The Kawasaki Ninja H2 Supercharger Facts
Much of the information floating around the Internet and even some motorcycle magazines claimed that the Kawasaki Ninja H2 and H2R feature a two-speed supercharger. The theory being that it would spin the supercharger faster at low engine speeds, boosting bottom-end torque.The drip-feed of teaser material from Kawasaki's marketing department showed pictures of the supercharger system with two gears attached to the supercharger drive shaft, and this was widely misinterpreted as a second drive gear.
The smaller gear on the end opposite the supercharger drive chain is actually the starter motor gear, and both Kawasaki Ninja H2 and H2R engines drive the supercharger at a constant 9.2 times faster than crankshaft speed. Combining the starter motor transfer shaft and supercharger transfer shaft makes prefect sense, as it saves weight and space.
Kawasaki is an expert in supercharger and turbine design, and it has created the Kawasaki Ninja H2R engine in an unbelieveable compact package, largely due to the highly efficient supercharger not needing the help of an intercooler.
It's not known if Kawasaki ever contemplated a two-speed supercharger , but this would have added significant complication. The single speed drive means the Kawasaki Ninja H2 and H2R builds boost pressure as revs rise, so its torque at low rpm isn't as startling as its top-end rush.
