This manual pertains to the 1997 Kawasaki KX250F, a distinguished model in Kawasaki's renowned off-road racing heritage. Engineered for competitive motocross, this 250cc liquid-cooled, 2-stroke, single-cylinder machine is built for performance and agility on the track. Its robust construction, featuring a high-tensile steel perimeter frame, contributes to exceptional handling and rider feedback. The KX250F of this era has a proven track record in professional racing, reflecting Kawasaki's commitment to developing championship-winning off-road motorcycles.
This comprehensive Digital Service Repair Manual provides in-depth guidance for owners and technicians alike. It covers all essential aspects of maintenance and repair, including detailed procedures for the engine's top end, right side, lubrication system, crankshaft, transmission, fuel, and cooling systems. Additionally, it addresses wheels, tires, final drive, brakes, suspension, steering, frame, and the electrical system. The manual includes step-by-step instructions, torque settings, fluid capacities, electrical diagrams, and recommendations for periodic maintenance, ensuring the 1997 Kawasaki KX250F can be kept in optimal condition.
Engine Code:
Pre-2004 KX250F models had various designations, but a specific 'engine code' wasn't as standardized as in car models. This manual covers the 1997 specific configuration.
Target Audience:
Enthusiast owners, independent mechanics, and workshops seeking official-level repair information for the 1997 Kawasaki KX250F.
Manual Advantage:
Provides the same level of detail as official dealer manuals, offering a cost-effective alternative for professional and DIY repairs.
Usability:
Designed for ease of use with step-by-step diagrams and clear instructions.
Completeness:
Comprehensive coverage of all vehicle systems and repair procedures.
Manual Type:
Digital Service Repair Manual
File Requirements:
Adobe PDF Reader & WinZip
Interactivity:
Zoom In/Out functionality
Compatibility:
All Versions of Windows & Mac
Engine Section:
Engine Top End, Engine Right Side, Engine Lubrication System, Crankshaft/Transmission, Engine Removal/Installation
Fuel And Cooling:
Fuel System, Cooling System
Drivetrain And Brakes:
Wheels/Tires, Final Drive, Brakes
Chassis And Electrical:
Suspension, Steering, Frame, Electrical System
General And Appendix:
General Information, Periodic Maintenance, Appendix
Maintenance Procedures:
Periodic maintenance, fluid changes, component inspections, lubrication
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for all workshop procedures, engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, suspension servicing, brake caliper rebuild, electrical system troubleshooting
Technical Data Inclusion:
Torque settings, fluid capacities, electrical diagrams
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive: Covers all aspects from basic maintenance to complete engine and chassis rebuilds, mirroring official dealer workshop procedures.
Searchability:
Likely text-searchable within the PDF depending on the original source quality.
Scalability:
High resolution allows for clear viewing and printing of diagrams and text at various zoom levels.
Binding:
N/A (Digital Format)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Format)
Engine Type:
Liquid-cooled, 2-stroke, single-cylinder
Displacement:
249 cc (Cubic Centimeters)
Bore X Stroke:
66.4 mm x 72.0 mm (Typical for this era KX250)
Compression Ratio:
Typically around 8.7:1 to 9.0:1, but specific value for 1997 model is detailed in the manual.
Horsepower:
Approximately 40-45 HP (Horsepower) at peak RPM, exact figures detailed in manual.
Torque:
Specific torque figures for various engine components are provided in the manual.
Carburetor Type:
Keihin PWK38, 38mm flat slide carburetor (common for this model)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, octane rating specified in manual.
Fuel Mixture:
2-stroke oil mixture ratio as specified by Kawasaki (e.g., 32:1 or 40:1).
Lubrication System:
Premix or oil injection (depending on specific variant, manual will clarify).
Transmission Type:
5-speed constant mesh
Clutch Type:
Wet, multi-disc
Gear Ratios:
Specific gear ratios for all 5 speeds are provided in the manual.
Transmission Oil:
Specification for transmission oil is detailed in the manual, likely a specialized gear oil.
Overall Length:
Refer to manual for exact dimensions, typically around 85-86 inches (2160-2185 mm).
Overall Width:
Refer to manual for exact dimensions, typically around 32-33 inches (815-835 mm).
Overall Height:
Refer to manual for exact dimensions, typically around 48-49 inches (1220-1245 mm).
Dry Weight:
Approximately 210-220 lbs (95-100 kg), exact figure in manual.
Curb Weight:
Not applicable for motocross bikes as they are typically weighed dry.
Weight Distribution:
Manual provides chassis and suspension tuning guidance which implies understanding of weight distribution.
Safety Ratings:
N/A (Motocross bikes are not subjected to DOT or NHTSA safety ratings).
Braking System:
Hydraulic disc brakes front and rear.
Suspension Features:
Adjustable front forks (compression, rebound) and rear shock (preload, compression, rebound) for optimized handling and stability.
Frame Construction:
High-tensile steel perimeter frame for rigidity and rider feedback.
Infotainment Features:
N/A (Motocross bikes do not feature infotainment systems).
Assistance Systems:
N/A (Motocross bikes do not feature driver assistance systems).
Connectivity Options:
N/A (Motocross bikes do not feature connectivity options).
Oil Change Interval:
Specific interval for transmission oil and engine oil (if applicable) detailed in the manual based on operating hours or mileage.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Recommended interval for spark plug inspection and replacement provided.
Air Filter Cleaning:
Frequent cleaning and oiling intervals for the air filter are critical for 2-stroke performance and are detailed.
Coolant Type:
Type and mixture ratio for the liquid cooling system (e.g., ethylene glycol-based coolant).
Fork Oil Type:
Specific viscosity and volume for front fork oil are provided for proper suspension function.
Transmission Oil Spec:
Kawasaki specifies specific SAE viscosity grades for transmission oil.
Common Wear Items:
Piston rings, reed valves, clutch plates, wheel bearings, chain and sprockets are common wear items for this era of motocross bikes.
Engine Considerations:
Proper jetting for the carburetor is crucial for optimal performance and engine longevity, as is correct premix ratio.
Kawasaki Offroad Legacy:
Kawasaki has a long and successful history in motocross and off-road racing, with the KX line being a prominent part of this heritage.
Kx250F Development Context:
The KX250F model, while the nameplate existed earlier for two-stroke models, saw significant development in the late 90s and early 2000s. The 1997 model represents a specific iteration of Kawasaki's 250cc two-stroke motocross efforts.
Manufacturing Location:
Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Japan (typical for this era).
Motocross Competitions:
Kawasaki KX models, including variants of the KX250, have consistently been competitive in professional motocross and supercross, earning numerous race wins and championships.