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.