Market Position:
High-performance motocross competition machine, targeting serious riders and racers.
Competitors:
Honda CR250R, Yamaha YZ250, Suzuki RM250, KTM 250 SX.
Engine Type:
Liquid-cooled, 2-stroke, single-cylinder.
Power Delivery:
Known for strong mid-range to top-end power band, responsive throttle response.
Suspension:
Typically equipped with advanced cartridge forks and a sophisticated linkage-driven rear shock, providing excellent adjustability and performance.
Engine:
Complete engine disassembly, assembly, tuning, troubleshooting, and component specifications (carburetor, ignition, cooling system, lubrication, etc.)
Transmission:
Clutch, gearbox, shift mechanism, lubrication, and troubleshooting
Chassis:
Frame, subframe, swingarm, linkages, and bearings
Suspension:
Front fork (KYB SSS or similar technology for the era), rear shock absorber, linkages, seal replacement, oil levels, and damping adjustments
Brakes:
Front and rear hydraulic disc brake systems, caliper maintenance, master cylinder service, fluid replacement, and bleeding procedures
Electrical:
Ignition system (CDI), lighting, wiring diagrams, troubleshooting of electrical faults, battery maintenance
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel petcock, carburetor (likely Keihin PWK or similar), fuel line maintenance, and jetting information
Cooling System:
Radiator, hoses, coolant type and capacity, bleeding procedures
Exhaust System:
Exhaust pipe and silencer maintenance, packing replacement
Bodywork:
Plastics, seat, fenders, fuel tank cover, graphics, and associated fasteners
Maintenance:
Regular scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, chain adjustment, brake pad inspection, tire pressure checks
Repair:
Complete component overhaul and replacement (e.g., top-end rebuild, clutch replacement, suspension rebuild)
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting for common issues
Specifications:
Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, wear limits, and part numbers
Assembly:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for reassembling components and the entire motorcycle
Depth:
Comprehensive factory-level detail suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts. Includes internal component specifications and rebuild procedures.
Engine Type:
2-stroke, liquid-cooled, reed valve, single-cylinder
Bore X Stroke:
66.4 mm x 72.0 mm (Typical for this generation KX250)
Compression Ratio:
8.7:1 (Typical, may vary slightly by region)
Horsepower:
Approximately 45-50 HP (estimated at crankshaft, actual dyno results may vary)
Torque:
Approximately 30-33 lb-ft (estimated at crankshaft, actual dyno results may vary)
Carburetor:
Keihin PWK38 (likely, standard for this model year) with power jet
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended for optimal performance)
Fuel Mixture:
2-stroke oil mixed with gasoline (typically 32:1 or 40:1 ratio, refer to manual for precise specification)
Type:
5-speed constant mesh
Clutch:
Wet, multi-plate, cable-actuated
Gear Ratios:
Specific gear ratios will be detailed in the manual, crucial for performance tuning.
Final Drive:
Chain drive (e.g., 520 pitch chain, specific sprocket ratio details in manual)
Transmission Oil:
API GL-4, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 motorcycle transmission oil (specific capacity and type in manual)
Length:
Approximately 2170 mm (85.4 in)
Width:
Approximately 820 mm (32.3 in)
Height:
Approximately 1270 mm (50.0 in)
Wheelbase:
Approximately 1470 mm (57.9 in)
Ground Clearance:
Approximately 340 mm (13.4 in)
Seat Height:
Approximately 970 mm (38.2 in)
Dry Weight:
Approximately 96 kg (211.6 lbs)
Curb Weight:
Not typically specified for motocross bikes, but would include fluids and battery.
Fuel Capacity:
Approximately 8.0 Liters (2.1 US gal)
Infotainment System:
N/A (Motocross bikes focus on performance and control, not infotainment.)
Driver Assistance:
N/A (No electronic rider aids or driver assistance systems are present on this model.)
Connectivity:
N/A (No connectivity features like Bluetooth or GPS.)
Power Jet Carburetor:
The Keihin carburetor features a power jet for improved high-RPM power delivery, a key technological feature for its class.
Kawasaki Integrated Power Valve System Kips:
The engine likely features KIPS (Kawasaki Integrated Power Valve System) to optimize the power band across different RPMs.
Oil Change:
Every 10-15 hours of riding (or as specified in the manual for drivetrain oil)
Air Filter Cleaning:
After every few rides, or more frequently in dusty conditions.
Spark Plug Inspection:
Every 10-15 hours, or based on performance symptoms.
Top End Rebuild:
Typically every 40-60 hours of hard riding, depending on maintenance and component wear (detailed inspection and service intervals in manual).
Chain Lubrication Adjustment:
Before every ride or every few hours of riding.
Engine Oil:
2-stroke pre-mix oil, specific ratio (e.g., 32:1 or 40:1) to be confirmed in manual.
Transmission Oil:
API GL-4 SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 motorcycle transmission oil. Capacity: 0.75 Liters (0.79 US qt).
Coolant:
High-quality ethylene glycol based coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water). Capacity: 0.7 Liters (0.74 US qt).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.
Common Issues:
Worn piston rings/cylinder, clutch wear, carburetor jetting sensitivity, suspension seal leaks, linkage bearing wear.
Troubleshooting Tips:
The manual will provide detailed diagnostics for common performance issues, power loss, hard starting, and suspension problems.
Brand Heritage:
Kawasaki has a long and successful history in motocross racing, with the KX line being a cornerstone of their off-road performance offerings.
Model Evolution:
The KX250 underwent significant development throughout the late 90s and early 2000s, with continuous updates to engine performance, chassis design, and suspension technology to remain competitive.
Key Changes 03 04:
The 2003 model saw a significant update with a new engine and chassis, aiming to improve handling and power delivery. The 2004 model typically featured refinements based on racing feedback.
Production Era:
The KX250 has been in continuous production in various forms since the early 1970s, with the 2-stroke model being highly regarded until its transition to a 4-stroke.
Motocross Magazine Reviews:
The KX250 model line, including these years, was consistently reviewed and praised by major motocross publications for its performance and competitive edge.
Racing Success:
Kawasaki KX models have a strong history of winning championships in professional motocross and supercross racing, indicating their effectiveness and design.
