Cruise missile on Kawasaki radar

New version of the H2 SX brings a host of tech upgrades

‘A camera scans the road to alert the electronics’

Spyshots have emerged that show Kawasaki testing a new H2SX SE★ packed with tech. The H2 SX stole the show when it was first unveiled at the end of 2017 but the tech game has moved on rapidly since. Looking at the front of the bike, it’s clear there’s a lot going on. Tucked away inside the fairing is a block that appears to be for a radar unit. Kawasaki have already confirmed they have teamed up with Bosch to fit bikes with cruise control radar and it appears the H2 SX is the first to receive the upgrade. The sensor is able to detect vehicles up ahead when you’re cruising along the motorway and slow the bike down if needed. Once the vehicle has gone, the bike senses your path is clear and returns to your previous speed. What is arguably more interesting, is the little camera hidden behind the screen. Kawasaki have previously applied for a patent for a camera system that scans the road ahead to prepare the bike’s electronics for what’s to come. On the patent they used the H2 SX as the example and it appears we may now be getting the fruits of their work. The patent describes the system as using a camera, along with onboard GPS, to look out for things the rider will need to react to. For instance, if the camera sees there’s a corner in the distance, the GPS notes that it’s a hairpin and the bike knows it’s travelling quickly, the kit can predict that some heavy braking is about to take place. In preparation for that the bike could stiffen up the suspension in readiness. It could also ease off the throttle response, so the tyre doesn’t try to break traction on the way out of the second gear corner. It’s pretty Tomorrow’s World stuff but the tech exists.

1 Eye spy Bosch sensors inside the redesigned nose make way for radarguided cruise control 2 New shape The fairing is fatter suggesting improved weather protection to highlight the touring credentials 3 Saddle up The seat shapes have changed, again echoing the focus on touring rather than sports functions 4 Up ahead If the camera does form a corner prediction system it will add another riding safety net 5 No expense spared All this tech won’t come cheap. The current H2 SX SE+ is £21,999 so expect a fully loaded bike to be nearer £24,000

Kawasaki are upping their tech game

Bodywork is designed for protection

Radar and camera equipped front end