Kawasaki Z900RS

Riders of the 2018 Kawasaki Z900RS, especially those with around 17k miles on the odometer, have reported experiencing two distinct noises from the motorcycle that suggest transmission-related issues:

1. Vibration and Grinding Sound on Startup: While pulling away slowly, there’s a higher-than-usual frequency vibration that can be felt through both the handlebars and the seat. This is accompanied by a relatively quiet grinding sound. Interestingly, releasing the clutch seems to rectify the problem temporarily.
2. Gear Slipping and Grinding: Primarily occurring between the 3rd and 5th gears, the motorcycle sometimes slips into neutral during gear changes. This results in a distressing grinding and popping noise, reminiscent of the sound produced when hitting a false neutral and forcefully shifting to 2nd gear, but markedly more pronounced.

Possible Causes and Solutions

1. Work Shift Forks or Rounded off Dogs:

Rounded-off dogs or work shift forks could be responsible for the gear slipping. As components wear down or get rounded, the gear slipping can exacerbate.

• Solution: Check the oil for metal bits as this can confirm if the issue is originating from the gearbox.

2. Engagement Issues:

The pegs, which ensure gears engage properly, may not be doing their job. This could be due to:

• The gears that slide might not be getting the required force to prevent false neutrals.
• The shift drum, which lines up the forks for the gears, may not be springing into its proper position.
• Solution: Inspecting the shift drum’s spring mechanism can reveal if it’s functioning as it should. This entails observing if the drum “springs” back into place when moved.

3. Wear and Tear on Gear Pegs and Slots:

Repeatedly falling into a false neutral can wear out and round off the pegs on the gears, causing further gear slipping.

• Solution: A visual inspection of the gear pegs and slots can reveal signs of wear.

Additional Insights

• From shared experiences, it seems the 2018-2019 models of the Z900RS might be more susceptible to these issues.
• Although unusual for a newer bike, the described problems can exacerbate if not addressed promptly.

Recommended Actions

1. Regular Maintenance: Always ensure your bike is routinely serviced and undergoes thorough checks, even if it’s relatively new.
2. Seek Expertise: If you’re experiencing the described issues, consult with a mechanic or someone experienced with motorcycle transmissions.
3. Stay Informed: Joining dedicated forums or communities, like the Z900RS forums, can provide invaluable insights from other riders facing similar problems.

Conclusion

While the Kawasaki Z900RS is undoubtedly an excellent motorcycle, being informed and proactive about potential transmission issues ensures your riding experience remains smooth and enjoyable. Addressing concerns early and seeking expert advice can help extend the lifespan and performance of your beloved machine.