Kawasaki Ninja Service Manual: Technical Information - Electronic Steering Damper (ESD/ZX1000JD/KD models)

1) Overview

This model has an Electronic Steering Damper (ESD) [A]. Unlike conventional manual adjustment method of Kawasaki, damping characteristics are adjusted by the electronic control unit.

2) Purpose

Designed to offer increased stability at high speed without interfering with light and nimble steering at low speed.

3) Advantages

Damping characteristics are properly adjusted by the electronic control unit based on primarily vehicle speed, and additionally acceleration/deceleration.

During public road riding, lighter damping characteristics are selected to preserve the natural nimble handling of this model.

During circuit riding, stiffer damping settings are chosen to enhance stability for better cornering.

Like the public road riding settings, ESD provides the rider with moderate feedback while maintaining natural handling feel. (moderate and natural work fine here) Electronic control is based on speed and acceleration, so at high speeds stability is enhanced.

4) Difference

Change the steering damper damping adjustment method from manual (ZX1000JC/KC) to automatic (Stepper Motor).

Previous Models ( ZX1000JC/KC)

New Models (ZX1000JD/KD)

5) Related Parts

Meter [A] Electronic Steering Damper (ESD) [B]

ESD ECU [A]

FI ECU [B]

Rear Wheel Rotation Sensor [A]

6) Meter

Added an indicator “ESD” warning symbol [A] in the instruments.

The yellow warning indicator light [B] and ESD warning symbol go on whenever there is a malfunction in the ESD system.

At this time, the ESD system maintains the last damping force setting.

7) Error Display

Only Meter Diagnosis

When both “ESD” warning symbol [A] and yellow warning indicator light [B] go on , the LCD displays service code [C] by push the upper button [D] at odometer indication (see Self-Diagnosis Procedures in the Self-Diagnosis System chapter).

Unit Conversion Table