In the weeks leading up to the EICMA motorcycle show in Milan, we showed our readers a steady stream of Kawasaki-produced teaser videos that highlighted various elements of the supercharged new H2R track-only superbike. These good (if a bit too numerous) spots highlighted the precise construction techniques and wind-tunnel-tuned aerodynamics of the H2R, but we never got to see the actual street-legal H2 until the EICMA show, where Kawasaki pulled the cover off the bike and revealed some of its vitals. Most significant: The supercharged 998cc engine, in street-legal form, puts out a claimed 200 PS (197 hp) horsepower at 11,000 rpm, which means it’s about 100 horsepower down on the H2R track bike. What’s more, it tips the scales at a claimed 525 lb., meaning it’s almost 100 lb. heavier than a ZX-10R. Nevertheless, the H2/H2R is a technological tour de force that represents the technical might of Kawasaki Heavy Industries. And, oh, yeah, one other thing: Dealers are taking deposits on these limited-edition superbikes only now through December 19.
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