Fastest Kawasaki Motorcycles
Kawasaki has long been synonymous with speed and performance in the motorcycle world. For decades, Kawasaki motorcycles have thrilled riders around the globe with their combination of innovative engineering, raw power, and cutting-edge design. At Hattiesburg Cycles in Mississippi, we recognize Kawasaki as one of the premier brands for riders seeking thrilling, fast bikes that dominate both the street and the track.
This blog dives into the fastest Kawasaki motorcycles available today, explores Kawasaki’s legendary history, and explains why Kawasaki continues to lead the industry in producing some of the quickest machines on two wheels.
Kawasaki: A Storied History of Engineering Excellence
Kawasaki’s story began long before it was known for motorcycles. Founded in 1878 by Shozo Kawasaki, the company originally specialized in shipbuilding at the Kawasaki Tsukiji Shipyard in Tokyo, playing a vital role in Japan’s industrial modernization throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Over time, Kawasaki expanded into other sectors, such as aerospace, heavy machinery, and rolling stock engineering, laying a foundation of technical expertise and innovation that would eventually benefit its venture into motorcycles.
The company's motorcycle journey officially began in the early 1950s, with Kawasaki manufacturing engines for motorcycles before producing its first complete motorcycle in 1962. In 1963, Kawasaki merged with the Meguro Manufacturing Company, a prominent Japanese bike maker, forming Kawasaki Motorcycle Co., Ltd. This move helped Kawasaki leverage Meguro’s experience alongside its own engineering mastery to quickly build a global brand in motorcycles.
Kawasaki’s rise was rapid. The release of the H1 Mach III in 1968, a 500cc two-stroke triple known for its staggering acceleration and performance for the time, established Kawasaki’s reputation for speed. Then came the legendary Z1 in 1972, featuring a 903cc air-cooled, 4-stroke, 4-cylinder DOHC engine. The Z1 not only solidified Kawasaki’s standing as a leader in superbike engineering but is still celebrated today as one of the greatest motorcycles ever built.
From this strong lineage, Kawasaki developed the iconic Ninja series in the 1980s and 1990s, blending technology with speed and style. Today, Kawasaki is among the top manufacturers worldwide, known for the fastest production motorcycles available on and off the track.
Do Kawasaki Motorcycles Qualify as Fast?
Undeniably, yes. Kawasaki produces some of the fastest motorcycles in the world, combining high-performance engines, supercharging technology (in select models), premium aerodynamics, and modern electronic rider aids. Their engineering focus allows their bikes to rank highly in terms of both acceleration and top speed.
The Ninja lineup typifies Kawasaki’s speed credentials, with models ranging from track-only hypersport beasts to street-legal supercharged machines performing near the limits of capability. Riders seeking adrenaline-fueled rides turn to Kawasaki for the precision, power, and speed that few brands can match.
Top 5 Fastest Kawasaki Motorcycles (as of 2025)
1. Kawasaki Ninja H2R (Track Only)
Top Speed: 249 mph (400 km/h)
Engine: Supercharged 998cc inline-four
Horsepower: 310 hp (326 hp with ram-air)
The Ninja H2R is Kawasaki's ultimate speed demon built exclusively for the racetrack. This track-only hypersport motorcycle harnesses carbon fiber aerodynamics and delivers astonishing power, securing its spot as the fastest production Kawasaki ever made, and one of the fastest motorcycles in the world.
2. Kawasaki Ninja H2 (Street Legal)
Top Speed: 209–211 mph (336 km/h)
Engine: Sue-four
Horsepower: 228 hp with ram-apercharged 998cc inlinir
The street-legal sibling to the H2R, the Ninja H2 offers supercharged thrills for the public roads. It boasts blistering top speeds, advanced electronics, and iconic Ninja styling, delivering one of the fastest rides available for enthusiasts looking to experience Kawasaki’s power legally.
3. Kawasaki Ninja ZX-14R
Top Speed: 186 mph (electronically limited)
Engine: 1,441cc inline-four
Horsepower: 207 hp
Known for ridiculous straight-line speed and smooth power delivery, the ZX-14R blends performance with comfort, making it a top pick for riders wanting both speed and versatility.
4. Kawasaki Ninja ZX-12R
Top Speed: 186 mph (electronically limited)
Engine: 1,199cc inline-four
Horsepower: 178 hp
The ZX-12R was Kawasaki’s flagship superbike in the early 2000s, achieving legendary status for its raw power and speed. It remains highly sought after by collectors and speed riders alike.
5. Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R
Top Speed: 186 mph (electronically limited)
Engine: 998cc inline-four
Horsepower: 197 hp
Kawasaki’s race-focused ZX-10R pairs cutting-edge technology with superb handling and aggressive styling. It’s a favorite for both professional racers and street riders looking to push limits.
What Makes Kawasaki So Fast?
Kawasaki’s secret to delivering world-class speed lies in:
Supercharged Engine Technology: Used in models like the Ninja H2 and H2R, supercharging supercharges power beyond conventional limits.
Advanced Aerodynamics: Carbon fiber and wind-tunnel-tested designs reduce drag and increase stability at high speeds.
Precision Engineering: High-revving engines balanced with lightweight chassis for an optimal power-to-weight ratio.
Electronic Rider Aids: Traction control, quick shifters, and ABS systems assist riders handling the intense power.
Racing Heritage: A continuous feedback loop from racing success drives continuous technology improvements.
Experience Kawasaki’s Speed at Hattiesburg Cycles
At Hattiesburg Cycles in Mississippi, we proudly offer Kawasaki’s most advanced motorcycles. Whether you are chasing track records, looking for street-legal top-speed thrills, or want to experience legendary performance with the ZX series, Kawasaki delivers an unparalleled riding experience.
Discover the Kawasaki legacy of speed, precision, and innovation right here in Hattiesburg. visit us to test-ride these machines and find your ultimate fast ride today.
Experience the electric thrill of speed with Kawasaki’s fastest motorcycles at Hattiesburg Cycles. The legacy of innovation and performance awaits your next ride.