In June 2025, Kawasaki issued a major safety recall that has sent ripples through the supersport community. The recall affects the 2024–2025 Ninja ZX-6R, and it centers around a critical engine component: the crankshaft bushing. If you own one of these models—or are considering purchasing one—this is essential information you need to know.
The Problem: Crankshaft Bushing Failure
At the heart of the issue is the #5 crankshaft bushing, a key part of the engine’s internal support system. Kawasaki discovered that bolts inside the crankcase may have been over-tightened during assembly, potentially damaging this bushing. The result? A serious risk of crankshaft seizure, which can cause:
- Sudden loss of engine power
- Unexpected stalling
- Increased risk of crash or injury
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), this defect affects approximately 17,792 motorcycles, with an estimated defect rate of around 1%—but even that is too high when safety is on the line.
Affected Models
This recall applies to the following variants of the 2024–2025 Ninja ZX-6R:
- Standard ZX-6R
- ZX-6R ABS
- KRT Edition
- 40th Anniversary Edition
Production Range
April 3, 2023 – April 28, 2025
If your bike falls within this range, it is strongly advised that you stop riding immediately and confirm your VIN through Kawasaki or NHTSA.
Official Recall Info
- NHTSA Recall Number: 25V376
- Filed: June 4, 2025
- Manufacturer Communication: Kawasaki has begun notifying dealers and will be contacting owners directly via mail.
The official documentation explicitly warns:
“Do not ride. Park the motorcycle outdoors until repairs are completed.”
The reason for this is not just safety on the road—but also the fire hazard potential if internal engine damage escalates.
The Fix: What Kawasaki Will Do
Kawasaki will offer a free repair, which may involve:
- Inspecting the crankshaft bushing
- Replacing the crankshaft assembly if necessary
- Reassembling and retorquing the engine internals to factory spec
Repairs will be performed at authorized Kawasaki dealerships. Depending on the severity, some cases may require full engine disassembly and reassembly.
What You Should Do Now
Check your VIN at the Kawasaki USA Recall Lookup or via NHTSA.gov.
Stop riding immediately if your bike is affected.
Contact your local Kawasaki dealer to schedule a recall inspection.
Keep an eye on your mail — owners will receive physical recall letters from Kawasaki with next steps.
Document everything if you’re experiencing symptoms like unusual engine noise, sudden stalls, or performance drops.
Rider Community Response
The ZX-6R has a loyal following, and many owners have taken to forums and social media to share updates, dealership experiences, and concerns. Some riders have even reported early signs of issues, reinforcing the importance of addressing this recall before symptoms appear.
Final Thoughts
Recalls can be frustrating, but they’re ultimately about keeping riders safe. Kawasaki’s swift action to identify and address this crankshaft bushing defect shows a strong commitment to rider safety and product integrity. If you ride a 2024–2025 ZX-6R, don’t ignore this—your engine (and your safety) could be at serious risk.
Let your dealer handle it and get back on the road knowing your Ninja is running at 100%.
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