Is the Kawasaki H2 Turbocharged?
3 Answers
Kawasaki H2 is not turbocharged; this motorcycle utilizes supercharger technology. The principles of supercharging and turbocharging differ, although both compress air and deliver it to the engine cylinders. The Kawasaki H2 is equipped with a 998cc inline-four supercharged engine. This engine delivers a maximum power of 147.1 kW, a maximum torque of 137 Nm, with peak power achieved at 11,000 rpm and peak torque at 8,500 rpm. It is paired with a 6-speed transmission.
When it comes to the Kawasaki H2, many people ask this question. It's not turbocharged; it uses a supercharger. The supercharger is directly connected to the engine crankshaft, so the higher the RPM, the more intense the boost effect. Unlike a turbo that relies on exhaust gases, this thing delivers throttle response as quick as an electric shock—just twist the throttle and it lunges forward. I heard it can crank out up to 300 horsepower, and the supercharger's signature high-pitched whine is even more thrilling than the exhaust note. Although superchargers are heavier than turbos, on a motorcycle, they actually improve stability by lowering the center of gravity, making it less floaty in corners. During my test ride, I noticed the supercharger's power delivery is exceptionally linear, without the sudden surge typical of turbocharged bikes—a critical factor for motorcycle handling.
As a seasoned rider with years of motorcycle experience, I can confirm the Kawasaki H2 doesn't use a turbocharger. Its supercharger system is particularly fascinating – the impeller spins up to 130,000 rpm, surpassing even Formula 1 engines! Being mechanically driven by the engine, the supercharger delivers instant power. Turbocharging has that lag, which could be dangerous when cornering if boost kicks in abruptly. The H2's design provides both brutal and smooth acceleration – during my track experience, it delivered instant power out of corners without any waiting. However, superchargers run extremely hot, so the engine bay incorporates a liquid-cooled intercooler. On summer rides, you can actually feel the heat waves on your knees after prolonged use.
