2024 Kawasaki Ninja 500

Defect. Kawasaki Motor Corp., U.S.A. (KMC) is recalling certain 2024 Ninja 500 (ABS, KRT Edition, KRT Edition SE ABS, SE ABS, SE 40th Anniversary Edition ABS), Z500 ABS, and Z500 SE ABS motorcycles. The clutch release shaft was not properly welded, which can cause the clutch lever to break apart.

Risk. A broken clutch release lever may not disengage, disabling the motorcycle and increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Dealers will replace the clutch release shaft, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 24, 2025. Owners may contact KMC customer service at 1-866-802-9381. KMC's number for this recall is MC25-04.

The contact owned a 2024 Kawasaki Ninja 500. The contact stated while driving approximately 35 MPH and making a turn downhill on a mountain, the contact applied the front brakes, but the front brake lever travelled to the grip, and the vehicle failed to respond. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact applied the rear brakes, which engaged, but the vehicle failed to complete the turn. The vehicle drove straightforward over dirt, drove on a cliff, over the edge of an embankment, and crashed onto the ground. No police report was filed. The motorcycle was towed and totaled. The contact sustained injuries, sought medical assistance, and was still being evaluated. The contact was currently aware of injuries on left shoulder, ribs, heart, right knee, left elbow, neck, and head. The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 500.