2018-2020 Kawasaki NINJA/NINJA H2 SX/ZX1002A +2 - Power Train recall

Model years: 2018-2020
Makes: Kawasaki
Manufacturer: Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A.
Component: POWER TRAIN:MANUAL TRANSMISSION
Potential units affected: 799 (NHTSA estimate of the at-risk population)
Reported: 2020-11-02

Affected vehicles

2020 Kawasaki NINJA
2020 Kawasaki NINJA H2 SX
2020 Kawasaki ZX1002A
2020 Kawasaki ZX1002B
2019 Kawasaki NINJA
2019 Kawasaki ZX1002A
2019 Kawasaki ZX1002B
2019 Kawasaki ZX1002D
2018 Kawasaki NINJA
2018 Kawasaki NINJA H2 SX
2018 Kawasaki ZX1002A

What’s the problem?

Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A. (KMC) is recalling certain 2018-2020 Ninja H2 SX, Ninja H2 SXSE, and 2019-2020 Ninja H2 SXSE+ motorcycles. In the event of a gear misengagement the engine electronic control unit (ECU) programming doesn't have the capability to suppress high RPM during transmission. If the transmission gears are not properly engaged while shifting into 4th or 5th gear, high engine RPM can cause the output gears of 4th or 5th to fracture when the gears re-engage.

What could happen?

Damaged gears and the inability to shift can cause the engine to lock up, increasing the risk of a crash.

What’s the fix?

KMC will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the FI-ECU software, free of charge. Owners are advised to not ride their motorcycle until the repair has been completed. The recall began November 16, 2020. Owners may contact KMC customer service at 1-866-802-9381. KMC's number for this recall is MC20-10.