The Kawasaki Ninja H2R’s achievement of reaching 400 km/h (about 249 mph) in 26 seconds was indeed an extraordinary moment in motorcycle history. Turkish professional motorcycle racer Kenan Sofuoğlu, a Red Bull athlete and multiple-time World Supersport Champion, accomplished it.
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Key Details of the Record
Event: This record-breaking attempt was performed in 2016 on the Osman Gazi Bridge in Turkey, which had just been completed at the time.
Bike: Kawasaki Ninja H2R, a supercharged beast known for its unparalleled power and top speed in the motorcycle world.
Performance: Kenan Sofuoğlu achieved 400 km/h in just 26 seconds, showcasing not only the power of the H2R but also his skill in handling it at such extreme speeds.
Preparation and Challenges
Preparation: The attempt took months, with Sofuoğlu training to handle the bike under high-speed conditions. Kawasaki engineers and technicians were also heavily involved in ensuring the bike was in optimal condition for the attempt.
Safety Measures: Due to the extreme nature of the attempt, the event had strict safety measures in place. Sofuoğlu wore special gear designed to withstand the high speeds, and the bridge was closed to ensure his safety.
Physical and Mental Challenge: Reaching 400 km/h in such a short time isn’t only physically demanding but also mentally challenging due to the immense concentration required to control the bike at such speeds.
Why the H2R is Ideal for This Record
The Kawasaki Ninja H2R is uniquely suited for such records due to its:
- 310-horsepower supercharged engine,
- Giving it the kind of rapid acceleration most motorcycles can’t match.
- Aerodynamic design with winglets to stabilize at high speeds.
- Track-only build, allowing for fewer restrictions and maximizing speed potential.
This record highlighted both the capability of the H2R as a supercharged engineering marvel and Kenan Sofuoğlu’s skill and courage as a rider. His achievement remains one of the most impressive feats in the motorcycle world.