a peak of around 147kW , or almost 200PS ( without RAM air effect – with RAM air at high speed it ’ s 154kW or 210PS for the H2 ). But , the H2 makes peak power at 11,000rpm , while the ol ’ 1400 peaks at 9500rpm . It ’ s the same story with torque . Peak torque is 136 / 137Nm for both the 1400 / H2 respectively . But again , maximum torque on the 1400 is reached 1000rpm lower than the H2 at 7500rpm . This explains the feeling of a comparative lack of grunt when in fact both are equally powerful . It is a delivery thing . A little like comparing a strong five litre V8 car with a decent two litre turbo ... the V8 pulls strongly from low rpm while the turbo needs some revs to get on boost , but both are
equally fast . Is the H2 engine better than the old 1400 ? I ’ d say yes for many reasons . Overall , its sophistication and polished delivery is well ahead , and if you include multiple power delivery options as well – there is a suitable setting for everyone . Also , it is still incredibly quick , but in such a civilised way that long days on the road or cruising around town are effortless for the rider – and that is exactly what is required from an all-purpose , sports touring mile eater . On the flip-side , the old 1400 with no TC or ABS might still excite the rider who loves to let his or her inner bogan run wild .
KIWI RIDER 45