RideFast Magazine March 2020

WORLD LAUNCH TEST: 2020 KAWASAKI Z H2
SUPERCHARGED
NAKED
From the moment the Kawasaki H2 was released,
motorcycle enthusiasts have been clamoring for a naked
version with all of its supercharged madness. Well, wait
no more because the 2020 Kawasaki Z H2 has arrived,
and it fills the capstone within the all-important, sporty
yet street-friendly, Z-family lineup as its flagship model.
Words & pics: ultimatemotorcycling.com
Featuring an all-new
chassis, comfortable
ergonomics, and an updated
electronics package, the
rip-roaring Z H2 utilizes the
same 998cc supercharged
powerplant as the H2 SX
line, with a few notable
changes to fit this naked
bike application.
We packed our bags and
headed off to Las Vegas
Motor Speedway for two
days of riding on the road
course, the oval track, and
the surrounding roads to
feel the full spectrum of the
Kawasaki Z H2.
Despite the teethchattering
40-degree
weather, the Z H2 was able
to prove that it has a whole
lot more going for it than
outlandish power, with
versatility being a strong suit.
Now, let’s roll the dice and
get on with the Fast Facts.
1. The 998cc
supercharged inline-four
engine is astounding, and
not just because of all
that raw power. The Z H2’s
supercharged powerplant is
amazingly smooth. It does
not lug. It does not rattle. It
is the definition of refined.
Due to those qualities, I’d
go as far as describing its
197 horsepower at 10,500
rpm and 137Nm of torque
at 9500 rpm as friendly.
Power on this motorcycle is
omnipresent, and it builds in
a predictable, linear fashion.
But, make no mistake, the
stunning acceleration will
make you feel like you’re
60 RIDEFAST MAGAZINE MARCH 2020