What do you get when combining the world’s most audacious sportbike with…luggage? The Ninja H2 SX, which we suppose stands for “Super X-Country” (our term we just now made up). And that’s the perfect descriptor for hitting the interstate aboard this “hypersport” (Kawasaki’s term that probably required lots of meetings) tourer. Power comes from the H2’s ferocious 998cc inline-four, supercharged by a CNC-machined forged aluminum impeller. Kawasaki’s corner-management function and “intelligent” ABS—which idealize the rider’s throttle and/or brake inputs for conditions—plus engine-brake and traction control are all standard.
For those wanting to partake in true sport-touring excess (that’s a compliment), for a 16-percent price bump, the Ninja H2 Special Edition (SE) adds launch control, a quickshifter for clutchless upshifts and downshifts, electronic cruise control, useful LED cornering lights, a taller windshield, and an energetic Emerald Blazed Green/Metallic Diablo Black paint scheme. The aforementioned luggage—color-matched waterproof 28-liter lockable hard side cases—is optional on both models. Making the H2 SX and H2 SX SE even more touring friendly, rider and passenger comfort seats and a centerstand are also available.
Likes: Gear-driven supercharger, LED headlights and cornering lights
Dislikes: Overly stylized fairing, heavy at a claimed 565 (SX) to 573 (SX SE) pounds
Verdict: The terminator of sport-touring bikes
