Today at EICMA Kawasaki today released a new Ninja H2 based sport tourer. Less power than the standard H2 but with more bodywork to keep the wind off the riders, a usable pillion seat, and hard bags. No confirmation yet on whether this model will come to the US market. Expect an answer Dec 1.
Kawasaki says:
LED Cornering Lights
The Ninja H2 SX SE cornering 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, creating a wider path of light in the direction the bike is heading. Only on the SE model
KLCM (Kawasaki Launch Control Mode)
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. Only on the SE model
KQS (Kawasaki Quick Shifter)
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-1. Only on the SE model
LCD vs TFT
The advanced, high-tech design of the instrumentation contributes to the Ninja H2 SX’s flagship-level quality. Kawasaki’s first use of a high-grade full colour TFT LCD screen on the SE. 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. Compared to the analogue-style tachometer that is complemented by a full digital LCD screen on the standard model.
Cornering Management
Using feedback from the compact Bosch IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit) that gives a 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)
-KIBS (including pitching and corner braking control)
-Kawasaki Engine Brake Control
-KLCM (SE-only)
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.
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.
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 Z1000SX and Versys 1000. Combined with its 19 litre fuel tank, this gives the Ninja H2 SX a substantial cruising range.
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.
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 forward-leaning as the ZZR1400, and not as upright as the Z1000SX, the Ninja H2 SX’s riding position offers a more relaxed bend for both the elbows and knees than the ZZR1400. Realising 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 than that of the ZZR1400 was possible. The position is comfortable for both in-town riding and long touring, while still enabling the rider to enjoy sporty riding in the hills.
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.
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 an accessory Low Seat (15 mm lower) that prioritises an easy reach to the ground. The rear seat, wider and flatter than on the Z1000SX, ensures pillion comfort.
On the SE model, high-grade two-tone (leather/suede) seats with double-stitching are standard for both the front and rear seats, adding to its exclusivity.
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.
New Trellis Frame
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 Z1000SX. And increased rigidity and a longer wheelbase deliver the stability for riding at highway speed with panniers, while a 30o steering angle facilitates low-speed manoeuvres
Specs:
Engine
Engine type: Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke In-Line Four with Supercharger
Compression ratio: 11.2:1
Valve system: DOHC, 16 valves
Bore x stroke: 76.0 x 55.0 mm
Displacement: 998 cm³
Fuel system: Fuel injection: Ø 40 mm x 4 with dual injection
Starting System: Electric
Lubrication: Forced lubrication, wet sump with oil cooler
Performance & Transmission
Maximum torque 101lbft / 9,500 rpm
Maximum power 197HP / 11,000 rpm
Transmission: 6-speed, return, dog-ring
Clutch: Wet multi-disc, manual
Primary Reduction Ratio: 1.551 (76/49)
Gear Ratios: 1st 3.077 (40/13)
Gear Ratios: 2nd 2.471 (42/17)
Gear Ratios: 3rd 2.045 (45/22)
Gear Ratios: 4th 1.727 (38/22)
Gear Ratios: 5th 1.524 (32/21)
Gear Ratios: 6th 1.348 (31/23)
Brakes & Suspension
Brakes, front: Dual semi-floating 320 mm discs. Caliper: Dual radial-mount, monobloc, opposed 4-piston
Brakes, rear: Single 250 mm disc. Caliper: 2-piston
Suspension, front: 43 mm inverted fork with rebound and compression damping, spring preload adjustability and top-out springs
Suspension, rear: New Uni-Trak, gas-charged shock with piggyback reservoir, compression damping, rebound damping, remote spring preload adjustability and top-out spring
Frame & Dimensions
Frame type: Trellis, high-tensile steel with Swingarm Mounting Plate
Trail: 103 mm
Wheel travel front: 120 mm
Wheel travel rear: 139 mm
Tyre, front: 120/70ZR17M/C (58W)
Tyre, rear: 200/55ZR17M/C (75W)
L x W x H: 2,135 x 775 x 1,205 mm
Wheelbase: 1,480 mm
Ground clearance: 130 mm
Fuel capacity: 19 litres
Seat height: 835 mm
Curb mass: 564 lb