Kawasaki J300 - Owner's Manual > Training

Kawasaki strongly recommends that all operators of this vehicle complete a suitable motorcycle rider training program to learn the proper skills and techniques necessary for safe motorcycle operation.

Daily Checks and Periodic Maintenance

It is important to keep your motorcycle properly maintained and in safe riding condition. Inspect your motorcycle before every ride and carry out all periodic maintenance. See the Daily Checks section and Periodic Maintenance section in the MAINTENANCE AND ADJUSTMENT chapter for more information.

WARNING

Failure to perform these checks or to correct a problem before operation may result in serious damage or an accident. Always perform daily checks before operation.

To ensure your motorcycle is serviced using the latest servicing information, it is recommended that an authorized Kawasaki Dealer performs the periodic maintenance as directed in the Owner's Manual.

If you notice any irregular operating condition, have your motorcycle thoroughly checked at an authorized Kawasaki dealer as soon as possible.

Loading and Accessories Information

WARNING

Incorrect loading, improper installation or use of accessories, or modification of your motorcycle may result in an unsafe riding condition. Before you ride the motorcycle, make sure it is not overloaded and that you have followed these instructions.

Maximum Load

Weight of rider, passenger, baggage, and accessories must not exceed 165 kg (364 lb).

With the exception of genuine Kawasaki Parts and Accessories, Kawasaki has no control over the design or application of accessories. In some cases, improper installation or use of accessories, or motorcycle modification, will void the motorcycle warranty; can negatively affect performance, stability and safety; and can even be illegal.

In selecting and using accessories, and in loading the motorcycle, you are personally responsible for your own safety and the safety of other persons involved.

NOTE

• Kawasaki Parts and Accessories have been specially designed for use on Kawasaki motorcycles. We strongly recommend that all parts and accessories you add to your motorcycle be genuine Kawasaki components.

Because a motorcycle is sensitive to changes in weight and aerodynamic forces, you must take extreme care in carrying cargo, passengers and/or in fitting additional accessories. The following general guidelines have been prepared to assist you in making your determinations.

Passenger

1. Never carry more than one passenger.

2. The passenger should only sit on the pillion.

3. Any passenger should be thoroughly familiar with motorcycle operation.

The passenger can affect control of the motorcycle by improper positioning during cornering and sudden movements. It is important that the passenger sits still while the motorcycle is in motion and not interfere with the operation of the motorcycle. Do not carry animals on your motorcycle.

4. Do not carry passengers unless passenger footpegs are installed.

Instruct any passenger before riding to keep his or her feet on the passenger footpegs and hold on to the operator or grab rail. Do not carry a passenger unless he or she is tall enough to reach the footpegs with their feet.

Baggage and Luggage

1. All baggage should be carried as low as possible to reduce the effect on the motorcycle's center of gravity.

Baggage weight should also be distributed equally on both sides of the motorcycle. Avoid carrying baggage that extends beyond the rear of the motorcycle.

2. Baggage should be securely attached.

Make sure that the baggage will not move around while you are riding. Recheck baggage security as often as possible (not while the motorcycle is in motion) and adjust as necessary.

3. Do not carry heavy or bulky items on a luggage rack. It is designed for light items, and overloading can affect handling due to changes in weight distribution and aerodynamic forces.

Accessories

1. Do not install accessories or carry baggage that impairs the performance of the motorcycle. Make sure that you have not adversely affected any lighting components, road clearance, banking capability (i.e., lean angle), control operation, wheel travel, front fork movement, or any other aspects of the motorcycle's operation.

2. Weight attached to the handlebars or front fork will increase the mass of the steering assembly and can result in an unsafe riding condition.

3. Fairings, windshields, backrests, and other large items have the capability of adversely affecting stability and handling of the motorcycle, not only due to their weight, but also due to the aerodynamic force acting on these surfaces while the motorcycle is in operation. Poorly designed or installed items can result in an unsafe riding condition.

Other Load

1. This motorcycle is not intended to be equipped with a sidecar or to be used to tow any trailers or other vehicles.

Kawasaki does not manufacture sidecars or trailers for motorcycles and cannot predict the effects of such accessories on handling or stability, but can only warn that the effects can be adverse and that Kawasaki cannot assume responsibility for the results of such unintended use of the motorcycle.

2. Furthermore, any adverse effects on motorcycle components caused by the use of such accessories will not be remedied under warranty.

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