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Japan’s Big Four Team Up To Develop Hydrogen Engines

Japan’s Big Four motorcycle manufacturers, Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki, and Yamaha, made an exciting announcement on May 17, 2023.

They unveiled their joint venture called HySE (Hydrogen Small Mobility and Engine Technology) during a press conference held in Tokyo.
This collaboration aims to develop hydrogen-powered motorcycle engines and other hydrogen-powered engines for small mobility.

HySE will also welcome Kawasaki Heavy Industries Limited and Toyota Motor Corporation as special members, considering their individual advancements in hydrogen-powered research. This diverse group will bring together expertise from various fields to drive innovation in hydrogen-powered engines.

The newly formed organisation has outlined three primary areas of focus for research and development, with each company assigned specific responsibilities. Honda, Suzuki, Yamaha, and Kawasaki Motors will collectively research hydrogen-powered engines. Yamaha will concentrate on studying hydrogen refueling systems, while Kawasaki Motors will explore the fuel supply system.

The research efforts will be distributed among the companies. Honda will take the lead in model-based development, Suzuki will conduct an element study on functionality and performance, and Yamaha and Kawasaki Motors will carry out hands-on research to assess real-world functionality and reliability of hydrogen-powered engines.

In addition to engine research, Yamaha will investigate the requirements for developing a hydrogen refueling system and tanks for small mobility vehicles. Kawasaki Motors will focus on studying the auxiliary equipment necessary for fuel supply systems and distribution tanks, as well as the equipment between the fuel tanks and injectors on hydrogen-powered vehicles.

Collaboration among these major players is crucial as they tackle the challenges of decarbonisation. While electric vehicles have made progress in reducing carbon emissions, certain sectors face difficulties in this transition. To achieve a sustainable future, it requires multiple ideas, research, and development working together.

Clean hydrogen, also known as green hydrogen, holds promise but has been expensive to produce in the past. The implementation of hydrogen tax credits, as included in the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, could incentivise companies to invest in clean hydrogen development. However, the effectiveness of these incentives will depend on the guidelines established by the US Department of Energy and the US Internal Revenue Service, ensuring accountability for emissions throughout the production process.

The prospects of HySE’s research and development are eagerly anticipated, and we will keep you updated on the latest advancements in this exciting endeavour.

Kawasaki To Unveil 16 New Models On June 6

Kawasaki USA has some exciting news for motorcycle enthusiasts as they plan to unveil 16 new models on June 6, 2023.

The upcoming event has created a buzz among fans, and the official Kawasaki USA webpage features a countdown clock that builds anticipation for the grand reveal.

Although not all of the 16 new vehicles will be motorcycles, there will be a considerable number of them. The webpage features silhouettes of new vehicles, which include street bikes, dirt bikes, and at least one UTV. Fans are eagerly waiting to see what Kawasaki has in store for them.

Kawasaki has provided some hints on its YouTube and Facebook pages, adding to the excitement of fans. A video posted on YouTube teases viewers with the caption “6.6.23 – Your Supersport Obsession begins.” The social media post suggests that an updated Ninja ZX-6R and/or RR will be showcased during the event.

Kawasaki also posted the same video on its Facebook page, along with two additional teaser images. One of the images showcases a closeup of a single round gauge, while the other is an extreme closeup of the front right corner of a UTV.

Fans can also expect to see the much-awaited 2024 Kawasaki Eliminator 450 during the event. The Eliminator 450 was first introduced in Japan in March 2023 and later made an appearance at the Bangkok Motor Show. In April 2023, the 450cc model was spotted in California Air Resources Board filings, indicating that it will soon be released in the American market.

With just three weeks left until the event, fans are eagerly waiting for more teasers from Kawasaki. Although there have been no announcements on Twitter or TikTok, the upcoming event has generated a lot of excitement among motorcycle enthusiasts.

New Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R On Its Way, Will Adhere To Euro 5 Standard

Kawasaki is preparing to launch an updated version of its Ninja ZX-6R in 2024, according to a recent listing on the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency approved road-going motorcycles list.

the updated model will offer less power than the previous generation to meet the strict emission standard.
expected to feature a longer final-drive gearing to accommodate the lower-revving engine.

While the new model will be less powerful than its predecessor, it will feature more advanced technology and improved emissions performance, making it more attractive to riders in Europe and other parts of the world that have seen the existing ZX-6R removed from the market due to emissions regulations.

The EPA document reveals that the new model, internally coded as “ZX636J” and “ZX636K,” will have a peak power output of 122 hp and a rev peak of 13,000 rpm, which is down from the 127 hp and 13,500 rpm of the previous model.

The change in power is likely due to Kawasaki’s efforts to meet the latest Euro 5 emissions standards, which require a specific limit on “non-methane hydrocarbons” that is difficult for high-revving bikes to achieve.

To meet these standards, Kawasaki has likely reduced the engine’s outright revs and peak power, without compromising on its performance.

The new model is expected to feature a longer final-drive gearing to accommodate the lower-revving engine, but will weigh around the same as the current model. This suggests that there won’t be wholesale alterations to the chassis, but rather more up-to-date styling and electronics upgrades, such as a color TFT instrument panel, IMU-assisted cornering ABS, wheelie control, launch control, and stability control.

The updated Ninja ZX-6R will face tough competition in a market that has shrunk considerably since its peak in the 1990s, but Kawasaki is hoping to leapfrog its aging Japanese rivals in terms of technology.

While the drop in power may disappoint some riders, the new model’s improved emissions performance and advanced technology could make it a more attractive option for those looking for a high-performance supersport bike that meets the latest environmental standards.

WorldSBK: Ducati Rev Limit Lowered By 250rpm, Kawasaki Raised

The FIM and Dorna WSBK Organization (DWO) have recently announced updated rev limits for the MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship category.

The new rev limits will come into effect starting from this weekend’s event at the Prosecco DOC Catalunya Round.
Ducati rev limit decreased by 250rpm, Kawasaki gained extra 250rpm.

After analyzing the performance of the machines over the first three rounds of the 2023 season, it has been decided that the maximum rev limit for Ducati will be decreased by 250 rpm as per article 2.4.2.2-3 of the regulations. This move is aimed at ensuring a level playing field for all participants in the championship.

In contrast, Kawasaki has elected to use 5 concession points to benefit from a 250 rpm rev limit increase as per article 2.4.3.3 of the regulations. This decision comes after careful consideration of their performance in the first three rounds of the championship.

According to article 2.4.2.3 of the regulations, the rev limit may be updated at the end of every third event provided at least three events remain in the season. That said, there may be further updates to the rev limits in the coming weeks.

YouTuber Dies After Attempting To Hit 300km/h On His Kawasaki ZX-10R

The dangerous trend of attempting to reach the 300 km/h speed limit on motorcycles has claimed another life in India.

There’s been several incident where YouTubers and influencers in India been trying to hit the 300km/h mark solely for content purposes.
Agastya Chauhan is a popular YouTuber in India with 1.25 million subscribers.

This time, a known Youtuber with 1.25mil subscribers, Agastya Chauhan, lost his life after attempting similar speed.

The incident occurred on the Yamuna Expressway between Agra and Delhi in Uttar Pradesh. The 25-year old was riding his Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R. As he was attempting to reach the 300 km/h mark , he lost control of the bike and hit a divider on the expressway.

According to reports, the impact of the crash was severe with the YouTuber succumbed to a head injury and died on the spot.

While some reports have claimed that Chauhan was an experiend biker, others suggest that he was simply a YouTube influencer who had been riding bikes for a long time and making videos on them.

The Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R is a powerful machine that features a 998cc, inline four-cylinder engine capable of generating a maximum power of 197.3 Bhp at 13,000 rpm and a peak torque of 113.5 Nm at 11,500 rpm. The bike is electronically limited to a top speed of 299 km/h for safety reasons.

(source: Times of India)

The Supercharged Kawasaki Z H2 SE Now In Malaysia – RM97,800

Kawasaki Malaysia has officially launched the 2023 Z H2 SE hyper naked sports bike, priced at RM97,800.

the SE gets you Showa Skyhook semi-active electronic suspension.
the braking package includes Brembo Stylema monobloc callipers.

Launched at the 2023 Malaysia Autoshow, the Z H2 SE is powered by a supercharged 998cc, inline four-cylinder engine, capable of producing 200 horsepower at 11,000 RPM and 137 Nm of torque at 8,500 RPM. It is equipped with a six-speed gearbox with an assist and slipper clutch and chain drive, which powers the rear wheel.

The bike’s suspension has been upgraded and now features a Showa Skyhook semi-active electronic suspension with a Showa SFF-CA fork and Showa BFRC monoshock, which adjusts according to ride modes and self-adjusts during riding for more comfort.

The braking system has also been improved, featuring Brembo Stylema Monobloc callipers, a Brembo master cylinder, twin 320mm front discs, and a 260mm rear brake disc.

The Z H2 SE is equipped with an inertial measurement unit control (IMU), which controls the Kawasaki Intelligent Brake System (KIBS) and Kawasaki Traction Control (KTRC). It also features cruise control, Kawasaki Launch Control Mode (KLCM), Kawasaki Cornering Management Function (KCMF), and three riding modes.

The bike is available in two colours: Metallic Matte Graphene Steel Gray and Metallic Matte Graphene Steel Ebony, and will be available in authorised Kawasaki 4S Dealers showrooms by the end of June 2023.

Kawasaki Latest Type-Approval Documents Hints At The Arrival Of Eliminator 450

Kawasaki has recently been making waves in the motorcycle world with its revived Eliminator nameplate. In March 2023, the Japanese company announced the Eliminator 400 for the Japanese market, and it was presented at the 2023 Bangkok Motor Show.

latest type-approval documents confirms the arrival of an all-new Eliminator 450.
It is likely that there will be several variants for the Eliminator 450.

Now, new information has surfaced suggesting that Kawasaki may release a larger-capacity Eliminator 450 in North America in 2024.

According to reports by Motorcycle.com, latest California Air Resources Board (CARB) filings show that Kawasaki has filed model codes EL450A, EL450B, EL450C, and EL450D.

Considering that the Eliminator 400 and Eliminator 400 SE are designated as EL400A and EL400B respectively, it is likely that the EL450A and EL450B will be the base model Eliminator 450 and Eliminator 450 SE. Meanwhile, the EL450C and EL450D may denote ABS-equipped trims.

The CARB filings also confirm that the Eliminator 450 will benefit from a 451cc engine. While it is unclear how Kawasaki’s engineers achieved the extra volume, it is possible that they used the firm’s tried-and-true 398cc parallel twin as a basis for the new mill.

Compared to Honda’s Rebel 500, which is the main competitor to a potential Eliminator 450, Kawasaki’s parallel twin already has a power advantage.

However, the Rebel 500’s 471cc engine outperforms the Eliminator’s 398cc lump with 43Nm of torque @ 6,000 rpm. Kawasaki may address this shortfall with the new 451cc powerplant, but the existence of the 2024 Eliminator 450 cannot be confirmed without an official announcement from the company.

Kawasaki Developing Magnetic Brakes To Reduce The Risk Of Low-Sides

Kawasaki has recently patented a new type of electronic brake that could help to reduce the risk of low-side crashes on bikes.

Kawasaki has patented a new type of electronic brake that applies a load to the bike’s chain wheel during deceleration to reduce the risk of low-side crashes.
The system aims to stabilize the bike during critical moments, particularly when the front brake is released.

According to reports by Visordown, the technology is designed to work on the chain wheel of the bike and uses a type of magnetic clutch that can be electronically actuated to apply a load to the chain during deceleration.

When a bike is braking into a corner, it slows down and compresses the suspension, pushing the front tire into the Tarmac, and increasing the amount of grip there is at the front end of the machine.

However, when the front brake is released, the springs in the forks try to return to a normal position, reducing the pressure on the front tire and reducing the amount of grip it has. This can lead to a low-side crash if the front end loses grip.

The Kawasaki system aims to solve this problem by applying a load to the bike’s chain while decelerating, even after the front brake has been released. This means that the bike will still be applying some force on the suspension, reducing the rebound action of the forks that can cause a low-side.

While the system may seem like a natural fit for a sports bike ridden on a track, Kawasaki is reportedly considering using the technology on its road-going sports touring machines too. With radar-assisted cruise control becoming increasingly popular on top-spec models, manufacturers are always looking for new ways to control a bike’s speed without relying solely on the braking system, which can be unsettling for both the rider and the bike.

While this new technology is still in its early stages, it could represent a significant step forward in motorcycle safety. As always, riders should continue to prioritize safe riding practices and seek out training and education to improve their skills on the road.

(source: Visordown)

2024 Kawasaki Z650RS To Feature Traction Control

Kawasaki is set to add traction control to its Z650RS for the 2024 model year, according to an executive order issued by the California Air Resources Board as reported by Motorcycle.com.

Kawasaki Z650RS to received minor upgrade in the form of a traction control.
The Z650RS retro-inspired instrument cluster is expected to be revised.

The update is expected to bring the retro-inspired model in line with Kawasaki’s other 650cc models, the Z650, Ninja 650, and Versys 650, which all received traction control updates in recent years.

The Z650RS was introduced in 2022 and is relatively new compared to its counterparts, which may explain why Kawasaki waited a year to add traction control. The retro-inspired instrumentation on the Z650RS also presented a challenge, as adding traction control would require modifying the dashboard to include new information.

The addition of traction control is a welcome update for the Z650RS, which already boasts an impressive 649cc parallel-twin engine and sleek, retro styling. Kawasaki’s decision to wait until the 2024 model year to introduce traction control will ensure that customers who purchased the first year of production won’t be left out.

Aside from the addition of traction control and a new dashboard, no other changes are expected for the Z650RS in 2024. Fans of the model can likely expect new color options, but otherwise, the bike is expected to remain largely unchanged.

Kawasaki’s move to add traction control to the Z650RS is just the latest example of the company’s commitment to providing riders with cutting-edge technology and performance. With its powerful engine and retro-inspired style, the Z650RS is sure to continue attracting attention from riders looking for a unique and exciting riding experience.

Watch The Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4RR Hit 253KM/H On Dyno

On March 27, 2023, Kawasaki Indonesia finally launched the ZX-4RR, revealing claimed power figures of 79.1hp at 14,500 rpm (with Ram-Air). The bike also boasts listed torque of 37.4Nm at 12,500 rpm.

the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4RR is the most powerful 400cc machine ever built.
powering the ZX-4RR is a high-performance, in-line four-cylinder 399cc engine with advanced racing-inspired technology.

While it’s not uncommon for OEMs to tune the same model differently for different markets, the Indonesian version of the ZX-4RR has a slightly higher peak torque figure than the US version.

In a latest video, Kawasaki Indonesia showcased how the new Ninja ZX-4RR is enough to get any adrenaline junkie’s heart racing. In the teaser video, titled “Top Speed Dyno Run,” features the ZX-4RR being tested on a dyno, reaching a top speed of 253 kilometers per hour in sixth gear.

Overall, the release of the ZX-4RR has been generating excitement among motorcycle enthusiasts worldwide.

The bike’s high-revving engine and affordable price point make it an attractive option for riders looking for a high-performance motorcycle that won’t break the bank.

Kawasaki Malaysia Opens Flagship 4S Centre In Shah Alam

Edaran Modenas Sdn Bhd (EMOS), a subsidiary of Motosikal dan Enjin Nasional Sdn Bhd (MODENAS), has opened its first flagship 4S centre in Shah Alam, called KAWASAKI Shah Alam.

Kawasaki Shah Alam is the first flagship 4S centre in Malaysia.
the centre offers the latest KAWASAKI model lineup, ranging from the smallest to the highest cc, including off-road models.

The event was officiated by Dato’ Chear Kin Keong, CEO of KAWASAKI Shah Alam, and EMOS was represented by its CEO, Mr. Roslan Roskan, and its CMO, George Kashiwagi.

The KAWASAKI Shah Alam is a one-stop centre for motorcycle enthusiasts, covering four aspects of business: sales, spare parts, services, and a showroom. The flagship 4S centre, known as the KAWASAKI All Star, offers the latest KAWASAKI model lineup, ranging from the smallest to the highest cc, including off-road models.

EMOS CEO Roslan Roskan expressed his excitement about the new store, saying, “Looking around the KAWASAKI Shah Alam, I am inspired that this first-of-its-kind experiential store will also be a platform for the KAWASAKI community to experience a wide range of KAWASAKI’s innovative products in an immersive setting. As we believe that the true success story of the KAWASAKI brand lies in its people.”

Meanwhile, CMO George Kashiwagi explained that the KAWASAKI All Stars adopted the design and built of the Kawasaki Plazas in Japan, emphasizing on product display and visual merchandising. “We believe that by sharing the same design aspects and beliefs, the showroom will make the visitors leave feeling a sense of belonging and fulfilled. In other words, giving them a taste of the Kawasaki experience: where culture meets interest.”

The event was attended by a total of 700 people, marking yet another successful milestone for EMOS and KAWASAKI. Just last week, the company had launched its latest sports cruiser, the Modenas Vulcan S, into the market.

For more information or enquiries about the KAWASAKI Shah Alam, you can visit the KAWASAKI official website at https://www.kawasaki.com.my/kawasaki/shop or contact the Toll Free Line at 1-800-880-008 or WhatsApp Careline at +6019-570 8135.

The Kawasaki Eliminator Returns!

Kawasaki has announced the revival of its iconic Eliminator series with the launch of the 2023 model. The motorcycle will be available in two trims, Standard and SE, and will sport a classic cruiser design that’s sure to appeal to bike enthusiasts.

Kawasaki has revived the Eliminator series with the launch of the 2023 model, which features classic cruiser design elements such as a round LED headlight, chopped fenders, a bulky fuel tank, and a side-slung exhaust.
The new Kawasaki Eliminator 400 is powered by a 398cc parallel-twin liquid-cooled engine, producing a maximum power of 46.9hp.

The new Kawasaki Eliminator 400 features a round LED headlight, chopped fenders, a bulky fuel tank, a single-pod instrument cluster, and a side-slung exhaust. The motorcycle also boasts a partially naked frame and alloy wheels, giving it a sleek and stylish look. The cruiser model is available in two standard colors, Metallic Flat Spark Black and Pearl Robotic White, while the SE variant comes in Metallic Matte Carbon Gray with Flat Ebony.

The Eliminator SE variant also features a headlight cowl, front fork gaiters, and a two-tone seat. It comes with a GPS-compatible drive recorder system and USB Type-C power socket, both of which are water-resistant.

The Kawasaki Eliminator is equipped with telescopic front forks and dual rear shocks, and its braking system comprises a single front and rear disc with ABS. The front wheel rides on an 18-inch alloy, while the rear one is mounted on a 16-inch alloy. The motorcycle has a low seat height of just 735 millimetres, making it one of the most attractive cruiser models.

The new Kawasaki Eliminator is powered by a 398cc parallel-twin liquid-cooled engine, producing a maximum power of 46.9 bhp at 10,000 rpm and a maximum torque of 37 Nm at 8,000 rpm. It is connected to a six-speed gearbox, and the motorcycle has a fuel economy of 25.7 kmpl. The 12-litre fuel tank gives the bike a range of more than 300 km on a single tank of petrol, as validated by the World Motorcycle Test Cycle (WMTC).

Interestingly, just a few days after the global introduction in Japan, the Eliminator 400 also made an appearance at the Bangkok International Motor Show ’23. The retro cruiser is available for THB224,900 (RM29k).

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