and final-
ly to have a highly accommodating character. Ordinarily, high-speed stability can easily
be achieved with a long wheelbase, but a shorter wheelbase was selected to achieve
the compact overall package and sharp handling that were also desired. The frame
needed not only to be stiff, but also to be able to absorb external disturbances,
which, when encountered while riding in the ultra-high speed range, could
easily unsettle the chassis. A new trellis frame provided both the strength
to harness the incredible power of the supercharged engine, and the bal-
anced flex to achieve the stability and pliability for high-speed riding.

TRELLIS FRAME
MECHANICAL ADVANCES

Using a trellis frame construction offered

an elegant, lightweight solution to meeting
the performance requirements for the
chassis. Able to harness the massive power

TECHNOLOGY
and torque, it has a balance of stiffness and
flexibility that enables a very high level of
stability while being able to handle external
disturbances at ultra-high speeds. Its open
design also helps effectively dissipate heat
generated by the supercharged engine.

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1 2 1. KYB AOS-II racing suspension makes

ÖHLINS TTX36 REAR SUSPENSION its debut on an on-road bike. Based on the
The addition of Öhlins’ highly acclaimed Air-Oil Separate cartridge fork developed
for motocross racing, this is the industry’s
TTX shock offers enhanced cornering
first use of this high performance racing
performance and rider confidence. suspension on an on-road motorcycle.
The remote preload adjuster makes it 2. Dual radial-mount Brembo M50
easy to adjust settings to suit rider monobloc calipers deliver superb braking
preference. performance. Given the ultra-high speed
performance the Ninja H2 and H2R are
capable of achieving, the brakes chosen
are the best available for production based
machines. Specialist tuning ensures that all
possible play is removed from the system.
3. Kawasaki’s electronic steering damper
was jointly developed with Öhlins. Unlike a
Ninja H2 & Ninja H2R

Ninja H2 & Ninja H2R

mechanical steering damper, the damping
characteristics are changed electronically
according to vehicle speed and the degree
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of acceleration or deceleration. 4. The Ninja
H2 features Kawasaki’s first single-sided
swingarm. Having a single-sided swingarm
allows the exhaust silencer to be mounted
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2017
closer to the bike centreline, ensuring a high
bank angle for sporty cornering.
 MAN-MACHINE
KTRC KIBS
(Kawasaki TRaction Control) (Kawasaki Intelligent anti-lock Brake System)
The KTRC system used on the Ninja H2 and H2R combines Kawasaki’s supersport style ABS is standard equipment on the
the best elements of Kawasaki’s earlier traction control Ninja H2 and H2R. This is the same base system used on the

INTERFACE
systems. Multi-level modes offer riders a greater number Ninja ZX-10R, with programming and settings revised to suit
of settings to choose from, with each mode providing a the performance parameters of the Ninja H2.
different level of intrusion to suit riding conditions and rider
preference, and all modes designed to manage output when With feedback from the IMU, KIBS is able to incorporate a new
a sudden slip occurs. The new system offers both enhanced function: corner braking control. Should riders use the brakes
sport riding performance and the peace of mind to negotiate beyond the entrance to a turn (i.e. trail braking) or mid-corner
slippery surfaces with confidence. (e.g. to avoid an obstacle), brake force is modulated to counter
the tendency of the bike to stand up under braking. This assists
Although the Ninja H2 and H2R’s high performance cannot be denied, since it was not intended to be a race bike designed to turn quick riders in tracing their intended line through the corner instead
of running wide.
lap times as efficiently as possible, it did not need the spartan accommodation found on most purpose-built supersport models. The KLCM
riding position, ergonomics and cockpit layout were all designed first and foremost to put the rider in the best position to control this (Kawasaki Launch Control Mode)
amazing machine, the impression from the rider’s perspective is one not of austerity, but rather plush quality, high-tech control, and Designed to assist the rider by optimising acceleration
an impeccable fit and finish. from a stop, KLCM electronically controls engine output to Kawasaki Engine Brake Control
prevent wheelspin and minimise wheelies when launching.
The Engine Brake Control system allows riders to select the
amount of engine braking they prefer. When the Engine
Brake Control system is activated, the engine braking effect is
reduced, providing less interference when riding on the circuit.
Kawasaki Engine
Brake Control
ELECTRONIC RIDER SUPPORT

KLCM Wheelie Control Pitching Cont

rol
& KIBS KQS (Kawasaki Quick Shifter)
KTRC Traction Control Corner Braki
ng C
on Kawasaki’s quickshifter on the Ninja H2 and H2R operates both
tro
for up and downshift. KQS means that gear changes can be

TECHNOLOGY
l

made under hard acceleration without the need to engage the

hand clutch lever.

KTRC IMU - Inertial Management Unit

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The use of Bosch’s compact IMU allows an additional layer of
precision to be added to the already high-level KTRC, KLCM
l
ro

and KIBS.
nt

Co
l

io n
tr o

t n
Tra c Co
li e
l

nt
ro

e e
Wh g Co
in
S li d

KCMF - KAWASAKI CORNERING MANAGEMENT FUNCTION

The strength of Kawasaki’s cutting-edge electronics has always been the highly
sophisticated programming that, using minimal hardware, gives the ECU an
accurate real-time picture of what the chassis is doing. Kawasaki’s proprietary
dynamic modelling program makes skilful use of the magic formula tyre
model as it examines changes in multiple parameters, enabling it to
take into account changing road and tyre conditions. The addition of
Ninja H2 & Ninja H2R

Ninja H2 & Ninja H2R

a Bosch IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit) and the latest evolution of
this advanced modelling software bring the electronic management
systems on the Ninja H2 and H2R to the next level—changing them
from setting-type and reaction-type systems to feedback-type
systems—to deliver even greater levels of riding excitement.
KCMF monitors engine and chassis parameters throughout
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2017
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, KCMF oversees
the following systems:

- KTRC (including traction, wheelie and sliding control)

- KLCM
- KIBS (including pitching and corner braking control)
- Kawasaki Engine Brake Control
 2017 NINJA H2 / NINJA H2R Specifications
MODEL Ninja H2 / Ninja H2 Carbon Ninja H2R
Engine type Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke In-Line Four with Supercharger Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke In-Line Four with Supercharger
Displacement 998 cm³ 998 cm³
Bore x stroke 76.0 x 55.0 mm 76 x 55 mm
Compression ratio 8.5:1 8.3:1
Maximum power 150.8 kW {205 PS} / 11,000 rpm 228 kW {310 PS} / 14,000 rpm
Maximum power 158.3 kW {215 PS} / 11,000 rpm 240 kW {326 PS} / 14,000 rpm
with RAM air
Maximum torque 133.5 N•m {13.6 kgf•m} / 10,000 rpm 165 N•m {16.8 kgf•m} / 12,500 rpm
Valve system DOHC, 16 valves DOHC, 16 valves
Fuel system Fuel injection: Ø 50 mm x 4 with dual injection Fuel injection: Ø 50 mm x 4 with dual injection
Lubrication Forced lubrication, wet sump with oil cooler Forced lubrication, wet sump with oil cooler
Transmission 6-speed, dog-ring 6-speed, dog-ring
Final drive Sealed chain Sealed chain
Clutch Wet multi-disc, manual Wet multi-disc, manual
Frame type Trellis, high-tensile steel with Swingarm Mounting Plate Trellis, high-tensile steel with Swingarm Mounting Plate
Tyre, front 120/70ZR17M/C (58W) 120/600 R17
Tyre, rear 200/55ZR17M/C (78W) 190/650 R17
Suspension, front 43 mm inverted fork with rebound and compression damping, spring preload 43 mm inverted fork with rebound and compression damping, spring preload
adjustability and top-out springs adjustability and top-out springs
Suspension, rear New Uni-Trak, Öhlins TTX36 gas-charged shock with piggyback reservoir, New Uni-Trak, Öhlins TTX36 gas-charged shock with piggyback reservoir,
compression damping, rebound damping, preload adjustability and top-out spring compression damping, rebound damping, preload adjustability and top-out spring
Brakes, front / Dual semi-floating 330 mm Brembo discs. Caliper: Dual radial-mount, Brembo Dual semi-floating 330 mm Brembo discs. Caliper: Dual radial-mount, Brembo
Front brake type M50 monobloc, opposed 4-piston M50 monobloc, opposed 4-piston
Brakes, rear / Single 250 mm disc. Caliper: Brembo, opposed 2-piston Single 250 mm disc. Caliper: Brembo, opposed 2-piston
SPECIFICATIONS

Rear Brake Type

LxWxH 2,085 x 770 x 1,125 mm 2,070 x 850 x 1,160 mm
Wheelbase 1,455 mm 1,450 mm
Ground clearance 130 mm 130 mm
Seat height 825 mm 830 mm
Curb mass 238 kg 216 kg

22 Fuel capacity 17 litres 17 litres

COLLECTIVE TECHNOLOGY OF THE

Ninja H2 & Ninja H2R

mirror stays were designed by Kawasaki’s

KAWASAKI HEAVY INDUSTRIES GROUP Aerospace Company using the latest CFD
analysis technology.
Key to feature icons The origins of Kawasaki Heavy Industries The “River Mark” is proudly displayed on
(KHI) go back to the Kawasaki Tsukiji Ship- the Ninja H2’s upper cowl. It is proof that The Ninja H2 is not merely a high
yard founded by Shozo Kawasaki in 1878.
2017

the Ninja H2 is a product of the collective performance motorcycle. It is a crystallisa-

When he was running his shipping business, tech­nology of the KHI Group. Its super- tion of advanced technology born from the
Anti-lock Brake System Supercharged Engine Kawasaki Cornering Ergo Fit Kawasaki TRaction Kawasaki Launch Silver Mirror Paint Assist & he created a flag with a stylised version of charger was designed with know-how collective efforts of the KHI Group, whose
Management Function Control (9-mode) Control Mode Slipper Clutch*
the character “river”—the first character in gained from the gas turbine used to power activities span a wide range of business
the name Kawasaki—which he flew from the 30 MW cogeneration systems. The piston domains including Land, Sea and Air
ships he owned. The emblem came to be crown shape was determined with experi- Transportation Systems, Energy &
Kawasaki Engine IMU-Enhanced Chassis Kawasaki Intelligent
called the “River Mark” and was adopted as ence gained from the V18 Green Gas En- Environmental Engineering, and Industrial
KQS (Kawasaki Electronic Throttle Economical Riding EURO4 compliant*
Quick Shifter) Brake Control Valves Indicator Orientation Awareness anti-lock Brake System the symbol of the KHI Group, which prized gine power plant, which boasts a generating Equipment.
technology, originality and innovation. capacity of 7.5 MW. And its aerodynamic
* Only for Ninja H2 and Ninja H2 Carbon.
 Always ride responsibly. Respect the law and the environment. Always
2017 Ninja H2R Cautions ride within the limits of your skills, your experience, and your machine.
Wear an approved helmet and protective clothing. Adhere to the
Vehicle instructions and maintenance schedule in your owner’s manual. Never
The Ninja H2R is a closed course riding use only model and is not drink and ride. Specifications have been achieved by production models
manufactured for use on public roads, streets or highways. All usage of this under standard operating conditions. Data are intended to describe
vehicle should be limited to riding on a closed course. The H2R was motorcycles and their performance capabilities fairly but may not apply to
designed to carry the operator only. Do not attempt to ride with a passenger. every machine. Specifications likely to change without notice.
Do not ride this vehicle in the rain. Specifications, products and illustrated equipment may vary by market.
The actions depicted here took place under controlled conditions with
Parts professional riders. Never attempt any action which is potentially
Parts designed specifically for the H2R are for closed course riding use only dangerous. Valuable K-Care customer programmes are available
and cannot be purchased without proof of H2R ownership (product exclusively for products officially imported by Kawasaki Motors Europe
registration, VIN confirmation, etc.). N.V. and sold through its official network.

Copyright © 2017 Kawasaki Motors Europe N.V.

Exhaust Sound
All rights reserved. Subject to the exceptions provided for by law, no part
The exhaust sound level of the H2R at the time of factory shipment is 120
of this publication may be reproduced and/or published in print, via the
dB/A using Auto Cycle Union (ACU guidelines). It is the owner’s
internet in any way be that commercial or social networking channels, by
responsibility to confirm that noise regulations of closed courses permit
photocopying, on microfilm, electronically or in any other way without
vehicles reaching this level of exhaust sound. Changes to the exhaust system
the prior written consent of the copyright holder.
may alter performance and sound level.

Usage, Maintenance and Warranty

As a closed course riding use only model, specific procedures must be
followed when riding and maintaining the H2R:
• Vehicle Tyres: The standard tyres are designed exclusively for use on a The Kawasaki Genuine Products logo is a mark of quality. It
closed course. These specialty tyres are not designed for oval or partial can only be found on products manufactured to our exacting
oval course use and may not be suitable for other courses or conditions. standards either by or on behalf of Kawasaki Motors Europe N.V.
Kawasaki recommends that you follow the tyre manufacturer’s
instructions and warnings, and that you consult the tyre manufacturer to
select the appropriate tyres for the course or riding conditions. Kawasaki Motors Europe N.V.
Computer-controlled systems such as KIBS, KTRC, etc are tuned to the
standard tyres. Use of tyres other than the standard tyres could affect Jacobus Spijkerdreef 1-3
performance of these systems. Standard Tyres: 2132 PZ Hoofddorp
o Front: Bridgestone, Racing Battlax V01F Soft The Netherlands
o Rear: Bridgestone, Racing Battlax V01R Medium
• Tyre Warmers: To prevent loss of tyre grip, always use tyre warmers to E99941-3004
heat tyres prior to riding the H2R. Cold tyres do not provide sufficient
grip and may cause loss of vehicle control and/or a crash, which could For more information, please visit www.kawasaki.eu
result in injury or death.
• Vehicle Storage: When storing the H2R, always use front and rear
motorcycle stands that keep both tyres off the ground. This will prevent
tyre deformation and adverse impacts on performance.
• Vehicle Maintenance: In addition to regular periodic maintenance,
service inspections are required every 15 hours of engine operation
above 8,000 min-1 (rpm). These service intervals are monitored
through the vehicle’s ECU with service messages displayed on the
multifunction meter. (See Owner’s Manual for additional information)
• Vehicle Warranty: The H2R is sold “As is” with no warranties, express or
implied. The purchaser accepts all responsibilities concerning cost of
service, maintenance and repairs.

Your official Kawasaki dealer: