2027 Kawasaki Ninja H2 Returns with Euro 5+ Compliance

The supercharged Ninja H2 returns with a revised engine, Brembo Hypure brakes and updated electronics, while the track-only H2R continues with more than 300hp.

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Around a decade ago, Kawasaki made a major technical statement with the road-legal Ninja H2 and track-only Ninja H2R. Both motorcycles quickly became icons, showcasing engineering expertise from across the Kawasaki Group.

The development of the H2 family went beyond conventional motorcycle engineering, with specialists from aerospace and gas turbine technology also contributing to the project. The result was a pair of highly distinctive supercharged motorcycles, powered by Kawasaki’s 999cc inline-four engine.

Now, Kawasaki has confirmed that the supercharged Ninja H2 sportsbike will return to the UK market line-up for 2027. The model was previously discontinued at the end of 2020 as the introduction of Euro 5 emissions regulations in 2021 made it difficult for the motorcycle to remain on sale in several global markets, including Europe and Asia.

Kawasaki already offers two road-legal motorcycles using its supercharged 1,000cc four-cylinder engine: the naked Z H2 and Ninja H2 SX sports tourer. Both produce 197 horsepower at 11,000 rpm.

For 2027, however, the Ninja H2 returns with a heavily revised version of its supercharged engine. The previous Euro 4-compliant model was claimed to produce around 240 horsepower, while the new Euro 5+ version produces a claimed 206 horsepower at 11,000 rpm and 135 of torque at 8,500 rpm.

The lower peak output is largely the result of the changes required to meet the stricter Euro 5+ emissions standards. Kawasaki has redesigned the intake system and supercharger impeller, while also introducing new pistons, cylinder heads, crankshaft, throttle bodies and exhaust system components.

The transmission has also been revised, with Kawasaki completely returning the gear ratios for the 2027 model. According to the manufacturer, the changes are intended to maintain strong acceleration at high rpm while improving torque delivery through the low and mid-range.

Braking performance has also been updated. The 2027 Ninja H2 is equipped with Brembo Hypure calipers, paired with 330mm semi-floating front discs. At the rear, braking is handled by a 250mm disc with a two-piston caliper.

Suspension comes from 43mm KYB front forks with manual adjustment, while an Öhlins TTX36 monoshock handles the rear. Despite the updates, the motorcycle’s claimed weight remains at 238kg, the same as the previous model.

The electronics package has also been enhanced, bringing together traction control, launch control, cornering ABS, Kawasaki Quick Shifter (KQS), engine brake control, an Öhlins electronic steering damper and cruise control.

Alongside the standard Ninja H2, Kawasaki will once again offer the limited-edition Ninja H2 Carbon. It features an upper fairing made from high-strength, lightweight carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP). The Carbon Edition will enter production first and is scheduled to become available from October.

Meanwhile, the track-only Ninja H2R continues to sit at the top of the range. Unlike the road-going H2, the H2R is not restricted by road emissions regulations and continues to produce a claimed 306hp at 14,000 rpm, rising to 326hp with Ram-Air.

The return of the Ninja H2 gives Kawasaki another high-performance supercharged sportsbike in its 2027 line-up, bringing the iconic model back after several years away from the global motorcycle market.