Key Points
- Name: Kawasaki Z H2 and Z H2 SE
- Type: Supernaked motorcycle
- Market: India
- Size: 2085mm x 830mm x 1110mm (L x W x H)
- Powertrain: 998cc, inline four-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine with a supercharger
- Availability: Launched in India in August 2023
Key features of the Kawasaki Z H2 and Z H2 SE
- Supercharged engine: The 998cc, inline four-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine with a supercharger is the most powerful engine ever offered in a Kawasaki motorcycle. It produces 197.2bhp at 11,000rpm and 137Nm at 8,500rpm.
- Lightweight chassis: The Z H2 and Z H2 SE are both built on a lightweight trellis frame that helps to keep the weight down. The standard model weighs 239kg, while the SE variant weighs 241kg.
- Advanced suspension: Both motorcycles feature high-performance suspension components from Showa. The standard model has a 43mm USD fork and a rear monoshock, while the SE variant has a Showa Skyhook EERA (Electronically Equipped Ride Adjustment) suspension system.
- Brembo brakes: Both motorcycles have powerful Brembo brakes with dual 320mm discs up front and a single 260mm disc at the rear.
- Electronic rider aids: The Z H2 and Z H2 SE are equipped with a comprehensive suite of electronic rider aids, including traction control, ABS, launch control, and cruise control.
- Aggressive styling: The Z H2 and Z H2 SE have aggressive styling that is sure to turn heads. The motorcycles have a sharp, angular design with a large front fairing, a muscular fuel tank, and a side-slung exhaust.
Introduction
Kawasaki India has introduced the 2024 Z H2 and Z H2 SE models to the Indian market, with pricing starting at Rs. 23.48 lakh. The SE variant, which offers enhanced premium features, is priced at Rs. 27.76 lakh. Both motorcycles share a similar design, featuring an aggressive front headlight, a muscular fuel tank, split-style seats, a side-slung exhaust, and 17-inch alloy wheels on both ends.
Colour Schemes
The standard model is offered in Metallic Carbon Grey with an Ebony paint theme, while the more premium Z H2 SE comes in Metallic Matte Graphenesteel Grey with an Ebony colour. The SE variant also boasts a green colour for the frame and engine cowl.
Engine
Under the hood, both versions are powered by a 998cc inline four-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine with a supercharger, producing 197.2bhp at 11,000rpm and 137Nm of torque at 8,500rpm. This engine is paired with a six-speed gearbox.
Brakes
Braking on both motorcycles is managed by twin 320mm front discs and a single 260mm rotor. The standard model features a manually adjustable suspension system, while the SE variant benefits from Showa Skyhook Technology, which offers electronically adjustable shock absorption hardware.
In the Indian market, the Kawasaki Z H2 range competes with rivals such as the Ducati Streetfighter V4 and the BMW S 1000 R. Bookings for both the Z H2 and Z H2 SE are now open in India.
Key differences between the Kawasaki Z H2 and Z H2 SE:
| Feature | Z H2 | Z H2 SE |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 998cc, inline four-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine with a supercharger | 998cc, inline four-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine with a supercharger |
| Power | 197.2bhp at 11,000rpm | 197.2bhp at 11,000rpm |
| Torque | 137Nm at 8,500rpm | 137Nm at 8,500rpm |
| Weight | 239kg | 241kg |
| Suspension | 43mm USD fork and a rear monoshock | Showa Skyhook EERA suspension |
| Brakes | Brembo brakes with dual 320mm discs up front and a single 260mm disc at the rear | Brembo Stylema front brake callipers and stainless steel braided brake lines |
| Electronic rider aids | Traction control, ABS, launch control, and cruise control | Traction control, ABS, launch control, cruise control, and Showa Skyhook EERA suspension |
| Styling | Sharp, angular design with a large front fairing, a muscular fuel tank, and a side-slung exhaust | Unique colour scheme and graphics |
The Kawasaki Z H2 and Z H2 SE are two of the most powerful and technologically advanced super-naked motorcycles on the market. They offer a combination of performance, handling, and comfort that is sure to please even the most demanding riders.
The SE variant is the more expensive option, but it offers a number of features that make it a better choice for some riders. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your budget and your needs.
Here is a summary of the pros and cons of the Kawasaki Z H2 and Z H2 SE:
Kawasaki Z H2
Pros:
- Powerful supercharged engine
- Lightweight chassis
- Advanced suspension
- Brembo brakes
- The comprehensive suite of electronic rider aids
- Aggressive styling
Cons:
- Expensive
- Not as comfortable as some other super naked motorcycles
Kawasaki Z H2 SE
Pros:
- All of the features of the Z H2
- Showa Skyhook EERA suspension
- Brembo Stylema front brake callipers
- Stainless steel braided brake lines
- Unique colour scheme and graphics
Cons:
- Even more expensive than the Z H2
Conclusion
If you are looking for a high-performance super naked motorcycle with all the latest technology, then the Kawasaki Z H2 and Z H2 SE are definitely worth considering. The SE variant is the better option if you are looking for the most comfortable ride possible and you don’t mind paying a premium. However, the standard Z H2 is still a great motorcycle if you are on a budget or you don’t need all the extra features.
