Recalls made by top manufacturers are a normal thing now a days and Kawasaki is the next motorcycle manufacturer to make an entry into the list. Now Kawasaki motorcycles are quite popular in the global market and especially the next generation ZX-10R is one of the most popular supersport bike in the litre segment.
Recently a problem arose with the ZX-10R wherein plenty of oil leak reports were registered. On inspection the company has noticed a problem in the joint between the crankcase and the starter which is causing a leak which would lead to oil spill and perhaps fire accidents. While the company has not received any complains regarding any major accidents due to this problem, not taking any chances the company has announced a recall for 4170 Ninja ZX-10Rs from the 2011–12 batch.
The company has started notifying owners and has also briefed the local dealers about the problem. All one ZX-10R has to do, is to bring the bike to the nearest dealer where the crankcase will be thoroughly checked by the technician and it will be resealed for free. Respective ZX-10R owners could also call the company for further instructions at 1-866-802-9381.
Kawasaki ZX-10R Official Recall Notice
Report Date: August 12, 2012
NHTSA Campaign ID number: 12V369000
Vehicle Model Year / Make / Model: 2011-2012 KAWASAKI ZX-10R
Manufacturer: KAWASAKI MOTORS CORP., U.S.A.
Mfr’s Report Date: JUL 31, 2012
Component: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Potential Number of Units Affected: 4,170
Summary:
Kawasaki is recalling certain model year 2011-2012 ZX-10R (ZX1000JBF/JBFL/KBF/KBFL/JCF/JCFL/KCF/KCFL) ‘NINJA’ motorcycles. Engine oil may leak from the crankcase at the starter mounting point and pool on top of the crankcase. Continued use in this condition can allow oil to spill over onto the rear tire.
Consequence:
If oil spills onto the rear tire, there is an increased risk of a crash, leading to personal injury or death.
Remedy:
Kawasaki will notify owners, and dealers will remove the starter and seal the crankcase, free of charge. The safety recall is expected to begin shortly. Owners may contact Kawasaki at 1-866-802-9381.
Notes:
Customers may contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s Vehicle Safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153); or go to http://www.safercar.gov