As the 2024 motorcycle season drew to a close, I found myself the proud owner of the 2023 Kawasaki Ninja H2 SX SE, a machine that has quickly become my favorite ride to date. This motorcycle offers an exceptional seating position and top-notch suspension, making it a joy to ride. Despite the occasional critique from sport riders who find it a bit on the heavy side, I find it remarkably light, especially when transitioning from the BMW K 1600 GT and still owning a Triumph Rocket 3 Storm R. The H2 SX SE is incredibly agile, effortlessly leaning into curves and accommodating sporty riding, all while allowing for some luggage on board. For me, it epitomizes the ideal sport touring motorcycle.
Being a 2023 model, Kawasaki Ninja H2 SX SE comes equipped with a Euro 5 compliant exhaust system, which, while efficient, is notably large, heavy, and rather quiet. As someone who has consistently upgraded the exhaust systems on my bikes, I decided to do the same with this one. The only aftermarket option available for this model is the Akrapovič silencer. To my knowledge, no other alternatives exist. This Akrapovič exhaust is 2.2 kg lighter and boosts the bike’s performance with an additional 1.4 kW (1.9 PS) and 1.8 Nm of torque. Although it remains quite sizable and doesn’t significantly enhance the bike’s aesthetics compared to the stock exhaust, I opted for it nonetheless.
The installation process began with preparing the new silencer by inserting the catalytic converter and attaching the clamps and link pipe.
A graphite gasket is required between the link and exhaust pipes, and I carefully placed it inside before fitting the muffler.
With a bit of gentle persuasion and rotation, I managed to secure the muffler to the exhaust pipe. Following this, I installed the fastening bolt and the carbon fiber heat shield. The heat shield not only adds a touch of elegance but also ensures the clamps are correctly aligned. Once everything was in place, I fine-tuned the muffler’s position and tightened the fastening bolt and clamps. The installation manual provides all the necessary torque specifications.
While the Akrapovič exhaust for the Kawasaki Ninja H2 SX SE is still quite large and perhaps not the most visually striking, it does deliver a satisfying pops and a noticeable increase in power and torque. With winter upon us, I haven’t had the opportunity to fully experience the ride, but my initial impressions are positive. The setup is certainly an improvement over the factory exhaust.
The carbon fiber heat shield is a particularly nice touch, adding a sleek look to the overall setup.
For those interested in the auditory difference between the factory and Akrapovič exhausts, you can hear it for yourself in the following videos.