2020 Kawasaki Z H2

The 2020 Kawasaki Z H2 adopts naked bike styling from Kawasaki’s Z line and marries it with the power of the Ninja H2. Did somebody say supercharger? Nestled in the exposed trellis frame lies the supercharged 998cc four-cylinder engine ready to attack the streets and track with thrilling power—197 claimed hp to be more specific. Its expansive suite of rider aids and electronics flush it out into a modern pavement poacher as well. Rider-aid gizmos include an up and down quickshifter (less time shifting, more time speeding, right?), launch control, ABS, traction control, three power modes, and four ride modes.

Contributor John L. Stein attended the press launch at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway for a first ride and stated, “The Z H2 presents as expected: a naked literbike with genial open seating and cockpit dimensions; a wide, low-rise handlebar; a fat fuel tank (narrowed below and behind for the knees, thanks much); and a modestly padded seat. And. Huge. Freaking. Power!”

While this supercharged engine/naked bike combo is the first in its class, powerful naked bikes that would contest the Z H2′s 998cc displacement and naked styling include the Yamaha MT-10 ($12,999), Ducati Streetfighter ($19,995), and MV Agusta Brutale 1000 RR (29,990 euros or $35,242).

This model is new for 2020 and will be available in Metallic Spark Black/Metallic Graphite Gray/Mirror Coated Spark Black for 17 grand.