2018 - Manual Kawasaki-Kx250f-25

GENERAL INFORMATION j
Quick Reference Guide

This Quick Reference Guide will assist you in MAINTENANCE AND ADJUSTMENT j
finding the information you’re looking for.
TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE j
TUNING j
STORAGE j
A Table of Contents is included after the

Foreword.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
• This vehicle is designed for the operator only, no passengers.

• highways. is a competition model only and was not manufactured for use on public streets, roads or
This vehicle
• The use of this vehicle should be limited to participation in sanctioned competition events upon a closed
course.
• This vehicle should not be used for general off-road recreational riding.
• Read owner’s manual.
Whenever you see the symbols shown below, IMPORTANT NOTICE
heed their instructions! Always follow safe operat-
THIS VEHICLE IS A COMPETITION MODEL
ing and maintenance practices.
ONLY AND WAS NOT MANUFACTURED
FOR, NOR SHOULD IT BE USED ON, PUB-
DANGER LIC STREETS, ROADS, OR HIGHWAYS. THE
DANGER indicates a hazardous situation USE OF THIS VEHICLE SHOULD BE LIMITED
which, if not avoided, will result in death or TO PARTICIPATION IN SANCTIONED COMPE-
serious injury. TITION EVENTS UPON A CLOSED COURSE.
THIS VEHICLE SHOULD NOT BE USED FOR
GENERAL OFF-ROAD RECREATIONAL RIDING.
WARNING READ OWNER’S MANUAL.
WARNING indicates a hazardous situation
which, if not avoided, could result in death
or serious injury. WARNING
THIS VEHICLE SHOULD NOT BE USED FOR
GENERAL OFF-ROAD RECREATIONAL RID-
NOTICE ING.
NOTICE is used to address practices not re-
lated to personal injury. DISCLAIMER OF WARRANTY
This motorcycle is sold AS IS, with all faults,
NOTE obvious or concealed and there are NO WAR-
○NOTE indicates information that may help or guide RANTIES, expressed or implied. Including war-
ranties of MERCHANTABILITY or FITNESS FOR
you in the operation or service of the vehicle.
PURPOSE.
The purchaser accepts all responsibilities con-
cerning quality, performance, cost of service
and/or necessary repairs.
Motorcycle Noise Emission Control
Information
This motorcycle is designed for closed course
competition use only. It does not conform to
U.S. EPA motorcycle noise standards.
NOTICE
Off-road motorcycling is a wonderful sport, and
we hope you will enjoy it to the fullest. How-
ever, if improperly conducted, this sport has
the potential to cause environmental problems
as well as conflicts with other people. Respon-
sible use of your off-road motorcycle will en-
sure that these problems and conflicts do not
occur. TO PROTECT THE FUTURE OF YOUR
SPORT, MAKE SURE YOU USE YOUR MOTOR-
CYCLE LEGALLY, SHOW CONCERN FOR THE
ENVIRONMENT, AND RESPECT THE RIGHTS
OF OTHER PEOPLE.
WARNING
The engine exhaust from this product con-
tains chemicals known to the State of Cali-
fornia to cause cancer, birth defects or other
reproductive harm.
FOREWORD
Congratulations on your choosing this Kawasaki motorcycle. Your new motorcycle is the product of
Kawasaki’s advanced engineering, exhaustive testing, and continuous striving for a superior lightweight,
high-performance machine with superb handling and stability for racing and sporting use.
Your new KX is a highly tuned competition machine for participation in racing events. As with any mechan-
ical device, proper care and maintenance are important for trouble-free operation and top performance. This
manual is written to enable you to keep your KX properly tuned and adjusted.
Due to improvements in design and performance made during production, in some cases there may be minor
discrepancies between the actual vehicle and the illustrations and text in this manual.
KAWASAKI HEAVY INDUSTRIES, LTD.

Motorcycle & Engine Company
© 2017 Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd. Apr. 3, 2017. (1)

TABLE OF CONTENTS
SPECIFICATIONS............................................ 8 Rear Axle Nut ................................................ 92
GENERAL INFORMATION.............................. 11 Drive Chain.................................................... 92
Location of Labels ......................................... 11 Adjustable Ergonomics.................................. 98
Location of Parts ........................................... 15 Footpeg ......................................................... 101
Side Stand..................................................... 18 Brakes ........................................................... 103
Fuel ............................................................... 19 Steering ......................................................... 107
Fuel Requirement:...................................... 20 Front Suspension .......................................... 110
Kick Pedal ..................................................... 22 Rear Suspension (UNI-TRAK®)..................... 161
Starting the Engine........................................ 22 Wheels .......................................................... 167
Launch Control Mode .................................... 24 Hoses Inspection ........................................... 169
DFI Setting Data Selection ............................ 25 Tightening Torques of Nuts and Bolts............ 170
Shifting Gears................................................ 26 Cleaning Your Motorcycle.............................. 174
Stopping the Motorcycle ................................ 27 Lubrication ..................................................... 176
Stopping the Engine ...................................... 27 DFI Self-Diagnosis ....................................... 179
Break-In......................................................... 28 TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE......................... 186
Daily Pre-Ride Checks .................................. 29 TUNING............................................................ 193
After-Race Checks ........................................ 31 Suspension.................................................... 193
MAINTENANCE AND ADJUSTMENT............. 32 Gearing.......................................................... 199
Periodic Maintenance Chart .......................... 32 Special Care According to Track Conditions . 200
Engine Oil...................................................... 37 OPTIONAL PARTS .......................................... 201
Cooling System ............................................. 42 PRE-RACE CHECKS AND AFTER-RACE
Spark Plug ..................................................... 46 MAINTENANCE ............................................ 202
Air Cleaner .................................................... 55 STORAGE........................................................ 204
Throttle Cable................................................ 61 Before Storage .............................................. 204
Throttle Body Assy ........................................ 62 After Storage ................................................. 205
Clutch ............................................................ 73 ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION.................. 206
Valve Clearance ............................................ 80 WIRING DIAGRAM .......................................... 207
Exhaust System ............................................ 86
8 SPECIFICATIONS
SPECIFICATIONS
DIMENSIONS
Overall Length 2 172 mm (85.63 in.)
Overall Width 825 mm (32.5 in.)
Overall Height 1 270 mm (50.00 in.)
Wheelbase 1 478 mm (58.19 in.)
Road Clearance 324 mm (12.8 in.)
Curb Mass 104.5 kg (230.4 lb)
Fuel Tank Capacity 6.4 L (1.7 US gal)
ENGINE
Type 4-stroke, DOHC, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled
Bore × Stroke 77.0 × 53.6 mm (3.03 × 2.11 in.)
Displacement 249 cm³ (15.2 cu in.)
Compression Ratio 13.4:1
Fuel System FI (Fuel Injection)
Starting System Primary kick
Ignition System Digital DC-CDI
Ignition Timing 4° BTDC @2 000 r/min (rpm)
Lubrication System Forced lubrication (semi-dry sump)
Spark Plug NGK CPR8EB-9
Spark Plug Terminal Solid-post
SPECIFICATIONS 9
TRANSMISSION
Transmission Type 5-speed, constant mesh, return shift
Clutch Type Wet, multi disc
Driving System Chain drive
Gear Ratio:
1st 2.142 (30/14)
2nd 1.750 (28/16)
3rd 1.444 (26/18)
4th 1.235 (21/17)
5th 1.045 (23/22)
Primary Reduction Ratio 3.350 (67/20)
Final Reduction Ratio 3.846 (50/13)
Overall Drive Ratio 13.470 (Top gear)
Engine Oil:
Type API SG, SH, SJ, SL or SM with JASO MA, MA1 or MA2
Viscosity SAE 10W-40
Capacity 1.0 L (1.1 US qt)
FRAME
Type Tubular, semi-double cradle
Steering Angle 42° to either side
Caster 28.4°
Trail 123 mm (4.84 in.)
10 SPECIFICATIONS
Tire Size/Type:
Front 80/100-21 51M/DUNLOP MX3SF
Rear 100/90-19 57M/DUNLOP MX3S
Rim Size:
Front 21 × 1.60
Rear 19 × 1.85
Suspension:
Front Telescopic fork (upside-down)
Rear New Uni-trak® swingarm
Front Suspension Travel 310 mm (12.2 in.)
Rear Wheel Travel 310 mm (12.2 in.)
Front Fork Oil:
Type Kawasaki Fork Oil SS19
Amount (Left Front Fork):
Cylinder Unit 330 mL (11.2 US oz.)
Outer Tube 300 mL (10.1 US oz.)
Amount (Right Front Fork) 227 mL (7.67 US oz.)
BRAKES
Type:
Front Single disc
Rear Single disc
Specifications are subject to change without notice.

GENERAL INFORMATION 11
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GENERAL INFORMATION
Location of Labels
All warning labels which are on your vehicle are
repeated here. Read labels on your vehicle and un-
derstand them thoroughly. They contain information
which is important for your safety and the safety of
anyone else who may operate your vehicle. There-
fore, it is very important that all warning labels be on
your vehicle in the locations shown. If any label is
missing, damaged, or worn, get a replacement from
your Kawasaki dealer and install it in the correct po-
sition.
NOTE
○The sample warning labels in this section have 1. Brake Fluid (Front)
part numbers to help you and your dealer obtain
the correct replacement.
12 GENERAL INFORMATION
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2. Brake Fluid (Rear)

3. Rear Shock Absorber Warning
4. Radiator Cap Danger
5. Disclaimer of Warranty
6. Noise Emission Control Information
7. Important Information
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1) 3)
2) 4)
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5) 7)
6)
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Location of Parts
1. Clutch Lever
2. Engine Stop Button
3. Launch Control Mode Button
4. Orange Launch Control Mode/FI Warning
Indicator Light
5. Front Brake Fluid Reservoir
6. Front Brake Lever
7. Throttle Grip
8. Fuel Tank Cap
9. Radiator Cap
10. Radiator
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1. Front Fork 7. Front Brake Disc

2. Fuel Tank 8. Front Brake Caliper
3. Throttle Body Assy 9. Shift Pedal
4. Downstream Injector 10. Rear Shock Absorber
5. Upstream Injector 11. Drive Chain
6. Air Cleaner Element 12. Chain Guide
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1. Muffler 8. Rear Brake Disc

2. Seat 9. Swingarm
3. Rear Brake Fluid Reservoir 10. Uni-Trak® Tie-Rod and Rocker Arm
4. Rear Shock Absorber Gas Reservoir 11. Oil Level Inspection Window
5. Kick Pedal 12. Rear Brake Pedal
6. DFI Setting Data Selection Connector 13. Exhaust Pipe
7. Rear Brake Caliper
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NOTE
Side Stand ○Support the motorcycle with a suitable stand to
perform maintenance or adjustment procedures.
To install the side stand, insert its flat end into the
rear axle as shown.
A. Side Stand
B. Rear Axle
WARNING
Riding with the side stand can cause a crash
resulting in injury. Do not start the engine or
attempt to ride the motorcycle when the side
stand is installed.
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Avoid filling the tank in the rain or where heavy dust
Fuel is blowing so that the fuel does not get contaminated.
This Kawasaki KX has a 4-stroke engine that re-

quires a gasoline.
The capacity of the fuel tank is 6.4 L (1.7 US gal).
To open the fuel tank cap, disconnect the breather
hose from the hole in the steering stem, and turn the
tank cap counterclockwise.
A. Tank Cap
B. Fuel Tank
C. Top Level
D. Filler Neck
A. Fuel Tank Cap

B. Breather Hose
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WARNING NOTICE
Gasoline is extremely flammable and can be If engine “knocking” or “pinging” occurs,
explosive under certain conditions. Always use a different brand of gasoline of a higher
stop the engine and do not smoke. Make octane rating.
sure the area is well-ventilated and free from If this condition is allowed to continue it can
any source of flame or sparks; this includes lead to severe engine damage.
any appliance with a pilot light. Never fill Gasoline quality is important. Fuels of low
the tank so the fuel level rises into the filler quality or not meeting standard industry
neck. If the tank is overfilled, heat may cause specifications may result in unsatisfactory
the fuel to expand and overflow through the performance. Operating problems that result
vents in the tank cap. After refueling, make from the use of poor quality or nonrecom-
sure the fuel tank cap is closed securely. If mended fuel may not be covered under your
gasoline is spilled on the fuel tank, wipe it off warranty.
immediately.
Fuels Containing Oxygenates
Fuel Requirement: Gasoline frequently contains oxygenates (alco-
hols and ethers) especially in areas of the U.S. and
Fuel Type Canada which are required to sell such reformu-
Use clean, fresh unleaded gasoline with a mini- lated fuels as part of a strategy to reduce exhaust
mum Antiknock Index of 90. The Antiknock Index is emissions.
posted on service station pumps in the U.S.A. The The types and volume of fuel oxygenates ap-
octane rating of a gasoline is a measure of its re- proved for use in unleaded gasoline by the U.S.
sistance to detonation or “knocking”. The Antiknock Environmental Protection Agency include a broad
Index is an average of the Research Octane Num- range of alcohols and ethers, but only two compo-
ber (RON) and the Motor Octane Number (MON) as nents have seen any significant level of commercial
shown in the table below. use.
Minimum Gasoline/Alcohol Blends - Gasoline containing up
Octane Rating Method to 10% ethanol (alcohol produced from agricultural
Rating
products such as corn), also known as “gasohol” is
(RON + MON) approved for use.
Antiknock Index 90
2
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NOTICE NOTICE
Avoid using blends of unleaded gasoline and Never use gasoline with an octane rat-
methanol (wood alcohol) whenever possible, ing lower than the minimum specified by
and never use “gasohol” containing more Kawasaki.
than 5% methanol. Fuel system damage and Never use “gasohol” with more than 10%
performance problems may result. ethanol, or more than 5% methanol. Gaso-
line containing methanol must also be
Gasoline/Ether Blends - The most common ether blended with cosolvents and corrosion
is methyl tertiary butyl ether (MTBE). You may use inhibitors.
gasoline containing up to 15% MTBE. Certain ingredients of gasoline may cause
paint fading or damage. Be extra careful
NOTE
not to spill gasoline or gasoline oxygenate
○Other oxygenates approved for use in unleaded blends during refueling.
gasoline include TAME (up to 16.7%) and ETBE When not operating your Kawasaki for 30
(up to 17.2%). Fuel containing these oxygenates to 60 days, mix a fuel stabilizer (such as
can also be used in your Kawasaki. STA-BIL) with the gasoline in the fuel tank.
Fuel stabilizer additives inhibit oxidation of
the fuel which minimizes gummy deposits.
Never store this product with “gasohol” in
the fuel system. Before storage it is recom-
mended that you drain all fuel from the fuel
system. See the Storage section in this man-
ual.
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Kick Pedal Starting the Engine
This motorcycle is equipped with a primary kick
starting system. When the clutch lever is pulled, the
• Shift the transmission into neutral.
motorcycle can be started with the transmission in WARNING
any gear. Riding with the side stand can cause a crash
resulting in injury. Do not start the engine or
attempt to ride the motorcycle when the side
stand is installed.
NOTICE
This motorcycle is designed for competition
use only. Therefore, the radiator does not
incorporate a coolant reserve tank or cool-
ing fan. Prolonged idling of the engine with
no airflow through the radiator can cause
coolant loss and engine overheating result-
ing in possible engine damage. Any riding
conditions that increase engine temperature
A. Kick Pedal will further reduce idling time before coolant
loss occurs. These conditions include high
ambient temperature, sandy or muddy ter-
rain, or other conditions causing high engine
loads at low speeds. Furthermore, warming
the engine up excessively before operation,
or leaving idling with the hot engine temper-
ature after operation results in the engine
overheating, too.
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When engine is cold - When engine is already warm or restarts -
•Pull out the idle adjusting screw/choke knob. •Kick the engine over, leaving the throttle closed
without using the idle adjusting screw/choke knob.
NOTE
○If the engine fails starting, open the throttle fully
and depress the kick pedal slowly about 4  5
times to clear too rich fuel mixtures in the engine.
Then, kick the engine over, leaving the throttle
closed.
A. Idle Adjusting Screw/Choke Knob
• Find the kick pedal position around the top so that

the resistance to depress the kick pedal is fully felt
by pushing down the kick pedal slowly.
• Kick the engine over, leaving the throttle closed.
NOTE
○When the clutch lever is pulled, the motorcycle can
be started with the transmission in any gear.
• Even after the engine has started, do not push

back the idle adjusting screw/choke knob imme-
diately until the engine is thoroughly warmed up.
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Launch Control Mode
• When shifting into 3rd, the system is deactivated
automatically.
The launch control mode can be used to adjust ig-

nition timing to help riders get better starts on slip-
pery terrain.
The system’s effectiveness is dependent on rider
skill, technique and terrain conditions.
Launch Control Mode Setting
• The launch control mode can be set when the en-
gine is running and in neutral, 1st or 2nd gear.
When activated, it only functions in 1st and 2nd
gear.
• When pushing the launch control mode button for
over two seconds, the orange launch control mode
indicator light will blink to indicate the system is
operating. A. Launch Control Mode Button
B. Orange Launch Control Mode/FI Warning
Indicator Light
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NOTE
DFI Setting Data Selection ○If the connector is changed while the engine is
running, the DFI setting does not change.
Three DFI settings are available to suit various
track conditions. They are easily activated by chang-
○The ECU is set to the standard track condition
when operated without a connector. However, al-
ing the wiring connector on the side of the frame ways have one of the three connectors attached
when the engine is stopped. when riding to prevent dust and mud from accu-
Track Condition Connector Color mulating in the connector harness.
Soft White
○The KX FI calibration kit (Part No. 99999-0613)
can be used for changing the DFI setting.
Standard Green
Hard Black
• Change the connector on the right front of the

frame to suit the track condition with the engine
stopped.
A. Connector
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Shifting Gears
This motorcycle is equipped with a 5-speed “return
shift” transmission. The neutral is located halfway
between 1st and 2nd gear. “Return shift” means
that when shifting up or down, each gear must be
engaged before the next higher or lower gear may
be selected.
• To engage first gear from the neutral position, pull
in the clutch lever and push down on the shift
pedal, gently release the clutch lever, then release
the shift pedal.
• To shift up to the next gear, pull in the clutch lever,
lift the shift pedal with your toes, gently release the A. Shift Pedal
clutch lever, and then release the shift pedal.
• To shift down to the next gear, pull in the clutch
lever, push the shift pedal down as far as it will go,
gently release the clutch lever, then release the
shift pedal.
NOTICE
When changing gears, press firmly on the
shift pedal to ensure proper shifting. Care-
less, incomplete shifting can cause the
transmission to jump out of gear and lead to
engine damage.
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Stopping the Motorcycle Stopping the Engine
For maximum deceleration, close the throttle and • Shift the transmission into the neutral position.
apply both front and rear brakes. Pull in the clutch
lever as the motorcycle comes to a stop. Indepen-
• Close the throttle completely and push the engine
stop button.
dent use of the front or rear brake may be advanta-
geous in certain circumstances. Shift down progres-
sively to ensure good engine response at all speeds.
A. Engine Stop Button

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5. Stop and let the engine cool completely. Be
Break-In sure to fully check the tightness of nuts and
bolts, oil leakage, and any irregularities, espe-
A brief break-in procedure must be carried out to cially, each cable elongation, brake play, chain
obtain the proper operating clearances in the engine slack and spoke tightness.
and transmission, which are necessary for perfor- 6. Change the engine oil, oil filter and front
mance and reliability. fork/rear shock absorber oil to the new one.
7. After the break-in procedure has been properly
NOTICE carried out, the motorcycle is ready for regular
For the first hour or 20 km (12 mile) of op- operation. Using the proper riding skills and
eration, run the engine at low and moderate techniques and avoiding recklessly high engine
engine speeds. See details below. speeds will keep the engine trouble-free.
Break in the engine as follows.

NOTICE
1. Start the engine and let it idle until it is thor- When any following parts have been re-
oughly warmed up. placed, the same break-in procedure as the
2. Ride the motorcycle for about 20 minutes within new motorcycle must be carried out for one
1/2 throttle opening. hour or 20 km (12 mile):
3. Stop and let the engine cool completely. Be Cylinder, Piston, Piston pin, Piston ring,
sure to check the tightness of nuts and bolts, oil Valve, Valve lifter, Camshaft, Crankshaft,
leakage, coolant leakage and any irregularities. Mission gear, etc.
4. Start the engine and ride the motorcycle for
about 40 minutes within 3/4 throttle opening.
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Daily Pre-Ride Checks
Check the following items each day before you ride. The time required is minimal, and habitual performance
of these checks will help ensure a safe, reliable ride.
If any irregularities are found during these checks, refer to the appropriate section and take the action required
to return the motorcycle to a safe operating condition.
WARNING
Failure to perform these checks before operation may result in serious damage or an accident. Al-
ways perform daily checks before operation.
DANGER
Exhaust gas contains carbon monoxide, a colorless, odorless poisonous gas. Inhaling carbon
monoxide can cause serious brain injury or death. DO NOT run the engine in enclosed areas. Op-
erate only in a well-ventilated area.
Engine
Engine Oil ........................................ No leakage
Level correct
Coolant ............................................ No leakage
Level correct (engine cold)
Radiator Cap ................................... Properly installed
Spark Plug ....................................... Correctly torqued
Cylinder Head Cover ....................... Correctly torqued
Clutch .............................................. Functions properly
Air Cleaner ....................................... Clean
Apply oil to air cleaner element
Properly installed
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Muffler .............................................. No damage

Properly installed
Engine Sprocket .............................. No wear or damage
Frame
Tires ................................................. Overall condition good
No wear or damage
Pressure correct
Air valve cap installed
Spokes ............................................. No looseness
Drive Chain ...................................... Overall condition good
Chain slack correct
Oil if necessary
Front and Rear Brakes .................... Function properly
Lever and pedal play correct
No fluid leakage
Throttle ............................................ Functions properly
Throttle grip returns smoothly
Steering ........................................... Smooth but not loose from lock to lock
No binding due to control cables
Front Fork ........................................ Functions properly
No oil leakage
Rear Shock Absorber ...................... Functions properly
No oil leakage
Fuel Tank ......................................... Mounted securely
No fuel leakage
Rear Sprocket .................................. No wear or damage
Engine Stop Button .......................... Functions properly
Launch Control Mode Button ........... Functions properly
Nuts, Bolts, Fasteners ..................... Properly tightened
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Carry out the general lubrication and make neces-
After-Race Checks sary adjustments.
After racing, first clean the motorcycle, then in-

spect the entire motorcycle with special attention to
the air cleaner, brakes, etc.
32 MAINTENANCE AND ADJUSTMENT
MAINTENANCE AND ADJUSTMENT

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Periodic Maintenance Chart
The maintenance and adjustments outlined in this chapter are easily carried out and must be done in accor-
dance with the Periodic Maintenance Chart to keep the motorcycle in good running condition.
†: Replace, add, adjust, clean or torque if necessary.
K: Should be serviced by referring to the Service Manual or an authorized Kawasaki dealer.
1. Periodic Inspection (Engine Related Item)

FREQUENCY After each Every 3 Every 6 Every 12
As See
race (or races (or races (or races (or
required Page
OPERATION 2.5 hours) 7.5 hours) 15 hours) 30 hours)
Throttle cable - inspect and adjust • 61
Valve clearance - inspect † • 80
Clutch plates - inspect † • 76
Spark plug - clean and inspect † • 46
Clutch - inspect • 73
Air cleaner element - clean † • 57
Throttle body assy - inspect and adjust • 62
K Cylinder head, cylinder - inspect • –
K Crankshaft - inspect • –
Exhaust system - inspect † • 86
MAINTENANCE AND ADJUSTMENT 33

As See
required Page
OPERATION 2.5 hours) 7.5 hours) 15 hours) 30 hours) j
Kick pedal and shift pedal - clean • –
Engine sprocket - inspect † • 97
Coolant level - inspect • 42
Breather hose - inspect • –
Water hoses and connections - inspect
† • 42
2. Periodic Inspection (Chassis Related Item)
As See
j race (or races (or races (or races (or
required Page
OPERATION 2.5 hours) 7.5 hours) 15 hours) 30 hours)
Brake - adjust † • 103
Brake pad wear - inspect † • 106
Brake fluid level - inspect † • 104
Spoke tightness and rim runout - 167,
inspect † • 168
Rear axle nut - inspect † • 92
Drive chain - inspect and adjust • 92, 93
Drive chain - lubricate • 97
Drive chain wear - inspect † • 94
Front fork - clean and inspect • 110
Nuts, bolts, fasteners - inspect † • 170
K Fuel system - clean • –
Fuel hose and connections - inspect † • 169
Brake hoses and connections - inspect
† • 169
Steering play - inspect † • 107

K Steering stem bearing - lubricate • –
Rear sprocket - inspect † • 97
General lubrication - perform • 176

As See
required Page
OPERATION 2.5 hours) 7.5 hours) 15 hours) 30 hours) j
K Wheel bearing - inspect † • –
Swingarm and UNI-TRAK linkage
K
pivots - inspect † • –
Swingarm and UNI-TRAK linkage

K
pivots - lubricate • –
Frame - inspect • –
Wheels/tires - inspect • 167
Rear shock absorber - inspect • 161
Cable - inspect • –
3. Periodic Replacement (Engine and Chassis Related Item)
See
j race (or 2.5 races (or 7.5 races (or 15 races (or
Page
OPERATION hours) hours) hours) 30 hours)
Engine oil - change • 38
Oil filter - replace • 38
K Piston and piston ring - replace • –
K Piston pin - replace • –
Silencer wool - replace • 86
Muffler cover bracket damper - replace • 91
Spark plug - replace • 47
K Brake fluid - change Every 2 years –
Brake master cylinder cup and dust cover –
K Every 2 years
- replace
Brake caliper fluid seal and dust seal - –
K Every 2 years
replace
K Brake hoses - replace Every 4 years –
Front fork oil - change • 116
K Fuel hose - replace Every 5 years –
K Rear shock absorber oil - change • –
Air cleaner element - replace If damaged 55
Oil Level Inspection

Engine Oil • Ifsitthea few
oil has just been changed, let the motorcycle
minutes allowing the oil to settle.
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In order for the engine, transmission and clutch
to function properly, maintain the engine oil at the
• Start the engine and run it for several minutes at
idle speed. Do not run the engine at high en-
proper level, and change the oil and oil filter period- gine speed.
ically.
Not only do dirt and metal particles collect in the
• Stop the engine and wait several minutes for the
oil to settle.
oil, but the oil itself loses its lubricative quality if used
too long.
• Check the engine oil level with the motorcycle ver-
tical through the oil level inspection window on the
lower right side of the engine. The oil level should
WARNING come up between the high and low level lines next
Motorcycle operation with insufficient, de- to the inspection window.
teriorated, or contaminated engine oil will NOTE
cause accelerated wear and may result in en-
gine or transmission seizure, accident, and
○If the oil level is too high, remove the excess oil
using a syringe or other suitable device.
injury. Check the oil level before each ride
and change the oil according to the periodic
○If the oil level is too low, add the correct amount
of oil through the oil filler opening. Use oil of the
maintenance chart in the Owner’s Manual. same type and brand as those of the one that is
Because of the semi-dry sump lubrication system, already in the engine.
the engine oil level indicated on the oil level inspec- ○If no oil appears in the oil level inspection window,
tion window will fluctuate depending on the motorcy- tip the motorcycle slightly to the right until oil is
cle’s position and engine speed when the engine’s visible then return to an upright position. If no oil
shut off. To ensure a proper reading of the engine appears even when tipped at an extreme angle,
oil level, follow the Oil Level Inspection procedures remove the drain bolt to empty any oil that may
closely. be in the transmission and crankcase, reinstall the
drain bolt and refill with the specified amount of oil.
NOTICE
Racing the engine before the oil reaches ev-
ery part can cause engine seizure.
A. Oil Level Inspection Window A. Drain Bolt and Gasket

B. High Level Line
C. Low Level Line
D. Oil Filler Plug WARNING
Engine oil is a toxic substance. Dispose of
Oil and/or Oil Filter Change used oil properly. Contact your local author-
The engine oil and/or oil filter should be changed ities for approved disposal methods or pos-
periodically to ensure long engine life. sible recycling.
• Warm up the engine thoroughly so that the oil will
pick up any sediment and drain easily. • When replacing the oil filter, remove the oil filter
• Stop the engine, and place a container beneath it. cap bolts and take off the cap with O-ring and
• Remove the oil filler plug. spring.
• Remove the oil drain bolt and gasket.
• Position the vehicle perpendicular to the ground to
allow all the oil to drain.
A. Oil Filter Cap Bolts A. Oil Filter Element

B. Oil Filter Cap B. Grommet
• Replace the oil filter element with a new one.

NOTICE
• Apply grease to the grommet.
• Install the oil filter element with the grommet to-
ward the engine.
Inside-out installation stop oil flow, causing
engine seizure.
• Replace the O-ring with a new one.

• filter cap. to the O-ring and install it to the oil
Apply grease
• Install the spring to the oil filter cap.

• specified
Install the oil filter cap and tighten its bolts to the
torque.
NOTE
○Replace the gasket and O-ring with a new one.
j
• Fill the engine up to the high level line with good
quality engine oil specified in the table.
Recommended Engine Oil
Castrol “Power1 Racing 4T” 5W-40 or
“Kawasaki Performance 4-Stroke Full Synthetic
Oil*” 10W-40 or
“Kawasaki Performance 4-Stroke
Semi-Synthetic Oil*” 10W-40 or
“Kawasaki Performance 4-Stroke Motorcycle
Oil*” 10W-40
A. O-ring *Kawasaki Performance Oils and Lubricants have
B. Spring been specifically engineered for your vehicle. Con-
C. Oil Filter Cap
sistent use of these products meets or exceeds war-
Tightening Torque ranty and service requirements and can help to ex-
tend the life of your Kawasaki.
Oil Filter Cap Bolts:
10 N·m (1.0 kgf·m, 89 in·lb) Engine Oil Capacity
Capacity:
• Replace the drain bolt gasket with a new one. 0.75 L (0.79 US qt) (When filter is not removed)
• After the oil has completely drained out, install the
drain bolt with its new gasket. Proper torque for it
0.80 L (0.85 US qt) (When filter is removed)
1.0 L (1.1 US qt) (When engine is completely
is shown in the table. dry)
Tightening Torque
Engine Oil Drain Bolt: NOTE
20 N·m (2.0 kgf·m, 15 ft·lb) ○If unavailable, use equivalent engine oil in accor-
dance with the following table.
Type:
API SG, SH, SJ, SL or SM with JASO MA, MA1
• Tighten the oil filler plug.
Tightening Torque
or MA2 j
Viscosity: Oil Filler Plug:
SAE 10W-30, 10W-40, 10W-50 3.5 N·m (0.36 kgf·m, 31 in·lb)
• Start the engine.

NOTE • Check the oil level and oil leakage.
○Do not add any chemical additive to the oil. Oils
fulfilling the above requirements are fully formu-
lated and provide adequate lubrication for both the
engine and the clutch.
The oil viscosity may need to be changed to ac-
commodate atmospheric conditions in your riding
area.
WARNING
Cooling System The cooling system is pressurized and can
j get extremely hot during normal operation
Water Hoses and cause serious burns. To prevent burns,
Check the water hoses for cracks or deterioration, do not touch the radiator when it is hot. Do
and the connections for looseness in accordance not attempt to open the radiator cap when hot
with the Periodic Maintenance Chart. since steam and hot coolant can forcefully
erupt when the cap is even loosened slightly.
Radiator
Check the radiator fins for obstruction by insects or
mud. Clean off any obstructions with a low-pressure NOTE
stream of water. ○The coolant originally filled into the cooling sys-
tem contains 50% of a permanent, ethylene-glycol
NOTICE -based antifreeze, has a freezing point of –35°C
Using high-pressure water, as from a car (–31°F) and a green appearance.
wash facility, could damage the radiator fins
and impair the radiator’s effectiveness. Coolant Level Inspection
Do not obstruct or deflect airflow by in-
stalling unauthorized accessories in front of
• Situate the motorcycle perpendicular to the
ground until the radiator cap is level to the ground,
the radiator. so that the radiator cap is located uppermost
Interference with the cooling airflow can lead in order to exhaust the air accumulated in the
to overheating and consequent engine dam- radiator.
age. • Remove the radiator cap in two steps.
• First, turn the cap counterclockwise to the first stop
and wait there for a few seconds.
Coolant
Coolant absorbs excessive heat from the engine • Then, push and turn the cap further in the same
direction and remove it.
and transfers it to the air through the radiator. If
the coolant level becomes low, the engine overheats
and may suffer severe damage. Check the coolant
level each day before riding the motorcycle, and re-
plenish coolant if the level is low.
A. Radiator Cap A. Coolant Level

B. Filler Neck
• Check the coolant level in the radiator. The
coolant should come up to the bottom of the
radiator filler neck.
• Ifradiator
the coolant level is low, add coolant through the
filler opening to the bottom of the filler
neck.
NOTE
○Check the coolant level when the engine is cold Water and Antifreeze Mixing Ratio
(room or ambient temperature). 1:1 (water:antifreeze)
Recommended Antifreeze
Permanent type of antifreeze (ethylene glycol
plus corrosion and rust inhibitor chemicals for
aluminum engines and radiators)
Coolant Total Amount

1.2 L (1.3 US qt)
• Install the radiator cap. WARNING

Coolant Change Coolant on tires will make them slippery
j The coolant should be changed to ensure long en- and can cause loss of traction resulting in
gine life, if necessary. an accident and injury. Thoroughly clean
• Wait for the engine to cool down completely. any coolant that might have splashed on the
• Situate the motorcycle perpendicular to the
ground until the radiator cap is level to the ground.
tires.
• Remove the radiator cap in two steps. • Visually inspect the old coolant.
• Drain the coolant from the engine and radiator with • parts in the
If whitish cotton-like wafts are observed, aluminum
cooling system are corroded and the
the following procedures.
• Place a container under the coolant drain bolt on
the water pump cover and remove the drain bolt.
system must be flushed.
• Ifingtheandcoolant is brown, iron or steel parts are rust-
the system must be flushed.
• Check the cooling system for damage, loose con-
nections, and leaks.
• Install the coolant drain bolt with its new gasket
at the water pump cover and apply the specified
torque.
NOTE
○Always replace a gasket with a new one.
Tightening Torque
Coolant Drain Bolt:
7.0 N·m (0.71 kgf·m, 62 in·lb)
A. Coolant Drain Bolt

• Fill the radiator up to the bottom of the radiator filler
neck with coolant.
NOTICE
• Lean the motorcycle slightly until the radiator filler
neck is level to the ground so that the filler neck
is located uppermost in order to exhaust the air
Immediately wash away any coolant that accumulated in the radiator.
spills on the frame, engine, or wheel.
NOTICE
Use coolant containing corrosion inhibitors
made specifically for aluminum engines and j
radiators in accordance with the instruction
of the manufacture. Soft or distilled water
must be used with the antifreeze in the cool-
ing system. If hard water is used in the sys-
tem, it causes scale accumulation in the wa-
ter passages, and considerably reduces the
efficiency of the cooling system.
NOTE
○Pour in the coolant slowly so that it can expel the
air from the engine and radiator. A. Air Bleeder Screw
• Loosen the air bleeder screw on the top of the left • Replace
new one.
the O-ring of the air bleeder screw with a
radiator until the coolant begins to flow out from
the air bleeder screw hole. • Tighten the air bleeder screw to specified torque.
Tightening Torque
Air Bleeder Screw:
1.6 N·m (0.16 kgf·m, 14 in·lb)
• Install the radiator cap.

• Start thetheengine
Check cooling system for leaks.
• stop it. and warm up thoroughly, then
• Check the coolant level after the engine has

cooled down. The coolant should come up to the
bottom of the radiator filler neck.
• If the coolant level is low, add coolant up to the
bottom of the radiator filler neck.
• Install the radiator cap.
• Check the cooling system for leaks. Spark Plug

j The spark plug should be taken out periodically for
inspection and regapping. Measure the gap with a
wire-type thickness gauge. If incorrect, adjust the
gap to the specified value by bending the outer elec-
trode.
Spark Plug Gap
CPR8EB-9
0.8  0.9 mm (0.031  0.035 in.)
CPR9EB-9
A. Gap
B. Outer Electrode
If the plug is oily or has carbon built up on it, clean
it. The plug may also be cleaned using a high flash
-point solvent and a nonmetal brush (nylon etc.). If
the spark plug electrodes are corroded, or damaged,

or if the insulator is cracked, replace the plug. The
• Remove
section).
the side covers (see Exhaust System
standard spark plug is shown in the table below. • Remove the radiator screen bolts. j
Standard Spark Plug
NGK CPR8EB-9
To find out whether the plug’s heat range is correct,

remove the plug and examine the ceramic insulator
around the center electrode. If the ceramic is light
brown, the spark plug correctly matches the engine
temperature.
If the ceramic is burned white, the plug should be
replaced with a colder plug.
Optional Spark Plug
Colder NGK CPR9EB-9
NOTE A. Radiator Screen Bolts
○If the engine performance drops, try replacing the • Remove the radiator shroud bolts and take off the
spark plug to regain performance. radiator shroud on both sides.
Spark Plug Removal and Installation

• Remove the seat (see Air Cleaner section).
• Remove the band and fuel tank bolt.

j
A. Radiator Shroud Bolts

B. Radiator Shroud A. Fuel Tank Bolt
B. Band
• Disconnect the fuel pump lead connector. • Be sure to place a piece of cloth around the fuel
hose joint.
• Wipe off the dirt on the surface around the con-
nection using a cloth or a soft brush.
j
• Insert
lock.
a flat tip screwdriver into the slit on the joint
A. Fuel Pump Lead Connector
A. Cloth
B. Flat Tip Screwdriver
C. Joint Lock
WARNING • Turn the driver to disconnect the joint lock.

Fuel is flammable and explosive under cer- • Disconnect the fuel hose joint from the outlet pipe.
j tain conditions and can cause severe burns.
Be prepared for fuel spillage; any spilled
fuel must be completely wiped up immedi-
ately. When the fuel hose is disconnected,
fuel spills out from the hose and the pipe
because of residual pressure. Cover the
hose connection with a piece of clean cloth
to prevent fuel spillage.
A. Turn
B. Joint Lock
C. Fuel Hose Joint
• Cover the pipe and the fuel hose joint with the vinyl
bags to keep them clean.
• Remove the fuel tank.
WARNING
Gasoline is extremely flammable and can be
explosive under certain conditions. Always
stop the engine and do not smoke. Make
sure the area is well ventilated and free from
any source of flame or sparks; this includes
any appliance with a pilot light.
• Clean the cylinder head cover around the spark

plug cap hole before removing the spark plug.
Tightening Torque
Spark Plug:
• Pull the spark plug cap off the plug. 13 N·m (1.3 kgf·m, 115 in·lb) j
NOTICE
When removing the spark plug cap, do not
• Install the spark plug cap so that the direction of
the lead is aligned with the line on the cylinder
pull the lead. The lead could be broken off or head cover.
damaged the wires inside. • Pull up the plug cap lightly to make sure that the
spark plug cap is installed securely.
A. Spark Plug Cap A. Spark Plug Cap

B. Line
• Loosen and remove the spark plug with a suitable
wrench (16 mm, 0.63 in.).
• When reinstalling the spark plug, tighten it to the
specified torque.
• Make sure that the dampers are in place on the • Check the joint lock for deformation and wear.
frame and are not damaged. If the dampers are
not fixed completely, reattach them with an adhe-
• with a newlock
If the joint
one.
is deformed, replace the fuel hose
j sive. If the dampers are damaged, replace them • Apply engine oil to the fuel outlet pipe lightly.
with new ones. • Insert the fuel hose joint straight onto the fuel out-
let pipe until the hose joint clicks.
• Push the joint lock until the hose joint clicks.
A. Dampers
A. Fuel Hose Joint

B. Joint Lock
NOTICE
When installing the fuel hose joint, do not
apply strong force to the outlet pipe on the
fuel pump. The pipe made from resin could
be damaged.
• Push and pull the fuel hose joint back and forth
more than two times, and make sure it is locked
• Tighten the fuel tank bolt.
Tightening Torque
and does not come off.
Fuel Tank Bolt: j
8.0 N·m (0.82 kgf·m, 71 in·lb)
• Hook the band to the fuel tank.

• Connect the fuel pump connector.
• throttle cables the(outer)
After installing fuel tank, make sure that both
move slightly by pulling
them back and forth. Check that the throttle
cables run between the tank and the frame as
shown, and they are not caught.
A. Fuel Hose Joint

B. Push and Pull
WARNING
Leaking fuel can cause a fire or explosion
resulting in serious burns. Make sure the
hose joint is installed correctly on the deliv-
ery pipe by sliding the joint.
NOTE A. Throttle Cables
○If it comes off, reinstall the fuel hose joint. • Install the radiator shroud.
• Tighten
torque.
the radiator shroud bolts to the specified
A. Radiator Screen Bolts
Tightening Torque
A. Radiator Shroud
B. Radiator Shroud Bolts Radiator Screen Bolts:
7.0 N·m (0.71 kgf·m, 62 in·lb)
Tightening Torque
Radiator Shroud Bolts: • Install the removed parts.
7.0 N·m (0.71 kgf·m, 62 in·lb) NOTE
○After installation, insert the fuel tank breather hose
• Tighten
torque.
the radiator screen bolts to the specified outlet end into the steering stem hole.
NOTE
Air Cleaner ○In dusty areas, the element should be cleaned
more frequently than recommended interval. j
A clogged air cleaner restricts the air intake, in-
creases fuel consumption, reduces engine power,
○After riding through rain or on muddy roads, the
element should be cleaned immediately.
and can cause spark plug fouling. Inspect the air
intake system, which includes the air filter and air Element Removal and Inspection
duct to the throttle body assy, and the duct clamps
and throttle body assy, before each race or practice • Remove the seat bolt on both sides.
session.
WARNING
If dirt or dust is allowed to pass through into
the throttle body assembly, the throttle may
become stuck, possibly causing accident.
Be sure to keep the dust from entering dur-
ing cleaning.
NOTICE
A clogged air cleaner will affect fuel mixture
to the engine and reduce engine power and
cause spark plug fouling. A. Seat Bolt
• Lift the rear part of the seat upward and slide the
seat rearward.
• Remove
element.
the wing bolt, and take out the air cleaner
A. Seat A. Wing Bolt

B. Air Cleaner Element
• Check inside of the intake tract and throttle body

assy for dirt. If dirty, clean the intake tract and
throttle body assy thoroughly.
• Stuff a clean, lint-free towel into the throttle body
assy to avoid dirt from entering the throttle body
assy.
• Wipe out the inside of the air cleaner housing with
a clean, damp towel.
• Take the element off its frame.
NOTICE
Do not twist or wring the element, as it gets
easily torn or damaged.
• Inspect the element. If it is dirty, clean it. Also

check if the element is in good condition (no tears,
hardening or shrinkage). If damaged, replace the
element or it will allow dirt to enter into the throttle
j
body assy.
WARNING
A clogged air cleaner may allow dirt and dust
to enter the throttle body assembly and the
throttle may stick resulting in a hazardous
operating condition. Clean the air cleaner ac-
cording to the periodic maintenance chart;
more often if the motorcycle is used in ex-
tremely dusty conditions.
A. Air Cleaner Element
B. Element Frame
NOTICE
Element Cleaning and Installation
A clogged air cleaner may allow dirt and dust
to enter the engine, causing it to wear exces- • Clean the element in a bath of a high flash-point
solvent or hot soapy water. Rinse the element with
sively or to become damaged. clear water to remove all traces of the cleaning
solution.
• Squeeze the element dry in a clean towel.
NOTICE
Do not twist, wring or blow the element dry
to avoid damaging it.
WARNING
Gasoline and low flash-point solvents can
j be flammable and/or explosive and cause
severe burns. Clean the element in a
well-ventilated area, and take care that
there is no spark or flame anywhere near the
working areas. Do not use gasoline or low
flash-point solvents to clean the element.
• After cleaning, let the filter dry completely. Satu-

rate the element with a high-quality foam air fil-
ter oil and make sure that the oil is evenly ap-
plied throughout the element. Squeeze out the ex-
cess oil, but do not wring the element as this could
cause tearing. In this case, too much oil is better
than too little. Finally pat the inside of the element
with a paper towel to remove any excess oil.
• Before installation, check the element for damage
such as tears, hardening, or shrinkage. If dam-
aged, replace the element.
• Apply grease to all mating surfaces and to the
screw hole in the air cleaner housing and intake
tract.
• Remove the towel from the throttle body assy.
• Install the element onto its frame, and coat the
element lip and lip seat with a thick layer of all
-purpose grease to assure a complete seal.
• Install the air cleaner element so that its tab faces

upward and its grooves align with the frame on the
housing.
j
A. Apply grease.
A. Tab (Element Side)

B. Grooves (Element Side)
C. Frame (Housing Side)
• Tighten the wing bolt.

• Insert the hooks of the seat under the flange collar

and frame.
• Install the tabs of the side covers into the inside of
the seat.
j
A. Hooks A. Tabs
B. Seat B. Seat
C. Flange Collar
D. Frame • Tighten the seat bolts to the specified torque.
Tightening Torque
Seat Bolts:
25 N·m (2.5 kgf·m, 18 ft·lb)
• Pull up the rear end of the seat to make sure it is

securely installed.
Throttle Cable
j
Throttle Cable Adjustment
Inspect the throttle grip for smooth operation in
all steering positions. Check and adjust the throttle
cable in accordance with the Periodic Maintenance
Chart.
• Check that the throttle grip has 2  3 mm (0.08 
0.12 in.) of play and turns smoothly.
A. Adjuster
B. Locknut
• With the engine idling, turn the handlebars both

ways and check if handlebars movement changes
the idle speed. If so, the throttle cable may be
improperly adjusted or incorrectly routed, or dam-
aged. Be sure to correct any of these conditions
before riding.
WARNING
A. Throttle Grip Operation with improperly adjusted, incor-
B. 2  3 mm (0.08  0.12 in.) rectly routed, or damaged cables could re-
sult in an unsafe riding condition. Be sure
• Ifupper
the play is incorrect, loosen the locknut on the
end of the accelerator cable and turn the
the control cables are adjusted and routed
correctly, and are free from damage.
adjuster to obtain the specified play. Then, tighten
the locknut toward the adjuster.
the idle speed. If so, the throttle cable may be im-
Throttle Body Assy properly adjusted, incorrectly routed, or damaged.
Be sure to correct any of these conditions before
j riding.
Idle Speed Adjustment
• Thoroughly warm up the engine.
WARNING
• the
Turn the idle adjusting screw/choke knob to adjust
idle speed 2 000  2 100 r/min (rpm) by using Operation with damaged cables could result
the engine revolution tester (The tester should be in an unsafe riding condition. Replace dam-
followed by the method described by the manufac- aged control cables before operation.
ture.).
NOTICE
This motorcycle’s radiator does not incorpo-
rate cooling fan. Prolonged idling of the en-
gine with no airflow through the radiator can
cause coolant loss and engine overheating
resulting in possible engine damage. Any
riding conditions that increase engine tem-
perature will further reduce idling time be-
fore coolant loss occurs. These conditions
include high ambient temperature, sandy or
muddy terrain, or other conditions causing
high engine loads at low speeds. Further-
more, warming the engine up excessively be-
A. Idle Adjusting Screw/Choke Knob fore operation, or leaving idling with the hot
B. Tester engine temperature after operation results in
the engine overheating, too.
• Open and close the throttle a few times to make
sure the idle speed does not change, and readjust
if necessary. Cleaning the Throttle Body Assy
• With the engine idling, turn the handlebars both • Remove the seat (see Air Cleaner section).
ways and check if handlebars movement changes • section). the side covers (see Exhaust System
Remove
• Remove the fuel tank (see Spark Plug section). • Remove the muffler mounting bolts, and pull out
• pipe holder nuts.
Loosen the muffler clamp bolt and the exhaust the muffler body rearward.
j
A. Muffler Mounting Bolts

A. Muffler Clamp Bolt B. Muffler Body
B. Exhaust Pipe Holder Nuts
• Be sure to place a piece of cloth around the fuel • Turn the screwdriver to disconnect the joint lock.
hose joint. • pipe.
Disconnect the fuel hose joint from the delivery
j • Wipe off the dirt on the surface around the con-
• Insert
lock.
a flat tip screwdriver into the slit on the joint
A. Turn
B. Joint Lock
C. Fuel Hose Joint
A. Cloth
B. Flat Tip Screwdriver • Cover the delivery pipe and the fuel hose joint with
the vinyl bags to keep them clean.
C. Joint Lock
• Disconnect the upstream injector connector. • Disconnect the intake air temperature sensor con-
• hose joint.
Be sure to place a piece of cloth around the fuel nector.
• Loosen the air cleaner duct clamp bolt.
j
• Wipe off the dirt on the surface around the con-
• Remove
sides.
the rear frame mounting bolts on both
• Remove the fuel hose joint according to the previ-

ous procedure.
• Pull the rear frame rearward with the air cleaner
housing.
A. Upstream Injector Connector A. Intake Air Temperature Sensor Connector

B. Cloth B. Air Cleaner Duct Clamp Bolt
C. Flat Tip Screwdriver C. Rear Frame Mounting Bolts
D. Joint Lock D. Air Cleaner Housing
• Open the clamp. • Disconnect the water temperature sensor connec-

• intake air pressure
Disconnect the regulator/rectifier lead connector, tor.
j sensor connector, throttle sen- • Loosen the throttle body assy holder clamp bolt.
sor connector and downstream injector connector. • Pull the throttle body assy from the holder.
A. Clamp A. Water Temperature Sensor Connector

B. Regulator/Rectifier Lead Connector B. Throttle Body Assy Holder Clamp Bolt
C. Intake Air Pressure Sensor Connector C. Throttle Body Assy Holder
D. Throttle Sensor Connector
E. Downstream Injector Connector
• Remove the throttle pulley cover bolt, and take off

the throttle pulley cover.
• Loosen the decelerator cable bolt locknut, and
free the tip of cable lower end.
• Loosen the accelerator cable bolt, and free the tip
of cable lower end.
j
• Remove the throttle body assy.
A. Throttle Pulley Cover Bolt

B. Throttle Pulley Cover
A. Decelerator Cable Bolt Locknut

B. Accelerator Cable Bolt
C. Tips of Throttle Cable Lower Ends
D. Accelerator Cable
E. Decelerator Cable
NOTICE
Never drop the throttle body assy especially
on a hard surface. Such a shock to the body
assy can damage it.
• After removing the throttle body assy, cover the

throttle body assy holder and air cleaner duct with
• Install the tip of accelerator cable lower end to the
throttle pulley.
j a clean cloth to protect them from dirt. • Install the accelerator cable so that the position of
• Clean the throttle body assy. the claw of the washer is as shown.
• Check the throttle bore at the throttle valve for car-
bon deposits by opening the throttle valve.
• Tighten
torque.
the accelerator cable bolt to the specified
• Ifthrottle
any carbon accumulates, wipe the carbon off the
bore and the throttle valve, using a lint-free
cloth penetrated with a high flash-point solvent.
A. Accelerator Cable Lower End

B. Throttle Pulley
C. Claw of Washer
A. Throttle Bore D. Accelerator Cable Bolt
Tightening Torque
NOTICE
Accelerator Cable Bolt:
If dirt gets through into the engine, exces- 3.0 N·m (0.31 kgf·m, 27 in·lb)
sive engine wear and possibly engine dam-
age will occur. • Install the tip of decelerator cable lower end to the
throttle pulley.
• Lubricate the lower ends of the throttle cables.
• While holding the decelerator cable bolt, tighten

the cable bolt locknut to the specified torque.
WARNING
Operation with improperly adjusted, incor-
Tightening Torque rectly routed, or damaged cables could re- j
Decelerator Cable Bolt Locknut: sult in an unsafe riding condition. Be sure
3.0 N·m (0.31 kgf·m, 27 in·lb) the control cables are adjusted and routed
correctly, and are free from damage.
• Place
head.
the throttle body assy in rear of the cylinder
• Run the fuel hose under the main harness.

• temperature
Run the fuel hose to the inside of the intake air
sensor lead.
A. Decelerator Cable Lower End

B. Decelerator Cable Bolt
C. Decelerator Cable Bolt Locknut
D. 2 ±1 mm (0.08 ±0.04 in.)
• Install the throttle pulley cover and tighten its bolt

to the specified torque.
A. Fuel Hose
Tightening Torque B. Main Harness
Throttle Pulley Cover Bolt: C. Intake Air Temperature Sensor Lead
4.0 N·m (0.41 kgf·m, 35 in·lb)
• Run the throttle sensor lead and the water temper-

ature sensor lead to the right side of the throttle
• Install the throttle body assy to the throttle body
assy holder. Align the projection with the groove.
j body assy holder, and hold them with the clamp. • Check the throttle body assy is installed securely.
• Connect the water temperature sensor connector. • Tighten the throttle body assy clamp bolt to the
specified torque.
A. Throttle Sensor Lead

B. Water Temperature Sensor Lead A. Throttle Body Assy
C. Clamp B. Throttle Body Assy Holder
C. Projection
D. Groove
E. Throttle Body Assy Clamp Bolt
Tightening Torque
Throttle Body Assy Clamp Bolt:
1.1 N·m (0.11 kgf·m, 10 in·lb)
• Position the claw of the air cleaner duct clamp be-

tween the projections.
j
A. Water Temperature Sensor Lead

B. Throttle Sensor Connector
C. Downstream Injector Connector
A. Air Cleaner Housing D. Intake Air Pressure Sensor Connector
B. Claw E. Regulator/Rectifier Lead Connector
C. Projections F. Clamp
• Run the water temperature sensor lead and the
throttle sensor lead between the intake air pres- • Install the air cleaner housing with the rear frame
to the throttle body assy.
•
sure sensor and the downstream injector.
• Check the air cleaner duct is installed securely.
Connect the downstream injector connector, throt-
tle sensor connector, intake air pressure sensor • ified torque.
Tighten the air cleaner duct clamp bolt to the spec-
connector and regulator/rectifier lead connector.
Tightening Torque
• Hold the regulator/rectifier lead with the clamp.
Air Cleaner Duct Clamp Bolt:
1.5 N·m (0.15 kgf·m, 13 in·lb)
• Tighten the rear frame mounting bolts to the spec-

ified torque.
Tightening Torque NOTICE
Rear Frame Mounting Bolts: When installing the fuel hose joint, do not
j 35 N·m (3.6 kgf·m, 26 ft·lb) apply strong force to the delivery pipe. The
pipe made from resin could be damaged.
• Check the joint lock for deformation and wear.
• Ifwiththeajoint lock is deformed, replace the fuel hose
new one. • Push and pull the fuel hose joints back and forth
more than two times, and make sure they are
• Apply engine oil to the delivery pipe lightly. locked and do not come off.
• take air temperature
Connect the upstream injector connector and in-
sensor connector.
• Insert
pipes.
the fuel hose joints straight onto the delivery
• Push the joint locks until the hose joints clicks.
A. Fuel Hose Joints
WARNING
Leaking fuel can cause a fire or explosion
A. Fuel Hose Joints resulting in serious burns. Make sure the
B. Joint Locks hose joint is installed correctly on the deliv-
ery pipe by sliding the joint.
NOTE
○If it comes off, reinstall the fuel hose joint. Clutch
j
• Install the muffler (see Exhaust System section).
Clutch Lever Adjustment
• Install the
Install fuel tank (see Spark Plug section).
Proper clutch lever free play is 8  13 mm (0.3 
• Open andthe removed parts.
0.5 in.). Lever play increases with cable stretch and
• sure the gripclose the throttle a few times to make
operates correctly. friction plate wear, requiring periodic adjustment.
When the clutch lever free play is out of specifica-
• Check
justment.
the throttle cable play and idle speed ad-
tion, first try adjusting it at the clutch lever as follows.
• Turn the adjuster to obtain the proper amount of
clutch lever free play.
A. Clutch Lever
B. Adjuster
C. 8  13 mm (0.3  0.5 in.)
If the clutch lever free play cannot be adjusted at
the clutch lever, make the adjustment further down
the cable as follows.
• Turn the adjuster in all the way. • Tighten the locknut.

• in the the
Slide dust cover back and loosen the locknut
middle of the clutch cable. WARNING
j
• Turn the adjusting nut so that the clutch lever free
play is 8  13 mm (0.3  0.5 in.).
Too much cable play can prevent clutch dis-
engagement and cause an accident resulting
in serious injury or death. When adjusting
the clutch or replacing the cable, be sure the
upper end of the clutch outer cable is fully
seated in its fitting, or it could slip into place
later, creating enough cable play to prevent
clutch disengagement.
NOTE
○After the adjustment is made, start the engine and
check that the clutch does not slip and that it re-
leases properly.
Friction and Steel Plates Removal

A. Dust Cover • Drain the engine oil (see Engine Oil section).
B. Locknut
C. Adjusting Nut
• brake pedal
Remove the brake pedal bolt, washer and the rear
return spring.
• Remove the clutch cover bolts.

• Remove the clutch cover and gasket.
j
A. Brake Pedal Bolt and Washer

B. Brake Pedal
C. Return Spring
A. Clutch Cover Bolts
B. Clutch Cover
• Remove the clutch spring bolts, clutch pressure

plate and springs.
• Remove the friction and steel plates.
j
A. Friction Plate
A. Clutch Spring Bolts B. Steel Plate
B. Clutch Pressure Plate
Friction and Steel Plates Wear/Damage
Inspection
• Visually inspect the friction and steel plates to see
if they show any signs of seizure, or uneven wear.
• Iffriction
any plates show signs of damage, replace all
plates and steel plates as a set.
• plates at several
Measure the thickness of the friction and steel
points with vernier calipers.
• them with new ones.past the service limit, replace
If they have worn
Friction Plate Thickness Measurement

Standard 2.72  2.88 mm (0.107  0.113 in.)
Service Limit 2.5 mm (0.10 in.)
Steel Plate Thickness Measurement Friction and Steel Plate Warp

Standard 1.5  1.7 mm (0.059  0.067 in.) 0.15 mm
Standard
Service Limit 1.4 mm (0.055 in.) Friction Plate (0.0059 in.) or less j
0.15 mm
Standard
Steel Plate (0.0059 in.) or less
A. Thickness
B. Friction Plate
Friction and Steel Plate Warp Inspection

• Place each friction plate and steel plate on a sur-
face plate, and measure the amount of friction A. Surface Plate
plate and steel plate warp with a thickness gauge B. Friction or Steel Plate
(i.e., the gap between the surface plate and each C. Thickness Gauge
friction plate or steel plate).
Friction and Steel Plate Installation
• If any plate is warped over the service limit, re-
place it with a new one. • Install all parts in the reverse order of removal.
• ing between
Install the friction plates and steel plates, alternat-
the two; be sure to start and finish
with a friction plate.
• Apply molybdenum disulfide grease to the push

rod end and the contact area of the push rod
holder.
j
• Install the push rod holder.
A. Friction and Steel Plates
NOTICE
If dry steel plates and friction plates are in-
stalled, apply engine oil to the surfaces of A. Apply molybdenum disulfide grease.
B. Push Rod Holder
each plate to avoid clutch plate seizure.
• Install the clutch pressure plate and springs.
• torque. the clutch spring bolts to the specified
Tighten
Tightening Torque
Clutch Spring Bolts:
9.0 N·m (0.92 kgf·m, 80 in·lb)
• Check the release shaft lever position by measur-

ing the position distance between the lever and the
cable bracket while pushing the release shaft lever
lightly forward.
A. Release Shaft Lever A. Adjusting Washer

B. Push forward. B. Push Rod Holder
C. Position Distance C. Needle Bearing
D. Cable Bracket
Adjusting Washer
Position Distance Thickness Part Number
Standard 41  45 mm (1.6  1.8 in.)
1.5 mm (0.06 in.) 92200-1548
• If the lever position is not within the standard, se-
lect the correct thickness of adjusting washer ac-
1.0 mm (0.04 in.) 92200-0045
cording to the following table.

• Remove the push rod holder as necessary and
reinstall the clutch.
Release Shaft Lever Position and Adjusting
Washer Selection Valve Clearance
j Position Judg- Washers Quan-
Distance ment Thickness tity Valve and valve seat wear decreases valve clear-
ance, upsetting valve timing.
41  45 mm 1.5 mm
Standard 1
(1.6  1.8 in.) (0.06 in.) NOTICE
More than 45 1.0 mm If valve clearance is left unadjusted, wear will
Too big 1
mm (1.8 in.) (0.04 in.) eventually cause the valves to remain partly
Less than 41 mm 1.0 mm open, which lowers performances, burns the
Too small 2 valves and valve seats, and may cause seri-
(1.6 in.) (0.04 in.)
ous engine damage.
• Place a new clutch cover gasket in position with a
thin layer of grease. Valve clearance for each valve should be checked
• Install the clutch cover and tighten the clutch cover
bolts to the specified torque.
and adjusted in accordance with the Periodic Main-
tenance Chart.
Tightening Torque NOTE
Clutch Cover Bolts: ○If the engine is hot, wait until the engine cools.
10 N·m (1.0 kgf·m, 89 in·lb) Valve clearance must be checked when the en-
gine is cold (room temperature).
• Install the return spring.
• new onestheandO-rings
Replace on the brake pedal bolt with Valve Clearance Inspection
install them.
• Remove the spark plug cap (see Spark Plug sec-
• When installing the brake pedal, apply the grease
to the contact area of the brake pedal pivot.
tion).
• Install the removed parts.

• Check the engine oil level.
• Disconnect the fuel hose joint of the downstream

injector outlet pipe (see Throttle Body Assy sec-
• Remove the head cover gasket and spark plug
hole gasket.
tion).
j
• Remove the cylinder head cover bolts, washers
and cylinder head cover.
A. Head Cover Gasket

B. Spark Plug Hole Gasket
A. Cylinder Head Cover Bolts and Washers

B. Cylinder Head Cover
• Remove the two caps from the magneto cover. • Bring the piston to the Top Dead Center (TDC) of
its compression stroke to inspect the valve clear-
ance (the position at the end of the compression
j stroke) by aligning the top mark with the groove
on the magneto cover while turning the crankshaft
counterclockwise.
A. Timing Inspection Cap

B. Flywheel Nut Cap
A. Top Mark
B. Groove on Magneto Cover
C. Crankshaft
D. Crankshaft Rotation Direction
• Atsprockets
this point, the timing marks on the camshaft
must be almost aligned with the cylinder
• Using the thickness gauge, measuring the clear-
ance between each cam lobe and valve lifter, for
head upper surface as shown. all four valves.
j
NOTE
○Record the measured valves clearance.
A. Timing Marks
B. Camshaft Sprockets
C. Cylinder Head Upper Surface
A. Thickness Gauge
Standard Valve Clearance

Exhaust 0.17  0.22 mm (0.0067  0.0087 in.)
Intake 0.10  0.15 mm (0.0039  0.0059 in.)
• Ifrange,
the valve clearance is not within the specified
adjust by an authorized Kawasaki dealer or
a competent mechanic following the instructions in
the Service Manual.
• Replace the spark plug hole gasket with a new
one.
• Install the new gasket. • Apply liquid gasket to the cylinder head as shown.
j
A. Spark Plug Hole Gasket A. Liquid Gasket
• Using a high flash-point solvent, clean off any oil or

dirt that may be on the liquid gasket coating area.
Dry them with a clean cloth.
• Make sure that the upper chain guide is bottomed

to the cylinder head cover.
• Install the washer with the metal side upwards to
the cylinder head cover, and tighten the bolts to
• Replace the head cover gasket with a new one. the specified torque.
j
• Install
cover.
the head cover gasket on the cylinder head Tightening Torque
Cylinder Head Cover Bolts:
10 N·m (1.0 kgf·m, 89 in·lb)
• Install the two caps to the magneto cover.

Tightening Torque
Timing Inspection Cap:
3.5 N·m (0.36 kgf·m, 31 in·lb)
Flywheel Nut Cap:
3.5 N·m (0.36 kgf·m, 31 in·lb)
A. Upper Chain Guide

B. Cylinder Head Cover
C. Head Cover Gasket
NOTICE
Unless the upper chain guide is bottomed,
the camshaft chain could push the cylinder
head cover upward, leading to an oil leak.
• Install the cylinder head cover.

Exhaust System
j The exhaust system, in particular the muffler body,
is designed to reduce exhaust noise and conduct the
exhaust gases away from the rider while minimizing
power loss. If carbon has built up inside the muffler
body, exhaust efficiency is reduced, causing engine
performance to drop.
If the muffler body is badly damaged, dented,
cracked or rusted, replace it. Replace the silencer
wool if the exhaust noise becomes too loud or en-
gine performance drops.
Silencer Wool Replacement
A. Seat Bolt
• Remove the seat bolt, radiator shroud bolt and
side cover bolt.
B. Radiator Shroud Bolt
C. Side Cover Bolt
• Pull the right side cover upward to clear the hooks. • Remove the muffler cover bolts.
• Remove the right side cover. • Remove the muffler mounting bolt (rear).
j
A. Hooks A. Muffler Cover Bolts

B. Right Side Cover B. Muffler Mounting Bolt (Rear)
• Remove the muffler cover with the plastic mallet.

• Remove the silencer wool.
j
A. Muffler Pipe End
A. Plastic Mallet
• Apply a non-permanent locking agent to the muf-
fler cover bolts.
B. Muffler Cover
C. Silencer Wool • Tighten
torque.
the muffler cover bolts to the specified
• Remove the liquid gasket attaching on the muffler

cover and muffler body.
Tightening Torque
Muffler Cover Bolts:
• Arrange the shape of the new silencer wool and
install the muffler cover to the muffler body.
10 N·m (1.0 kgf·m, 89 in·lb)
• Check that the exhaust port of the muffler cover
align with the muffler pipe. NOTE
○If the threaded holes of the muffler cover and muf-
fler body do not align, remove the muffler clamp
bolt and muffler mounting bolt.
• Apply the liquid gasket to the joint part of the muf-

fler cover and muffler body.
A. Muffler Cover Bolts A. Muffler Mounting Bolt (Rear)

B. Muffler Cover B. Muffler Mounting Bolt (Front)
C. Muffler Body C. Muffler Clamp Bolt
D. Silicone Sealant D. Exhaust Pipe Holder Nuts
• Inflercase the muffler mounting bolt (front), the muf-

clamp bolt and the exhaust pipe holder nuts
• Firstly,
porarily.
tighten the exhaust pipe holder nuts tem-
were loosed, tighten the bolts and nuts according

to the following sequence.
• Secondly,
temporarily.
tighten the muffler mounting bolt (rear)
• Thirdly, tighten the muffler mounting bolt (front) to

the specified torque.
Tightening Torque
Muffler Mounting Bolt (Front):
25 N·m (2.5 kgf·m, 18 ft·lb)
• Fourthly, tighten the muffler mounting bolt (rear) to

the specified torque.
Tightening Torque • Lastly, tighten the muffler clamp bolt to the speci-
fied torque.
Muffler Mounting Bolt (Rear):
j 21 N·m (2.1 kgf·m, 15 ft·lb) Tightening Torque
Muffler Clamp Bolt:
• Fifthly, tighten the exhaust pipe holder nuts to the
specified torque.
13 N·m (1.3 kgf·m, 115 in·lb)
Tightening Torque • Insert the hooks of the side cover to the ribs of the
radiator shroud.
Exhaust Pipe Holder Nuts:
15 N·m (1.5 kgf·m, 11 ft·lb)
• Sixthly, check that the hole of the muffler clamp fits

to the projection of the muffler body.
A. Side Cover
B. Radiator Shroud
C. Ribs
D. Hooks
A. Hole of Muffler Clamp

B. Muffler Body
• Tighten the seat bolt, radiator shroud bolt and side
cover bolt to the specified torque.
• Remove
damper.
the collars and muffler cover bracket
A. Seat Bolt
B. Radiator Shroud Bolt
C. Side Cover Bolt
A. Collars
Tightening Torque B. Muffler Cover Bracket Damper
C. Muffler Cover
Seat Bolt:
25 N·m (2.5 kgf·m, 18 ft·lb) • Replace
new one.
the muffler cover bracket damper with a
Radiator Shroud Bolt:
7.0 N·m (0.71 kgf·m, 62 in·lb) • Apply soap and water solution to the muffler cover
bracket damper.
Side Cover Bolt:
7.0 N·m (0.71 kgf·m, 62 in·lb) • Install the muffler cover bracket damper and col-
lars to the muffler cover.
Muffler Cover Bracket Damper Replacement • Install the muffler cover (see Silencer Wool Re-
placement).
• Remove the muffler cover (see Silencer Wool Re-
placement).
Rear Axle Nut Drive Chain

j
• Visually inspect the rear axle nut for deformation
or damage at the friction ring and caulking. If it is
For safety and to prevent excessive wear, the drive
chain must be checked, adjusted, and lubricated be-
deformed or damaged, replace the axle nut with a fore riding. If the chain becomes badly worn or mal-
new one. adjusted - either too loose or too tight - it could jump
off the sprockets or break.
WARNING
A chain that breaks or jumps off the sprock-
ets could snag on the engine sprocket or lock
the rear wheel, severely damaging the motor-
cycle and causing it to go out of control. In-
spect the chain for damage and proper ad-
justment before each ride.
Chain Slack Inspection

• Raise the rear wheel off the ground, then rotate
the rear wheel to find the place where the chain is
tightest (because it wears unevenly).
A. Friction Ring
B. Caulking • Push up the drive chain in the middle of the upper
chain run to measure the chain slack. The dis-
tance between the bottom-line of the chain and the
swingarm should be within the standard value.
Drive Chain Slack
Standard 52  58 mm (2.0  2.3 in.)
• Adjust
cation.
the drive chain if its slack is out of specifi-
notch of the left chain adjuster should align with

the same swingarm mark that the notch of the
right chain adjuster aligns with.
j
Drive Chain Slack
52  58 mm (2.0  2.3 in.)
A. Chain Slack
• Inwheel
addition to checking the slack, rotate the rear
to inspect the drive chain for damaged
rollers, loose pins and links and the sprockets
for unevenly or excessively worn and damaged
teeth.
• If there are any such defects, replace the drive
chain and/or the sprockets.
A. Rear Axle Nut
B. Adjusting Bolt
Chain Slack Adjustment C. Locknut
D. Marks
• Loosen the rear axle nut and both chain adjuster
locknuts.
E. Notch
• Turn both chain adjusting bolts evenly until the

drive chain slack (measured between the chain
NOTE
and the swingarm) is within the standard value. ○Wheel alignment can also be checked using the
For the rear wheel to be properly aligned, the straightedge or string method.
WARNING • Check the rear brake effectiveness.

Misalignment of the wheel will result in ab- NOTE
j normal wear, and may result in an unsafe
riding condition. Align the rear wheel using
○When riding in wet and muddy conditions, mud
sticks to the chain and sprockets, resulting in an
the marks on the swingarm or measuring the overly tight chain, which can cause it to break.
distance between the center of the axle and To prevent this, adjust the chain slack (measured
swingarm pivot. between the chain and the swingarm) to 62  68
mm (2.4  2.7 in.).
• Inspect
tion).
the rear axle nut (see Rear Axle Nut sec-
Chain Wear Inspection
• Tighten both chain adjuster locknuts to the speci-
fied torque.
When the chain has reached its wear limit (i.e.,
when it has stretched by 1.7% of its original length),
Tightening Torque it is no longer safe for use and should be replaced.
Chain Adjuster Locknuts: Since it is impractical to measure the entire length of
15 N·m (1.5 kgf·m, 11 ft·lb) the chain, determine the degree of wear by measur-
ing a 20-link section of the chain.
• Tighten the axle nut to the specified torque. • Tighten the chain either by using the chain ad-
justers or by hanging a 10 kg (22 lb) weight on the
Tightening Torque chain.
Rear Axle Nut:
110 N·m (11.2 kgf·m, 81.1 ft·lb)
• Measure the 20-link length on a straight part of the
chain from the center of the 1st pin to the center
of the 21st pin. If the length exceeds the service
• Rotate the wheel, measure the chain slack again
at the tightest position, and readjust it if necessary.
limit, the chain should be replaced. Since over-
worn sprockets will cause a new chain to wear
faster, inspect both the engine and rear sprockets
WARNING whenever the chain is replaced, and replace them
A loose axle nut can lead to an accident re- if necessary.
sulting in serious injury or death. Tighten the
axle nut to the proper torque.
○To minimize any chance of the master link coming

apart, the master link clip must be installed with
the closed end of the “U” pointing in the direction
of chain rotation.
j
A. Weight
B. Tape Measure
Drive Chain 20-Link Length

317.5  318.2 mm (12.50  12.53
Standard A. Master Link Clip
in.)
B. Direction of Chain Rotation
Service Limit 323 mm (12.7 in.)
NOTE
○The drive system was designed for use with a
DAIDO DID 520DMA4 114-links chain. For maxi-
mum stretch resistance and safety, a genuine part
must be used for replacement.
Chain Guide Wear Inspection Chain Slipper Wear Inspection
• Visually inspect the drive chain guide and replace
it if excessively worn or damaged.
• Visually inspect the upper and lower of the chain
slipper on the swingarm and replace them if worn
j or damaged.
A. Chain Guide
A. Upper and Lower of the Chain Slipper
B. Swingarm
Sprocket Wear Inspection Chain Lubrication

•Visually inspect the sprocket teeth and replace the
sprocket if its teeth are worn or damaged.
Lubrication is necessary after riding through rain
or on wet roads, or any time that the chain appears
Sprocket Teeth Wear dry.
j
Use a lubricant for drive chains. If the chain is
especially dirty, clean it using a cleaner for drive
chains following the instructions supplied by the
chain cleaner manufacturer.
• Apply lubricant to the sides of the rollers so that it
will penetrate to the rollers and bushings. Wipe off
any excess lubricant.
A. Good Teeth
B. Worn Teeth
C. Damaged Teeth
NOTE
○Sprocket wear is exaggerated in the illustration.
• Wipe off any lubricant that gets on the tire surface.
Adjustable Ergonomics
j To suit various riding positions, the handlebar
holder position can be changed and the handlebars
can be adjusted by turning the handlebar holders
around (180°).
The footpeg position can also be changed to suit
the rider’s preference.
Handlebar Position Adjustment
• Remove the number plate (see Steering section).
• Check thethehandlebars
Remove handlebar pad.
• Remove the handlebarforclamp
damage or cracks.
• and the handlebars. bolts, the clamps
A. Handlebar Holder
B. Handlebar Clamp Bolts
C. Handlebar Clamps
D. Handlebars
• Remove the handlebar holder nuts, washers, han-

dlebar holders and dampers.
A. Handlebar Holder Nuts

Handlebar Holder
B. Washers Handlebar Position
C. Handlebar Holder Direction Position
D. Dampers
A C Far
• Select the handlebar position. B C ↑
A D ↓
B D Near
• Install the upper and lower dampers into the steer-

ing stem head with aligning the flat surfaces.
• Tighten
torque.
the handlebar holder nuts to the specified
j Tightening Torque
Handlebar Holder Nuts:
35 N·m (3.6 kgf·m, 26 ft·lb)
• Position the handlebars and use the gauge marks

to check its alignment in the clamps. There
should be equal marks showing on each side of
the clamps.
• Tighten the front and rear handlebar clamp bolts
equally. If the handlebar clamps are correctly in-
stalled, there will be even gaps on the front and
rear sides of the clamp after the bolts are torqued.
A. Dampers
B. Steering Stem Head Tightening Torque
C. Flat Surfaces Handlebar Clamp Bolts:
• Install
holders.
the rounded washers and the handlebar 25 N·m (2.5 kgf·m, 18 ft·lb)
NOTE NOTE
○Install the rounded washer so that the round part ○Tighten the two clamp bolts alternately two times
fits on the damper. to ensure even tightening torque.
○Do not disassemble the supporting bar on the han-
• Replace the handlebar holder nuts with new ones. dlebars.
• Put the handlebars
Apply 2-stroke oil to the handlebar clamp bolts.
• Temporarily install the
onto the handlebar holders.
• Hand tighten the handlebar
handlebar clamps.
• clamp bolts.
Footpeg
The right and left footpegs can be mounted onto
j
one of two positions.
• Remove the cotter pin, pivot pin, washer, spring
and footpeg.
A. Handlebar Clamps
B. Clamp Bolts
C. Gap
D. Supporting Bar
• Check the front brake for the proper brake effect,

or no brake drag.
• Check the clutch lever and throttle for the proper
operations. A. Cotter Pin
B. Pivot Pin
C. Washer
D. Spring
E. Footpeg
• Remove the footpeg bracket bolts and bracket.

A. Footpeg Bracket Bolts A. Standard Position

B. Footpeg Bracket B. Lower Position
• Apply a non-permanent locking

bracket bolts.
agent to the • Tighten
torque.
the footpeg bracket bolts to the specified
• Select the footpeg position. Tightening Torque

Footpeg Bracket Bolts (M10):
35 N·m (3.6 kgf·m, 26 ft·lb)
Footpeg Bracket Bolts (M8):
17 N·m (1.7 kgf·m, 13 ft·lb)
• Apply grease to the pivot pin.

• pivot pinthefrom
Install footpeg, spring and pivot pin. Insert the
the front.
• Install the washer and
Position the spring ends as shown.
• Bend the longer end ofnew cotter pin.
• the cotter pin.
Brakes
Disc and disc pad wear is automatically compen-
j
sated for and has no effect on the brake lever or
pedal action. There are no parts on the brakes that
require adjustment except brake lever position.
Brake Lever Position
The brake lever position can be adjusted to suit
the rider’s preference.
• To adjust the brake lever position, slide the front
brake lever dust cover back, and loosen the lock-
nut, and turn the adjuster to either side with a
wrench.
A. Pivot Pin
B. Spring Ends • After adjustment, tighten the locknut securely.
C. Washer
D. Cotter Pin
NOTE
○Install the footpegs with same height on both
sides. Do not ride the motorcycle with footpegs
installed unevenly.
○Adjust the positions of the shift pedal and the
brake pedal to suit the rider’s preference.
○Installing the footpegs in the lower position will re-
duce the amount of ground clearance and lean an-
gle.
Disc Brake Fluid
Inspect the brake fluid level in the front and rear
brake reservoirs and change the brake fluid in ac-
j cordance with the Periodic Maintenance Chart. The
brake fluid should also be changed when contami-
nated with dirt or water.
Use only heavy-duty brake fluid as follows.
Front/Rear Brake Fluid : DOT3 or DOT4
NOTE
○The motorcycle is shipped with brake fluid DOT4
A. Dust Cover in the brake system.
B. Brake Lever
C. Adjuster NOTICE
D. Locknut
Do not spill brake fluid onto any painted sur-
• Test the braking power and check that there is no
brake drag.
face.
Do not use fluid from a container that has
been left open or that has been unsealed for
WARNING a long time.
Air in the brake lines diminish braking perfor- Check for fluid leakage around the brake sys-
mance and can cause an accident resulting tem fittings.
in injury or death. If the brake lever or pedal Check for brake hose damage.
feels mushy when it is applied, there might
be air in the brake lines or the brake may be
Brake Fluid Level Inspection (Front and Rear
defective. Have the brake checked immedi-
Brake Reservoirs)
ately by an authorized Kawasaki dealer.
With the front or rear brake reservoir positioned
horizontally, the brake fluid must always be above
the lower level line.
• Ifis the brake fluid in the front or rear brake reservoir

below the lower level line, check for fluid leaks
in the brake line and fill the reservoir to the upper
level line (The step inside the front and rear brake
j
reservoirs indicate the upper level.).
A. Front Brake Reservoir

B. Lower Level Line
A. Front Brake Reservoir

B. Upper Level Line
A. Rear Brake Reservoir

B. Lower Level Line
Brake Pad Wear Inspection
Inspect the brake pads for wear in accordance with
the Periodic Maintenance Chart. If the thickness of
j any pad in any (front or rear) brake caliper is less
than 1 mm (0.04 in.), have both pads in the caliper
replaced as a set. Pad replacement should be done
by an authorized Kawasaki dealer.
Usable Brake Pad Range
A. Rear Brake Reservoir

B. Upper Level Line
WARNING
Mixing brands and types of brake fluid can
reduce the brake system’s effectiveness
and cause an accident resulting in injury
or death. Do not mix two brands of brake
fluid. Change the brake fluid in the brake line A. Lining Thickness
completely if the brake fluid must be refilled B. 1 mm (0.04 in.)
C. Front
but the type and brand of the brake fluid that D. Rear
is already in the reservoir are unidentified.
felt, the steering is too loose and needs to be

Steering adjusted.
The steering should always be kept adjusted so

j
that the handlebars will turn freely but not have ex-
cessive play.
Steering Inspection
• To check the steering adjustment, raise the front
wheel off the ground using a jack (special tool:
57001-1238) and attachment (special tool: 57001
-1608).
• Push the handlebars lightly to both side. If the
handlebars continues moving under its own mo-
mentum, the steering is normal.
• Squatting in front of the motorcycle, grasp the
lower ends of the front fork at the axle, and push
and pull the front fork back and forth. If play is A. Push and Pull
Steering Adjustment • Remove the handlebars (see Handlebars sec-
• Raise the front wheel off the ground using a jack tion).
j (special tool: 57001-1238) and attachment (spe-
cial tool: 57001-1608).
• Loosen
per).
the left and right front fork clamp bolts (up-
• Unlock the clamp of the number plate. • Remove the steering stem head nut, and remove
• Remove the bolt. the steering stem head.
• Clear the projections and remove the number
plate.
A. Steering Stem Head

B. Steering Stem Head Nut
A. Clamp C. Front Fork Clamp Bolts (Upper)
B. Bolt
C. Projections
D. Number Plate
• Turn the steering stem nut with a stem nut wrench

(special tool: 57001-1100) to obtain the proper ad-
Tightening Torque
Steering Stem Head Nut:
justment. 100 N·m (10.2 kgf·m, 73.8 ft·lb) j
Front Fork Clamp Bolts (Upper):
23 N·m (2.3 kgf·m, 17 ft·lb)
NOTE
○Tighten the two clamp bolts alternately two times
to ensure even tightening torque.
• Install the handlebars (see Handlebars section),

and check the steering again and readjust it if nec-
essary.
• Check the front brake for the proper brake effect,
or no brake drag.
• Check the clutch lever and throttle for the proper
operations.
A. Steering Stem Nut
B. Stem Nut Wrench (Special Tool: 57001-1100)
• Install the number plate, and tighten the bolt.
Tightening Torque
• Install the steering stem head to the original posi-
tion.
Number Plate Bolt:
8.0 N·m (0.82 kgf·m, 71 in·lb)
• Apply a non-permanent locking agent to the front
fork clamp bolts (upper).
• Apply the specified torques to the steering stem
head nut and front fork clamp bolts (upper).
Front Suspension
j
Front Fork Inspection
NOTICE
Sticking muds or dusts on the sliding surface
of the front fork could damage the oil seal,
leading to an oil leak. Clean the sliding sur-
face after each ride.
• Holding the brake lever, pump the front fork up and

down manually to check for smooth operation.
• Visually inspect the front fork for oil leakage, scor-
ing or scratches on the outer surface of the inner
A. Inner Tubes
tube.
NOTICE
• If necessary, replace by an authorized Kawasaki
dealer. If the inner tube is badly bent or creased,
replace it. Excessive bending, followed by
subsequent straitening, can weaken the in-
ner tube.
Front Fork Adjustment

Any of the following front fork adjustments should
be made to tune the front suspension to the rider’s
weight and the condition of the track.
Basically, there are seven adjustments you can
make to the front fork.
• Air Pressure
Air pressure acts as a progressive spring over the
entire fork travel range. Since the air pressure in the
fork legs increases with normal use, the fork action
on your KX will get stiffer as the race progresses.

Therefore, it is not recommended to increase the air
• The
Fork Oil Amount Adjustment
fork oil amount affects the front fork action.
pressure for additional springing. The KX forks are When the oil amount is raised, the air spring be-
designed to function without added air. comes more progressive, and the front fork action
j
• Rebound Damping Adjustment (Left Fork only)
This adjustment affects how quickly the fork re-
feels “harder” in the later stage of fork travel, near
the bottom. When the oil amount is lowered, the air
bounds. Depending on the model, the fork rebound spring becomes less progressive, and the front fork
damping adjuster has 20 positions. The fully seated action does not feel as “hard” in the later stage of
position (adjuster turned fully clockwise) is the hard- fork travel.
est setting. Turning the adjuster 16 clicks counter-
clockwise from the fully seated position is the stan-
• Fork Springs
Optional springs, softer and stiffer than standard,
dard setting, turning it counterclockwise 20 clicks are available.
(depending on the model) is the softest setting. • Fork Height
• Compression Damping Adjustment (Left Fork
only)
Steering is greatly affected by the fork height (how
much the outer fork tubes protrude above the steer-
This adjustment affects how quickly the fork coming stem head). The less the fork tube protrudes,
presses. Depending on the model, the fork com- the lighter the front end becomes and the greater
pression damping adjuster has 22 positions. The the tendency for understeering and washout due to
fully seated position (adjuster turned fully clockwise) weight biasing. Increasing the amount of fork tube
is the hardest setting. Turning the adjuster 8 clicks protrusion has opposite effects. Be sure that the
counterclockwise from the fully seated position is front tire does not touch the fender when the fork is
the standard setting, turning it counterclockwise 22 fully compressed.
clicks (depending on the model) is the softest set-
ting. NOTICE
• Spring Preload Adjustment (Right Fork only)
This adjustment affects the driving position. De-
The right and left fork tubes must be adjusted
evenly.
pending on the model, the fork spring preload ad-
juster has 40 positions. The fully seated position
(adjuster turned fully counterclockwise) is the softest Air Pressure Adjustment
setting. Turning the adjuster 8 clicks clockwise from The standard air pressure in the front fork legs is
the fully seated position is the standard setting, turn- atmospheric (0 kPa, 0 kgf/cm², 0 psi). Air pressure
ing it clockwise 40 clicks (depending on the model) in the fork legs increase with normal use, so the fork
is the hardest setting.
action stiffens during operation. Release air pres-
sure from the fork legs prior to each race through the
air pressure relief screw located in left front fork base
j valve assembly and right front fork top plug. Make
sure the front forks are fully extended with the front
wheel off the ground when releasing the pressure.
• Raise the front wheel off the ground using a jack
(special tool: 57001-1238) and attachment (spe-
cial tool: 57001-1608).
• Remove the screw on each front fork top plug to
let the air pressure equalize. Then, tighten the
screws.
Tightening Torque
Air Pressure Relief Screws: A. Screw
1.3 N·m (0.13 kgf·m, 12 in·lb) B. Left Front Fork Base Valve Assembly
C. Front Fork (Left Side)
screwdriver. Adjust the rebound damping to suit

your preference under certain conditions.
NOTICE j
Do not force the rebound damping adjuster
beyond the fully seated position, or the ad-
justing mechanism may be damaged.
A. Screw
B. Right Front Fork Top Plug
C. Front Fork (Right Side)
Rebound Damping Adjustment (Left Fork only)

• Clean the bottom of the left fork tube.
• (special tool:
Raise the front wheel off the ground using a jack
57001-1238) and attachment (spe-
cial tool: 57001-1608).
• To adjust the rebound damping, turn the adjuster
on the left front fork cylinder valve with a flat tip
A. Rebound Damping Adjuster
B. Left Front Fork Cylinder Valve
Rebound Damping Adjuster Settings Compression Damping Adjustment (Left Fork
only)
j • Raise the front wheel off the ground using a jack
cial tool: 57001-1608).
• To adjust the compression damping, turn the ad-
juster on the left front fork base valve assembly
with a flat tip screwdriver. Adjust the compression
damping to suit your preference under certain con-
ditions.
NOTICE
Do not force the compression damping ad-
juster beyond the fully seated position, or the
adjusting mechanism may be damaged.
A. Seated Position (Adjuster Turned Fully
Clockwise)
B. Softer (Counterclockwise)
C. Harder (Clockwise)
D. Standard Setting
*: Number of turns counterclockwise usable range
20 clicks or less. Although you can turn the adjuster
beyond the adjustable range, effecting no changes
to damping force, use it within the adjustable range.
Standard Rebound Damping Adjuster Setting
16 clicks*
*: Counterclockwise from the fully seated position
A. Compression Damping Adjuster

B. Left Front Fork Base Valve Assembly
Compression Damping Adjuster Settings Spring Preload Adjustment (Right Fork only)
• Raise the front wheel off the ground using a jack
cial tool: 57001-1608).
j
• To adjust the spring preload, turn the adjuster on
the right front fork top plug with a wrench. Adjust
the spring preload to suit your preference under
certain conditions.
NOTICE
Do not force the spring preload adjuster be-
yond the fully seated position, or the adjust-
ing mechanism may be damaged.
A. Seated Position (Adjuster Turned Fully

Clockwise)
D. Standard Setting
Standard Compression Damping Adjuster
Setting
8 clicks*
A. Spring Preload Adjuster
*: Counterclockwise from the fully seated position B. Right Front Fork Top Plug
Spring Preload Adjuster Settings *: Clockwise from the fully seated position
Front Fork Oil Change
j • Thoroughly clean the forks before disassembly.
NOTICE
Be careful not to scratch the inner tube and
not to damage the dust seal.
Avoid scratching or damaging the inner tube
or the dust seal. Use a mild detergent and
sponge out dirt with plenty of water.
NOTE
○Record the rebound, compression and spring
preload setting before disassembling.
A. Seated Position (Adjuster Turned Fully ○Set the rebound and compression damping to the
Counterclockwise) softest settings before disassembly to prevent the
B. Harder (Clockwise) needle of adjusters from damping.
C. Softer (Counterclockwise)
D. Standard Setting • Remove the number plate (see Steering section).
*: Number of turns clockwise usable range 40 • Loosen the front
Loosen the fork clamp bolts (upper).
clicks or less. Although you can turn the adjuster • wrench (special
front fork top plug with the top plug
tool: 57001-1645).
to spring force, use it within the adjustable range. NOTE
Standard Spring Preload Adjuster Setting ○Do not take off the base valve assembly (left fork
11 clicks* only).
A. Front Fork Clamp Bolts (Upper) A. Front Axle Nut

B. Top Plug Wrench (Special Tool: 57001-1645) B. Left Front Axle Clamp Bolts (Loosen)
C. Fork Protector Bolts
• Unscrew the front axle nut, and then loosen the
left front axle clamp bolts.
D. Front Brake Caliper
E. Front Fork Protector
• Remove the brake caliper from the fork leg, and
rest the caliper on some kind of stand so that it
F. Brake Hose Clamps
does not dangle. • Loosen the right front axle clamp bolts.
• Insert the wood wedge between the disc brake • Place the motorcycle on a stand so that front
wheel is in the air.
pads. This prevents them from being moved out of
their proper position, if the brake lever is squeezed • Remove the front axle, and pull out the front wheel.
Take off the collar from each side of the front hub.
accidentally.
• Remove the brake hose clamps and fork protector. NOTICE
Do not lay the wheel on the ground with the
disc facing down. This can damage or warp
the disc. Place blocks under the wheel so the
disc does not touch the ground.
A. Right Front Axle Clamp Bolts (Loosen) A. Front Fork Clamp Bolts (Lower)
B. Front Axle B. Pull down by twisting.
C. Collar C. Front Fork Tube
• Loosen the front fork clamp bolts (lower). • Measure each length between the axle holder and
• twisting it.the front fork tubes by pulling down while
Remove outer tube and record it before disassembling the
fork.
Standard
312  316 mm (12.3  12.4 in.)
Length
Left Front Fork

• Using the top plug wrench (special tool: 57001
-1645), remove the left front fork cylinder unit from
the outer tube and slowly slide down the outer
j
tube.
A. Length
B. Axle Holder
C. Front Fork Outer Tube
A. Top Plug Wrench (Special Tool: 57001-1645)

B. Left Front Fork Cylinder Unit
C. Left Front Fork Outer Tube
• Place a drain pan under the front fork and drain

fork oil.
NOTE
○Pump the outer tube several times to discharge
the fork oil.
A. Fork Oil A. Left Front Fork Cylinder Unit

B. Left Front Fork Outer Tube
• Temporarily install the left front fork cylinder unit to
the outer tube using the top plug wrench (special
C. Top Plug Wrench (Special Tool: 57001-1645)
tool: 57001-1645). • Hold the axle holder with a vise.

NOTE
○Protect the axle holder with a soft jaw or heavy
cloth when using a vise.
WARNING
If the axle holder is not securely clamped, the
front fork assembly may come out of the vise j
when compressed, which could cause an ac-
cident resulting in injury. However, clamp-
ing the axle holder too tightly can damage it
which will affect riding stability. Use protec-
tive aluminum covers on the jaws of the vise
and do not tighten the vise excessively.
• Loosen the adjuster assembly completely.

• the adjustertheassembly
Compress outer tube by hands and remove
from the axle holder part so
that the locknut appear about 20  30 mm (0.79 
A. Axle Holder Part
1.2 in.).
B. Left Front Fork Adjuster Assembly
NOTE
○When removing the adjuster assembly, do not
• Hold the locknut with a wrench and remove the left
front fork adjuster assembly.
force to loosen it at once using an impact wrench.
NOTICE
When loosening the locknut, the threads of
the axle holder do not touch the piston rod.
If the piston rod is scratched, it is possible to
the damage in the cylinder unit.
• Remove the push rod.

j
A. Locknut
B. Wrench
C. Left Front Fork Adjuster Assembly A. Push Rod
NOTICE
Removing the locknut and pushing the pis-
ton rod thread into the left front fork cylinder
unit will damage the oil seal. Do not remove
the locknut from the piston rod.
• Remove the fork leg from the vise. • Remove the left front fork cylinder unit from the
• plug wrench
Unscrew the left front fork cylinder unit with the top
(special tool: 57001-1645).
outer tube.
j
A. Left Front Fork Cylinder Unit

B. Left Front Fork Outer Tube • Hold the front fork at the inverted position for more
than 20 minutes to allow the fork oil to fully drain.
• Holding the top plug wrench (special tool: 57001

-1645) with a vise, loosen the left front fork base
valve assembly on the fork cylinder unit with a box
j wrench.

C. Left Front Fork Cylinder Unit
D. Box Wrench
• Remove the left front fork base valve assembly

from the fork cylinder unit.
NOTICE
Be careful not to damage the bushing of the
left front fork base valve assembly.
NOTICE
Disassembling the left front fork base valve
assembly can lead to trouble. Do not disas- j
semble the left front fork base valve assem-
bly.
• Drain the fork oil from the left front fork cylinder
unit by pumping the piston rod several times.
A. Left Front Fork Base Valve Assembly

NOTE
○Slowly compress the piston rod until it stops so
that the left front fork base valve assembly can be
removed easily.
A. Fork Oil
• Clean the threads of the left front fork cylinder unit

and left front fork base valve assembly.
j
A. Fork Oil
C. Oil Hole
A. Threads
Suspension Oil
• With the piston rod fully stretched, pour 330 mL
(11.2 US oz.) of fork oil. SS-19 (1 L): P/No. 44091-0009
NOTE
○Plug the oil hole on the left front fork cylinder unit
with finger.
• Pump the piston rod slowly several times to expel

air while plugging the oil hole by finger.
j
A. 115  123 mm (4.53  4.84 in.)

B. Oil Level
A. Pump
B. Piston Rod
• Replace the O-rings on the left front fork base
valve assembly with new ones.
• With the piston rod fully stretched, check the oil • Apply specified fork oil to the O-rings and bushings
on the left front fork base valve assembly.
level in the left front fork cylinder unit.
Oil Level NOTICE
115  123 mm (4.53  4.84 in.) Do not damage the bushings when assem-
bling the left front fork base valve.
NOTE
○Measure the oil level from the top surface in the
left front fork cylinder unit using a gauge.
A. O-rings A. Piston Rod

B. Bushings B. About 20 mm (0.79 in.)
C. Left Front Fork Base Valve Assembly
• With the piston rod appear about 20 mm (0.79 in.)
from fully compressed, gently install the left front
D. Left Front Fork Cylinder Unit
E. Oil Hole
fork base valve assembly slowly to the left front
fork cylinder unit. • Hold the top plug wrench (special tool: 57001
-1645) with a vise.
NOTE
○Plug the oil hole on the left fork cylinder unit with
• Holding the left front fork cylinder unit with the top
plug wrench (special tool: 57001-1645), torque
finger. the left front fork base valve assembly.
○While pulling the piston rod, install the base valve
assembly slowly and pushing down it fully.
○If there is difficulty in assembling the base valve,
it may be because the oil level is too high. Check
the oil level in the left front fork cylinder unit.
• Discharge the extra oil off the left front fork cylinder
unit by pumping the piston rod to full stroke.
NOTICE j
Be careful not to bend or damage the piston
rod when the piston rod is stroked.
NOTE
○Service carefully because oil flies out from the oil
hole of the left front fork cylinder unit.

C. Left Front Fork Cylinder Unit
D. Vise
Tightening Torque
Left Front Fork Base Valve Assembly:
30 N·m (3.1 kgf·m, 22 ft·lb)
NOTE
○Check if the locknut is completely screwed onto
the piston rod.
A. Piston Rod
• Protect the piston rod end with a heavy cloth to
prevent piston rod thread damage.
B. Heavy Cloth
C. Pump the piston.
• Hold the left front fork cylinder unit at the upright
position and slowly pump the piston rod several NOTE
times about 100 mm (3.94 in.). ○Check the piston rod sliding surface for damage.
○Apply specified fork oil to the piston rod sliding

surface.
j • Drain the extra oil from the left front fork cylinder
unit oil hole.
• Blow out the extra oil from the oil hole of the left
front fork cylinder unit with the compressed air
blow to the oil hole.
• Wipe the oil off completely from the left front fork
cylinder unit.
• If you cannot use compressed air, remove the air
pressure relief screw of the left front fork base
valve assembly. Up side down the fork damper for
more than 10 minutes and drain the oil from the left
front fork cylinder unit. Reinstall and tighten the air
A. Oil Hole
pressure relief screw.
Tightening Torque • Protect the piston rod end with a heavy cloth to
prevent damage.
Air Pressure Relief Screw:
1.3 N·m (0.13 kgf·m, 12 in·lb) • Pump the piston rod to full stroke by pushing down
the left front fork cylinder unit.
• Check the piston rod for smooth operation.
• piston rod forrodbend
If the piston operation is not smooth, check the
or damage.
• Hold the fork cylinder unit on level ground while
piston rod is full stroked by your hand.
• Release the piston rod then check the piston rod
extend to maximum.
• Ifbleed
the piston rod does not extend to maximum,
the air in the left front fork cylinder unit again.
NOTICE
Be careful not to bend or damage the piston
rod when the piston rod is stroked.
• Wipe the oil off completely from the left front fork
cylinder unit.
• Iffront
oil leaks from the cylinder unit, replace the left
fork cylinder unit assembly.
• Compress the piston rod to 200  250 mm (7.87
 9.84 in.) and hold the left front fork cylinder unit
• and release
Hold the left front fork cylinder unit on level ground
the piston rod then check the piston
j
upright position for 10 minutes. rod extend to maximum.
• Tighten the locknut fully and measure 10  12 mm
(0.39  0.47 in.).

B. Piston Rod
C. 200  250 mm (7.87  9.84 in.) A. Locknut
B. 10  12 mm (0.39  0.47 in.)
• There should be no oil leak from the left front fork
cylinder unit.
• Completely wipe off the fork oil from the left front
fork cylinder unit.
j • Insert the cylinder unit into the fork.

A. Left Front Fork Cylinder Unit • Hold the axle holder with a vise.
• Temporarily tighten the left front fork cylinder unit
fully with the top plug wrench (special tool: 57001
NOTE
-1645). cloth when using a vise.
WARNING
• Insert the push rod into the piston rod.

• assemblythewithO-ring
Replace on the left front fork adjuster
a new one and apply specified fork
oil to the O-ring.
A. Push Rod
• Install the left front fork adjuster assembly to the
push rod.
B. Left Front Fork Adjuster Assembly
C. O-ring
• Slowly turn the left front fork adjuster assembly

clockwise until resistance is felt and check the
clearance between the locknut and left front fork
adjuster assembly for more than 1 mm (0.04 in.).
NOTICE
When tightening the locknut, the threads of
j the axle holder do not touch the piston rod.
A. Left Front Fork Adjuster Assembly

B. Locknut
C. More Than 1 mm (0.04 in.)
• Turn the locknut counterclockwise until it contacts

with the left front fork adjuster assembly.
• With the left front fork adjuster assembly held im-
movable using a wrench, tighten the left front fork
A. Locknut
adjuster assembly locknut to the specified torque. B. Left Front Fork Adjuster Assembly
Tightening Torque
Left Front Fork Adjuster Assembly Locknut:
• Apply a non-permanent locking agent to the
threads of the adjuster assembly and tighten the
22 N·m (2.2 kgf·m, 16 ft·lb) left front fork adjuster assembly into the front fork.
Tightening Torque
Left Front Fork Adjuster Assembly:
69 N·m (7.0 kgf·m, 51 ft·lb)
A. Axle Holder Part A. Top Plug Wrench (Special Tool: 57001-1645)

B. Left Front Fork Adjuster Assembly B. Left Front Fork Cylinder Unit
C. Left Front Fork Outer Tube
-1645), remove the left front fork cylinder unit from
the outer tube and slowly slide down the outer
• Pour the specified amount of fork oil into the left
front fork outer tube.
tube.
tube using the top plug wrench (special tool:
57001-1645).
j
A. Left Front Fork Outer Tube

B. Fork Oil
Suspension Oil A. Left Front Fork Cylinder Unit

SS-19 (1 L): P/No. 44091-0009 C. Top Plug Wrench (Special Tool: 57001-1645)
Standard Left Fork Oil Amount • Compare the length between the axle holder and
outer tube at assembly and at disassembly. There
Left Fork Oil Amount 300 mL (10.1 US oz.) should be same length.
Adjustable Range
300  340 mL (10.1  11.5 • If the length at assembly is longer than at disas-
sembly, check the left front fork adjuster assembly
US oz.)
and locknut installation.
• Replace the O-ring on the left front fork cylinder
unit with a new one and apply specified fork oil to
Standard
312  316 mm (12.3  12.4 in.)
Length
the O-ring.
• Raise the left front fork outer tube and temporarily
install the left front fork cylinder unit to the outer
Right Front Fork • Place a drain pan under the front fork and drain
-1645), remove the right front fork spring adjuster
fork oil.
unit from the right front fork outer tube and slowly
NOTE j
slide down the outer tube. ○Pump the outer tube several times to discharge
the fork oil.

B. Right Front Fork Spring Adjuster Unit A. Fork Oil
C. Right Front Fork Outer Tube
• Temporarily install the right front fork spring ad-

juster unit to the outer tube using the top plug
• Turn the right front fork spring preload adjuster
clockwise to the hardest position.
wrench (special tool: 57001-1645).
j
A. Right Front Fork Spring Preload Adjuster

A. Right Front Fork Spring Adjuster Unit
B. Right Front Fork Outer Tube
• Holding the top plug wrench (special tool:

57001-1645) with a vise, remove the right front
WARNING
fork spring preload adjuster on the fork spring
adjuster unit with a top plug wrench (special tool:
57001-1705).
• Loosen the right front fork bottom plug completely.

NOTE
○When removing the right front fork bottom plug,
do not force to loosen it at once using an impact
wrench.

B. Right Front Fork Spring Preload Adjuster
C. Right Front Fork Spring Adjuster Unit
D. Top Plug Wrench (Special Tool: 57001-1705)
• Hold the right front fork at the inverted position to

allow the fork oil to drain.
• Hold the axle holder with a vise.
NOTE
A. Axle Holder Part
B. Right Front Fork Bottom Plug
When not using the Fork Spring Compressor
(Special Tool: 57001-1771):
• Hold the locknut with a wrench and remove the
right front fork bottom plug.
j • Compress the outer tube by hands and install the
top plug wrench (special tool: 57001-1645) be- NOTICE
tween the axle holder bottom and locknut. When loosening the locknut, the threads of
WARNING If the piston rod is scratched, it is possible to
The fork spring applies pressure to the ad- the damage in the cylinder unit.
juster assembly and can eject the special
tool with substantial force if the tool is not
properly and securely placed. Be sure the
tool is fully in place as shown in the photo,
and keep fingers away to avoid getting them
pinched between the tool, adjuster assembly
and axle holder.
A. Wrench
B. Right Front Fork Bottom Plug
• Compress the outer tube by hands and remove

the top plug wrench (special tool: 57001-1645).
When using the Fork Spring Compressor
B. Axle Holder Bottom • Set the fork spring compressor (special tool:
57001-1771) and a suitable jack as shown.
C. Locknut
A. Fork Spring Compressor (Special Tool: A. Fork Spring Compressor (Special Tool:
57001-1771) 57001-1771)
B. Suitable Jack B. Heavy Cloth
• Put the heavy cloth on the fork spring compressor

• Insert the holder bar of the fork spring compressor
(special tool: 57001-1587) to the axle hole and se-
• Set the front fork, with its upper side facing down-
ward on the fork spring compressor (special tool:
cure it with the holder of the fork spring compres-
sor (special tool: 57001-1771).
57001-1771).
A. Holder Bar of Fork Spring Compressor (Special A. Top Plug Wrench (Special Tool: 57001-1645)
Tool: 57001-1587) B. Axle Holder Bottom
B. Holder of Fork Spring Compressor (Special Tool: C. Locknut
57001-1771)
• Remove the front fork from the fork spring com-
• Compress the outer tube with a suitable jack while
keeping the front fork upright, and install the top
pressor (special tool: 57001-1771) with care not
to drop the top plug wrench (special tool: 57001
plug wrench (special tool: 57001-1645) between -1645), and hold the axle holder with a vise.
the axle holder bottom and locknut.
NOTE
WARNING ○Protect the axle holder with a soft jaw or heavy
The fork spring applies pressure to the ad- cloth when using a vise.
and axle holder.
WARNING • (special
Reset the front fork on the fork spring compressor
tool: 57001-1771) with care not to drop
when compressed, which could cause an ac- • Compress the outer tube with a suitable jack while
keeping the front fork upright, and remove the top
plug wrench (special tool: 57001-1645).
which will affect riding stability. Use protec- • Remove the front fork from the fork spring com-
pressor (special tool: 57001-1771).
and do not tighten the vise excessively. • Using the top plug wrench (special tool: 57001
unit from the outer tube and slowly slide down the
• Remove the right front fork bottom plug while hold-
ing the locknut with a wrench.
outer tube.

A. Wrench B. Right Front Fork Spring Adjuster Unit
B. Right Front Fork Bottom Plug C. Right Front Fork Outer Tube
• Remove the right front fork spring adjuster unit,

collar, spring seat and fork spring from the outer
• Hold the front fork at the inverted position for more
than 20 minutes to allow the fork oil to fully drain.
tube.
j
A. Right Front Fork Spring Adjuster Unit • Tighten the locknut fully.
B. Collar
C. Spring Seat
D. Fork Spring
A. Locknut
• Install the fork piston rod puller adapter (special

tool: 57001-1791) to the threads on the fork piston
• Install the piston rod puller to the threads on the
piston rod end.
rod puller (special tool: 57001-1289).
j
A. Piston Rod Puller

A. Fork Piston Rod Puller Adapter (Special Tool: B. Piston Rod
57001-1791)
B. Fork Piston Rod Puller (Special Tool:
57001-1289)
• Install the fork spring, spring seat, collar and right

front fork spring adjuster unit to the outer tube.
• Temporarily install the right front fork spring ad-
juster unit to the outer tube using the top plug
wrench (special tool: 57001-1645).
j
A. Fork Spring
B. Spring Seat A. Right Front Fork Spring Adjuster Unit
C. Collar B. Right Front Fork Outer Tube
D. Right Front Fork Spring Adjuster Unit C. Top Plug Wrench (Special Tool: 57001-1645)

NOTE
WARNING
• Compress the outer tube by hands and install the

top plug wrench (special tool: 57001-1645) be-
tween the axle holder bottom and locknut.
WARNING A. Fork Spring Compressor (Special Tool:

57001-1771)
The fork spring applies pressure to the ad- B. Suitable Jack
tool with substantial force if the tool is not • Put the heavy cloth on the fork spring compressor
tool is fully in place as shown in the photo, • Set the front fork, with its upper side facing down-
ward on the fork spring compressor (special tool:
pinched between the tool, adjuster assembly 57001-1771).
and axle holder.
When using the Fork Spring Compressor

• Set the fork spring compressor (special tool:
57001-1771) and a suitable jack as shown.
A. Fork Spring Compressor (Special Tool: A. Holder Bar of Fork Spring Compressor (Special
57001-1771) Tool: 57001-1587)
B. Heavy Cloth B. Holder of Fork Spring Compressor (Special Tool:
57001-1771)
• Insert the holder bar of the fork spring compressor
(special tool: 57001-1587) to the axle hole and se-
cure it with the holder of the fork spring compres-
keeping the front fork upright, and install the top
sor (special tool: 57001-1771). plug wrench (special tool: 57001-1645) between
the axle holder bottom and locknut.
WARNING
The fork spring applies pressure to the ad-
and axle holder.
WARNING
• Remove the piston rod puller.

B. Axle Holder Bottom
C. Locknut
• Remove the front fork from the fork spring com-

pressor (special tool: 57001-1771) with care not
to drop the top plug wrench (special tool: 57001
-1645), and hold the axle holder with a vise.
NOTE

B. Piston Rod Puller
• Replace the O-ring on the right front fork bottom

plug with a new one and apply specified fork oil to
the O-ring.
• Slowly turn the right front fork bottom plug clock-

wise until resistance is felt and check the clear-
ance between the locknut and right front fork bot-
j tom plug for more than 1 mm (0.04 in.).
• Turn the locknut counterclockwise until it contacts
with the right front fork bottom plug.
• With the right front fork bottom plug held immov-
able using a wrench, tighten the right front fork bot-
tom plug locknut to the specified torque.
Tightening Torque
Right Front Fork Bottom Plug Locknut:
22 N·m (2.2 kgf·m, 16 ft·lb)
NOTICE A. Right Front Fork Bottom Plug

B. Right Front Fork Bottom Plug Locknut
When tightening the locknut, the threads of

keeping the front fork upright, and remove the top
• Apply a non-permanent locking agent to the plug wrench (special tool: 57001-1645).
j
threads of the right front fork bottom plug. • Remove the front fork from the fork spring com-
• Compress the outer tube by hands and remove
pressor (special tool: 57001-1771).
A. Threads
A. Threads B. Right Front Fork Bottom Plug
B. Right Front Fork Bottom Plug C. Top Plug Wrench (Special Tool: 57001-1645)
When using the Fork Spring Compressor NOTE
(Special Tool: 57001-1771): ○Protect the axle holder with a soft jaw or heavy
• Reset the front fork on the fork spring compressor
(special tool: 57001-1771) with care not to drop
• Apply a non-permanent locking agent to the
threads of the right front fork bottom plug.
WARNING • Using the top plug wrench (special tool: 57001

unit from the outer tube and slowly slide down the
j front fork assembly may come out of the vise
outer tube.
• Tighten the right front fork bottom plug to the spec-

ified torque.
Tightening Torque
Right Front Fork Bottom Plug:
69 N·m (7.0 kgf·m, 51 ft·lb)

B. Right Front Fork Spring Adjuster Unit
C. Right Front Fork Outer Tube
• Clean the threads of the right front fork spring ad-

juster unit and right front fork spring preload ad-
juster.
• Replace the O-ring on the right front fork spring
preload adjuster with a new one.
• Turn the right front fork spring preload adjuster
counterclockwise to the softest position.
• Apply specified fork oil to the O-ring.
A. Right Front Fork Bottom Plug

• Install the right front fork spring preload adjuster so

that the projections align to the holes on the fork
spring adjuster unit.
j
A. Threads
B. O-ring
C. Right Front Fork Spring Preload Adjuster
A. Projections
B. Holes
• Holding the top plug wrench (special tool: 57001

-1645) with a vise, tighten the right front fork spring
preload adjuster on the fork spring adjuster unit
with a top plug wrench (special tool: 57001-1705).
Tightening Torque
Right Front Fork Spring Preload Adjuster:
30 N·m (3.1 kgf·m, 22 ft·lb)
• Pour the specified amount of fork oil into the right

front fork outer tube.
j

B. Right Front Fork Spring Preload Adjuster
A. Right Front Fork Outer Tube
D. Top Plug Wrench (Special Tool: 57001-1705)
B. Fork Oil
Suspension Oil
SS-19 (1 L): P/No. 44091-0009
Standard Right Fork Oil Amount

Right Fork Spring 9.4 N/mm (0.96 kgf/mm)
Right Fork Oil
227 mL (7.67 US oz.)
Amount
227  382 mL (7.67  12.9
Adjustable Range
US oz.)
• When changing the fork spring, the oil amount is

in the table.
Standard Oil 235 mL (7.95 US

SOFT Amount oz.)
(K = 9.0
N/mm) Adjustable 235  390 mL (7.95 j
Range  13.2 US oz.)
Standard Oil 218 mL (7.37 US
HARD Amount oz.)
(K = 9.8
N/mm) Adjustable 218  373 mL (7.37
Range  12.6 US oz.)
• Replace the O-ring on the right front fork spring

adjuster unit with a new one.
• Apply specified fork oil to the O-ring.
• ily install
Raise the right front fork outer tube and temporar-
the right front fork spring adjuster unit to A. Right Front Fork Spring Adjuster Unit
the outer tube using the top plug wrench (special B. Right Front Fork Outer Tube
tool: 57001-1645).
• Compare the length between the axle holder and
outer tube at assembly and at disassembly. There
should be same length.
• Ifsembly,
the length at assembly is longer than at disas-
check the right front fork bottom plug and
locknut installation.
Standard
312  316 mm (12.3  12.4 in.)
Length
• Install the front fork tubes to the motorcycle.

• Adjust the fork height (see Fork Height Adjustment
section).
• Tighten the front fork clamp bolts (lower) to the
specified torque.
Tightening Torque Tightening Torque
Front Fork Clamp Bolts (Lower): Left Front Fork Cylinder Unit:
j 23 N·m (2.3 kgf·m, 17 ft·lb) 34 N·m (3.5 kgf·m, 25 ft·lb)
Right Front Fork Spring Adjuster Unit:
NOTE 34 N·m (3.5 kgf·m, 25 ft·lb)
○Tighten the two clamp bolts alternately two times NOTE
○The left front fork cylinder unit and right front fork
• Tighten the left front fork cylinder unit and right
front fork spring adjuster unit using the top plug
spring adjuster unit torque are specified to 34 N·m
(3.5 kgf·m, 25 ft·lb) however, when you use the top
wrench (special tool: 57001-1645) to the specified
plug wrench (special tool: 57001-1645), reduce
torque.
the torque to 90% of the specified value [30 N·m
(3.1 kgf·m, 22 ft·lb)] due to the distance between
the center of the square hole, where the torque
wrench is fitted, and that of the octagonal hole of
the wrench.
○This torque value [30 N·m (3.1 kgf·m, 22 ft·lb)] is
applicable when you use a torque wrench whose
length gives leverage of approximately 310 mm
(12.2 in.) between the grip point to the center of
the coupling square.
○To obtain the correct tightening torque with your
torque wrench, you need to calculate as follows.
Formula:
a × b ÷ (b + c) = d
A. Left Front Fork Cylinder Unit [a] Specified torque
B. Top Plug Wrench (Special Tool: 57001-1645) [b] Length from center of square hole to grip
C. Torque Wrench point
[c] Offset = 44 mm
[d] Tightening torque
For an example: Tightening Torque

34 N·m × 310 ÷ (310 + 44) = 30 N·m Front Caliper Mounting Bolts:
25 N·m (2.5 kgf·m, 18 ft·lb) j
• Install the fork protectors so that they do not touch
the front fork outer tube, and tighten the bolts to
specified torque.
Tightening Torque
Fork Protector Bolts:
4.0 N·m (0.41 kgf·m, 35 in·lb)
• Install the brake hose clamp, and tighten the bolts

to specified torque.
Tightening Torque
Brake Hose Clamp Bolts:
A. Top Plug Wrench 7.0 N·m (0.71 kgf·m, 62 in·lb)
B. Distance
C.
D.
Torque Wrench Length
Grip Point
• Take
pads.
out wood wedge between the disc brake
• Apply a non-permanent locking agent to the • Apply high-temperature grease to the grease
seals of the wheel.
threads of the front fork clamp bolts (upper).
• Tighten the front fork clamp bolts (upper) to the • Install
hub.
the collars on the left and right side of the
specified torque.
Tightening Torque
• Put the front wheel assembly between the fork
legs, and insert the front brake disc into the front
Front Fork Clamp Bolts (Upper): brake pads.
23 N·m (2.3 kgf·m, 17 ft·lb) • Apply a thin coat of grease to the front axle for rust
prevention.
• Install the front brake caliper to the fork leg, and
tighten the front caliper mounting bolts to the spec-
ified torque.
Tightening Torque
Left Front Axle Clamp Bolts:
j 23 N·m (2.3 kgf·m, 17 ft·lb)
NOTE
A. Front Axle
B. Grease
C. About 70 mm (2.8 in.)
D. About 10 mm (0.4 in.)
NOTE
○Do not apply grease to the threads of the axle.
• Insert the front axle from the right side of the mo-
torcycle. A. Collars
• Tighten the right front axle clamp bolts temporary. B. Caps
• Tighten the front axle nut to the specified torque. C. Front Axle
D. Right Front Axle Clamp Bolts
Tightening Torque
E. Front Axle Nut
Front Axle Nut: F. Left Front Axle Clamp Bolts
80 N·m (8.2 kgf·m, 59 ft·lb) G. Grease Seals
• Tighten the left front axle clamp bolts to the spec-

ified torque.
• Remove
cycle.
the jack and stand supporting the motor-
• Before tightening the clamp bolts on the right fork

leg, loosen the right front axle clamp bolts, and
Tightening Torque
Right Front Axle Clamp Bolts:
pump the forks up and down 4 or 5 times to allow 23 N·m (2.3 kgf·m, 17 ft·lb)
the right fork leg to find a neutral position on the
j
front axle.
NOTE
NOTE
○Do not apply the front brake during this process to ensure even tightening torque.
to stop the motorcycle from rolling forward. Put a
block in front of the wheel to stop it from moving. • Check the front brake for good braking power and
no brake drag.
WARNING
After servicing, it takes several applications
of the brake lever before the brake pads con-
tact the disc, which could result in increased
stopping distance and cause an accident re-
sulting in injury or death. Do not attempt to
ride the motorcycle until a firm brake lever is
obtained by pumping the lever until the pads
are against the disc.
• Set the left fork damping adjuster and right fork

spring preload to the position recorded before re-
moving the front forks.
A. Pump the forks up and down.
B. Block
Optional Fork Springs
• Tighten the right front axle clamp bolts to the spec-
ified torque.
Various fork springs are available to achieve suit-
able front fork action in accordance with the rider’s
weight and track condition.
Harder springs stiffen the fork action and acceler-
ate the rebound damping.
Softer springs soften the fork action and slow down Standard Fork Height
the rebound damping. 5 mm (0.2 in.)*
j Fork Height Adjustment
Steering is greatly affected by the fork height (how *: between the top end of the outer tube and upper
much the outer fork tubes protrude above the steer- surface of the steering stem head
ing stem head). The less the fork tube protrudes, NOTE
the lighter the front end becomes and the greater
the tendency for understeering and washout due to
weight biasing. Increasing the amount of fork tube
protrusion has opposite effects.
Be sure that the front tire does not touch the fender
when the fork is fully compressed.
NOTICE
The right and left fork tubes must be adjusted
evenly.
A. Standard Fork Height

Rear Shock Absorber Adjustment

Rear Suspension (UNI-TRAK®) The spring preload of the shock absorber can be
adjusted or the spring can be replaced with an op-
This motorcycle’s rear suspension system is called tional one to suit various riding conditions. In addi-
j
“UNI-TRAK®” and consists of a rear shock absorber tion, the damping force can be adjusted easily, mak-
unit, a swingarm, two lever rods and a lever. ing it unnecessary to change the oil viscosity.
The operating characteristics of the UNI-TRAK®
suspension are similar to those of the front fork.
Rebound Damping Adjustment
To adjust the rear shock absorber rebound damp-
However, a linkage system is used to achieve pro-
ing, turn the rebound damping adjuster at the bottom
gressive springing characteristics.
of the rear shock absorber with a flat tip screwdriver.
Rear Shock Absorber Inspection
NOTICE
Sticking muds or dusts on the sliding surface
of the rear shock absorber could damage the
oil seal, leading to an oil leak. Clean the slid-
ing surface after each ride.
• Pump the seat down and up by 4 or 5 times, and

inspect the smooth stroke.
• Ifspect
it does not stroke smoothly or noise is found, in-
the oil leak and rear shock absorber mount-
ing.
• Visually inspect the rear shock absorber for oil
leakage. A. Rebound Damping Adjuster
• If necessary, repair or replace by an authorized
Kawasaki dealer. If the damping feels too soft or too stiff, adjust it in
accordance with the following table.
Rebound Damping Adjuster Settings *: Counterclockwise from the fully seated position
NOTICE
j
Do not force the rebound damping force ad-
juster beyond the fully seated position, or the
adjusting mechanism may be damaged.
NOTE
○Adjustment of the rebound damping adjuster for
the rear suspension will slightly affect the com-
pression damping force. Always make any damp-
ing adjustments in small steps and test their ef-
fects before using them in competition.
A. Seated Position (Adjuster Turned Fully Compression Damping Adjustment (Gas

Clockwise) Reservoir)
B. Softer (Counterclockwise) There are two adjustments you can make to the
C. Harder (Clockwise) rear shock absorber gas reservoir.
D. Standard Setting To adjust the high speed compression damping,
turn the high speed compression damping adjuster.
To adjust the low speed compression damping,
turn the low speed compression damping adjuster
with a flat tip screwdriver.
Standard Rebound Damping Adjuster Setting
12 clicks*
High Speed Compression Damping Adjuster

Settings
j
A. Compression Damping Adjuster for High Speed

B. Compression Damping Adjuster for Low Speed
If the damping feels too soft or too stiff, adjust it in A. Seated Position (Adjuster Turned Fully
accordance with the following table. Clockwise)
D. Standard Setting
4 turns or less. Although you can turn the adjuster
Standard High Speed Compression Damping
Adjuster Setting
2 1/4 turns out*
*: Counterclockwise from the fully seated position

Low Speed Compression Damping Adjuster *: Counterclockwise from the fully seated position
Settings
NOTICE
j
Do not force the compression damping force
adjuster beyond the fully seated position, or
the adjusting mechanism may be damaged.
NOTE
○Adjustment of the compression damping adjuster
for the rear suspension will slightly affect the re-
bound damping force. Always make any damping
adjustments in small steps and test their effects
before using them in competition.
Spring Preload Adjustment

A. Seated Position (Adjuster Turned Fully • Remove the rear frame with air cleaner housing
(see Throttle Body Assy section).
Clockwise)
• Raise the rear wheel off the ground using a jack
D. Standard Setting cial tool: 57001-1608).
*: Number of turns counterclockwise usable range • Using the hook wrenches (special tools: 57001
-1101, 1539), loosen the locknut on the rear shock
absorber.
Standard Low Speed Compression Damping
Adjuster Setting
11 clicks*
• Using the hook wrench (special tool: 57001

-1539), turn the spring preload adjusting nut as
required. Turning the adjusting nut down in-
creases the spring preload.
j
A. Spring Preload Adjusting Nut

B. Locknut
C. Hook Wrenches (Special Tools: 57001-1101,
1539)
A. Hook Wrench (Special Tool: 57001-1539)

B. Spring Preload Adjusting Nut
• The standard adjusting nut position from the cen-

ter of the upper rear shock absorber pivot point is
142.3 mm (5.602 in.).
• The adjustable range is in the table below.
Rear Shock Absorber Spring Adjustable Range Tightening Torque

K = 50 N/mm 145.8  154.2 mm Rear Shock Absorber Spring Locknut:
j (K = 5.1 kgf/mm) (5.740  6.071 in.) 45 N·m (4.6 kgf·m, 33 ft·lb)
140.8  153.8 mm
K = 52 N/mm*
(K = 5.3 kgf/mm) (5.543  6.055 in.) • After making the adjustment, move the spring up
and down to make sure that it is properly seated.
K = 54 N/mm
(K = 5.5 kgf/mm)
140.8  152.8 mm
(5.543  6.016 in.)
• Install the rear frame with air cleaner housing (see
Throttle Body Assy section).
*: Standard
Optional Rear Shock Absorber Springs
Various rear shock absorber springs are available
to achieve suitable rear shock absorber action in ac-
cordance with the rider’s weight and track condition.
A harder spring stiffens the shock absorber action
and accelerates the rebound damping.
A softer spring softens the shock absorber action
and slows down the rebound damping.
WARNING
Improper removal or installation of the rear
shock absorber spring may cause the spring
and/or related parts to be ejected at high ve-
locity. Always wear eye and face protection
when working on the rear shock absorber.
A. Adjusting Nut Position
B. Center of Upper Rear Shock Absorber Pivot
Removal and installation of the rear shock
C. Spring End absorber spring should be performed by an
authorized Kawasaki dealer.
• Tighten the locknut securely.
rim to warp, the nipples and spokes to fatigue more

Wheels quickly, and the spokes to break.
j
Tire Air Pressure
Tire air pressure affects traction, handling, and tire
life. Adjust the tire air pressure to suit track condi-
tions and rider preference, but keep it close within
the recommended range.
• To check the tire air pressure, remove the air valve
cap, and make sure to tighten the cap securely
after checking the tire pressure.
• Reduce the tire air pressure to increase the tire
tread surface on the ground when riding on a wet,
muddy, sandy or slippery track.
• Increase the tire air pressure to prevent damage
or punctures (though the tires will skid more easily)
when riding on a pebbly or hard track. A. Spoke Wrench
Tire Air Pressure Adjustable Range
Bead Protector
80  100 kPa (0.8  1.0 kgf/cm², 12  14 psi) There is a bead protector nut on the both wheels.
The bead protector nut prevents the tire and tube
NOTE from slipping on the rim and damaging the valve
○Tire air pressure should be checked when the tires stem. Valve stem damage may cause the tube to
leak, necessitating tube replacement. In order to
are cold, before you ride the motorcycle.
keep the tire and tube in position on the rim, inspect
Spokes and Rims the bead protector nut before riding and tighten it if
The spokes on both wheels must all be securely necessary. Tighten the valve stem nut finger tight
and evenly tightened and not be allowed to loosen. only.
Unevenly tightened or loose spokes will cause the
NOTE
○The welding spot of the rim may show exces-
j sive runout. Disregard this when measuring rim
runout.
Rim Runout
A. Bead Protector Nut
Rim Runout
Set up a dial gauge on the side of the rim and
rotate the wheel to measure its axial runout. The
difference between the highest and lowest readings
is the amount of runout. A. Rim
• Set up the dial gauge on the inner circumference
of the rim and rotate the wheel to measure its ra-
B. Axial Runout
C. Radial Runout
dial runout. The difference between the highest
and lowest readings is the amount of runout. Rim Runout Maximum Limit
• A certain amount of rim warpage (runout) can be
corrected by recentering the rim, that is, by loos-
Axial
*TIR 2.0 mm (0.08 in.)
Radial
ening some spokes and tightening other to change
the position of certain portions of the rim. If the rim
is badly bent, however, it should be replaced. *: Total Indicator Reading
Hoses Inspection
Check the brake and fuel hoses for cracks or de-
j
terioration, and the connections for looseness in ac-
cordance with the Periodic Maintenance Chart.
• Inspect the brake hose and fittings for deteriora-
tion, cracks and signs of leakage by bending or
twisting the hoses.
• If damaged, replace the hoses.
A. Axial Rim Runout Measurement
A. Leak
B. Cracks
C. Bulges
• Check that the hose are securely connected and

bolts are tightened correctly.
A. Radial Rim Runout Measurement
Tightening Torques of Nuts and Bolts

j
Location of nuts and bolts
Before the first ride of each day of operation, check the tightness of the nuts and bolts shown below. Check
also that all cotter pins are in place and in good condition.
1. Front Fork Clamp Bolts 7. Front Brake Disc Mounting Bolts

2. Handlebar Clamp Bolts 8. Front Axle Nut
3. Rear Frame Mounting Bolts 9. Front Caliper Mounting Bolts
4. Rear Shock Absorber Nut 10. Swingarm Pivot Shaft Nut
5. Spoke Nipples 11. Rear Sprocket Nuts
6. Front Axle Clamp Bolts
1. Steering Stem Head Nut 7. Rear Brake Disc Mounting Bolts

2. Front Master Cylinder Clamp Bolts 8 Rear Axle Nut
3. Steering Stem Nut 9. Tie-Rod Mounting Nuts
4. Handlebar Holder Nuts 10. Rear Shock Absorber Nut
5. Rear Master Cylinder Mounting Bolts 11. Brake Pedal Bolt
6. Rocker Arm Pivot Nut
Torque Table
Tighten all nuts and bolts to the proper torque using an accurate torque wrench. An insufficiently tightened
nut or bolt may become damaged or fall out, possibly resulting in damage to the motorcycle and injury to the
j rider. An overtightened nut or bolt may become damaged, broken, or fall out.
Fastener N·m kgf·m ft·lb Remarks
Front Axle Clamp Bolts 23 2.3 17 AL
Front Axle Nut 80 8.2 59
Rear Axle Nut 110 11.2 81.1
Spoke Nipples 3.9 0.40 35 in·lb
Rear Sprocket Nuts 35 3.6 26 R, S
Brake Pedal Bolt 25 2.5 18 G, L
Front Brake Disc Mounting Bolts 10 1.0 89 in·lb L, S
Front Caliper Mounting Bolts 25 2.5 18
Front Master Cylinder Clamp Bolts 9.0 0.92 80 in·lb S
Rear Brake Disc Mounting Bolts 23 2.3 17 L, S
Rear Master Cylinder Mounting Bolts 10 1.0 89 in·lb
Front Fork Clamp Bolts (Lower) 23 2.3 17 AL
Front Fork Clamp Bolts (Upper) 23 2.3 17 L, S
Rear Shock Absorber Nut (Lower) 35 3.6 26 R
Rear Shock Absorber Nut (Upper) 40 4.1 30 R
Rocker Arm Pivot Nut 60 6.1 44 2T, R
Swingarm Pivot Shaft Nut 100 10.2 73.8 R
Tie-Rod Mounting Nuts 60 6.1 44 2T, R
Handlebar Clamp Bolts 25 2.5 18 2T, AL
Fastener N·m kgf·m ft·lb Remarks

Handlebar Holder Nuts 35 3.6 26 R
Steering Stem Head Nut 100 10.2 73.8
j
Steering Stem Nut 5.0 0.51 44 in·lb
Rear Frame Mounting Bolts 35 3.6 26
AL: Tighten the two clamp bolts alternately two times to ensure even tightening torque.
G: Apply grease.
L: Apply a non-permanent locking agent.
R: Replacement Parts
S: Follow the specified tightening sequence.
2T: Apply 2-stroke oil.
Cleaning Your Motorcycle

• Avoid applying degreaser to seals, brake pads,
and tires.
j • Avoid all harsh chemicals, solvents, detergents,
and household cleaning products such as ammo-
General Precautions nia-based window cleaners.
Frequent and proper care of your Kawasaki mo-
torcycle will enhance its appearance, optimize over- • Gasoline, brake fluid, and coolant will damage the
finish of painted and plastic surfaces: wash them
all performance, and extend its useful life. Covering
off immediately.
your motorcycle with a high quality, breathable mo-
torcycle cover will help protect its finish from harmful • Avoid wire brushes, steel wool, and all other abra-
sive pads or brushes.
UV rays, pollutants, and reduce the amount of dust
reaching its surfaces. • Use care when washing the plastic parts as they
can easily be scratched.
WARNING • Avoid using pressure washers; water can pene-
trate seals and electrical components and damage
Build-up of debris or flammable material in your motorcycle.
and around the vehicle chassis, engine, and
exhaust can cause mechanical problems and
• Avoid spraying water in delicate areas such as
in air intakes, throttle body assy, brake compo-
increase the risk of fire. nents, electrical components, muffler outlets, and
When operating the vehicle in conditions fuel tank openings.
that allow debris or flammable material to
collect in and around the vehicle, inspect the Washing Your Motorcycle
engine, electrical component and exhaust • Rinse your bike with cold water from a garden
hose to remove any loose dirt.
areas frequently. If debris or flammable
materials have collected, park the vehicle • Mix a mild neutral detergent (designed for motor-
cycles or automobiles) and water in a bucket. Use
outside and stop the engine. Allow the
engine to cool, then remove any collected a soft cloth or sponge to wash your motorcycle. If
debris. Do not park or store the vehicle in needed, use a mild degreaser to remove any oil or
an enclosed space prior to inspecting for grease which build up.
build-up of debris or flammable materials. • After washing, rinse your motorcycle thoroughly
with clean water to remove any residue (residue
from the detergent can damage parts of your mo-
• Be sure the engine and exhaust are cool before
washing. torcycle).
• Use a soft cloth to dry your motorcycle. As you dry,

inspect your motorcycle for chips and scratches.
be applied once every three months or as conditions
require. Avoid surfaces with “satin” or “flat” finishes.
Do not let the water air dry as this can damage Always use non-abrasive products and apply them
the painted surfaces. according to the instructions on the container.
j
• Start the engine and let it idle for several minutes.
The heat from the engine will help dry moist areas.
Plastic Parts
After washing use a soft cloth to gently dry plastic
• Carefully ride your motorcycle at a slow speed and
apply the brakes several times. This helps the
parts. When dry, treat the non-painted plastic parts
with an approved plastic cleaner/polisher product.
brakes dry and restores its normal operating per-
formance. NOTICE
• Lubricate the drive chain to prevent rusting.
Plastic parts may deteriorate and break if
NOTE they come in contact with chemical sub-
○After riding in an area where the roads are salted stances or household cleaning products
or near the ocean, immediately wash your motor- such as gasoline, brake fluid, window clean-
cycle with cold water. Do not use warm water as it ers, thread-locking agents, or other harsh
accelerates the chemical reaction of the salt. Af- chemicals. If a plastic part comes in contact
ter drying, apply a corrosion protection spray on all with any harsh chemical substance, wash it
metal and chrome surfaces to prevent corrosion. off immediately with water and a mild neu-
tral detergent, and then inspect for damage.
Semi-gloss Finish Avoid using abrasive pads or brushes to
To clean the semi-gloss finish: clean plastic parts, as they will damage the
• When washing the motorcycle, always use a mild
neutral detergent and water.
part’s finish.
• The semi-gloss finish effect may be lost when it is

excessively rubbed.
Chrome and Aluminum
Chrome and uncoated aluminum parts can be
• Ifdealer.
any doubt, consult an authorized Kawasaki
treated with a chrome/aluminum polish. Coated
aluminum should be washed with a mild neutral de-
Painted Surfaces tergent and finished with a spray polish. Aluminum
After washing your motorcycle, coat painted sur- wheels, both painted and unpainted can be cleaned
faces, both metal and plastic, with a commercially with special non-acid based wheel spray cleaners.
available motorcycle/automotive wax. Wax should
Leather, Vinyl, and Rubber
If your motorcycle has leather accessories, special Lubrication
care must be taken. Use a leather cleaner/treatment
j to clean and care for leather accessories. Washing Lubricate the areas shown in the illustrations of
leather parts with detergent and water will damage this section with either motor oil or regular grease,
them, shortening their life. after each race and whenever the vehicle has been
Vinyl parts should be washed with the rest of the operated under wet or rainy conditions, especially
motorcycle, then treated with a vinyl treatment. after using a high-pressure spray washer. Before
The sidewalls of tires and other rubber compo- lubricating a part, clean off any rust with rust remover
nents should be treated with a rubber protectant to and wipe off any grease, oil, dirt, or grime.
help prolong their useful life.
General Lubrication
Apply motor oil to the following pivots:
WARNING
• Clutch Lever
Rubber protectants can be slippery and, if
used on the tread area, cause loss of traction
• Front Brake Lever
resulting in accident causing injury or death.

Do not apply rubber protectant to any tread
area.
• Rear Brake Pedal

• Kick Pedal Cylinder Joint Pin
Rear Master
• Footpeg j
•
Apply an aerosol cable lubricant with a pressure

lubricator on all cables:
• Clutch Cable
• Throttle Cable
• Shift Pedal
Cable Lubrication Apply grease to the following points:
• Clutch Inner Cable Upper End
j • Throttle Inner Cable Upper End
A. Upper End
Drive Chain Lubrication

Lubrication is necessary after riding through rain
or on wet roads, or any time that the chain appears
dry.
Use a lubricant for drive chains. If the chain is
especially dirty, clean it using a cleaner for drive
chains following the instructions supplied by the
chain cleaner manufacturer.
• Apply lubricant to the sides of the rollers so that it
will penetrate to the rollers and bushings. Wipe off
any excess lubricant.
DFI Self-Diagnosis
This motorcycle equips the DFI trouble self
j
-diagnosis system. Trouble diagnosis can be con-
ducted with the optional parts sold separately as the
following procedures.
Self-diagnosis Outline
The self-diagnosis has two modes and can
be switched to another mode by grounding the
self-diagnosis terminal.
User Mode -
The ECU connected orange FI warning indicator
• Wipe off any lubricant that gets on the tire surface. light goes on when DFI system and ignition system
and ignition system parts are faulty. In case of se-
rious troubles, the ECU stops the injection/ignition
operation.
Dealer Mode -
The orange FI warning indicator light emits service
code(s) to show the problem(s) which the DFI sys-
tem, and ignition system has at the moment of diag-
nosis.
Self-diagnosis Procedures
•Disconnect the capacitor lead connector.
j
A. Orange Launch Control Mode/FI Warning

Indicator Light
A. Capacitor Lead Connector
• Connect the power supply harness (optional part: NOTE

26011-0246) to the capacitor lead connector of the
main harness.
○Use a fully charged battery when conducting self
-diagnosis. Otherwise, the light blinks very slowly j
• Connect the power supply harness (optional part: or doesn’t blink.
26011-0246) to the 12 V battery. ○Keep the self-diagnosis terminal grounded during
• Connect the R/W lead (red cap) to the positive (+)
terminal first.
self-diagnosis.
• Remove the number plate (see Steering section).

• Disconnect the self-diagnosis connector (Y lead).
A. Power Supply Harness (Optional Part:

26011-0246)
B. Capacitor Lead Connector A. Self-diagnosis Connector (Y Lead)
C. 12 V Battery
• To enter the self-diagnosis dealer mode, ground

the self-diagnosis terminal for more than 2 sec-
onds, and then keep it grounded continuously.
j
• Count the blinks of the orange light to read the
service code. Keep the lead ground until you finish
reading the service code.
A. Orange Launch Control Mode/FI Warning

Indicator Light
B. Self-diagnosis Terminal
How to Read Service Codes
• Service codes are shown by a series of long and short blinks of the orange FI warning indicator light
as shown below.
j
• Read 10th digit and unit digit as the orange FI warning indicator light blinks.
• startingthere
When are a number of problems, all the service codes can be stored and the display will begin
from the lowest number service codes in the numerical order. Then after completing all codes, the
display is repeated until the self-diagnosis terminal is open.
• If there is no problem, no code and unlight.
• For example, if two problems occurred in the order of 21, 12, the service codes are displayed from
the lowest number in the order listed.
(12 → 21) → (12 → 21) → ··· (repeated)
• Ifindicator
the problem is with the following parts, the ECU cannot memorize these problems, the orange FI warning
light doesn’t go on, and no service codes can be displayed.
ECU Power Source Wiring and Ground Wiring (see Service Manual)
NOTE
○Even if the battery or the ECU is disconnected, or the problem is solved, all service codes remain in the ECU.
j
Service Code Table
Service
Orange FI Warning Indicator Light Problems
Code
11 Throttle sensor malfunction, wiring open or short
Intake air pressure sensor malfunction, wiring open or

12
short
Intake air temperature sensor malfunction, wiring open
13
or short
Water temperature sensor malfunction, wiring open or
14
short
21 Crankshaft sensor malfunction, wiring open or short
25 Gear position switch malfunction, wiring open or short
31 Vehicle-down sensor malfunction, wiring open or short
41 Downstream injector malfunction, wiring open or short
42 Upstream injector malfunction, wiring open or short

Service
Orange FI Warning Indicator Light Problems
Code
j
46 Fuel pump malfunction, wiring open or short
51 Ignition coil malfunction, wiring open or short
NOTE
○The ECU may be involved in these problems. If all the parts and circuits checked out good, be sure to check
the ECU for ground and power supply. If the ground and power supply are checked good, replace the ECU
(see Service Manual).
○When no service code is displayed, the electrical parts of the DFI system has no fault, and the mechanical
parts of the DFI system and the engine are suspect.
186 TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE
TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE
NOTE Spark missing or weak:
○This troubleshooting guide is not exhaustive and •Spark plug dirty, broken, or gap improperly ad-
justed
j does not give every possible cause for each prob-
lem listed. It is meant simply as a quick guide to •Spark plug cap or high-tension wiring defective
assist you in troubleshooting for some of the more •Spark plug cap not contacting properly
common difficulties. •Spark plug type incorrect
•Crankshaft sensor defective
Starting failure or difficulties - •ECU defective
•Ignition coil defective
Engine does not turn over:
• Valve •Engine stop button wiring defective
seized
• Cylinder or seized •Flywheel magneto damaged
Valve lifter
• Crankshaft seized
piston seized
•Wiring shorted or interrupted
• Connecting rod small end seized Fuel/air mixture incorrect:

• Connecting rod big end seized • Air cleaner element clogged, poorly sealed, or not
• Camshaft seized installed
• Transmission gear or bearing seized
• Kick shaft return spring broken Compression low:
• Kick ratchet gear not engaging •Spark plug loose
• Improper installation of vehicle-down sensor •Cylinder head insufficiently tightened
• •Cylinder bolt loose
•Cylinder or piston worn
Fuel does not flow:
• •No valve clearance
•
No fuel in tank
•Crankshaft oil seal leak
•
Fuel tank cap air vent obstructed
•Valve spring broken or weak
•
Fuel line clogged
Break down of a fuel pump
•Valve not seating properly (valve bent, worn, or
carbon accumulation on the seating surface)
• Break down of upstream injector and/or down-
•Piston ring worn, weak, broken, or sticking
stream injector
•Piston ring/groove clearance excessive
•Cylinder head gasket damaged
TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE 187
• Cylinder head warped • Valve not seating properly (valve bent, worn, or
• Decompression damaged
Cylinder gasket carbon accumulation on the seating surface)
• trouble • Piston ring worn, weak, broken, or sticking
Poor low-speed performance - • Piston ring/groove clearance excessive
• Cylinder head gasket damaged
Spark weak: • Cylinder gasket
Cylinder head warped
j
•Spark plug dirty, broken, or gap improperly ad- • Decompression damaged
justed • trouble
•Spark plug cap or high-tension wiring defective
•Spark plug cap shorted or not contacting properly Other:
•Spark plug type incorrect •ECU defective
•Crankshaft sensor defective •Brake dragging
•ECU defective •Clutch slipping
•Ignition coil defective •Engine overheating
•Flywheel magneto defective •Engine oil level too high
•Wiring connector not in good contact •Engine oil viscosity too high
Fuel/air mixture incorrect:

•Drive chain trouble
Poor or no high-speed performance -
• Air cleaner element clogged, poorly sealed, or not
installed Firing incorrect:
• Fuel tank cap air vent obstructed • Spark plug dirty, broken, or gap improperly ad-
• Throttle body assy holder loose justed
• Air cleaner duct loose • Spark plug cap or high-tension wiring defective
• Fuel pump defective • Spark plug cap
Spark plug shorted or not contacting properly
• ECU defectivetype incorrect
Compression low: • Ignition coil defective
•Spark plug loose • Crankshaft sensor defective
•Cylinder head insufficiently tightened • Flywheel magneto defective
•Cylinder bolt loose • Wiring connector not in good contact
•Cylinder or piston worn •
•No valve clearance
•Valve spring broken or weak
Fuel/air mixture incorrect: • Engine oil level too high
• Air cleaner element clogged, poorly sealed, or not • Crankshaftviscosity
Engine oil too high
installed • Drive chain trouble or damaged
bearing worn
• Fuel contaminated with water or foreign matter •
• Fuel tank cap air vent obstructed
j • Throttle body assy holder loose Knocking:
• Air cleaner duct loose •Carbon built up in combustion chamber
• Fuel line clogged •Fuel quality poor or type incorrect
• Fuel pump defective •Spark plug type incorrect
Compression low:
•ECU defective
Engine overheating -
• Spark plug loose
• Cylinder head insufficiently tightened Firing incorrect:
• Cylinder orboltpiston
Cylinder loose • Spark plug dirty, broken, or gap improperly ad-
• No valve clearanceworn justed
• Valve spring broken or weak • Spark plug type incorrect
• Valve not seating properly (valve bent, worn, or • ECU defective
• carbon accumulation on the seating surface) Fuel/air mixture incorrect:
• Piston ring worn, weak, broken, or sticking • Throttle body assy holder loose
• Piston ring/groove clearance excessive • Air cleaner element clogged, poorly sealed, or not
• Cylinder head
Cylinder gasket damaged installed
• Cylinder gasketwarped
head • Air cleaner duct poorly sealed
• Decompression damaged
• trouble Compression high:
Improper acceleration:
•Carbon built up in combustion chamber
• Throttle valve does not fully open Engine overloaded:

• Air cleaner element clogged • Brake dragging
• Fuel contaminated with water or foreign matter • Engineslipping
Clutch
• Brake dragging • Engine oil
oil level too high
• Clutch slipping • Drive chainviscosity too high
• Engine overheating • trouble
• Clutch plate warped or rough

Lubrication inadequate: • Clutch hub spline damaged
• Engine oil level too low
Gear shifting faulty -
• Engine oil quality poor or type incorrect
Transmission does not go into gear; shift pedal
Coolant inadequate: does not return:
j
•Coolant level too low • Clutch not disengaging
•Coolant deteriorated • Shift fork bent or seized
• Gear stuck on the shaft
Cooling system component defective: • Shift lever broken
•Radiator clogged • Pawl guide plate broken
•Radiator cap defective • Shift return spring broken or weak
•Water pump not rotating • Shift return spring pin loose
Clutch operation faulty - • Shift pawl broken
• Shift pawl spring weak
Clutch slipping: • Shift drum broken
• No clutch lever play • Gear positioning lever operation defective
• Clutch cable
Clutch improperly adjusted
• Clutch plate worn
cable defective Transmission jumps out of gear:
• Clutch spring broken
or warped • Shift fork worn
• Clutch release mechanism
or weak • Gear groove worn
• Clutch hub or housing unevenly
defective • Gear dogs and/or dog grooves worn
• worn • Shift drum groove worn
• Gear positioning lever spring broken or weak
Clutch not disengaging properly: • Shift fork guide pin worn
• Clutch lever play excessive • Drive shaft, output shaft, and/or gear splines worn
• Clutch spring tension uneven
• Engine oil deteriorated Transmission skips gears:
• Engine oil viscosity too high • Gear positioning lever spring broken or weak
• Engine oil level too high • Pawl guide plate worn
• Clutch housing frozen on drive shaft
Engine noise abnormal -
• Clutch release mechanism defective
• Clutch hub nut loose
Knocking: • Flywheel magneto loose
•Carbon built up in combustion chamber
Abnormal drive train noise -
•Fuel quality poor or type incorrect
•Spark plug type incorrect Clutch noise:
•Engine overheating • Clutch housing/friction plate clearance excessive
j •ECU defective • Clutch housing gear excessive
Piston slap:
• Metal chip jammed in clutch housing gear teeth
• Piston clearance excessive Transmission noise:

• Connecting
Cylinder or piston worn • Crankcase bearing worn or damaged
• Piston pin orrodpiston
bent • Transmission gear worn or chipped
• pin holes worn • Metal chip jammed in gear teeth
• Engine oil level or viscosity too low
Valve noise: • Kick ratchet gear not properly disengaging from
• Valve clearance incorrect kick gear
• Valve spring broken or weak • Kick shaft idle gear worn or chipped
• Camshaft bearing or cam face worn
• Valve lifter worn Drive chain noise:
• Drive chain slack improperly adjusted
Other noise: • Drive chain worn
•Connecting rod small end clearance excessive • Rear and/or engine sprocket(s) worn
•Connecting rod big end clearance excessive • Drive chain inefficiently lubricated
•Piston ring worn, broken or stuck • Rear wheel misaligned
•Piston seized or damaged
Frame noise abnormal -
•Cylinder head gasket leaking
•Exhaust pipe leaking at cylinder head Front fork noise:
•Crankshaft runout excessive • Oil level or viscosity too low
•Engine mounts loose • Spring broken or weak
•Crankshaft bearing worn • Front fork air pressure high
•Primary gear worn or chipped
•Camshaft chain tensioner defective Rear shock absorber noise:
•Camshaft chain, sprocket, chain guide worn •Shock absorber damaged
•Decompression spring broken
Disc brake noise: • Steering stem bent

• Pad installed incorrectly • Tire air pressure too low
• Pad surface glazed
• Brake disc warped Handlebars shakes or vibrates excessively:
• Brake caliper defective • Tire worn
• Brake cylinder damaged • Rim warpedsleeve
Swingarm or needle bearing damaged
j
• Front and/or rear axle
or out of balance
Other noise: • Wheel bearing worn runout excessive
• Bracket, nut, bolt, etc. improperly mounted or • Handlebar clamp loose
tightened • Steering stem head nut loose
Exhaust smoke - • Spoke loose
Excessively white:
•
•Piston oil ring worn Handlebars pulls to one side:
•Cylinder worn •Frame bent
•Valve oil seal damaged •Rear wheel misaligned
•Valve guide worn •Swingarm bent or twisted
•Engine oil level too high •Swingarm pivot shaft runout excessive
•Steering maladjusted
Black smoke: •Steering stem bent
• Air cleaner element clogged •Front fork bent
Brownish: Shock absorption unsatisfactory (suspension

• Air cleaner duct loose too hard):
• Air cleaner poorly sealed or missing • Front fork oil excessive
Poor handling and/or stability - • Front fork oil viscosity too high
• Front fork bent
Handlebars hard to turn: • Front fork air pressure too high
• Cable, hose, wiring incorrectly routed • Tire air pressure too high
• Steering stem nut too tight • Rear shock absorber improperly adjusted
• Steering stem bearing
Steering stem bearing damaged
• inadequately lubricated
Poor braking performance - • Brake fluid deteriorated
• Air in the brake line • damagedand/or secondary master cylinder cup(s)

Primary
• Brake fluid
Brake pad or disc worn
• Master cylinder scratched
• Brake disc warped
leaking
• Brake maladjusted (lever or pedal play excessive)
• Brake pads contaminated
j •
TUNING 193
TUNING
Suspension
• The front and rear suspension should always be
balanced; when the one is changed, the other one
might need to be changed similarly.
Introduction • When evaluating suspension performance, the
rider must make every effort to ride consistently
No area of machine adjustment is more critical
and to recognize the effects of his input. Such
than proper suspension tuning. An improperly tuned
things as changes in rider position and increasing j
suspension will keep even the best rider from attain-
fatigue may lead to incorrect judgments about
ing the full benefit of his machine’s ability. Match the
necessary adjustments.
suspension to the rider and the course conditions.
• When the proper settings have been determined
for a particular track, they should be written down
WHILE TUNING THE SUSPENSION, KEEP THE
for reference when returning to the same track.
FOLLOWING IMPORTANT POINTS IN MIND:
•If the machine is new, “break-in” the suspension • Lubricate the bearings in the swingarm and UNI
-TRAK® linkage after break-in and after every 3
with at least one hour of riding before making any
races to prevent friction from affecting suspension
setting evaluations or changes.
performance.
•The three major factors which must be considered
in suspension tuning are RIDER WEIGHT, RIDER Front Fork
ABILITY, and TRACK CONDITIONS. Additional
Front Fork Oil Amount-
influences include the RIDER’S STYLE and PO-
The fork oil amount in the fork tube is adjustable.
SITIONING on the machine.
A change in the fork oil level will not affect the spring
•Before changing the suspension settings, test
changing your riding posture or position to check
force much at the top of fork travel, but it will have a
great effect at the bottom of it.
whether it is the cause of the problem or not.
•It is a wise practice to adjust the suspension to • When the oil amount is raised, the air spring be-
comes more progressive, and the front fork action
suit the rider’s strong points. If you are fast in
feels “harder” in the later stage of fork travel, near
the corners, adjust the suspension to allow fast
the bottom.
cornering.
•Make setting changes in small increments. A little • When the oil amount is lowered, the air spring be-
comes less progressive, and the front fork action
bit goes a long way, and a setting is easily over
adjusted.
194 TUNING
does not feel as “hard” in the later stage of fork Troubleshooting Improper Settings
travel. Listed below are some symptoms of improper sus-
Fork Oil Amount Effect on Fork Stroke pension settings and the most likely means of cor-
recting them. The proper settings can be achieved
by applying the information given in this chapter in a
scientific, methodical manner. This does not mean,
however, that you must be a scientist or trained tech-
nician to succeed. Simply take time to think about
the changes you believe are necessary, check them
j against the symptoms and cures described here,
make the changes in small increments, and take
note of the changes and their effects.
Front Fork Improper Adjustment Symptoms -
Too Hard
Spring too stiff:
• Rebound or compression damping improperly ad-
justed.
A. Weight
• Spring too hard
B. Fork Stroke
C. Increase Amount • Fork oil amount too high
D. Standard Oil Amount Suspension stiffens at the end of the fork stroke:
E. Decrease Amount • Fork oil amount too high
Changing the fork oil amount works effectively at • air pressure high
Fork
the end of fork travel. If fork bottoming is experi- Spring OK, but suspension too hard:
enced, raise the fork oil amount. This will change • Fork oil deteriorated
the secondary spring rate. • Springairpreload
Fork pressure high
Front Fork Oil Amount Adjustment - • too hard
• Adjust the front fork oil amount (see Front Suspen-

sion section).
Too Soft
The front fork dives excessively during braking
and deceleration:
• Fork oil amount too low
TUNING 195
• Springs too soft Hence, if the actual rider weighs considerably more
• Rebound and/or compression damping improperly
Fork oil deteriorated or less, or if his riding experience and ability are
• adjusted. much above or below the intermediate level, it is
likely that a few basic suspension adjustments will
• Spring preload too soft be necessary.
Rear shock absorber improper adjustment Basic Readjustment of the Suspension
symptoms - Suspension Tuning According to Ground
Too Hard Surface
Suspension too stiff: j
Smooth Terrain Softer spring
• Compression damping too high
• Spring too hard Rough Terrain Harder spring
Spring OK but suspension too hard:
• Unbalance between the spring and the rebound
damping (rebound damping too hard)
Suspension
Experience
Tuning According to Riding
• Spring preload too hard Beginner

Softer spring with
greater rebound
Too Soft damping
Bottoming occurs on landing after a high jump
Experienced Rider Harder spring
(otherwise OK):
• Spring preload too soft or compression damping
too soft Suspension Tuning According to Rider Weight
• Spring too soft Heavy Rider Harder spring
• Shock absorber oil deteriorated
Light Rider Softer spring
Determining the Proper Settings
Standard Settings
From the factory, the machine is set up for a
medium-weight rider with intermediate riding ability.
196 TUNING
Suspension Tuning According the Type of Front and Rear Suspension Compatibility
Course Inspection
Lower the front end slightly Use this procedure to determine if the suspension
(Increase the amount of fork is balanced reasonably well.
tube protrusion above the • Hold the motorcycle upright (remove the side
stand.).
Many Corners steering stem head by 5 mm
(0.20 in.).). This accelerates • While standing next to the machine, lightly pull the
brake lever, place one foot on the footpeg closest
steering and enhances
turning ability. to you, and push down hard. If the motorcycle
j stays level as the suspension is compressed, the
Raise the front end slightly spring rates are well balanced.
(Decrease the amount of
fork tube protrusion above • Sit astride the motorcycle, take a riding posture
and check that the machine is in a horizontal po-
Fast Course the steering stem head by 5 sition. If one end drops noticeably more than the
mm (0.20 in.).). This slows other, the front and rear are not compatible and
down steering and enhances must be readjusted to achieve a better balance.
stability at high speed.
Deep Dips or Raise the front end slightly to
Sandy Ground gain stability.
Begin the actual on-track testing and evaluation

after making these preliminary adjustments.
Bear in mind the following points when readjusting
the suspension.
• Always make changes in small steps.
• The rider must be consistent in evaluating suspen-
sion performance.
• A change in the front suspension might require
one in the rear suspension, and vise versa.
TUNING 197
Although this is one of the most effective adjust- • Decrease the fork oil amount.
ment procedures, suspension settings may vary de-
pending on the conditions at the track and the rider’s
• preload.
Use a softer spring, or decrease the spring
preferences.
NOTE
Front and Rear Suspension Troubleshooting ○Lighter or less experienced riders may need a
Front End Surges Downhill or During softer spring, or decrease the spring preload.
Acceleration Out of Corner -
The front suspension is too soft. Front End Does Not Respond to Small Bumps in
j
• Increase the compression damping or rebound
damping.
Sweeping Turns -
The front suspension is too hard.
• Increase the fork oil amount. • Decrease the compression damping or rebound
• Use an optional harder spring, or increase the
spring preload. •
damping.
Decrease the fork oil amount.
Front End “Knifes” or Oversteers in Turns • Use a softer spring, or decrease the spring
preload.
(Tends to Turn Inward) -
The front suspension is too soft. Rear End “Kicks” When Braking on Bumps -
• Increase the compression damping or rebound
damping.
The rear shock absorber rebound damping may be
too low.
• Increase the fork oil amount. • Increase the rebound damping.
NOTE Rear Tire Does Not “Hook Up” Out of Corners
○Heavier or expert riders may need a harder spring, (Lack of Traction Coming Out of Turns) -
The rear shock absorber may be too stiff.
or increase the spring preload.
• Decrease the rear shock absorber spring preload.
Front End Pushes or “Washes Out” in Turns • Decrease the high speed/low speed compression
damping.
(Front Wheel Tends to Push Outward Rather
than “Bite” in a Turn) - • Use a softer spring (lightweight rider only).
The front suspension is too stiff. Fork Bottoms Off After a High-speed Jump (may
• Decrease the compression damping or rebound
damping.
be due to improper riding posture) -
The rebound damping is too soft or the spring is
• Release some air from the fork tubes. too hard.
198 TUNING
• Increase the rebound damping. Rear End Bottoms After 3 or 4 Successive

• Decrease the
Decrease rear shock absorber spring preload. Jumps -
• the compression damping. • Decrease the rebound damping.
Front and Rear Ends Bottom Off After a NOTE
High-speed Jump (harsh bottoming occurs
once or twice per lap) -
○The rear shock absorber behavior on this machine
may mislead some riders.
The front suspension is too soft. ○The rear shock absorber bottoms (due to full
• Increase the fork oil amount. stroke) when the spring and damping are over-
j • Increase the front fork spring preload or use a come by the total weight of the machine and rider.
harder spring. ○A bottoming sensation (even though the machine
is actually not bottoming) may be caused by ma-
The rear suspension is too soft. chine weight and the inability of the rider to over-
• Increase the rear shock absorber spring preload come an overly stiff spring or excessive damping.
or use a harder spring. ○Observe the rear end jumps and try lowering the
• Increase the rear shock absorber high speed com-
pression damping or use a harder spring.
spring preload and damping if it does not approach
bottoming.
NOTE
○Check the front and rear suspension compatibility
after making any adjustment.
Rear End Feels Soft at Small Jump -

•Increase the spring preload up to maximum.
•Increase the rear shock absorber low speed com-
pression damping.
Rear End Feels Soft at Large Jump -
•Increase the spring preload up to maximum.
•Increase the rear shock absorber high speed com-
pression damping.
TUNING 199
Gearing
• Since it is difficult to set the machine so it is best
suited for all portions of the circuit, determine
which circuit portions will have the greatest ef-
fect on lap time, and tune the machine to these
Selection of the Secondary Reduction Ratio portions. Confirm your settings by recording lap
(Rear Sprocket) times after each change. In this way the machine
Rear Sprocket Selection According to Course will deliver best performance for the entire circuit.
Conditions
Fast Course Small sprocket
j
Many Curves or Hills
Large sprocket
Sandy or Soft Ground
• Ifondary
the course has long straight portions, the sec-
reduction ratio should be reduced so that
the machine speed can be increased.
• If then the course has many corners or uphills or
is wet, the secondary reduction ratio should be
increased so that gear shifting and acceleration
are smooth.
• Since the speed must be changed depending on
the ground condition on the day of the race, be
sure to run through the circuit prior to a race and
tune the machine accordingly.
• If there is a long straight portion of the course on
which the machine can be run at maximum speed,
the machine should be set so that the maximum
speed is developed toward the end of the straight
course, but care should be taken not to over-rev
the engine.
200 TUNING
Take care not to overheat the engine in these con-
Special Care According to Track ditions. The engine also works very hard when
Conditions riding in deep sand.
• In muddy or sandy conditions, increase chain
• Infinedry,powdery
dusty conditions (such a volcanic ash or
dust), special care must be given to
slack as the chain and sprockets will be packed
with mud or sand, which reduces chain slack.
keeping the air cleaner element clean. • Check chain and sprocket wear frequently when
• When riding on wet, heavy clay, mud adheres to
the tires and other parts of the vehicle. The mud
riding in mud or sand, since wear is increased in
these conditions.
j can add significantly to the weight of the vehicle
and therefore reduce performance. Take care to
• Sticking muds or dusts on the front fork inner tube
and rear shock absorber rod could damage to the
remove built-up mud from the tires and chassis oil seal, leading to an oil leak. Clean the sticking
after each ride, before drying occurs. muds or dusts from the front fork inner tube and
• The engine works hardest in muddy conditions
and the radiator can become clogged with mud.
rear shock absorber rod after each ride.
OPTIONAL PARTS 201
OPTIONAL PARTS
Engine Sprocket Suspension Spring (N/mm)
12T K = 9.0
13T (Standard) Front K = 9.4 (Standard)
Rear Sprocket K = 9.8
48T K = 50
49T K = 52 (Standard)
Aluminum 50T (Standard) K = 54
51T Aluminum Nipple Wheel (Without Tire)
52T Front 21 × 1.60
48T Rear 19 × 1.85
49T Spoke Nipple
Steel 50T Front and Rear Steel
51T
52T KX FI Calibration Kit
The KX FI Calibration Kit can change the ECU data
Handlebar Holder and Clamp setting.
Clamp (Upper) Size 28.6
KX FI Calibration Kit: Part No. – 99999-0613
28.6 For details, refer to the KX FI Calibration Kit man-
Holder (Lower) Size
22.2 ual.
202 PRE-RACE CHECKS AND AFTER-RACE MAINTENANCE
PRE-RACE CHECKS AND AFTER-RACE MAINTENANCE

Pre-Race Checks - • Oil applied to air cleaner element
• Front axle nut, or axle clamp bolt torque
Maintenance After the First Race -
• Front fork clamp bolt torque
• Clean the air cleaner element.
• Handlebar clamp bolt torque
• Torquethe
Adjust drive chain slack.
• Throttle grip screw tightness
• Torque the rear
the sprocket nuts.
• Throttle grip operation
• Check the front and rear tire air pressure.
spokes.
• Front and rear brake hose installation
• Torque the front and rear axle nuts.
• Front and rear brake fluid level
• Torque the swingarm pivot shaft nut.
• Front and rear brake disc and caliper installation
• Torque the muffler and exhaust pipe bolts and
• Front and rear brake function
• nuts.
• Fuel tank installation
• All control cable routings
• Tighten the front and rear fender bolts.
• Engine mounting bolt torque
• Check thethefront
Tighten fuel tank and seat bolts.
• Engine sprocket installation
• Check the steering and rear brake function.
• Shift pedal bolt torque
• Fill the fuel tank withplay.
• Engine oil level
• Check the coolant level. fuel.
• UNI-TRAK® lever rod nut torque
• Clean the sliding surface of the front fork and rear
• UNI-TRAK® lever nut torque
• shock absorber.
• Rear shock absorber nut torque
• Swingarm pivot shaft nut torque
• Rear axle nut torque Maintenance After Riding on a Dusty Course -
• Rear sprocket nut torque • Ifanddirtcrankshaft
or dust gets into the engine, cylinder, piston
• Rear brake pedal operation bearings will be damaged. After
• Seat installation riding, inspect the crankshaft big end. If the crank-
• Front and rear wheel spoke torque shaft big end is worn past the service limit, replace
• Front and rear tire air pressure the crankshaft with a new one.
• Front fork air pressure • Clean the sliding surface of the front fork and rear
• Drive chain slack shock absorber.
• Coolant level
PRE-RACE CHECKS AND AFTER-RACE MAINTENANCE 203
Maintenance After Riding in the Rain or on a • Air cleaner element

Muddy Course - • Chain case
Muffler, and related parts
•Clean the sliding surface of the front fork and rear • Front fork springs (for suspension adjustment)
shock absorber. • Rear shock absorber springs (for suspension ad-
•Apply grease to swingarm and rear suspension
pivots.
• justment)
•Inspect the drive chain and rear sprocket for wear. • Rear and engine sprockets with bolts/nuts and cir-
•Clean the air cleaner element. clips
•Check the cylinder and crankshaft big end. • Electrical parts
•Grease the throttle grip and control cables. • Clutch assembly and friction plates
Spark plugs
Suggested Spare Parts - • Gaskets
• Front and rear wheels • Front and rear tires (various compounds and tread
• Brake lever,and
Shift pedal brake pedal • patterns for different conditions)
• Throttle and clutch lever, and holders
• Front fork assembly
• Handlebar clutch cables
• Piston and piston rings
• Front and rear fenders, side covers, and number • Tire wraps, bolts, nuts, screws, O-rings, washers,
• plate snap rings, wire, adhesive tape, vinyl tape (or duct
tape), and #400 to #600 emery cloth
• Radiator, radiator shroud, and water hoses
• Throttle grip assembly
204 STORAGE
STORAGE
WARNING
Before Storage Gasoline is extremely flammable and can be
explosive under certain conditions, creating
When the motorcycle is to be stored for any length the potential for serious burns. Always stop
of time, it should be prepared for storage as follows. the engine and never smoke while handling
• Clean the entire vehicle thoroughly. fuel. Make sure the area is well ventilated
• Run the engine for about five minutes to warm the
oil, then stop it and drain the engine oil.
and free from any source of flame or sparks;
this includes any appliance with a pilot light.
Make sure the engine is cold before working.
j WARNING Wipe any fuel off the engine before starting
Engine oil is a toxic substance. Dispose of it. Gasoline is a toxic substance. Dispose of
used oil properly. Contact your local author- gasoline properly. Contact your local author-
ities for approved disposal methods or pos- ities for approved disposal methods.
sible recycling.
• Remove the spark plug and spray fogging oil di-
• Install the oil drain bolt and fill in fresh engine oil. rectly into the cylinder. Kick the engine over slowly
• siphon.the fuel from the fuel tank by the pump or
Empty a few times to coat the cylinder wall. Install the
spark plug.
• Empty the fuel system by running the engine at • Lubricate the drive chain and all the cables.
idle speed until the engine stalls (If left in for a long
time, the fuel will break down and could clog the
• Spray oil on all unpainted metal surfaces to pre-
vent rusting. Avoid getting oil on rubber parts and
fuel system). on the brakes.
• Lift the motorcycle on a box or stand so that both
wheels are raised off the ground (If this cannot be
done, put boards under the front and rear wheels
to keep dampness away from the tire rubber.).
• Tie a plastic bag over the muffler to prevent mois-
ture from entering.
• Cover the motorcycle to keep dust and dirt away
from it.
STORAGE 205
• Fill the fuel tank with fuel.

After Storage • Checksallsection.
Check the points listed in the Daily Pre-Ride
• Remove the plastic bag from the muffler. • Perform a lubrication procedure in the Lubrication
• Make sure the spark plug is tight. section.
NOTE
○Fit the plug cap securely onto the spark plug, and
pull the cap lightly to make sure that it is properly
installed.
j
206 ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
Kawasaki subscribes to the guidelines of Tread Lightly! a program dedicated to protecting the great outdoors
through education and fostering responsible enjoyment of public lands. When using your Kawasaki motorcycle,
please follow these Tread Lightly! guidelines:
Tread Lightly!
Travel responsibly on designated roads and trails or in permitted areas.
Respect the rights of others including private property owners and all recreational trail users, campers and
others to allow them to enjoy their recreational activities undisturbed.
Educate yourself by obtaining travel maps and regulations from public agencies, planning for your trip, taking
recreation skills classes, and knowing how to use and operate your equipment safely.
Avoid sensitive areas such as meadows, lakeshores, wetlands and streams, unless on designated routes.
This protects wildlife habitat and sensitive soils from damage.
D o your part by leaving the area better than you found it, properly disposing of waste, minimizing the use of
fire, avoiding the spread of invasive species, restoring degraded areas, and joining a local enthusiast organi-
zation.
Properly discard used tires, engine oil, other vehicle components, or the entire vehicle that you might dispose
of in the future. Consult your authorized Kawasaki dealer or local environmental waste agency for their proper
disposal procedure.
WIRING DIAGRAM 207
WIRING DIAGRAM

2018 - Manual Kawasaki-Kx250f-25

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GENERAL INFORMATION j

Quick Reference Guide

A Table of Contents is included after the

• This vehicle is designed for the operator only, no passengers.

KAWASAKI HEAVY INDUSTRIES, LTD.

© 2017 Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd. Apr. 3, 2017. (1)

Specifications are subject to change without notice.

2. Brake Fluid (Rear)

1. Front Fork 7. Front Brake Disc

1. Muffler 8. Rear Brake Disc

This Kawasaki KX has a 4-stroke engine that re-

A. Fuel Tank Cap

A. Idle Adjusting Screw/Choke Knob

• Find the kick pedal position around the top so that

• Even after the engine has started, do not push

The launch control mode can be used to adjust ig-

• Change the connector on the right front of the

A. Engine Stop Button

Break in the engine as follows.

Muffler .............................................. No damage

After racing, first clean the motorcycle, then in-

MAINTENANCE AND ADJUSTMENT

1. Periodic Inspection (Engine Related Item)

FREQUENCY After each Every 3 Every 6 Every 12

Steering play - inspect † • 107

FREQUENCY After each Every 3 Every 6 Every 12

Swingarm and UNI-TRAK linkage

Oil Level Inspection

A. Oil Level Inspection Window A. Drain Bolt and Gasket

A. Oil Filter Cap Bolts A. Oil Filter Element

• Replace the oil filter element with a new one.

• Replace the O-ring with a new one.

• Install the spring to the oil filter cap.

• Start the engine.

A. Radiator Cap A. Coolant Level

Coolant Total Amount

• Install the radiator cap. WARNING

A. Coolant Drain Bolt

• Install the radiator cap.

• Check the coolant level after the engine has

• Check the cooling system for leaks. Spark Plug

the spark plug electrodes are corroded, or damaged,

To find out whether the plug’s heat range is correct,

NOTE A. Radiator Screen Bolts

Spark Plug Removal and Installation

• Remove the band and fuel tank bolt.

A. Radiator Shroud Bolts

A. Fuel Pump Lead Connector

WARNING • Turn the driver to disconnect the joint lock.

• Clean the cylinder head cover around the spark

A. Spark Plug Cap A. Spark Plug Cap

A. Fuel Hose Joint

• Hook the band to the fuel tank.

A. Fuel Hose Joint

NOTE A. Throttle Cables

A. Radiator Screen Bolts

A. Seat A. Wing Bolt

• Check inside of the intake tract and throttle body

• Inspect the element. If it is dirty, clean it. Also