Kawasaki Sportsbike Riders Club - Australia - Online Forum

I don't think the tyre are an issue unless you're heavy with the throttle all the time. I always get 10k out of mine.
One thing against it would be sevicing. General stuff like changing oil is as easy as any other bike, but doing anything on the engine is a nightmare!!
It took me a couple hours to check the spark plugs! I think next time it will be quicker to just drop the engine. I'm dreading doing the shims
Having said that, I'd buy another in a heartbeat. They're a fantastic all round bike and for the money it's hard to go past a 12!

I have over 150,000kms on my 2000 zx12. I love it and although it has been rebuilt numerous times with 5 new clutches etc I still like it better than my zx14 so far. The later model ones are even better I hear with quicker turning. Shims are no problem just use an occy strap to hold the wires back from the rocker cover takes about 40 minutes when you get used to it. Replacing all the fairing bits gets tedious though. Only did the shims at 40,000 and then checked then every 20,000kms needed doing about 5 times and then only one or two shims.

Che wrote:I have over 150,000kms on my 2000 zx12. I love it and although it has been rebuilt numerous times with 5 new clutches etc I still like it better than my zx14 so far. The later model ones are even better I hear with quicker turning. Shims are no problem just use an occy strap to hold the wires back from the rocker cover takes about 40 minutes when you get used to it. Replacing all the fairing bits gets tedious though. Only did the shims at 40,000 and then checked then every 20,000kms needed doing about 5 times and then only one or two shims.

Thanks for the tip. I've got about 37k on the clock at the moment. I'm clocking roughly 500kays a week so it won't be long before I have to do the shims.
I can't believe you didn't have to drop the engine to do the shims
How did you manage to get the rocker cover off in such a tiny gap?
Sorry about hijacking the thread but it will help future owners

Mmmmm.....how bout it will be one more thing that you have that I want

thanks for replies guys, that's helped a fair bit in making me more rational about this decision..

couple of questions, how many km's per tank (and how many litres) in touring mode, I do a lot of long distance stuff (the fun way, not freeway guff) but assume I'll be lighter on the throttle than on my 6 because I'll run out of balls long before I run into rev limiter. Also fuel range on city commuting as new job will require that my bike is not just a toy but a tool as well.

I'm also usually very light on my tyres, so I doubt I'll chew through them as quick as y'all think, but how much for a set? I'm partial to continental's after having one on the back of my 6 for a while, but what tyres do you recommend? they take a 200 profile don't they? can I fit a 190? I do most of my own servicing on my bike and have some staunch mates who should be able to help with the shims etc (never done that myself, will learn)

it's all just fairy piss at the moment, new city, new job, new bike dreamin', but I so love the 12.... *swoon* thanks again for replies -J.

Is this to replace the ZX6 J? Or a 2nd bike for long distances?

Drop the engine? that sounds like 888 Ducati stuff. No plenty of room to do the shims. If you think that gap is tight you should try the zx14 but it is better now I have ditched all the emission stuff and put on block off plates.

seraph wrote:thanks for replies guys, that's helped a fair bit in making me more rational about this decision..

couple of questions, how many km's per tank (and how many litres) in touring mode, I do a lot of long distance stuff (the fun way, not freeway guff) but assume I'll be lighter on the throttle than on my 6 because I'll run out of balls long before I run into rev limiter. Also fuel range on city commuting as new job will require that my bike is not just a toy but a tool as well.

I'm also usually very light on my tyres, so I doubt I'll chew through them as quick as y'all think, but how much for a set? I'm partial to continental's after having one on the back of my 6 for a while, but what tyres do you recommend? they take a 200 profile don't they? can I fit a 190? I do most of my own servicing on my bike and have some staunch mates who should be able to help with the shims etc (never done that myself, will learn)

it's all just fairy piss at the moment, new city, new job, new bike dreamin', but I so love the 12.... *swoon* thanks again for replies -J.

I normally get 250kays before filling up, averaging 6.3L/100km at the moment, need to get the PC3 tuned. Doing mostly Fwy riding to work and back.
Every 12 owner will tell you to forget about the 200 rear hoop and stick with a 190. I run a 190 shinko on the rear of mine and costs me $170 fitted each time. It's a cheap tyre but the grip is excellent!

most of the guys have mentioned licence issues....

i only ride a 900..and i cant keep my bloody licence... and i kno guys with 600's who cant keep there licence..so i dont take that as a valid argument...

i love the fact there a big ballsy mother of a thing, if i was gunna do long tour type rides id have one...

but i dont like how bulky and heavy they are..i havent ridden one yet, tho wen i thought abt buying it and i sat on it, it was just too damn big and bulky...kinda like rooting a fat chick...it has its advantages, but i wouldnt wanna do it all the time!!

just get one,

yeah sure they chew more fuel who gives a fugg its worth it, I can get 260k's from 19litre tank of normal riding, 220 if your going for gold

As Neka said too they are larger than a litre bike, basically a sportsbike for big dudes. If you are not a large gent' dont get one.

Agreed, they're not for everyone, one of the reasons I like the 12 is that it's bulkier than the tiny 600s and litre bikes, I just don't feel as confident on the little bikes for some reason. Best take one for a spin and make sure it feels right for you.

fat girls need love too, neka

I'm a 5'11" lass... tall enough and I can drink you under the table but by no means a "large gent"

cheers, food for thought -J.

Just buy one, there are too many for sale....

I don't have licence issues........ I get mine back in twelve months...

seraph wrote:fat girls need love too, neka

I'm a 5'11" lass... tall enough and I can drink you under the table but by no means a "large gent"

cheers, food for thought -J.

Challenge accepted.