Kawasaki Ninja Service Manual: Steering Play Inspection

Remove the lower fairings (see Lower Fairing Removal in the Frame chapter).

Raise the front wheel off the ground with the jack.

Special Tools - Jack: 57001-1238 Jack Attachment: 57001-1608

With the front wheel pointing straight ahead, alternately tap each end of the handlebar. The front wheel should swing fully left and right from the force of gravity until the fork hits the stop.

If the wheel binds or catches before the stop, the steering is too tight.

Feel for steering looseness by pushing and pulling [A] the forks.

If you feel looseness, the steering is too loose.

NOTE

The cables and wiring will have some effect on the motion of the fork which must be taken into account.

Be sure the leads and cables are properly routed.

The bearings must be in good condition and properly lubricated in order for any test to be valid.

Steering Play Adjustment

Remove: Steering Stem Head with Handlebars (see Handlebar Removal in the Steering chapter). Bend the claws [A] of the claw washer [B] straighten. Remove: Steering Stem Locknut [C] Claw ...

Other materials:

ECU Removal
NOTICE Never drop the ECU especially on a hard surface. Such a shock to the ECU can damage it. Remove the upper air cleaner housing (see Air Cleaner Element Replacement in the Periodic Maintenance chapter). Lift up the ECU [A] with rubber protector [B] to disconnect the connectors [C]. ...

Crankshaft Sensor Removal
Remove: Fuel Tank (see Fuel Tank Removal in the Fuel System (DFI) chapter) Crankshaft Sensor Lead Connector [A] Remove: Right Lower Fairing (see Lower Fairing Removal in the Frame chapter) Bolts [A] Crankshaft Sensor Cover [B] and Gasket Oil Pressure Switch Terminal [C] ...

Clutch
Clutch Operation Inspection Pull the clutch lever just enough to take up the free play [A]. Measure the gap between the lever and the lever holder. If the gap is too wide, the clutch may not release fully. If the gap is too narrow, the clutch may not engage fully. In either case, adjust ...