If kawasaki was a responsible company they would do a factory recall on the black plastic fender trim. Every 650 sold has broken trim and they know that there was a serious problem with the formula used for this black trim. I have used 400's for my outfitting business and because of the way these bikes stood up I decided to switch to kawis and the 650 in particular. What a mistake this is turning out to be, if Kawasaki does not address their problem, I am going to honda again. I can't see where the 700 plastic is any better,and I can 't haul clients around on a $10,000 bike that looks like-------. I would tell you to use caution if you are looking a a new Kawi.

 

I dont know, I ride in some very rough areas, in the woods and on mountain trails. My black plastic trim is still in great shape except a few scratches here and there. Perhaps you have more hours or miles on yours. I am at 180 hours with 1600 miles.

 

Mega

I totally agree with you.... but tell me your not going to switch brands because of some cheap plastc trim??

 

Howdy,
In a nutshell, "to hell with the black plastic"!! I removed the black plastic from the front of my quad about a year ago. I also trimmed the black below the front of the running board. I have never regretted the removal. I have left it on the back, it is cracked too. I just dont care because I didnt buy this quad for a beauty contest. I like to be the fastest quad when I am riding with a group. Nobody gets too close to it to criticize it. I have had it for almost 3 years and have replaced the belt 1 time, replaced the front brake pads 1 time, and replaced the swingarm bushings 1 time. I dont think that is too much maintaince for 2600 miles. Have a wonderful day!!

 

I like my stuff original. Therefore I want the plastic on my quad. I recently bought new front strips. I glued and riveted them on. I also put metal tape over the front on them to prevent branches and such from sliding in between and causing separation. The design really sucks. You would think that could come up with something more durable

 

 

I agree that there are many good features on the 650 but the problem with the plastic is the COLD. as soon as it gets below freezing all you have to do is look at it sideways and a piece will fall out. it leaves jagged edges and i have had clients rip their clothes on the edges. This stuff is unbelievable poor. the first piece about three inches square broke out within a week as i was wiping off some mud in 25 F temperatures. the trim on the older bikes never did this, only on the new formula plastic trim on the 650. and there is no problem with the main plastic. the reason you have no problem in texas or oklahoma is climate. I have 9000 km on the one bike and made 7500 km on the first belt. and i love the power speed and ride, BUT kawi knows it made a mistake on the plastic trim. So be responsible and own up to it!!!!!!!!!!!!!! The worst problem is that it breaks out around the front on the foot rest and you get sprayed from the front wheels. not good when your taking a hunter to his/her tree stand--- dont need natural camo[img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-frown.gif[/img]