KiPass

[PH14]

The new Ninja 500 SE is now the 3rd Kaw model to come with our beloved KIPASS.  It's been a mystery to me why Kawasaki haven't fitted it to more models since we first saw it on our ZG1400 way back in 2007.

https://www.kawasaki.com.au/en-au/motorcycle/ninja/sport/ninja-500/2025-ninja-500-se-krt-edition

https://pws.ktivs.net/assets/manuals/99814-0067-o6ex500gsf-us-en_ebook-e64eec8564e4c8b1f3496c1b25ea1ad8/index.html#page=105

Same KIPASS as the H2 SX SE but without TPMS.

No mystery to me. KIPASS was my only objection to buying the Concours when I finally did buy it in 2010. I liked everything but KIPASS, and still feel the same way. It is an unnecessary, complicated system. It serves no purpose for the majority of users. A key would be much better for me. I see no reason to have a bulky FOB in my pocket when I could simply use a key.

[Freddy]

Most new vehicles have fobs these days.  Kawasaki was leading the way.   

[Boomer]

Just because you don't have a theft problem where you are, doesn't mean that others don't.

I have liked the convenience and practicality of KiPass since I bought the bike in 2007.
It lives inside a zip-lock bag in my riding jacket zipped pocket and pretty much never comes out, as I have had a separate key cut for the side-bags and use the Stove-Knob key for the gas tank.
Yes, it is a complex system, but it is designed that way to make it difficult for thieves to circumvent, even after they have carried the bike off.

When we were at the GTR Rally in Austria last August, several people asked me why I always locked my bike with a chain when I parked it.
Having had 2 bikes stolen I no longer trust in fragile steering locks so I lock the rear wheel to prevent such types of push away theft.

[Freddy]

    

[PH14]

I just don't see anything convenient about it, unless all you do is start the bike and ride it. If you frequently use the bags, it is not convenient. I still see it an unnecessary. If it were a bike that had a high likelihood of being stolen, like many Harley models, then perhaps.

As for cars having fobs, I dislike those as well. I would rather have a key, and do for my car. I dread the day I may have to have a large fob instead of a key. My key has the lock/unlock buttons on the key, and I would do away with those if I could, and simply have a key. Keys take up so much less room.

That being said, I have had no issues with KIPASS, but I see no reason for it, and prefer simplicity. Less to go wrong in long term use. I do understand why some people like the system, but for me, it was the only drawback for the bike.

[Freddy]