Kawasaki Pulls the Plug on the Ninja ZX-6R and Warns Owners of Critical Safety Risk

Kawasaki’s beloved Ninja ZX-6R—a favorite among supersport enthusiasts worldwide—has just been pulled from circulation due to a major safety concern. If you own a 2024 or 2025 model, do not start your bike until it’s inspected.

🚨 What’s the issue?

The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) flagged a dangerous defect involving crankshaft bearing no. 5. Kawasaki confirmed that over-torqued bolts during assembly damaged the bearing, causing friction, overheating, and ultimately—engine seizure while riding.

This kind of failure offers no warning signs and can result in sudden loss of power while in motion. On a motorcycle, that’s not just inconvenient—it’s potentially fatal.

❌ Models affected

The recall covers Ninja ZX-6R models (code ZX636J and ZX636K), including:

• Anniversary Edition ABS

• KRT Edition

• Standard ABS variant

More than 17,000 units are affected in the U.S. alone, with thousands more sold globally, including in Asia and the Philippines.

🛑 Kawasaki’s current stance

Kawasaki has not yet issued a definitive fix. As of now:

• No ride, no start. Even dealership stock is ordered to be immobilized.

• NHTSA has classified the risk level as critical.

🇵🇭 What this means for riders in the Philippines

If you recently purchased a 2024–2025 Ninja ZX-6R, contact your local Kawasaki Philippines dealer immediately. While the recall was issued in the U.S., Philippine-distributed models may share the same production timeline and defect.

Kawasaki Philippines may not have released a local bulletin yet, but it’s better to be proactive than to risk engine failure on the road.

🔧 No fix yet, but here’s what to do:

1. Check your VIN.

2. Reach out to your dealer.

3. Request inspection or immobilization.

4. Don’t ride the bike. Tow it if necessary—you can ask the dealer to shoulder the cost.

⚠️ What if you ignore the recall?

Using the bike despite the warning could void your warranty, insurance, and even result in liability if you get into an accident. In short—it’s not worth the risk.

The Bigger Picture:

This recall shakes the reputation of a brand that’s been at the heart of the Supersport world for decades. It’s also a wake-up call for riders and dealers alike about the importance of quality control and rider safety.

In a motorcycle culture as passionate as the one in the Philippines, news like this spreads fast—and rightly so. Let’s stay informed and ride responsibly.