Kawasaki Ninja H2 2015 vs. Yamaha R1 2020

The Kawasaki Ninja H2 model year 2015 and the Yamaha R1 model year 2020 are both high-performance supersport motorcycles that offer impressive power and performance. While they share some similarities in terms of engine specifications and features, there are also notable differences between the two.

Starting with the engine and drive train, both motorcycles have a 998cc engine with four cylinders and four valves per cylinder. The Kawasaki Ninja H2 has a bore of 76mm and a stroke of 55mm, while the Yamaha R1 has a slightly larger bore of 79mm and a shorter stroke of 50.9mm. Both motorcycles have an engine power of 200 HP, but the Kawasaki Ninja H2 has a higher torque of 133.5 Nm compared to the Yamaha R1's torque of 112.4 Nm. The compression ratio of the Kawasaki Ninja H2 is 8.5, while the Yamaha R1 has a higher compression ratio of 13.

In terms of suspension, the Kawasaki Ninja H2 2015 features a telescopic fork front suspension, while the Yamaha R1 2020 is equipped with an upside-down telescopic fork front suspension. Both motorcycles have double disk front brakes and 17-inch front and rear tires. However, the Yamaha R1 has a slightly narrower rear tire width of 190mm compared to the Kawasaki Ninja H2's 200mm rear tire width. The Yamaha R1 also has a slightly shorter wheelbase of 1405mm compared to the Kawasaki Ninja H2's 1455mm wheelbase.

Kawasaki Ninja H2 2015

When it comes to the chassis, the Kawasaki Ninja H2 2015 has a steel frame, while the Yamaha R1 2020 features an aluminum frame. The Yamaha R1's frame type is a Deltabox, which is known for its stability and rigidity.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the Yamaha R1 has a higher seat height of 855mm compared to the Kawasaki Ninja H2's seat height of 825mm. The Yamaha R1 also has a lower kerb weight of 199kg with ABS, while the Kawasaki Ninja H2 weighs slightly more at 238kg with ABS. Both motorcycles have a fuel tank capacity of 17 liters.

In terms of strengths, the Kawasaki Ninja H2 2015 is praised for its outstanding build quality, fascinating engine with a mechanical turbocharger, and impressive pull, acceleration, and speed. It also offers a narrow seat that ensures safe standing, even for smaller riders, and provides great stability. The motorcycle inspires a lot of confidence despite its high performance and features strong brakes and high-quality details.

On the other hand, the Yamaha R1 2020 is praised for its powerful engine with clean response and a great but not intrusive sound. It also offers a stable chassis, high-quality electronics, and a wonderfully noble overall impression.

Yamaha R1 2020

However, there are also some weaknesses to consider. The Kawasaki Ninja H2 2015 has been noted to have response behavior in the transition from pushing mode to acceleration phase that is not at the level of "normal" motorcycles. It also experiences understeer in fast bends, and taller riders may find it difficult to integrate their feet into the overall aerodynamic concept.

The Yamaha R1 2020 has been criticized for its brakes not being 100 percent satisfactory on the race track.

In conclusion, both the Kawasaki Ninja H2 2015 and the Yamaha R1 2020 are impressive supersport motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The Kawasaki Ninja H2 offers a unique engine with a mechanical turbocharger and great stability, while the Yamaha R1 provides a powerful engine, stable chassis, and high-quality electronics. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences and priorities.