Kawasaki issued a global recall for its highly‑regarded Ninja ZX‑6R models, spanning model years 2024 and 2025, due to a critical engine defect. Riders and owners of the April 2023–April 2025 ZX‑6R models should pay close attention to this serious thruststop for their machines.
🛑 What’s the recall about?
According to Kawasaki and U.S. NHTSA documents (Recall 25V376), the recall affects all Ninja ZX‑6R units produced from April 3, 2023, to April 28, 2025 – including 2024 and 2025 Anniversary, ABS, and KRT editions.
The culprit? Over‑torqued crankshaft bolts that can damage the #5 crankshaft bushing. This damage reduces oil clearance, potentially causing the bushing to seize during operation.
The dangers: why it matters
Over‑torqued bolts compromise engine lubrication. Without proper oil flow, the bushing may seize — causing sudden loss of power mid-ride. Worse still, it could result in engine seizure, risking wheel lock and catastrophic crashes.
RideApart’s coverage echoes this concern. Riders are advised not to ride their bikes until inspected and fixed.
Scope of the recall: how many bikes are affected
In the U.S., about 17,792 units are included in the recall. Globally, similar numbers are affected: around 17,800 in the U.S. alone, with European and UK units also included.
Manufactured units between April 3, 2023–April 28, 2025, are covered, across all ZX‑6R variants.
Reaction from the community
Online rider forums have been abuzz:
On Reddit’s r/zx6r, one owner shared:
“It’s for the #5 crankshaft bushing failing. If you ride it after getting notice and it blows up, they won’t cover it.”
Another highlighted dealership guidance:
“They’re doing a stop sale and to stop riding it until I got the letter from Kawasaki telling me if mine is affected or not.”
Also, there’s concern about warranty and insurance coverage if the bike is ridden post-notice.
Kawasaki’s official stance
Kawasaki has called for a stop ride/order on affected models until repairs are completed. Though they haven’t yet provided a fix, they have pledged to send VIN-specific notices once the remedy is available.
Under the recall, the fix will be covered under warranty and carried out by authorized dealerships at no cost.
What Kawasaki owners need to do now
- Check your VIN
Visit Kawasaki’s Recall Lookup tool or contact dealerships to see if your bike is affected. - Stop riding immediately if notified
Riding after recall notification could void your coverage and risk severe mechanical failure. - Await official recall letter
Kawasaki will send phased owner notifications with inspection and repair instructions. - Schedule a free inspection and fix
Authorized dealers will verify torque specs and replace any faulty bearings or bushings. - Protect your interests
If insurance or state lemon laws (e.g. Colorado) apply, be sure to file all documentation and avoid riding. Some owners have received “Do Not Ride” notices dated June 22, 2025.
The broader risks: safety and financial
- Safety: Engine seizure can cause sudden, uncontrolled stops — at high risk to both rider and others.
- Financial: Riding an affected bike post-notice could lead to insurance denial and devaluation of your ZX‑6R.
- Reputation: As one Redditor put it, Kawasaki “is diligently pursuing a repair” but delays could damage the model’s resale appeal.
Expert and aftermarket commentary
TopSpeed also reported on this recall, emphasizing the over‑torqued crank‑bolts as the root cause. Meanwhile, RideApart’s guide bluntly warns riders against further use until the fix is finalized.
Final word: what lies ahead?
Kawasaki is working through a phased VIN notification system and will dispatch parts and technical instructions when ready. In the interim, affected riders must err on the side of caution and not ride their bikes.
🔑 Key Takeaways
- Kawasaki has globally recalled 2024–2025 Ninja ZX‑6R bikes due to over‑torqued crankshaft bolts that can lead to engine seizure.
- Stop riding immediately if your bike is flagged — a seizure during operation could lead to serious crash.
- Kawasaki will inspect and repair free of charge; owners will be notified in phases as parts become available.
- Stay informed: check your VIN, contact your dealer, and await official recall correspondence.
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