Background: Electric model range is growing – and with it the challenges
With the introduction of the all-electric Ninja e-1 and Z e-1 in 2024, Kawasaki broke new ground in the series production range. At the same time, the brand also launched the two hybrid models Ninja 7 HEV and Z7 HEV. While the new drive concepts certainly attracted attention, the launch did not go entirely smoothly.
The first recall for the two hybrids was issued back in September 2024, followed by another in November of the same year. Now it concerns the all-electric models, the Ninja e-1 and the Z e-1.
The problem: Missing armature at the battery connection
Specifically, the problem is a missing anchor, which is responsible for the connection between the battery and the corresponding connection. If this connection is not made securely, the power supply could be interrupted unexpectedly. As both models are powered exclusively by electricity, this would mean that the motorcycles could suddenly stop in the middle of a ride.
Kawasaki emphasizes that this problem only affects models built before October 19, 2023. From June 2024, battery supplier Forsee carried out additional checks on the battery terminals to ensure that the fault no longer occurs in later production batches.
Recall affects around 216 machines worldwide
Kawasaki currently assumes that around 216 motorcycles are affected. This corresponds to around one percent of the units produced. In order to rectify the problem, Kawasaki will inform all affected owners in writing. Authorized Kawasaki dealers will check the battery connections and, if necessary, replace the entire battery free of charge.
A Stop Sale and Stop Delivery instruction was also issued to dealers in parallel with the recall. This came into force on February 24, 2025. The exact repair instructions will be made available to dealers in the course of March 2025.
Affected models and contact details
The recall bears the internal Kawasaki number MC25-03. Affected owners can contact Kawasaki Motors Corporation USA directly at 1-866-802-9381. Alternatively, the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) can also be contacted. The hotline can be reached at 888-327-4236 (TTY: 888-275-9171). Further information is also available on the official NHTSA website at www.nhtsa.gov.
Technical data and conversions
- Number of motorcycles affected: approx. 216 units
- Period of affected production: Before October 19, 2023
- Kawasaki recall number: MC25-03
- Recall date: February 24, 2025
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