Kawasaki demonstrates hydrogen-powered motorcycle

Following its reveal back in January, Kawasaki’s hydrogen-powered, internal combustion engine concept recently had its first public demonstration run. In what Kawasaki are claiming as a world first for a mass-production motorcycle manufacturer, the run was conducted at the Suzuka circuit in Japan, as part of the annual Suzuka 8 Hours race in July.

While it’s built by Kawasaki, the concept is actually a product of the ‘HySE’ (Hydrogen Small mobility & Engine technology) hydrogen engine development team; a Japanese industry co-operative that includes Honda, Suzuki, Yamaha and Toyota, as well as Kawasaki. Focussed on hydrogen technology, HySE is actively conducting research on hydrogen engines, hydrogen filling systems and fuel supply systems in order to produce hydrogen-powered small mobility vehicles, including motorcycles, in the future.

Designed and built as part of research that began in March, 2023, the hydrogen motorcycle is based on the Ninja H2 SX sports tourer, using that bike’s engine, frame and cycle parts. Modifications were made to the H2’s 998cc supercharged inline four to allow direct injection of hydrogen fuel into the cylinders. 

In addition, the Ninja H2 chassis was modified to accommodate hydrogen fuel canisters and a hydrogen fuel supply system. What look like large panniers hold the hydrogen fuel cells, with a Kawasaki video showing what appears to be five high-pressure cells mounted on each side under  bespoke covers.

Despite their hydrogen combustion, Kawasaki says Hydrogen ICE motorcycles produce the same rumble and pulsating sensation when accelerating as a conventional petrol engine, while emitting mainly water (and a small amount of carbon dioxide), instead of harmful carbon monoxide.

“Hydrogen engines produce power like conventional gasoline engines: air is taken in, mixed with fuel, and then combusted,” said Project Leader, Satoaki Ichi. “When hydrogen combusts, water is produced. If you hold your hand near the tailpipe, you can feel it is moist. It is a very gentle engine – like a humidifier on wheels.”

As part of their carbon-neutral initiative, Kawasaki’s research and development into hydrogen aims to bring a hydrogen ICE motorcycle to production as a carbon-neutral option for riders by the early 2030s.