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:

Brake Pad Wear Inspection
Remove the brake pads (see Front/Rear Brake Pad Removal in the Brakes chapter). Check the lining thickness [A] of the pads in each caliper. If the lining thickness of either pad is less than the service limit [B], replace both pads in the caliper as a set. Front Brake Pad [C] Rea ...

Wheel Inspection
Raise the front/rear wheel off the ground. Special Tools - Jack: 57001-1238 Jack Attachment: 57001-1608 Spin the wheel lightly, and check for roughness or binding. If roughness or binding is found, replace the hub bearings (see Hub Bearing Removal/Installation). Inspect the wh ...

Caliper Installation
Install the caliper and brake hose lower end. For the front caliper, be sure to install the collars [A]. Replace the washers on each side of hose fitting with new ones. Touch the brake hoses [A] to the stopper [B] of the caliper. Front Calipers [C] Rear Caliper [D] Tighten: To ...