In mid‑2025, Kawasaki announced a major safety recall for its beloved Ninja ZX‑6R, prompting immediate action. This post walks through the details, implications, and steps riders should take to stay safe.

1. 🔍 The Core Issue: Over‑Torqued Crankshaft Bolts

Kawasaki discovered that on select 2024–2025 ZX‑6R models, the crankcase fastening bolts were tightened excessively during assembly. This can constrict oil flow to the crankshaft bushing (plain bearing #5), potentially damaging it and risking a sudden engine seizure or stalling while riding.

Even though the fault rate seems low—approximately 1% of units inspected—the consequences could be serious: sudden loss of power or engine failure at speed, dramatically increasing crash risk.

2. 🌍 Global Scope of the Recall

This isn’t limited to one region. Kawasaki has issued the recall globally:

• Australia: 387–402 units within 2024–2025 ZX‑6Rs flagged; owners contacted via ACCC alert.
• UK / Europe: Dealers informed; customers notified with a “dealer repair recommended” notice. Luckily, dealers don’t impose a ride ban there—but repairs are strongly urged.
• USA: A firm “no‑ride” advisory and dealership stop‑sale are in effect. Owners are being contacted by mail and told to park bikes until inspection/repairs are completed.
• Canada: Transport Canada issued Alert 2025335, advising no riding until repairs done.

No official word yet from Kawasaki India, but with global rollout, an Indian recall seems likely.

3. ✅ What Kawasaki Will Do — The Fix

Repairs will be free of charge at authorized Kawasaki dealerships. Technicians will:

• Inspect bolt torque on crankcase fastening bolts
• Repair or replace any damaged crankshaft bushing or related engine components
• Re-torque bolts to proper specs according to factory standards.

Simple cases may take minutes; more extensive engine work could be required if damage is found.

4. 🛑 Should You Stop Riding Immediately?

Absolutely:

• USA & Canada: Strong “do‑not‑ride” orders in place—park your bike until cleared.
• Europe & UK: While no formal ban, riders are urged to avoid riding until inspected. Dealers prioritized new stock.
• Australia: Owners are similarly advised to not ride until the recall work is completed.

5. 📅 Timeline & Affected Bikes

• The recall was first flagged in June 2025 in North America and early July 2025 elsewhere.
• Production window: mid‑2023 through April 2025 for VINs.
• Variants included: Standard ZX‑6R, ZX‑6R ABS, QRT Edition, and 40th Anniversary Edition.
• Estimated units affected: ~17,800 in the U.S., ~400+ in Australia, with similar ranges Europe-wide.

6. 📞 What Riders Should Do Right Now

1. Check your VIN: Use Kawasaki USA recall lookup or Transport Canada database.
2. Stop riding: If your bike is affected, do not ride, especially in North America.
3. Book a dealer appointment: Contact your nearest authorized Kawasaki service centre.
4. Monitor notifications: Watch for mailed letters or email alerts from Kawasaki.
5. Document symptoms: If you’ve experienced engine noise or stalling, mention it when booking — dealers may take extra care.
6. Follow through: Complete the inspection and repairs before resuming rides—your safety depends on it.

7. 🏁 What This Means for the ZX‑6R Community

The ZX‑6R is a well-loved supersport icon, making this recall feel like a punch to the gut. But Kawasaki’s swift global response shows a strong commitment to rider safety. The majority of bikes will likely check out clean, but even a tiny number of engine failures could lead to serious accidents if ignored.

Owners have responded positively on forums and social media. Many share relief that it’s a remedial bolt torque issue—not a more complex design flaw. The takeaway? Get your machine checked promptly and ride with confidence, knowing your Ninja has been inspected and cleared.

8. 🔚 Final Thoughts

The 2024–2025 Kawasaki Ninja ZX‑6R recall is serious—but fixable. If you ride one:

• Verify VIN status
• Stop riding until fixed
• Schedule dealership service
• Ride worry-free once repaired

Better to delay a few days than risk a dangerous mechanical failure at speed.