bro...kawasaki claims it to be MAINTAINENCE FREE :)...a brand new that is...its good that you know a sports bike mechanic...they come in handy at difficult times
as for the fuel consumption...i heard that they installed and update version of keihin carburettors (Keihin CVK30 (2), Constant velocity, diaphragm-type) which they claim gives it a mileage of about 55-75 (mpg US) or 23km/liter which isnt bad if it really makes it...even 20 is good for me :)..the 2007 model is cheaper...it costs 3000$ but in the 2008 model they made alot of changes and it looks stunning...i'd definately go for the 08 model