Comprehensive Maintenance Schedule for the Kawasaki Ninja 650
The Kawasaki Ninja 650, also known as the ER-6f or EX-6, is a popular middleweight sport motorcycle that has been in production since 2006. It features a 649cc parallel-twin engine, modern styling, and a low seat height, making it accessible to a wide range of riders. The Ninja 650 strikes a balance between sporty performance and everyday usability.
Why Riders Love the Kawasaki Ninja 650
Smooth and torquey parallel-twin engine
Comfortable, upright riding position
Lightweight and nimble handling
Affordable price point
Versatile for commuting, sport riding, and light touring
Stylish sport bike looks
Low seat height accommodates many riders
Technical Specifications
Specification
1st Gen (2006-2008)
2nd Gen (2017+)
Engine
649cc liquid-cooled 4-stroke parallel twin
649cc liquid-cooled 4-stroke parallel twin
Power
53 kW (71 hp) @ 8500 rpm
50.2 kW (68 hp) @ 8000 rpm
Torque
66 Nm (49 lb-ft) @ 7000 rpm
64 Nm (47 lb-ft) @ 6700 rpm
Transmission
6-speed
6-speed
Front Suspension
41mm telescopic fork
41mm telescopic fork
Rear Suspension
Offset laydown single-shock
Horizontal back-link, adjustable preload
Front Brakes
Dual 300mm petal discs, 2-piston calipers
Dual 300mm petal discs, 2-piston calipers
Rear Brakes
Single 220mm petal disc, 1-piston caliper
Single 220mm petal disc, 1-piston caliper
Seat Height
790mm (31.1 in)
790mm (31.1 in)
Wet Weight
204 kg (449 lbs)
193 kg (426 lbs)
Fuel Capacity
16L (4.2 US gal)
15L (4.0 US gal)
Key differences: The 2nd gen has a lighter trellis frame, revised suspension, and is 11 kg (24 lbs) lighter overall. Power is slightly lower to meet emissions.
No differences in fluid specs between 1st and 2nd gen.
Regular Maintenance Parts
Part
Maintenance
Interval
Tools
Air filter
Inspect, replace as needed
18000 km (11250 mi)
Screwdriver
Spark plugs
Replace
48000 km (30000 mi)
Spark plug socket
Valve clearance
Inspect, adjust if needed
42000 km (26600 mi)
Feeler gauges
Brake pads
Inspect for wear, replace as needed
When worn to indicator
Allen keys
Drive chain
Clean, lubricate, adjust tension
600 km (400 mi)
Chain cleaner, brush, lube
Tires
Inspect tread depth & wear, replace as needed
3000 km (1900 mi)
Tread depth gauge
Brake fluid
Replace
2 years
Syringe, tubing
Coolant
Replace
3 years
Funnel, coolant
Fork oil
Replace
2 years
Fork oil, seals
Throttle/clutch cables
Lubricate, inspect free play
6000 km (3750 mi)
Cable lube, gauges
Maintenance Schedule
Interval
Tasks
600 km (400 mi)
Lubricate & adjust chain, check tire pressure
6000 km (3800 mi)
Change oil & filter, check brakes, inspect cables
12000 km (7500 mi)
Major service: valve clearance, replace air filter, fluids, plugs
24000 km (15000 mi)
Major service + replace brake fluid & coolant
36000 km (22500 mi)
Major service
48000 km (30000 mi)
Major service + replace fork oil, all fluids, chain, tires
Maintenance Q&A
How much does a typical Ninja 650 service cost?
Basic service (oil, filter, checks): $150-250
Valve clearance inspection/adjustment: $300-600
Brake fluid change: $100-150
Coolant change: $150-200
Can I do my own maintenance on the Ninja 650?
Many tasks like oil changes, chain maintenance, and brake checks can be done at home with basic tools. More complex jobs like valve adjustments are best left to professionals.
What are some common issues with the Ninja 650?
The Ninja 650 is generally reliable, but watch for leaking fork seals, regulator/rectifier failure, and corrosion on exposed metal parts.
How can I make my chain and sprockets last longer?
Clean and lubricate the chain every 400 miles, and adjust tension as needed. Avoid riding in wet or dusty conditions when possible.
What aftermarket upgrades are popular for the Ninja 650?
Common mods include slip-on exhausts, fender eliminators, rearsets, windscreens, and suspension upgrades.
