Kawasaki has unveiled a hydrogen-powered motorcycle that promises the benefits of a traditional bike with far less emissions. Based on the Ninja H2, the motorcycle has a supercharged 1.0-liter (998 cc) four-cylinder engine that has been modified to run on hydrogen instead of gasoline. Hydrogen is injected directly into the cylinders as the bike operates on a traditional combustion process.
The engine isn’t the only change as the
motorcycle has been outfitted with hydrogen fuel canisters as well as an
on-board “hydrogen fuel supply system.” These components have apparently been
placed out back and have been designed to look like hard saddlebags. Kawasaki
recently staged the “world’s first public demonstration run of a hydrogen ICE
motorcycle by a mass-production motorcycle manufacturer” at Suzuka Circuit
during the Coca-Cola Suzuka 8 Hours Endurance Race. It was the culmination of
months of work as the project began in March of 2023 and gave way to test runs
earlier this year.
The company said the resulting bike
delivers the “rumble and pulsating sensation that riders love when twisting the
throttle, while emitting mainly water and a very small amount of CO2.” On top
of that, the bike could avoid the limited ranges and long recharging times that
hamper electric motorcycles. While the bike is a prototype, Kawasaki has plans
to put a hydrogen-powered motorcycle into production “beginning in the early
2030s.” However, the company cautioned that timing and availability “may vary
depending on the hydrogen fuel supply infrastructure and the status of legal
regulations in each country.”
