2023 Kawasaki ZX400

Defect. Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A. (KMC) is recalling certain 2023 ZX400SPFNL motorcycles. The alternator may fail due to a loose connection between the rotor and crank shaft, causing an engine stall.

Risk. An engine stall can increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Dealers will inspect and tighten the rotor bolt, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 14, 2023. Owners may contact KMC customer service at 1-866-802-9381.

The contact owned a 2023 Kawasaki ZX400. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, cylinder three started shuddering and misfiring. As a result, flames were noticed coming from the front area, near the engine compartment, causing the vehicle to be burned down. No one was injured during the fire. A race track fire crew arrived and extinguished the fire. A police and fire report was not filed. The vehicle was towed to a local dealer, where it remains, and the cause of the fire has not been determined yet. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 5,000.

The contact owns a 2023 Kawasaki ZX400 Motorcycle. The contact state while riding approximately 65 MPH and in 6th gear, the motorcycle lost motive power. In addition, while downshifting into the lower gears, the motorcycle had reduced power until 4th gear. The engine seized and the contact grabbed the clutch to slow down and pull over. The contact stated the front of the crankcase had a hole. No warning light was illuminated. The motorcycle was towed to a local dealer where it was diagnosed but the result was not available. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 64,000.

I was leaving a stop light in road mode. I took off smoothly with no rapid acceleration. I was in second gear and was going roughly 20 mph, when suddenly the bike stalled and the rpms immediately dropped. I was jerked forward but stood on the bike. However, it caused me to drop it on my right side, causing the right side fairings, exhaust pipe, even frame and bar ends to be scratched. I did get injured with a fractured hand. Luckily there was no traffic around and no others were in danger. There was no warning lamps on the dash at the time, and it hasn't happened so far. I have not got the bike checked yet, but definitely plan on it after hearing of the recall.