A bike’s value, efficiency, and pedigree are all a part of the equation if you’re planning on a purchase order. Extra than simply how briskly one thing goes, nevertheless, you also needs to contemplate a motorbike’s repute for reliability earlier than shopping for. Kawasaki at present has a broad lineup of Ninja-branded bikes, starting from its all-electric Ninja e-1, all the way in which as much as the preposterously-fast H2R race bike.
Kawasaki’s Ninja bikes have a powerful repute for efficiency, and we have examined a number of Ninja bikes lately, together with two of their strongest performers, the spectacular middleweight Ninja ZX-6R and the track-ready Ninja ZX-10R. However how do bikes with the Ninja nameplate maintain up over time? Earlier than we dive into a number of the particulars, it is essential to know that the Ninja identify covers numerous bikes. There are almost a dozen completely different engines at present accessible in Ninja bikes, so naturally, not all of the rider feedback and opinions we reference right here will apply to each bike.
House owners of smaller Ninjas, just like the previous Ninja 250 and the 300, say they’re critically dependable. Even with excessive mileage and after a number of low-speed tip-overs, the bikes run properly with correct providers carried out. Bigger bikes just like the Ninja 650 are additionally well-regarded with regards to reliability. Increased-performance Ninjas just like the ZX-6R appear to have repute as properly. House owners who repeatedly journey on the observe appear to have minimal points, as long as they keep on prime of normal upkeep gadgets, however even the ZX-6R is not immune from points.
Some Ninja points
It is not all sunshine and rainbows with Ninja bikes; a number of Kawasaki Ninja bikes have been a part of a number of the greatest remembers of all time. The Ninja 300, for instance, had points in 2013 the place the bikes had been stalling throughout deceleration. Kawasaki remedied that concern by changing the ECU on the affected bikes, however there’s additionally a more moderen recall that is even bigger. The present ZX-6R has been recalled for points with the crankshaft that would trigger lack of energy. The recall requires some fixes to be accomplished by native Kawasaki sellers.
In response to Nationwide Freeway Transportation Security Administration (NHTSA) knowledge, Kawasaki bikes have traditionally low recall charges. Only some bikes have a number of remembers, and not one of the most-recalled Kawasakis put on the Ninja badge. That honor goes to the Kawasaki Concours, and most of that bike’s points appear to be associated to its conversion to police responsibility. House owners of some mannequin years, particularly early-2000s ZX-6Rs, complain of minor oil leaks, however no recall has been issued.
If you happen to dig deep sufficient in proprietor evaluations and boards, you may discover smaller points with nearly any motorbike, however no massive themes pop up throughout all Ninja bikes. As a substitute, it is principally homeowners recommending upkeep to maintain bikes going robust. Personal one thing lengthy sufficient and there are sure to be points with put on gadgets like brakes, chains, and tires, and that is the place upkeep comes into play.
Upkeep that can contribute to longevity
Preserving a motorbike operating correctly requires a little bit of upkeep, however the fundamental repairs is not very tough on any motorbike, together with most Kawasaki Ninjas of any form or measurement. Some easy common upkeep that you ought to be doing in your motorbike consists of tire strain checks, chain upkeep, oil adjustments, and brake providers. And you do not want a bunch of instruments to finish these sorts of jobs — even visually inspecting issues just like the brake pad life is a comparatively easy activity. Tire strain gauges are typically fairly low-cost, and ensuring your tires are correctly inflated will make for safer (and extra snug) using. Checking the tire pressures when seasons change is very essential, as tire strain can go considerably decrease because the ambient temperatures drop.
Oil change intervals are listed within the proprietor’s guide for each motorbike, however you’ll be able to repeatedly examine the readability and stage of your oil. It is undoubtedly a examine you ought to be doing in the event you journey aggressively or on the observe. With a easy motorbike stand, the proper brush, some rags, and some cans of the right lubricant, you’ll be able to simply clear and lubricate your motorbike chain frequently at house. Doing so will assist the longevity of the chain and the sprockets, that are vital to the operation of any motorbike. Or, in the event you’re not a DIY sort of proprietor, you’ll be able to at all times take your bike to the closest respected service middle.
