Kawasaki Ninja H2

Introduction

The price of the Kawasaki Ninja H2 is definitely on the higher-end of the spectrum at Rs 41.79 lakhs (for the top model). It is more of a hindered manifestation of the older H2R which was first unveiled in India. The new Ninja H2 is certainly the most powerful production of soad-legal superbike. It was revamped over the last couple of years, the biggest modification being its power figure. It has not only gone through a power hike of almost 31 hp, but also endowed with a ‘self-healing’ paint-job. The new version is all set to providing a unique riding experience. 

How is the design? 

The Ninja H2 is Kawasaki’s flagship super sport model within the portfolio of the Japanese manufacturer. This bike stays true to the bold tagline of the brand, “build beyond belief” with the aggressively honing appearance, complete with the outstanding mirror finish on the body. This machine is purely an epitome of Japanese craftsmanship and has been beautifully crafted at the front with finned cavities at a place where headlights are normally located. The LEDs within the central cluster of the headlight come in the form of fangs for lending to the beast-like appearance of the bike. The single-pod console facing the rider adds to the sportyness of the bike. The appearance of the bike seems to be based on an otherworldly concept. The sleek finishing endows a high-end appeal to the bike. The trellis frame is painted greens and perfectly complements the single-sided swing arm and the raked tail section. The exhaust headers of the bike endow a flowing touch, a hint of grace to the overall look of the bike. 

How is the performance?

Ninja H2’s engine is a massive power house. The inline four-cylinder, supercharged, BS6 compliant 998.0cc engine can dish out a massive output of 197 BHP at 1100 rpm, besides a maximum torque of 133 Nm at 10500 rpm. The maker has impressively increased the power by keeping the engine BS6 compliant at the same time. The H2 also received an upgraded ECU, spark-plugs, intake chamber and air-filter, meaning the bike stays ahead in the competition, even with rivals such as the 214 hp Ducati Panigale V4, also a very powerful and potential road-legal superbike. The Ninja H2 delivers an unmatchable power in terms of manoeuvre, speed and acceleration. The self-healing paint job on the bike provides enhanced protection from minor scratches and small scuffs with the application of heat. Overall, this bike has been powered with additional figures for making it ride faster and smoother than before. 

How does the Kawasaki Ninja H2 ride? 

The Kawasaki Ninja H2 has a kerb weight of 238kg and remains more agile than some of the competing superbikes. This bike has been equipped with Stylema callipers from Brembo, first seen in the Ducati Panigale V4, and Bridgestone tyres. It also got a brand new TFT screen that has Bluetooth connectivity. The heavy kerb weight may not make its presence felt most of the time in good hands. This machine is rather nimble and fun to rear when ridden by an experienced rider. Gear shifting has remained precise all the while and there is ample power on tap. The thrust response is similar for the third and fourth gear speeds, however, the power archives a whole new level beyond 4000 rpm. However, locating the neutral can be a major issue in some situations. 

How comfortable is the Kawasaki Ninja H2? 

The Kawasaki Ninja H2 has a well-built stance and superior ergonomics that come with softer hip-supporting pads behind the only seat for the rider that this bike has. The seat offers good thigh and back support while accelerating swiftly and moving at higher speeds. However, the posture of riding is rather aggressively designed with the body being hunched over the fuel tank to reach the handle bars. The bent shoulder and back could be painful making riding beyond a few kilometres almost impossible. AS a result, riders may not find this bike suitable to take on long hauls. The impact from potholes and bumper could also be punishing for someone riding on this heavy beast. 

How's the tech? 

The Kawasaki Ninja H2 is endowed with a powerful unit having a dual overhead cam styling alongside the dual-speed centrifugal supercharger. Handling and controlling have been made easier with the throttle-by-wire mechanism. There are other technological features available in this bike such as a KEBC or engine-braking control, ABS or ‘anti-lock braking system, ESD or ‘electronic steering damper’, KTRC or traction control, KLCM r launch control and KQS or ‘Kawasaki Quick Shifter’. 

How's the mileage of the Kawasaki Ninja H2? 

The fuel economy of the Kawasaki Ninja H2 is 15 kmpl. This is mostly achieved when ridden on highways and the normal city mileage is around 9 kmpl. The fuel tank capacity of this bike is 17 to 19 litres. 

Is the Kawasaki Ninja H2 good value for money? 

The Kawasaki Ninja H2 is not perceived from a value-generating outlook. It is one of the most powerful and fastest bikes sold in India that comes across a host of cutting-edge features and high-tech specifications. It further endows oodles of speed, an insane engine, excellent aerodynamics and ergonomics and of course the beast-inspired design. This bike is particularly made for the connoisseurs and the sizable price tag and low mileage won’t count. 

How is the after sales service? 

The after-sale service is pretty good and you will get immediate assistance from the staff. The maintenance cost is high and this is expected from a superbike as massive as the Kawasaki Ninja H2. 

Which motorbikes compete in this segment? 

Some of the on-road rivals of the Kawasaki Ninja H2 having the same class are the Kawasaki Ninja ZX, Ducati Panigale V4, BMW S 1000 RR and Suzuki Hayabusa. 

Verdict (Value for money)

As mentioned earlier, the Kawasaki Ninja H2 is not viewed from a value-added perspective. It is ridden for fun and mostly on the race track. It is not the kind of a bike that you would take daily to your workplace. It is not a city commuter, but a massive superbike.