Kawasaki Ninja H2 returns to UK range with major changes and a Carbon edition

Kawasaki has confirmed the return of its Ninja H2 range in the UK for 2027, with three models including the track-only Ninja H2R also included. 

Joining the road-going H2 and H2R models will be a new H2 Carbon variant, which will also be available in limited numbers. 

However, the key thing to note is that the updated H2 is set to produce less power than the claimed output of 228hp (224bhp) that it was given when last homologated in the US.

The H2 was discontinued in the UK as a Euro4-compliant motorcycle in 2020, and part of the reason for the reduction in power will have come as a result of the stricter Euro5+ emission standards set in 2024.

That being said, it’s likely that Kawasaki is also looking to simplify production by better aligning the Ninja H2 range with the Z H2.

The 2027 Ninja H2 features a liquid-cooled inline-four supercharged engine capable of producing a claimed 206bhp at 11,000rpm and 99.5 Ib-ft of torque at 8,500rpm.

It shares the same engine, and therefore the same maximum power and torque figures as the new Carbon edition.

At the heart of the changes for 2027 is a completely redesigned impeller and intake system. This means new pistons, cylinder head, cylinder, crankshaft and camshafts have been introduced, while the bike’s throttle bodies are also new, as is the exhaust system.

Gear ratios have also been revised, while the Ninja H2 becomes the first Kawasaki bike to adopt Brembo Hypure front brake calipers.

A series of rider-friendly changes have also been made, with the new H2 gaining an updated instrument panel that features two selectable display types.

Type 1 comprises a layout that’s inspired by the silhouette of the air ducts. Meanwhile, Type 2 features enhanced boost and aviation-inspired lean/attitude displays. 

A large suite of rider aids complete the set-up, including revised Traction Control and Launch Control. The Ninja H2 also gains Kawasaki’s Cornering Management Function, KIBS (Kawasaki Intelligent anti-lock Brake System), KQS (Kawasaki Quick Shifter), Engine Brake Control, Öhlins Electronic Steering Damper, Electronic Cruise Control, and Smartphone connectivity via Kawasaki’s Rideology App.

The limited-edition Ninja H2 Carbon also gains a carbon-fibre upper cowl made from high-rigidity, lightweight CFRP (Carbon-Fibre Reinforced Plastic). 

Both the Ninja H2 and H2 Carbon will be available at the end of the year with a Mirror Coated Spark Black colourway, with the former priced at £28,600. The Ninja H2 Carbon will cost £31,350, while customers looking to buy the 300bhp+ H2R will need to fork over £52,000.

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