Kawasaki has officially launched its flagship supercharged naked bike, the Kawasaki ZH2, in India. The brand has also introduced its premium version—the ZH2 SE—for Indian superbike lovers. These high-performance motorcycles are built for power, design, and advanced technology.
Whether you’re a serious bike enthusiast or someone who appreciates engineering marvels, the ZH2 and ZH2 SE are bound to catch your attention. But be warned—they don’t come cheap, and they’re built to order only, meaning you’ll need to pay the full amount upfront when booking.
Let’s dive into what makes these bikes so unique and expensive.
Price and Variants
There are two versions of the ZH2 available in India:
- Kawasaki ZH2 – ₹23.02 lakh (ex-showroom)
- Kawasaki ZH2 SE – ₹27.22 lakh (ex-showroom)
Both versions are available in the same color scheme: Metallic Matte Graphene Steel Gray. The only differences lie in the added features, performance tuning, and premium hardware on the SE model.
Design and Styling – A Mix of Power and Art
The ZH2 and ZH2 SE follow Kawasaki’s SUGOMI design philosophy, which focuses on a sharp, aggressive, and crouched stance. Key design highlights include:
- A dynamic asymmetrical Ram Air intake on one side
- Minimalist bodywork with exposed mechanical parts
- Visible steel trellis frame and aluminium pivot plate
These design elements not only look bold but also serve important functional purposes, especially in terms of weight balance and rigidity.
Engine and Performance – The Supercharged Powerhouse
At the heart of the ZH2 and ZH2 SE lies a beast of an engine:
- 998cc, liquid-cooled, inline 4-cylinder supercharged engine
- Delivers a whopping 200 PS (197 HP) of peak power
- 137 Nm of torque
This is the same supercharger technology used in Kawasaki’s Ninja H2 models, making it one of the few production naked bikes with such an engine.
Whether you’re blasting down a straight highway or cornering on a race track, the performance is always thrilling. The supercharger kicks in fast and hard, delivering unmatched acceleration and top-end power.
Electronics and Features
Both versions of the bike come with high-end electronic features, including:
- TFT LCD display for the instrument cluster
- Smartphone connectivity for calls, notifications, ride data, and more
- LED headlamps for brighter and efficient lighting
- Electronic cruise control for comfortable highway rides
- Quick shifter for clutch-less gear changes
- Slip and assist clutch for smoother operation
- Showa’s skyhook suspension (ZH2 SE) for electronic damping
Exclusive Features in ZH2 SE
The ZH2 SE is the more advanced version of the two and includes top-tier electronics and safety features, such as:
- Launch control – ideal for racing starts
- Cornering management function – improves stability and control while turning
- Traction control system – prevents wheel spin
- Intelligent ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) – adapts to riding conditions
- Enhanced IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit) – gives real-time feedback on bike movement and balance
These extras make the SE not just faster but smarter and safer as well.
Brakes and Suspension
For powerful performance, you need equally powerful brakes and suspension. Kawasaki delivers with:
- Brembo brakes – world-class braking performance
- Top-quality suspension system by Showa
- Skyhook adaptive dampers for a stable and responsive ride
- The frame is built for both strength and agility, keeping the rider in control at high speeds
Special Identity – The Kawasaki River Mark
Both the ZH2 and ZH2 SE proudly wear the Kawasaki River Mark, a special logo only reserved for products of historical importance and advanced technology. Only a few motorcycles in Kawasaki’s long history are allowed to display this emblem.
Being supercharged, built with high-end components, and part of the elite Z series, these two bikes deserve this honor. The River Mark adds to their identity as limited, high-value machines.
Booking and Availability
If you want to buy one, keep in mind:
- These bikes are built-to-order
- Full payment is required at the time of booking
- No partial booking options are available
- Availability may be limited depending on dealership and region
Because of this, the ZH2 and ZH2 SE are not impulse purchases—they’re for serious riders and collectors.
Final Verdict: Who Should Buy the Kawasaki ZH2?
This is not your average commuter bike. The Kawasaki ZH2 and ZH2 SE are:
- Ideal for experienced riders who want a hyper-naked bike
- Built for those who love track days or highway thrills
- Best suited for superbike collectors who value performance and design
- Not meant for city rides, office commutes, or fuel economy seekers
If you want the ultimate blend of power, technology, and exclusivity—this is the beast to buy.