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:

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 ...

Rear Wheel Installation
Apply high-temperature grease to the grease seal lips. Fit the collars on the both sides of the hub. Left Side Collar [A] Right Side Collar [B] (with Flange) Engage the drive chain with the rear sprocket. Install the caliper bracket [A] onto the stopper [B] of the swingarm. ...

Clutch Installation
Apply engine oil to the needle bearing [A] and the sleeve [B]. Install: Needle Bearing Sleeve Install the clutch housing [A]. Fit the holes [B] and projections [C]. Engage the clutch housing gear and the crankshaft primary gear. Install the spacer [A] and the clutch ...