Should you pick OEM or aftermarket 2006 Kawasaki ZX6R fairings?

NiceFairings.com

·August 14, 2025

·8 min read

You want your bike to look great and fit your style. Aftermarket 2006 kawasaki zx6r fairings give you many choices for colors and designs. You save money and still get a solid fit. If you care about factory looks and perfect fit, OEM fairings work best. You pay more, but you get guaranteed quality.

2006 Kawasaki ZX6R Fairings: OEM vs Aftermarket Comparison

OEM Fairings: Pros, Cons, and Who Should Choose Them

You get OEM fairings straight from the manufacturer. These panels match your bike’s original look and feel. OEM fairings use high-quality materials and precise craftsmanship. You can expect perfect fitment and color matching. When you install OEM fairings, you avoid problems with alignment or gaps. You also get a finish that matches the factory paint codes.

Pros of OEM Fairings:

Guaranteed fit and finish
Superior durability and material quality
Factory paint and decals
Reliable warranty support

Cons of OEM Fairings:

Higher price compared to aftermarket options
Limited choices for colors and designs
Longer wait times for special orders

If you ride for speed and performance, OEM fairings help you maintain aerodynamics and stability. Racers and sportbike enthusiasts often choose OEM panels for their reliability and perfect match. You also benefit if you want to keep your 2006 kawasaki zx6r fairings looking original or plan to sell your bike in the future.

Aftermarket Fairings: Pros, Cons, and Who Should Choose Them

Aftermarket fairings give you more freedom to customize your bike. You find many colors, graphics, and finishes. Most aftermarket 2006 kawasaki zx6r fairings use ABS virgin thermoplastic and injection molding. These panels come pre-drilled and ready to install. Some brands offer a show-quality finish with multiple layers of paint and clear coat.

Pros of Aftermarket Fairings:

Lower cost than OEM
Wide range of colors and designs
Pre-installed decals under clear coat
180-day warranty against paint issues

Cons of Aftermarket Fairings:

Paint may not match factory colors exactly
Material can feel harder or more brittle
Fitment may vary between brands
Some sets may not align perfectly with OEM panels
Many users say aftermarket fairings fit well, especially when you buy a complete set. You avoid mismatches by not mixing OEM and aftermarket panels. Some riders report that aftermarket fairings feel harder, but the fit is still good. If you want to save money or personalize your bike, aftermarket fairings work well for casual riders, enthusiasts, and even racers who want modular customization.

Rider Profile	Fairing Model	Features & Suitability
Casual Riders	Base Model	Standard aerodynamic efficiency, cost-effective, limited customization. Good for daily use.
Enthusiasts	Advanced Model	Better aerodynamics, thicker material, moderate customization. Great for track days.
Professional Racers	Pro Model	Maximum aerodynamics, premium material, full customization. Designed for high-speed racing.

Side-by-Side Summary Table

Attribute	OEM Fairings	Aftermarket Fairings
Material	Factory-grade ABS plastic	High quality ABS virgin thermoplastic
Craftsmanship	Precision factory molding	Injection molding machine craft
Finish	Factory paint, perfect match	Show quality finish, six layers of paint and clear coat
Installation	Perfect fit, easy alignment	Pre-drilled holes, fitment varies by brand
Decals	Factory decals	Pre-installed, applied under clear coat
Warranty	Manufacturer warranty	180-day warranty against paint issues
Price	High	Lower
Customization	Limited	Wide range of options
Paint Matching	Exact match	May differ from factory codes
Best For	Purists, racers, resale value	Budget riders, customizers, casual and track enthusiasts

2006 Kawasaki ZX6R Fairings Installation Guide

OEM Fairings Installation: Process and Challenges

When you install OEM fairings, you work with panels made to fit your bike exactly. These parts often use strong materials like ABS plastic or carbon fiber. Carbon fiber lower side fairings can feel less flexible, so you need to handle them with care. Sometimes, you may need to make small adjustments, such as filing slots or enlarging holes with a drill bit.

You should gather the right tools before you start. Here is a list of recommended tools:

Allen wrench set
Dremel kit
Silicon carbide grinding stone bit
240-grit sanding bands
Drill bit
Lubricant (like WD-40)
Safety goggles and gloves

Always use hand tools and a little lubricant when screwing bolts into plastic fasteners. Avoid over-tightening to prevent damage. Take your time with carbon fiber parts, as they need careful handling.

Aftermarket Fairings Installation: Process and Challenges

Aftermarket 2006 kawasaki zx6r fairings usually come pre-drilled and ready to install. You do not need to drill new holes, which makes the process easier. These fairings are designed to bolt directly onto your bike and match the OEM fit closely. Most riders can install them at home with basic tools.

You should use your stock hardware or new steel bolts for a secure fit. Some kits include heat shields for the lower parts, so remember to install them. If you notice any defects or damage when you open the box, take pictures and contact the seller for replacements. If you do not feel confident with tools, you can ask a professional to help.

Tips for Smooth Installation

Tip: Take your time and check each step as you go. Rushing can lead to mistakes.

Follow these steps for a smooth installation:

Lay out all fairing pieces and hardware before starting.
Use stock or new steel hardware for best results.
Install heat shields on lower fairings if included.
Avoid over-tightening bolts to protect the plastic.
If you are unsure, ask a professional for help.

A careful approach helps you get the best fit and finish for your bike.

Customization Options for 2006 Kawasaki ZX6R Fairings

Customizing with OEM Fairings

You can personalize OEM fairings, but your options stay limited. Most sellers offer a few custom touches if you reach out directly. You might choose a special color or ask to add or remove logos. Some sellers let you combine kits or request unique designs. OEM fairings use high-quality ABS plastic and a 7-layer UV-resistant paint process, so your bike keeps its factory look and durability.

Unique color choices and logo changes available by request
Custom kit combinations possible when you contact the seller
Full fairing kits often include trim, seat cowl, windshield, and heat shield
Injection-molded panels ensure perfect fit and easy installation

Note: You need to contact the seller for most customizations. OEM fairings focus on matching the original style, so options for wild designs or patterns are rare.

Customizing with Aftermarket Fairings

Aftermarket fairings give you much more freedom to create a look that matches your personality. You can pick any color, pattern, or decal you want. Many companies offer custom paint and decals at no extra cost. You can even send in your own images or notes for a one-of-a-kind design. Aftermarket fairings use strong ABS plastic and a 7-layer UV-resistant finish, so your custom look lasts.

Free custom paint and decals with your order
Add or remove logos and decals by sending requests or images
Order full custom fairings by providing your own design ideas
Choose between street and racing versions
Rear seat cover options included or omitted as you wish

You can use your stock hardware for installation, and most aftermarket kits come pre-drilled for easy mounting.

Best Choice for Personalization

If you want the most flexibility, aftermarket 2006 kawasaki zx6r fairings stand out. You get to choose special colors, racing liveries, or even stealth black-outs. A design team can help you bring your ideas to life. The fairings use durable, impact-resistant ABS plastic and come with a high-gloss, UV-protected finish. You also get extras like a seat cowl, heat shielding, and a tinted windshield. Installation stays simple with pre-drilled holes and compatibility with factory hardware.

Tip: Aftermarket fairings let you express your style without limits. You can work with the company to create a bike that looks exactly how you want.

Decision Guide: Picking the Right 2006 Kawasaki ZX6R Fairings

Key Questions to Help You Decide

You want to make the best choice for your bike. Ask yourself these questions before you buy new fairings:

Do you care most about keeping your bike original?
Is your budget tight, or do you want to save money?
Will you install the fairings yourself, or do you plan to get help?
Do you want a custom look, or do you prefer the factory style?
How important is durability for your riding style?
Are you comfortable with possible fitment adjustments?

Use the table below to compare the most important factors. This will help you see which option matches your needs.

Factor	OEM Fairings	Aftermarket Fairings
Quality	High quality, made by original manufacturer	Variable quality, often sourced overseas
Cost	More expensive	Usually cheaper
Fitment	Perfect fit, designed specifically for bike	May have fitment and alignment issues
Durability	High durability	May be less durable
Installation	Easier due to perfect fit	May require adjustments
Painting/Decals	Usually included or matched	May require additional cost or DIY painting
Return Policy	Reliable through dealerships	Important to verify with seller

Tip: Write down your answers to these questions. This will help you decide which fairings fit your needs best.

Real-World Scenarios and Examples

You can learn from other riders’ experiences. Here are some common situations:

If you want your bike to look exactly like it did when new, OEM fairings work best. You get perfect fit and color match. Many riders who plan to sell their bike choose OEM panels.
If you want to save money and try new colors or graphics, aftermarket fairings offer more choices. You can pick a bold design or match your favorite racing team.
If you ride every day and need strong panels, OEM fairings last longer. You avoid problems with cracks or fading.
If you enjoy working on your bike and want a unique look, aftermarket fairings let you customize. You may need to adjust the fit, but you get a style that stands out.

You can use these examples to match your own needs. Think about how you use your bike and what matters most to you. The right choice for your 2006 kawasaki zx6r fairings depends on your answers.

You want the best value and flexibility for your bike. Aftermarket 2006 kawasaki zx6r fairings give you a strong mix of durability, style, and lower cost. You also get extras like a seat cowl and heat shield. OEM fairings work well if you want factory fit and finish. Check the table below to compare long-term costs:

Feature	Aftermarket Fairings	OEM Fairings
Price	Lower	Higher
Durability	High	High
Customization	Many options	Limited
Included Extras	Yes	Rare

Pick the option that matches your budget, style, and confidence with installation.

FAQ

What is the main difference between OEM and aftermarket fairings?

OEM fairings come from the original manufacturer. They match your bike’s factory look and fit perfectly. Aftermarket fairings offer more colors and designs. You save money with aftermarket options, but you may need to adjust the fit.

Can you install aftermarket fairings by yourself?

Yes, you can install aftermarket fairings at home. Most kits come pre-drilled and ready to mount. Use your stock hardware for best results. If you feel unsure, ask a professional for help.

Will aftermarket fairings affect your bike’s performance?

Aftermarket fairings do not change your bike’s engine or speed. They may feel lighter or stiffer than OEM panels. Good fitment helps keep your bike stable at high speeds.

How do you keep your fairings looking new?

Clean your fairings with mild soap and water. Avoid harsh chemicals. Wax the panels for extra shine and protection. Store your bike indoors to prevent sun damage.

Are aftermarket fairings safe for daily riding?

You can use aftermarket fairings for daily riding. Choose a set made from strong ABS plastic. Check for good fitment and secure all bolts. Quality aftermarket fairings protect your bike just like OEM panels.