News Kawasaki takes it up a notch with its warranty: 6 years for all its motorcycles in Europe!

Kawasaki is making a big splash in the European market. Starting November 1, 2026, the Akashi-based brand is extending its manufacturer’s warranty to six years for all new street motorcycles sold through its official dealership network. This major step raises industry standards and is shaking up riders’ expectations.

Extending the warranty from 4 to 6 years represents a 50% increase in the coverage offered by the Japanese company. This new policy will take effect on November 1, 2026, for new 2027 models approved for road use, as well as for new motorcycles from previous model years still in stock within the official European network and not yet registered under the warranty.

Peace of mind as a key selling point

Rolled out gradually across the various European subsidiaries through early 2027, this program builds on the brand’s efforts to foster customer loyalty and enhance their peace of mind in everyday life. The warranty remains non-transferable by law but may be transferred to a new owner at the manufacturer’s discretion, provided that the maintenance history within the official network has been strictly adhered to. In all cases, coverage expires after six years.

Shigemi Tanaka, Managing Director of Kawasaki Motors Europe, highlights the rationale behind this strong commitment:

Our customer service data shows that the vast majority of owners will likely never need to make a claim under the Kawasaki warranty. However, if they do need help or assistance, it is reassuring for them to know that they can file a warranty claim not only the day, week, month, or year after their purchase, but for a full six years. This updated policy perfectly illustrates our confidence in the quality and durability of the products sold by our authorized dealers in Europe.

Overview: How Does Kawasaki Stack Up Against the Top 10 in the French Market?

Faced with extended warranties contingent on annual maintenance and standard warranties, the market is evolving very rapidly. Kawasaki is establishing itself at the top of the long-term direct manufacturer warranties in an increasingly competitive landscape.

Here is a comparative overview of the warranties offered by the ten best-selling brands in the new motorcycle market:

Key Takeaways from This Comparison

1. Original Warranty vs. Conditional Warranty: While Suzuki offers a record-breaking 10-year warranty, it’s a customer loyalty program that must be renewed annually during dealership maintenance visits. Kawasaki, on the other hand, offers a direct 6-year manufacturer’s warranty without the need to renew the contract each year.
2. CFMoto and mechanical coverage: Unlike Japanese manufacturers, which cover the entire vehicle, CFMoto limits coverage for years 3 through 5 to vital components (engine, transmission, and frame).
3. Increased Pressure on the Competition: Faced with the growing strength of Suzuki (10 years, subject to conditions), Honda (5 years), and Kawasaki (6 years), pressure is mounting on major players like Yamaha and European brands, which remain anchored to a standard 2- or 3-year warranty.