2023 Kawasaki Z H2 [Specs, Features, Photos]

2023 Kawasaki Z H2: A Masterpiece of Engineering and Performance

Model Overview
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Features
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The 2023 Kawasaki Z H2 is the epitome of modern motorcycle design, blending cutting-edge technology with raw, unadulterated power. The Kawasaki motorcycle brand has been a pioneer in the world of two-wheeled performance, and the Z H2 is no exception. Barely contained in the trellis frame is a supercharged 998cc inline-four engine that delivers an astounding 197 horsepower and 101 lb-ft of torque which makes it one of the top performers in Kawasaki’s 2023 lineup. This engine, combined with a curb weight of just 529 pounds, offers an unmatched power-to-weight ratio, ensuring awesome acceleration and top speeds that can only be safely or legally experienced on a track.

The Z H2’s engine management system has been finely tuned for optimal performance, with advanced electronics and riders can choose from three selectable power modes to tailor the bike’s performance characteristics to the riders preference. The 2023 Z H2’s chassis is equally impressive, featuring a trellis frame crafted from high-tensile steel that offers both strength and agility. The fully adjustable suspension system, with Showa SFF-BP front forks and a Uni-Trak rear shock, ensures razor-sharp handling and a comfortable, stable ride.

The braking system on the 2023 Z H2 is impressive and would need to be, considering the bikes power. Kawasaki has included its top of the line Brembo monobloc front calipers and a Brembo master cylinder. Kawasaki has also incorporated state-of-the-art electronics into the Z H2, including a comprehensive suite of rider aids such as KIBS (Kawasaki Intelligent anti-lock Brake System), KTRC (Kawasaki Traction Control), and KCMF (Kawasaki Cornering Management Function). These advanced systems work together to provide an unparalleled level of control, allowing riders to push the limits of the Z H2’s performance without sacrificing safety.

Aesthetically, the 2023 Kawasaki Z H2 has aggressive styling, characterized by sharp lines and a bold, muscular stance, is undeniably eye-catching. The TFT color display offers a customizable interface, allowing riders to easily monitor essential information such as speed, gear position, and fuel level. As Kawasaki is known for, they have once again pushed the boundaries of engineering and performance and produced a bike that stands above most others in comparison to other Japanese brands.

The 2023 Kawasaki Z H2 starts at $18,500 USD/$23,899 CAD

On this page: we’ve curated specs, features, news, photos/videos, etc. so you can read up on the new 2023 Kawasaki Z H2 in one place.

Model Overview

General Info

Price: $18,500 USD/$23,899 CAD
Key Features:
- Brembo Calipers
- Launch Control
- Riding Modes
- TFT color instrumentation

Main Specs

Engine: 998cc, liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, DOHC 16-valve in-line four
Power: 197 horsepower
Torque: 101 lb-ft
Weight: 529 lbs (240 kgs)
Seat Height: 32.7 inches (830 mm)

Competitors

2023 Kawasaki Z H2 Specifications

From Kawasaki

ENGINE
Engine	998cc, liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, DOHC 16-valve in-line four
Power	197 hp
Bore x Stroke	76.0 x 55.0mm
Compression Ratio	11.2:1
Fuel System	Fuel injection: ø40 mm x 4
Starter	Electric
Lubrication	Forced lubrication, wet sump with oil cooler
DRIVETRAIN
Clutch	Wet multi-disc, manual
Transmission	6-speed, return, dog-ring
Final Drive	Chain
CHASSIS
Suspension Front	ø43 mm inverted fork (SFF-CA) with KECS-controlled compression and rebound damping, manual spring preload adjustability, and top-out springs / 120 mm (4.7 in)
Suspension Rear	New Uni Trak, BFRC lite gas-charged shock with piggyback reservoir, KECS-controlled compression and rebound damping, manual spring preload adjustability, and top-out spring / 134 mm (5.3 in)
Brakes Front	Dual semi-floating ø320 mm discs with radial-mount, Brembo Stylema monobloc, opposed 4-piston calipers
Brakes Rear	ø260 mm disc with single-piston caliper
Tires Front	120/70ZR17M/C (58W)
Tires Rear	190/55ZR17M/C (75W)
Fuel Tank Capacity	19 litres
Color
ELECTRICAL
Ignition	Digital
Spark Plugs
Headlight	LED
Tail Light	LED
DIMENSIONS
Overall Length	82.1 in
Overall Width	31.1 in
Overall Height	44.5 in
Wheelbase	57.3 in
Ground Clearance	5.5 in
Seat Height	32.7 in
Curb Weight	529 lb
WARRANTY
Warranty	12 Month
Kawasaki Protection Plus	12 / 24 / 36 / 48 months

2023 Kawasaki Z H2 Features

Based on feedback from racing activities, the Assist & Slipper Clutch uses two types of cams (an assist cam and a slipper cam) to either drive the clutch hub and operating plate together or apart.

Under normal operation, the assist cam functions as a self-servo mechanism, pulling the clutch hub and operating plate together to compress the clutch plates. This allows the total clutch spring load to be reduced, resulting in a lighter clutch lever feel when operating the clutch.

When excessive engine braking occurs – as a result of quick downshifts (or an accidental downshift) – the slipper cam comes into play, forcing the clutch hub and operating plate apart. This relieves pressure on the clutch plates to reduce back-torque and helps prevent the rear tire from hopping and skidding. This race-style function is particularly useful when sport or track riding.

Using high-precision electronic control for engine management, Kawasaki models can achieve a high level of fuel efficiency. However, fuel consumption is greatly affected by throttle use, gear selection, and other elements under the rider’s control. The Economical Riding Indicator is a function that indicates when current riding conditions are consuming a low amount of fuel. The system continuously monitors fuel consumption, regardless of vehicle speed, engine speed, throttle position and other riding conditions. When fuel consumption is low for a given speed (i.e. fuel efficiency is high), an “ECO” mark appears on the instrument panel’s LCD screen. By riding so that the “ECO” mark remains on, fuel consumption can be reduced.

While effective vehicle speed and engine speed may vary by model, paying attention to conditions that cause the “ECO” mark to appear can help riders improve their fuel efficiency – a handy way to increase cruising range. Further, keeping fuel consumption low also helps minimize negative impact on the environment.

Kawasaki’s fully electronic throttle actuation system enables the ECU to control the volume of both the fuel (via fuel injectors) and the air (via throttle valves) delivered to the engine. Ideal fuel injection and throttle valve position results in smooth, natural engine response and the ideal engine output. The system also makes a significant contribution to reduced emissions.

Electronic throttle valves also enable more precise control of electronic engine management systems like S-KTRC and KTRC, and allow the implementation of electronic systems like KLCM, Kawasaki Engine Brake Control, and Electronic Cruise Control.

Electronic Cruise Control allows a desired speed (engine rpm) to be maintained with the simple press of a button. Once activated, the rider does not have to constantly apply the throttle. This reduces stress on the right hand when traveling long distances, enabling relaxed cruising and contributing to a high level of riding comfort.

Using the latest evolution of Kawasaki’s advanced modeling software and feedback from a compact IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit) that gives an even clearer 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. The systems that KCMF oversees vary by model, but may include:
• S-KTRC/KTRC (including traction management and wheel lift management)
• KLCM (including traction management and wheel lift management)
– Designed to optimize acceleration from a stop
• KIBS (including pitching management and corner braking management)
• Kawasaki Engine Brake Control

Designed to assist riders by optimizing acceleration from a stop, KLCM electronically manages engine output to minimize wheel spin when moving off. With the clutch lever pulled in and the system activated, engine speed is limited to a determined speed while the rider holds the throttle open. Once the rider releases the clutch lever to engage the clutch, engine speed is allowed to increase, but power is regulated to minimize wheel spin and help keep the front wheel on the ground. The system disengages automatically once a predetermined speed has been reached, or when the rider shifts into third gear. Depending on the model, riders can choose from multiple modes, each offering a progressively greater level of intrusion.

Designed to help riders maximize their acceleration on the track by enabling clutchless upshifts with the throttle fully open, KQS detects that the shift lever has been actuated and sends a signal to the ECU to cut ignition so that the next gear can be engaged without having to use the clutch. On models that offer clutchless downshifts, during deceleration the system automatically controls engine speed so that the next lower gear can be selected without operating the clutch.

KTRC, Kawasaki’s advanced traction control system provides both enhanced sport riding performance and the peace of mind to negotiate slippery surfaces with confidence. Multiple rider-selectable modes (the number of modes varies by model) offer progressively greater levels of intrusion to suit the riding situation and rider preference.

Less intrusive modes maintain optimum traction during cornering. Designed with sport riding in mind, they facilitate acceleration out of corners by maximizing forward drive from the rear wheel. And because Kawasaki’s sophisticated software bases its dynamic analysis on the chassis’ orientation relative to the track surface (rather than relative to a horizontal plane), it is able to take into account corner camber, gradient, etc., and adapt accordingly.

In the more intrusive modes (and for some models, in any mode), when excessive wheel spin is detected, engine output is reduced to allow grip to be regained, effectively enabling riders to negotiate both short, slippery patches (train tracks or manhole covers) and extended stretches of bad roads (wet pavement, cobblestone, gravel) with confidence.

Models equipped with IMU incorporate chassis-orientation feedback to offer even more precise management.

Models equipped with multiple Power Modes offer riders an easily selectable choice of engine power delivery to suit riding conditions or preference. In addition to Full Power mode, one (Low) or two (Middle, Low) alternate mode(s) in which maximum power is limited and throttle response is milder are provided.

Clever technology enables riders to connect to their motorcycle wirelessly. Using the smartphone application “RIDEOLOGY THE APP,” a number of instrument functions can be accessed, contributing to an enhanced motorcycling experience. Vehicle information (such as the odometer, fuel gauge, maintenance schedule, etc) can be viewed on the smartphone. Riding logs (varies by model, but may include GPS route, gear position, rpm, and other information) can be viewed on the smartphone. When connected, telephone (call, mail) notices are displayed on the instrument panel. Riders can also make changes to their motorcycle’s instrument display settings (preferred units, clock and date setting, etc) via the smartphone. And on certain models, it is even possible to check and adjust vehicle settings (such as Rider Mode, electronic rider support features, and payload settings) using the smartphone.

Kawasaki has long had a reputation for building great-sounding bikes – a characteristic inherent in the Kawasaki engine architecture – but it is only recently that effort has been put into crafting a specific auditory experience through careful sound tuning of either the intake or exhaust system.

Designed specifically to allow riders to enjoy their motorcycles aurally as well as physically, the carefully crafted auditory notes can be the key components of the street riding exhilaration offered by models that have benefitted from sound tuning. Sound tuning can include conducting sound research, designing intake and exhaust system components based on an acoustic test carried out in a sound room, and careful consideration of every detail of a system’s components to ensure a balance of performance and the desired sound.

Drawing on the know-how and technology possessed by the Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd. (KHI), Kawasaki’s supercharged engine delivers high engine output while maintaining a compact design. The key to achieving this incredible performance lies in the engine’s supercharger – a motorcycle-specific unit designed completely in-house with technology from the Kawasaki Gas Turbine & Machinery Company, Aerospace Company and Corporate Technology Division.
One of the greatest benefits of designing the supercharger in-house and tailoring its design to match the engine’s characteristics was that engineers were able to achieve high-efficiency operation over a wide range of conditions – something that would not have been possible by simply dropping in or trying to adapt an aftermarket automotive supercharger.
The importance of high efficiency in a supercharger is that, as the air is compressed, power-robbing heat gain is minimal. And while many superchargers are able to offer high-efficiency operation in a very limited range of conditions, the Kawasaki supercharger offers high efficiency over a wide range of pressure ratios and flow rates – meaning over a wide range of engine speeds and vehicle speeds. This wide range of efficient operation (similar to having a wide power band) easily translates to strong acceleration. The supercharger’s high efficiency and minimal heat gain also meant that an intercooler was unnecessary, greatly saving weight and space, and enabling the engine’s compact design.

Kawasaki ABS systems use front and rear wheel sensors to constantly monitor wheel speed. Should information from either of the sensors indicate that wheel lock has occurred, the ABS ECU directs the pump in the ABS unit to modulate brake fluid pressure (releasing and reapplying pressure so that traction can be regained) until normal operation resumes. ABS offers rider reassurance that contributes to greater riding enjoyment.