Market Niche:
The Kawasaki Ninja 250R (EX250J) occupies the entry-level sportbike segment, appealing to new riders, commuters, and those seeking an affordable, nimble, and fuel-efficient motorcycle with sporty styling.
Competitors:
Key competitors during its production run included the Honda CBR250R, Yamaha YZF-R25 (in some markets), Suzuki GSX250R (later models), and other similar displacement sportbikes.
Design Philosophy:
Designed for agility, ease of use, and affordability, combining sporty aesthetics with practical performance for everyday riding and spirited canyon carving.
Covered Years:
2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012
Market Segment:
Sportbike, Entry-level Sportbike
Estimated Page Count:
Approximately 400-600 pages (typical for comprehensive service manuals)
Manual Type:
Service Repair Manual
File Format Details:
Searchable PDF, allowing for quick access to specific information. Likely contains high-resolution diagrams and schematics.
Printability:
Printable pages, enabling users to create physical copies of sections or the entire manual for workshop use.
Engine:
Complete engine overhaul, including top-end (cylinder head, valves, cams) and bottom-end (crankshaft, connecting rods, pistons) assembly, timing, lubrication system, cooling system.
Fuel System:
Carburetor (or fuel injection for specific markets if applicable to this generation, though typically carbureted), fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel tank, vacuum lines, fuel filter replacement.
Transmission:
Clutch assembly, gear shifting mechanism, transmission gears, lubrication, troubleshooting transmission issues.
Electrical System:
Ignition system (CDI, spark plugs, coils), starting system (starter motor, battery), charging system (alternator, regulator/rectifier), lighting (headlight, taillight, turn signals), wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, diagnostic codes.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake system maintenance, caliper service, master cylinder overhaul, brake pad replacement, brake fluid flush and bleeding, troubleshooting brake performance.
Suspension:
Front fork (telescopic) service, oil seals, spring replacement, rear shock absorber maintenance, linkage system inspection and lubrication.
Chassis Frame:
Frame inspection, steering head bearing service, swingarm removal and maintenance, wheel bearing replacement.
Bodywork:
Fairing removal and installation, body panel repair, seat maintenance, graphics and decals.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust pipe and muffler maintenance, gasket replacement, leak detection.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, oil and filter changes, air filter cleaning/replacement, spark plug replacement, chain adjustment and lubrication, brake fluid replacement, coolant replacement, valve clearance checks.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts for common problems (e.g., starting issues, poor performance, electrical faults), step-by-step troubleshooting guides.
Repair:
Detailed instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, reassembly, and installation for all major vehicle systems.
Diagnostics:
Procedures for identifying and diagnosing malfunctions, including electrical system testing with multimeters, engine compression testing, and carburetor synchronization.
Assembly Disassembly:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for disassembling and reassembling every major component and sub-system of the motorcycle.
Torque Specifications:
Comprehensive list of torque values for all critical fasteners, ensuring proper assembly and preventing component damage.
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic user maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed torque specifications, clearances, and service limits.
Diagnostic Codes:
Inclusion of any diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) if the motorcycle is equipped with an ECU capable of reporting them, along with procedures to read and clear them.
Wiring Diagrams:
Full electrical system wiring diagrams, color-coded and clearly labeled, facilitating diagnosis and repair of electrical issues.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage instructions for any specialized tools required for specific maintenance or repair procedures.
Engine Type:
Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, DOHC, parallel-twin
Displacement:
249 cc (250cc class)
Bore X Stroke:
62.0 mm x 41.2 mm (typical for this generation)
Compression Ratio:
11.6:1 (typical)
Horsepower:
Approximately 30-34 HP @ 11,000 RPM (varies slightly by market and tune)
Torque:
Approximately 16-18 lb-ft @ 9,500 RPM (varies slightly by market and tune)
Fuel Delivery:
Carburetor (dual Keihin CVK34 or similar, depending on market)
Fuel Capacity:
18 Liters (4.8 US gal)
Oil Type:
SAE 10W-40 API SG or higher, JASO MA certified motorcycle oil
Oil Capacity:
1.7 Liters (1.8 US qt) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Permanent type anti-freeze coolant, 50/50 mixture with distilled water
Oil Change Interval:
Every 6,000 km (3,700 miles) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Air Filter Cleaning:
Every 6,000 km (3,700 miles)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 12,000 km (7,500 miles)
Valve Clearance Check:
First check at 10,600 km (6,600 miles), then every 12,000 km (7,500 miles).
Brake Fluid Replacement:
Every 24 months or as needed based on condition.
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 10W-40, API SG or higher, JASO MA
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4
Coolant Specification:
Ethylene glycol-based, 50/50 mix with distilled water
Common Wear Items:
Brake pads, tires, chain and sprockets, clutch plates, fork seals. Carburetor synchronization may be needed over time.
Electrical Component Longevity:
Regulator/rectifier can be a point of failure on some Kawasaki models, though not excessively common on this specific generation.
Carburetor Issues:
Gumming or clogging of carburetors if fuel sits for extended periods without stabilizers, leading to rough idling or starting issues.