Segment:
Lightweight/Mid-weight Cruiser/Standard Motorcycle segment, targeting new riders and commuters.
Competitors:
Competed against similar displacement models from Honda (e.g., CM250/300 series), Yamaha (e.g., Virago 250, XS400), Suzuki (e.g., GS400 series).
Vehicle Appeal:
Reliable parallel-twin engine, approachable styling, manageable power, and Kawasaki's reputation for quality.
Target User:
Professional mechanics and DIY enthusiasts seeking accurate, factory-sourced repair information.
Engine:
Detailed disassembly, assembly, inspection, adjustment, and repair of the 305cc parallel-twin engine, including valve train, crankshaft, pistons, cylinders, lubrication system, and cooling system.
Fuel System:
Carburetor (likely Mikuni VM series) disassembly, cleaning, adjustment, and synchronization; fuel tank, fuel petcock, and fuel lines.
Ignition System:
CDI ignition system, spark plugs, ignition coils, timing adjustment, troubleshooting.
Transmission:
Gearbox disassembly, assembly, inspection of gears, shift drum, shift forks, clutch assembly (wet multi-plate), clutch operation adjustments.
Drivetrain:
Chain drive system, rear sprocket, front sprocket, chain adjustment and maintenance.
Suspension:
Front fork (telescopic) disassembly, seal replacement, oil levels and types, rear shock absorber inspection and adjustment.
Brakes:
Front disc brake system (caliper, master cylinder, brake line, rotor) and rear drum brake system inspection, maintenance, and adjustment.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery maintenance, lighting system (headlight, taillight, turn signals), starter motor, charging system (alternator, regulator/rectifier), fuses, switches.
Chassis And Bodywork:
Frame inspection, steering head bearing maintenance, seat removal, fuel tank removal, fender mounting, exhaust system.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, chain lubrication, brake adjustments, tire pressure checks.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts and common problem identification for engine performance, electrical issues, and braking.
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, cleaning, inspection, repair, reassembly, and installation.
Adjustment:
Precise instructions for adjusting clutch, throttle cables, brakes, idle speed, and ignition timing.
Overhaul:
Complete engine and gearbox overhaul procedures, including parts replacement specifications.
Depth:
Comprehensive. Covers everything from basic fluid checks to complete engine rebuilds and electrical system diagnostics.
Engine Type:
4-stroke, Air-cooled, Parallel-Twin
Bore X Stroke:
55.0 x 63.0 mm
Valve Train:
DOHC, 2 valves per cylinder
Horsepower:
Approximately 26-28 HP (at 8000 RPM, est.)
Torque:
Approximately 18-20 lb-ft (at 6500 RPM, est.)
Carburetion:
Dual Mikuni VM24SS carburetors (or similar)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
Approximately 10.5 Liters (2.8 US gallons)
Oil Capacity With Filter:
Approximately 1.8 Liters (1.9 US quarts)
Ignition System:
Electronic Ignition (CDI)
Starter System:
Electric Starter and Kick Starter
Length:
Approximately 2150 mm (84.6 in)
Width:
Approximately 770 mm (30.3 in)
Height:
Approximately 1140 mm (44.9 in)
Dry Weight:
Approximately 150 kg (331 lbs)
Wheelbase:
Approximately 1400 mm (55.1 in)
Frame Type:
Semi-double cradle, steel tube
Ground Clearance:
Approximately 145 mm (5.7 in)
Braking System:
Front: Disc brake, Rear: Drum brake.
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, LED taillight/brake light (common for the era, check manual for specifics), turn signals.
Front Tire:
3.00-18 47P (or similar, check manual)
Rear Tire:
120/90-16 63P (or similar, check manual)
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 km (1,800-3,000 miles) or 6 months, whichever comes first. (Exact interval in manual).
Chain Lube Interval:
Recommended every 500-1000 km (300-600 miles) and after riding in wet conditions.
Valve Clearance Check:
Typically every 6,000-10,000 km (3,600-6,000 miles). (Specific interval in manual).
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 10W-40 API SE/SF or higher. (Refer to manual for precise recommendation).
Fork Oil Type:
Kawasaki KHL15-10 (or equivalent SAE 10W fork oil). (Refer to manual for viscosity and volume).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4. (Refer to manual).
Common Wear Items:
Carburetor synchronization and cleaning, fork seal leaks, clutch wear, ignition system components (especially coils and CDI unit), and chain/sprockets wear.
Electrical Reliability:
Older wiring harnesses can degrade; regulators/rectifiers can be prone to failure. Manual provides troubleshooting for these.
