Segment:
Supersport / Middleweight Sportbike
Competitors:
Yamaha YZF-R6, Suzuki GSX-R600, Honda CBR600RR
Strengths:
Renowned handling, potent inline-four engine, advanced chassis technology for its era.
Engine Layout:
Inline-four cylinder, DOHC, 16 valves
Suspension Front:
Fully adjustable 41mm inverted SFF (Separate Function Fork) by Showa
Suspension Rear:
Bottom-link Uni-Trak, gas-charged shock with adjustable preload, compression, and rebound damping.
Braking System:
Dual 310mm petal-style discs with radial-mount four-piston calipers (front), single 220mm petal-style disc with single-piston caliper (rear).
Engine:
Complete engine disassembly, assembly, tuning, and troubleshooting (including fuel injection, ignition, lubrication, cooling).
Transmission:
Clutch operation, gearbox inspection, disassembly, assembly, and lubrication.
Chassis:
Frame inspection, front fork (suspension), rear shock absorber, steering system, swingarm, and wheel bearings.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (hydraulic calipers, master cylinders, brake lines, ABS system if applicable), rotor specifications, and pad replacement.
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, starter system, charging system (alternator, battery), lighting, ignition system, instrument panel, and ECU diagnostics.
Fuel System:
Fuel injection system (injectors, throttle body, fuel pump, pressure regulator), evaporative emission control system.
Exhaust System:
Catalytic converter, mufflers, and exhaust pipe inspection and replacement.
Cooling System:
Radiator, fan, thermostat, coolant types, and bleeding procedures.
Bodywork:
Fairing removal and installation, seat, fuel tank, and other body panels.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance items, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, chain adjustment, and lubrication points.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, fault code interpretation (if applicable).
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation.
Overhaul:
Complete engine and transmission overhaul procedures.
Calibration Adjustments:
Fuel injection system adjustments, idle speed control, ignition timing (if adjustable).
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic user maintenance to advanced engine rebuilds and electrical diagnostics.
Diagnostics:
Includes wiring diagrams and troubleshooting flowcharts for electrical and electronic systems.
Specifications:
Provides all necessary torque values, tolerances, clearances, and fluid specifications.
Type:
Liquid-cooled, four-stroke, DOHC, four valves per cylinder inline-four
Bore X Stroke:
67.0 x 42.5 mm
Compression Ratio:
12.9:1
Horsepower:
Approx. 128 hp @ 13,500 rpm (claimed, without ram air)
Torque:
Approx. 44.9 lb-ft @ 11,700 rpm (claimed)
Fuel Delivery:
Digital fuel injection with two injectors per cylinder (down-draft)
Fuel Capacity:
17.5 L (4.6 US gal)
Ignition:
TCBI (Transistor Controlled Ignition) with digital advance
Instrumentation:
Multi-function LCD display with analog tachometer. Includes speed, odometer, trip meters, fuel gauge, clock, and indicator lights.
ABS:
Available ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) on certain models for enhanced safety.
Diagnostics:
On-board diagnostics for engine management system. The service manual details access and interpretation of diagnostic codes.
Oil Change:
Every 6,000 km (3,700 miles) or 6 months
Air Filter:
Inspect every 6,000 km (3,700 miles), clean/replace as needed.
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 12,000 km (7,500 miles)
Chain Maintenance:
Lubricate and adjust chain every 1,000 km (600 miles) or after riding in wet conditions.
Engine Oil:
SAE 10W-40 API SG or SH with JASO MA certification (e.g., Kawasaki Genuine Oil)
Coolant:
Mixture of high-quality ethylene glycol based coolant and distilled water (50:50 ratio)
Common Wear Items:
Clutch plates, chain and sprockets, brake pads, fork seals, and battery are common wear items.
Potential Issues:
Some owners report occasional issues with the fuel pump relay or charging system at higher mileages, though generally robust.
