KAWASAKI carb bikes have been getting pricier lately, haven’t they? Now for some light maintenance along with the inspection. June has so many inspections… sigh.
Carb bikes are easy to work on—you can remove the tank without much hassle!
FI bikes require getting used to wiring and fuel couplers on first encounter. When working on a carb bike, I think to myself, “It’s so human-friendly!” *Or is it just a matter of familiarity?
I changed the oil and filter. The engine oil is Shell Advance.
The drain bolt was dirty, so I replaced it. It’s an old HRC product. HRC Perforated Drain Bolt 130 yen! Available on WEBIKE. M12-P1.5 90081-NX4-000
You should check the coolant on water-cooled bikes once every two years.
I suspect there are actually quite a few bikes running “bone dry” on coolant? There are surprisingly many bikes idling at traffic lights and in traffic with the engine running.
Large bikes reach 100 degrees quickly without wind from riding. Since it’s not oil, you want to adjust it so it doesn’t hit triple digits if possible.
The “three fluids special” is standard.
Engine Oil/Brake Fluid/Coolant exchange should cover most bases. After that, you can do maintenance as needed based on time and mileage.
A fully charged battery gives better spark.
The starter motor spins differently and the first start is completely different. During maintenance, proper charging—ideally always—is necessary.
I also cleaned the air filter! Next is the inspection and test ride to finish up!