ZigWheels Exclusive: Kawasaki H2 to be launched at Rs 26 lakh

ZigWheels has learnt that the 200PS supercharged Kawasaki H2 will be launched in India at an ex-showroom price of around Rs 26 lakh. This will put the on-road price of the flagship motorcycle at around Rs 30 lakh.

The H2 was unveiled at the 2014 EICMA motorcycle show in Milan, Italy earlier this month. It is a road-legal version of the 300PS Kawasaki H2R hyperbike that was showcased at the 2014 INTERMOT show in October.

The H2 boasts of having the world’s only supercharged production streetbike engine – a liquid-cooled, 4-stroke in-line four motor that has been detuned to make 200PS at 11,000rpm. Maximum torque is claimed at 113.5Nm at 10,500rpm, with the supercharger primarily helping to broaden the powerband for better street riding. The H2 will be offered with an option of Ram Air that hikes the power output to 210PS.

At 238kg, the H2 tips the scales on the heavier side and boasts a power to weight ratio of 0.89PS/kg.

The styling is more or less same as the Kawasaki H2R, but gets additions like a headlamp, turn indicators, tail lamp and rear view mirrors to make it road legal. The trellis frame, painted lime green, balances stiffness and flexibility and there are hints of green on the aerodynamic bodywork as well.

The H2 is equipped with advanced electronics, including Kawasaki Traction Control (KTRC) with three different modes – two tailored for maximum acceleration and performance and one mode optimised for rainy conditions. The system can also be turned off completely.

Then there’s Kawasaki Launch Control Mode (KLCM) which electronically controls engine output to minimize rear wheel slip and front end lift. Kawasaki claims this system allows the rider to launch from a stop with the throttle held wide open. The bike also features an Ohlins electronic steering damper.

Suspension comprises front forks from KYB, fully adjustable for compression and rebound damping, as well as preload and a fully adjustable rear shock, also from KYB. Braking is taken care of by two massive 330mm Brembo semi floating discs, gripped by dual radial-mount Brembo monobloc callipers. Rear brake is also from Brembo – a 250mm single disc.