Model Years Covered:
2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011
Chassis Code Range:
ER650A (early models), ER650C (later models, subject to regional variations)
Segment:
Middleweight Sportbike / Naked Sportbike (ER-6n sibling)
Target Audience:
New riders, commuters, sport touring enthusiasts, DIY mechanics
Competitors:
Suzuki SV650, Yamaha FZ6, Honda CBR600F (depending on region and exact specification)
Engine Layout:
Parallel-twin, liquid-cooled
Design Philosophy:
Accessible performance, comfortable ergonomics, user-friendly maintenance
ABS System:
Bosch ABS unit (on ABS models), enhancing safety during braking
Engine:
Complete overhaul, tuning, fuel injection, ignition system, lubrication, cooling system
Transmission:
Clutch, gearbox, final drive (chain and sprockets), maintenance and repair
Chassis:
Frame inspection, steering head bearing, swingarm, rear suspension linkage
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) components, hydraulic lines, caliper service, master cylinder overhaul, bleeding procedures
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting system, starting system, charging system (alternator, battery), ignition coils, ECUs, sensor diagnostics, troubleshooting
Fuel System:
Fuel injection system (EFI), fuel pump, injectors, throttle body, evaporative emission control system
Bodywork:
Fairing removal and installation, seat, fuel tank, body panels, graphics
Maintenance:
Regular scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, valve clearance adjustment, chain maintenance
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, fault code interpretation, symptom-based troubleshooting
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for disassembly, assembly, and repair of all major components and systems
Engine Rebuild:
Detailed instructions for engine disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly, including piston, ring, and cylinder specifications
Suspension Service:
Fork seal replacement, fork oil changes, rear shock absorber servicing
Wheel Service:
Tire mounting and balancing, wheel bearing replacement
Depth:
Comprehensive (covering everything from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including advanced electrical diagnostics)
Engine Type:
4-stroke, DOHC, parallel-twin
Bore X Stroke:
83.0 x 60.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
11.3:1
Valve Train:
DOHC, 8 valves (2 per cylinder)
Cooling System:
Liquid-cooled
Horsepower:
Approx. 71.8 hp (53.5 kW) @ 8,000 rpm (claimed, may vary by region and specific model year)
Torque:
Approx. 60.7 Nm (44.8 lb-ft) @ 7,000 rpm (claimed, may vary by region and specific model year)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with dual throttle valves
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
17 Liters (4.5 US gal)
Oil Type:
SAE 10W-40 API SG or SH, or JASO MA (refer to manual for specific recommendations)
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3.4 L (3.6 US qt) with filter change
Overall Length:
Approx. 2,115 mm (83.3 in)
Overall Width:
Approx. 760 mm (30.0 in)
Overall Height:
Approx. 1,185 mm (46.7 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 1,410 mm (55.5 in)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 130 mm (5.1 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 176 kg (388 lbs) / 179 kg (395 lbs) for ABS model (claimed, may vary)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 170 kg (375 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Refer to VIN plate or manual
Crash Test Results:
Not typically subjected to automotive-style crash testing; focus is on rider protection and component integrity.
ABS:
Standard on ABS models, preventing wheel lock-up during braking.
Braking System:
Dual front 300mm petal discs with dual-piston calipers; Single rear 220mm petal disc with single-piston caliper.
Lighting:
Halogen headlights, LED taillight.
Frame Construction:
High-tensile steel backbone frame for rigidity and impact absorption.
Display Type:
Digital instrument cluster with analog tachometer.
Features:
Speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, clock, odometer, trip meters, coolant temperature indicator.
ABS:
Standard on ABS variant for enhanced braking safety.
Bluetooth:
N/A (Not equipped from factory)
Oil Change:
Every 6,000 km (3,700 miles) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Oil Filter Replacement:
With every oil change.
Air Filter Cleaning Replacement:
Inspect every 6,000 km (3,700 miles), clean or replace as needed. Replacement typically around 12,000-18,000 km (7,500-11,000 miles).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Inspect every 12,000 km (7,500 miles), replace as needed or at recommended intervals (refer to manual, often around 24,000 km / 15,000 miles).
Valve Clearance Check:
Every 24,000 km (15,000 miles).
Brake Fluid Replacement:
Every 2 years or as per manual, using DOT 4.
Coolant Replacement:
Every 2 years or as per manual, using a 50/50 mix of ethylene glycol and distilled water.
Engine Oil Viscosity:
SAE 10W-40
Engine Oil Standard:
API SG or SH, JASO MA
Coolant Type:
Permanent type antifreeze coolant (ethylene glycol-based), 50% solution with distilled water.
Common Wear Items:
Clutch plates, fork seals, wheel bearings, battery, chain and sprockets are typical wear items on higher-mileage examples.
Potential Electrical Issues:
While generally reliable, some owners have reported intermittent issues with the rectifier/regulator or stator, particularly on older units. Proper voltage regulation checks are crucial.
Fuel Injection Responsiveness:
Some riders find the initial throttle response a bit snatchy; ECU remapping or throttle tamer devices are aftermarket solutions. The manual provides detailed EFI system diagnostics.
Kawasaki Legacy:
Kawasaki Heavy Industries has a long and respected history in motorcycle manufacturing, known for performance and reliability across various segments.
Er6 Series:
The ER-6f (full-faired version) and ER-6n (naked version) were introduced as a versatile middleweight platform, evolving from earlier Kawasaki parallel-twin designs. They gained popularity for their approachable power delivery and sporty handling.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily Japan (Kobe) and sometimes Thailand for specific markets.
Generation Timeline:
This generation (2005-2011) was the first iteration of the ER-6f/ER-6n platform, establishing its core characteristics. Subsequent generations saw styling and minor mechanical updates.
Industry Acclaim:
The ER-6f has been praised by motorcycle publications for its balance of performance, comfort, and value, making it a popular choice for a wide range of riders.
Reliability:
Generally considered reliable when properly maintained; the manual is essential for adhering to maintenance schedules.
Emissions Standards:
Complies with relevant emissions standards for the model years and regions of sale (e.g., Euro III).
