The Hayabusa and the H2R are both similar in many ways. They are both high-powered motorcycles, using liter-class engines, but that’s where their similarities end. Let’s take a look at some of the key differences between these two amazing bikes to see which one comes out on top!

Introduction

The Suzuki Hayabusa is an amazing bike. It is fast, powerful and it can be a lot of fun to ride. But like all motorcycles on the market, it has its ups and downs. The Kawasaki H2r is on its own league compared to most motorcycles on today’s market because of its power, design and speed. However, there are also disadvantages to owning such a motorcycle as well (e.g., cost of ownership). Below are my thoughts about both bikes along with my opinion about which bike I would choose to own if I were in that position.

History

The Kawasaki Ninja H2 was introduced in 2014 as a top-of-the-line superbike for track use. It is nicknamed The Beast. The Kawasaki Ninja H2R, released in 2015, is an upgraded version of previous year’s model. The difference between these two models lies in their purpose and engine capacity. The main objective of developing these two models was to set a new world speed record of 310 miles per hour.

Model Differences

The Suzuki Hayabusa and Kawasaki Ninja H2R are both high-powered Japanese superbikes designed for speed and performance. While each bike has a similar focus, there are several key differences between them. The major differences include horsepower, weight, maximum torque, acceleration, braking and handling. A few years back – when it was still for sale in Canada – we got our hands on a 2009 GSX1300RZ – aka Zook or Hayabusa to you and me.

Engine Characteristics

First, let’s take a look at engine specifications and engine characteristics. The Hayabusa is powered by a inline-4 engine with a displacement of 998cc and has 16 valves. The redline on the Hayabusa is at 11,500 rpm. On it’s max, it can generate 137 horsepower at 10,000 rpm with 86 lb.-ft of torque at 9,000 rpm. However, if you live in California or any other state where they restrict vehicle emissions; your bike will be detuned to 130 hp/85 lb.-ft of torque (pink slip). Nonetheless! The Kawasaki Ninja H2r on the other hand uses a Liquid cooled DOHC 4-cylinder that displaces 999cc with 16 valves as well.

Longevity & Reliability

The Hayabusa is a sixteen-year-old bike that has been lauded for its durability. Kawasaki first launched it in 1999 as a successor to one of their most popular bikes, but it took a full decade to get it right. The company scrapped several prototypes and finally released an updated version (the GSX1300R) in 2008. Since then, critics have praised its solid design and reliable engine performance. Kawasaki reported no major mechanical failures throughout testing, even after accumulating 462 miles on a single tank of gas! Also, of course there’s Suzuki’s reliability history; these guys are world renowned for consistently producing some of the best bikes ever made with virtually no breakdowns.

Braking & Handling

At a top speed of about 180mph, these bikes are scary fast. When you’re zooming along at that sort of speed, how can you stop? Surprisingly enough, stopping power is actually pretty impressive. With two 320mm discs up front and four-piston calipers providing stopping power at each wheel, stopping from a high speed doesn’t seem to be an issue for either bike. The Hayabusa weighs in at 594 pounds and has ample amounts of lean angle (31 degrees) to help control its momentum if you choose to lay it over in order to scrub off some speed.

Conclusion

It’s true that both bikes are high performance, street legal motorcycles – with prices starting at around $30,000. The Suzuki Hayabusa definitely has better acceleration with a top speed of 188 mph; while, as you would expect, is faster and cheaper than its Kawasaki competitor. But for those who like to ride fast and furious on roadways in Europe and North America, I’d recommend taking a good look at the Kawasaki Ninja H2R.