Kawasaki Ninja Owners Manual: Braking

Kawasaki Ninja Owners Manual / How to ride the motorcycle / Braking

Close the throttle completely, leaving the clutch engaged (except when shifting gears) so that the engine will help slow down the motorcycle.
Shift down one gear at a time so that you are in 1st gear when you come to a complete stop.
When stopping, always apply both brakes at the same time. Normally the front brake should be applied a little more than the rear. Shift down or fully disengage the clutch as necessary to keep the engine from stalling.
Never lock the brakes, or it will cause the tires to skid. When turning a corner, it is better not to brake at all. Reduce your speed before you get into the corner.
For emergency braking, disregard downshifting, and concentrate on applying the brakes as hard as possible without skidding.

A. Front Brake Lever

A. Rear Brake Pedal

Shifting Gears

Close the throttle while pulling in the clutch lever. Shift into the next higher or lower gear. Open the throttle part way, while releasing the clutch lever. For smooth riding, each gea ...

Kawasaki Intelligent anti-lock Brake System (KIBS, For models equipped with KIBS)

KIBS regulates anti-lock braking performance with more precision during sports riding compared to a conventional ABS system. KIBS is designed to help prevent the wheels from locking up when the ...

Other materials:

Sprocket Wear Inspection
Visually inspect the engine and rear sprocket teeth for wear and damage. If the teeth are worn as illustrated, replace the sprocket, and inspect the drive chain wear (see Drive Chain Wear Inspection in the Periodic Maintenance chapter). Worn Tooth (Engine Sprocket) [A] Worn Tooth (Rear ...

Spring Preload Adjustment
The spring preload adjuster is located at the lower end of each front fork leg and can be adjusted. To increase spring preload and stiffen the suspension, turn the preload adjuster clockwise with a hexagon wrench. To decrease preload and soften the suspension, turn the preload adjust ...

Spring Plate Free Play Measurement
Insufficient clutch free play will cause the engine braking effect to be more sudden, resulting in rear wheel hop. On the other hand, if the free play is excessive, the clutch lever may feel “spongy” or pulsate when pulled. Hold an extra drive shaft in a vise and install the following c ...