Vehicle recall 81V119000 · October 7, 1981

Kawasaki KZ1000 and KZ1100

The bolt which secures the drive chain sprocket to the transmission output shaft may loosen during normal operation.

Source: NHTSA data as of September 22, 2026. Last refreshed Sep 23, 2026, 2:43 AM UTC.

Summary: The bolt which secures the drive chain sprocket to the transmission output shaft may loosen during normal operation. If this bolt comes loose, the sprocket may separate from the shaft, resulting in lock-up of rear wheel.
Remedy: Dealer will ensure that the proper torque (58 ft. Lb.) is applied to the bolt and a system of interlocking washers will be installed to prevent the bolt from loosening. This will be done without charge to owner.
Notes: Vehicle description: motorcycles.system: power train; sprocket bolt.consequences of defect: locking of the rear wheel could occur without priorwarning, possibly causing loss of vehicle control and an accident.note: motorcycle should not be ridden until repairs are completed.

Recall details

NHTSA campaign: 81V119000
Reported to NHTSA: October 7, 1981
Filed by: KAWASAKI MOTORS CORP.
Owner notification: December 1, 1981
Vehicles potentially affected: 14,677
Initiated by: the manufacturer
Components: Power train › Driveline › Driveshaft

Recall 81V119000 on nhtsa.gov, with the manufacturer’s documents

Vehicles covered

As listed by NHTSA. A recall usually covers only some vehicles of each model and year, often a production date range.

Kawasaki KZ1000 (1981-1982): 1982, 1981
Kawasaki KZ1100 (1981-1982): 1982, 1981

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