SERVICE
TITLE:

MC 26-01

February 13, 2026
Page 1 of 8

2021~2026 Ninja® ZX™-10R & -10RR Technical Advisory
Periodic Engine Oil Maintenance & Service Information

SERVICE INFORMATION
Subject
As
high-performance
models,
the
Ninja
ZX-10R/10RR require proper handling and regular
maintenance. This Service Information document
contains key content from the Owner’s Manual
and Service Manual, supplemented with additional
guidance.

Dealer Action
Dealers are instructed to inform customers about
proper periodic maintenance and the importance of
regular oil changes.
WARNING
Failure to adhere to the instructions in the
Owner Manual may result in engine seizure
and the risk of an accident. Perform regular
maintenance and adjustments in accordance
with the Owner’s Manual.

©2026, Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A.

Bulletin Contents
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Break-In
Engine Oil Flow Chart
Oil Level Inspection
Periodic Engine Oil Maintenance
Engine Oil Change
Oil Filter Replacement
Re-starting the Engine After a Fall
Oil Pressure Warning Indicator Illuminated
Motorcycle Modifications: Risks & Restrictions
Warranty Information

Break-In
As noted in the Owner’s Manual, the break-in process is essential because it allows the engine’s
internal sliding components and drivetrain parts to properly bed in. During the early stages of operation,
components such as piston rings, cylinder walls, gears, and clutch parts naturally undergo initial surface
stabilization, and a controlled break-in helps prevent excessive wear, inadequate lubrication, and potential
seizure. It also ensures that the lubrication passages are fully primed with oil, contributing to long-term
engine protection. Proper break-in enables the motorcycle to achieve its intended performance, durability,
and reliability.
Failure to adhere to these instructions from the Owner Manual may result in engine seizure and failure.
At 1,000 km (600 miles), ensure the customer is instructed to obtain the initial maintenance service from
an authorized Kawasaki dealer. This service is of paramount importance for continued performance and
reliability.
The first 600 miles (1,000 km) of use is the
break-in period.

Break-In
Travelled Distance

Follow the RPM recommendations below to
maintain the vehicle’s performance and longevity.

0 ~ 250 miles
(0 ~ 350 km)
250 ~ 400 miles
(350 ~ 600 km)
400 ~ 600 miles
(600 ~ 1,000 km)

Max RPM
4,000 RPM
6,000 RPM
Ride Moderately

NOTE:
o You can ride above the maximum engine revolution stated in the break-in
table briefly if necessary. Brief periods above the listed engine revolutions
will not affect break-in results.
o When travelling on public roads, obey the speed limits.
o Do not race the engine while the transmission is in neutral.

WARNING
New tires are slippery and may cause loss of control and
injury. A break-in period of 100 miles (160 km) is necessary to
establish normal tire traction. During break-in, avoid sudden
and maximum braking and acceleration, and hard cornering.

Page 2

Engine Oil Flow Diagram

1. Camshaft Oil Passages

8. Oil Pipe

2. Drive Shaft Oil Passage

9. Balancer Oil Passage

3. Starter Clutch Oil Passage

10. Oil Pump

4. Output Shaft Oil Passage

11. Oil Cooler

5. Oil Screen

12. Oil Pressure Switch

6. Oil Pressure Relief Valve

13. Blowby Gas

7. Oil Filter
Page 3

Oil Level Inspection
Check that the engine oil level is between the
upper [A] and lower [B] levels in the oil level
inspection window.

A

Failure to adhere to these instructions from the
Owner Manual may result in engine seizure and
failure.

B

NOTE:
o Situate the motorcycle so that it is perpendicular to the ground.
o If the motorcycle has just been used, wait several minutes for all the oil to drain down.
o If the oil has just been changed, start the engine and run it for several minutes at idle speed. This fills the
oil filter with oil. Stop the engine, then wait several minutes until the oil settles.
NOTICE
Racing the engine before the oil reaches every part can cause engine seizure.
If the engine oil gets extremely low or if the oil pump or oil passages clog up or otherwise do not
function properly, the warning indicator light and oil pressure warning indicator will light. If this
light stays on when the engine is running above idle speed, stop the engine immediately and find
the cause.
 If the oil level is too high, remove the excess oil, using a syringe or some other suitable device.
 If the oil level is too low, add the correct amount of oil through the oil filler opening. Use the same type and
make of oil that is already in the engine.

Periodic Engine Oil Maintenance
The scheduled maintenance must be done in accordance with this chart to keep the motorcycle in good
running condition. The initial maintenance is vitally important and must not be neglected.
Failure to adhere to these instructions from the Owner Manual may result in engine seizure and failure.
Periodic Inspection
* A. Service at number of years shown or indicated odometer reading intervals, whichever comes first.
* B. For higher odometer readings, repeat at the frequency interval established here.
* C. Service more frequently when operating in severe conditions: dusty, wet, muddy, high speed, or
frequent starting/stopping.

NOTE:
o Daily maintenance items should also be checked at every scheduled dealer service.

Page 4

Engine Oil Change
● Situate the motorcycle so that it is vertical
after warming up the engine.
● Remove the engine oil drain bolt [A] to drain
the oil.
o The oil in the oil filter can be drained by
removing the filter.
● Replace the drain bolt gasket [B] with a new
one.
● Tighten the drain bolt.
● Torque - Engine Oil Drain Bolt: 21 ft·lb (3.0
kgf·m, 29 N·m)

● Remove the oil filler plug [A].

● Pour in the specified type and amount of oil.
Recommended Engine Oil
Type:

API SG, SH, SJ, SL or SM
with JASO MA, MA1 or MA2

Viscosity:

SAE 10W-40

Capacity:

2.9 L (3.1 US qt) (When
filter is not removed.)

3.4 L (3.6 US qt) (When
filter is removed.)

4.0 L (4.2 US qt) (When

engine is completely
dry.)
NOTE:
o Do not add any chemical additive to the oil. Oils fulfilling the above requirements are fully formulated and
provide adequate lubrication for both the engine and the clutch.
o Although 10W-40 engine oil is the recommended oil for most conditions, the oil viscosity may need to be
changed to accommodate atmospheric conditions in your riding area.
●
●
●
●

Replace the O-ring of the oil filler plug with a new one.
Apply grease to the new O-ring.
Install the oil filler plug.
Check the oil level.
Page 5

Oil Filter Replacement
● Remove left lower fairing (see Lower Fairing
Removal of the Service Manual).
● Drain engine oil.
● Remove oil filter with oil filter wrench [A].
Special Tool - Oil Filter Wrench:
57001-1249
● Replace filter with a new one.
● Apply grease to gasket [A] before installation.
● Tighten filter the oil filter wrench.
Special Tool - Oil Filter Wrench:
57001-1249
Torque - Oil Filter:
13 ft·lb (1.7 kgf·m, 17 N·m)
NOTE:
o DO NOT HAND TIGHTEN THE OIL FILTER. Use a torque wrench to tighten the oil filter to the proper
torque.
● Pour in the specified type and capacity of oil.
NOTE:
o If the oil pressure warning indication is illuminated after an oil change, air may be trapped in the oil line.
Slightly loosen the oil filter and allow a small amount of oil to drain from the sealing surface of the filter to
help release the trapped air. Tighten filter with a torque wrench

Precautions for Re-Starting the Engine after a Fall
If the motorcycle tips over, oil may drain from the engine’s oil lines, allowing air to enter the system. Operating
the engine with air in the oil lines can result in insufficient oil supply to internal components, potentially
causing severe engine damage such as seizure. When air is trapped in the oil lines and oil pressure does not
build up, the oil warning light on the meter will illuminate. After restarting the motorcycle following a fall,
always confirm that the oil warning light has turned off before riding.

Page 6

Oil Pressure Warning Indicator
Oil pressure warning indicator (Red)

Anytime the engine oil is changed, the oil filter is replaced, or the motorcycle has been laid on its side due to
a fall, air may become trapped in the oil line.
After starting the engine, confirm that the Oil Pressure Warning Indicator does not go on.
If the indicator goes on, rev the engine slightly (do not exceed 3,000 rpm) to circulate the oil and purge any
air from the system (no more than three times) to turn the indicator off.
If the indicator remains on, with the engine idling, loosen the oil filter momentarily to bleed the trapped air.
Failure to adhere to these instructions from the Owner Manual may result in engine seizure and
failure.

Risks & Restrictions Regarding Vehicle Modifications
This motorcycle has been precisely engineered to deliver high performance. Major components, including the
engine and lubrication system, are designed and optimized according to strict specifications. Any modification
or use of non-genuine parts may lead to serious issues such as inadequate lubrication and engine seizure.
Furthermore, alterations to the motorcycle’s structure or functions can impair handling and ultimately shorten
its service life.
Importantly, modifications may violate local laws or regulations and void the manufacturer’s warranty.
To maintain safety and performance, do not modify the motorcycle.
Failure to adhere to these instructions from the Owner Manual may result in engine seizure and failure.

Warranty Information
This is Service Information only, not warranty authorization

Page 7

2021~2026 Ninja® ZX™-10R & -10RR Technical Advisory
Periodic Engine Oil Maintenance & Service Information
THIS NOTICE APPLIES TO YOUR VEHICLE

VIN: JKBZXJJ1234000000

JOHN SMITH
ZX1000NMFNL
1234 MAIN STREET
ENGINE: ZX1000AA12345
ANYTOWN, CA 99999-9999
FRAME: A000000

DATE: FEBRUARY 2026
Dear Kawasaki Motorcycle Owner:
At Kawasaki, we take pride in producing high quality products and are committed to your continued satisfaction. To ensure
a long, trouble-free life for your motorcycle, we are sending a reminder to Ninja ZX-10R and ZX-10RR owners about the
importance of following the information provided in your Owner’s Manual.
WARNING
Failure to adhere to the instructions in the Owner Manual may result in engine seizure and the risk of an accident.
Make sure that regular maintenance and adjustments in accordance with the Owner’s Manual.
As high-performance models, the Ninja ZX-10R/10RR require proper handling and regular maintenance. It is important to
keep your motorcycle properly maintained and in safe riding condition. Inspect your motorcycle before every ride and carry
out all periodic maintenance. To ensure your motorcycle is serviced using the latest information, it is recommended that an
authorized Kawasaki Dealer performs the periodic maintenance as directed in the Owner’s Manual.
●

Break-In
The break-in process is essential because it allows the engine’s internal sliding components and drivetrain parts to
properly bed in. During the early stages of operation, components such as piston rings, cylinder walls, gears, and clutch
parts naturally undergo initial surface stabilization, and a controlled break-in helps prevent excessive wear, inadequate
lubrication, and potential seizure. It also ensures that the lubrication passages are fully primed with oil, contributing to
long-term engine protection. Proper break-in enables the motorcycle to achieve its intended performance, durability,
and reliability.
Failure to adhere to these instructions from the Owner Manual may result in engine seizure and failure.
The first 600 miles (1,000 km) of use is the break-in period.
Follow the RPM recommendations below to maintain the
vehicle’s performance and longevity.
NOTE:
o You can ride above the maximum engine revolution stated
in the break-in table briefly if necessary. Brief periods above
the listed engine revolutions will not affect break-in results.
o When travelling on public roads, obey the speed limits.
o Do not race the engine while the transmission is in neutral.

●

Break-In
Travelled Distance
0 ~ 250 miles
(0 ~ 350 km)
250 ~ 400 miles
(350 ~ 600 km)
400 ~ 600 miles
(600 ~ 1,000 km)

Max RPM
4,000 RPM
6,000 RPM
Ride Moderately

Periodic Engine Oil Maintenance
The scheduled maintenance must be done in accordance with the Periodic Maintenance chart in the Owner’s Manual to
keep the motorcycle in good running condition. The initial maintenance is vitally important and must not be neglected.
Failure to adhere to these instructions from the Owner Manual may result in engine seizure and failure.
Periodic Inspection
* A. Service at number of years shown or indicated odometer reading intervals, whichever comes first.
* B. For higher odometer readings, repeat at the frequency interval established here.
* C. Service more frequently when operating in severe conditions: dusty, wet, muddy, high speed, or frequent
starting/stopping.
NOTE:
o Daily maintenance items should
also be checked at every
scheduled dealer service.

●

Engine Oil Change
It is recommended that an authorized Kawasaki Dealer performs the oil change and oil filter change.
If you plan to perform your own oil and filter change yourself, the Kawasaki Service Manual contains detailed disassembly
and maintenance information.
NOTE:
o

●

If the oil pressure warning indication is illuminated after an oil change, air may be trapped in the oil line. Slightly
loosen the oil filter and allow a small amount of oil to drain from the sealing surface of the filter to help release the
trapped air. Tighten filter with a torque wrench.

Precautions for Re-starting the Engine After a Fall
If the motorcycle tips over, oil may drain from the engine’s oil lines, allowing air to enter the system. Operating the engine
with air in the oil lines can result in insufficient oil supply to internal components, potentially causing severe engine
damage such as seizure. When air is trapped in the oil lines and oil pressure does not build up, the oil warning light
[A] on the meter will illuminate. After restarting the motorcycle following a fall, always confirm that the oil warning light
[A] has turned off before riding.

●

Oil Pressure Warning Indicator

Anytime the engine oil is changed, the oil filter is replaced, or the motorcycle has been laid on its side due to a fall, air
may become trapped in the oil line. After starting the engine, confirm that the Oil Pressure Warning Indicator [A] does
not go on.
If the indicator goes on, rev the engine slightly (do not exceed 3,000 rpm) to circulate the oil and purge any air from
the system (no more than three times) to turn the indicator off.
If the indicator remains on, contact an authorized Kawasaki dealer.
Failure to adhere to these instructions from the Owner Manual may result in engine seizure and failure.
●

Risks & Restrictions Regarding Vehicle Modifications
This motorcycle has been precisely engineered to deliver high performance. Major components, including the engine
and lubrication system, are designed and optimized according to strict specifications. Any modification or use of
non-genuine parts may lead to serious issues such as inadequate lubrication and engine seizure.
Furthermore, alterations to the motorcycle’s structure or functions can impair handling and ultimately shorten its
service life. Importantly, modifications may violate local laws or regulations and void the manufacturer’s warranty.
To maintain safety and performance, do not modify the motorcycle.
Failure to adhere to these instructions from the Owner Manual may result in engine seizure and failure.

If you need help:
If you have questions or concerns that your dealer is not able to resolve, please contact Kawasaki Customer Care at (855)
878-4217 (toll-free) between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. PT Monday through Friday. Please have your Vehicle Identification
Number ready when calling.
If you received this notice in error:
Our records indicate you are the current owner of the Side x Side described in this letter. If you no longer have
the vehicle described in this letter, please help us to update our records at www.kawasaki.com by clicking on
“OWNER CENTER => OWNER SUPPORT => UPDATE OWNER INFO” or by calling Kawasaki toll free at
(855) 878-4217.
We have sent this notification in the interest of your continued satisfaction with your Kawasaki motorcycle.
Sincerely,
Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A.