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In the world of four-wheels, they go by ‘halo cars’: the vehicle that represents the brand’s cream of the crop. An aspirational product designed to capture the imagination with bleeding edge performance, technology and style. And since it debuted with a jaw-dropping, supercharged 300 horsepower ‘R’ version in 2014, the H2 line has held the halo title for Kawasaki and, arguably, the entire motorcycle industry.
But where the H2R, and its de-tuned civilian counterpart H2, were built with a focus on speed above all else, the H2 SX has been completely reworked and refined for comfort and everyday rider friendliness. That translates to ergonomics revised for a less aggressive riding position, an added rear seat to share in the fun and 58 liters of luggage-carrying capacity for extended jaunts. Don’t let the civilities fool you, though. The supercharged, 998cc inline-four engine still spools up a titanic 200hp, supplemented with a whirl from the impeller that constantly coaxes you for more throttle.
The Good: In an entirely counterintuitive way, Kawasaki found a way to deliver more bike for less money. Priced at $19,000, The H2 SX is the entry-level model in the supercharged, hyperbike family. And yet it comes equipped with a chassis, suspension and electronics combination that works harmoniously with one of the most tractable and blisteringly quick engines I’ve had the chance to experience. There are at least 200 hp on tap along with 101 lbs-ft of torque from this all-new version of the H2 powerplant.
Who It’s For: Speed-obsessed riders who aren’t keen on cramped sports bike ergonomics, and touring riders looking to work the ‘sport’ quotient back into their multi-day, asphalt-heavy escapes.
