Model Code:
EX250 (specific generation denoted by year range)
Years Covered:
2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012
Generation Designation:
Second Generation (EX250J/EX250K)
Internal Model Codes:
Likely EX250K for most markets
Segment:
Entry-level sportbike / Lightweight sportbike
Target Demographic:
New riders, commuters, enthusiasts seeking an affordable and user-friendly sportbike experience.
Key Competitors:
Honda CBR250R, Yamaha YZF-R25 (though R25 launched later, similar niche), Suzuki GS500F (larger displacement but similar price point). Often competed with other lightweight naked bikes as well.
Ride Characteristics:
Nimble handling, accessible power delivery, comfortable riding position for its class.
Engine Type:
Parallel-twin, liquid-cooled, DOHC
Fueling:
Carbureted (most markets), fuel injected in some later models or specific regions for this generation update.
Powertrain:
Engine, Transmission, Clutch, Fuel System, Lubrication System, Cooling System, Exhaust System
Chassis:
Frame, Suspension (Front and Rear), Steering, Wheels, Tires, Brakes (Front and Rear), Drive Chain
Electrical:
Ignition System, Lighting System, Starting System, Charging System, Instrumentation, Wiring Diagrams, ECU Diagnostics
Bodywork:
Body Panels, Fairings, Seat, Fuel Tank, Handlebars, Footpegs, Fasteners
Routine Maintenance:
Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Chain Adjustments, Brake Pad Inspections, Tire Pressure Checks, Spark Plug Service
Diagnostic:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnosis, electrical fault finding, engine performance issues
Repair Overhaul:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement, brake system repairs, carburetor cleaning and adjustment
Installation:
Removal and installation procedures for major components and sub-assemblies
Assembly Disassembly:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component disassembly and reassembly
Depth Level:
Comprehensive (covering routine maintenance to major component overhauls and diagnostics)
Target Audience:
Mechanical Technicians and Knowledgeable DIY Enthusiasts
Special Instructions:
Emphasizes special aspects of the product, includes proprietary component instructions, highlights WARNING, CAUTION, NOTE symbols.
Diagnostic Tools Mentioned:
Likely mentions standard diagnostic tools (multimeter, feeler gauges) and potentially Kawasaki-specific diagnostic tools or procedures if applicable for certain electronic components. Refers to special tools by Kawasaki part numbers.
PDF Resolution:
Assumed to be high enough for clear viewing and printing, typical for official service manuals.
Text Searchability:
Likely searchable text, enabling efficient information retrieval. (PDF quality can vary in unofficial distributions, but official sources are typically OCR'd).
PDF Searchability:
Crucial for efficiency. A well-indexed PDF allows users to quickly locate specific troubleshooting steps or torque values.
Print Option:
Printable pages
Binding:
N/A (Digital PDF Download)
Paper Quality:
N/A (Digital PDF Download)
Engine Type:
Four-stroke, liquid-cooled, DOHC, parallel-twin
Displacement:
249 cc (249 cubic centimeters)
Bore X Stroke:
55.0 x 52.4 mm
Compression Ratio:
11.0:1
Horsepower Est:
Approximately 30-32 HP @ 10,500 RPM (varies slightly by region and tuning)
Torque Est:
Approximately 16-18 lb-ft @ 8,000 RPM (varies slightly by region)
Carburetion:
Dual Keihin carburetors (e.g., CVK30)
Fuel Capacity:
18 Liters (4.8 US gal)
Oil Capacity With Filter:
1.7 Liters (1.8 US qt)
Overall Length:
Approx. 2,005 mm (78.9 in)
Overall Width:
Approx. 750 mm (29.5 in)
Overall Height:
Approx. 1,100 mm (43.3 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 1,370 mm (53.9 in)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 155 mm (6.1 in)
Seat Height:
Approx. 780 mm (30.7 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 168-170 kg (370-375 lbs) (depending on market and equipment)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 154 kg (339 lbs)
Safety Ratings:
Not applicable in the same way as automobiles; primary safety relies on rider skill and vehicle dynamics.
Braking System:
Front: Hydraulic disc. Rear: Drum brake (standard on most models). Optional ABS available in some markets/configurations.
Lighting:
Halogen headlamp, LED tail light, incandescent turn signals.
Frame Construction:
High-tensile steel perimeter frame for rigidity and stability.
Infotainment Systems:
N/A (Basic instrumentation only: speedometer, tachometer, odometer, trip meter, coolant temperature warning lamp, oil pressure warning lamp).
Rider Aids:
Optional ABS in some configurations. Primarily relies on rider input for control.
Connectivity Features:
N/A
Gauge Cluster:
Analog tachometer, digital speedometer, fuel gauge (on some models/regions), basic warning lights.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-4,000 miles (5,000-6,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first. Check manual for specifics.
Air Filter Inspection:
Inspect every 3,000-4,000 miles (5,000-6,000 km), clean or replace as needed. More frequent in dusty conditions.
Chain Maintenance:
Lubricate and adjust chain tension every 500-700 miles (800-1,100 km).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Recommended replacement around 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-16,000 km). Check manual for specific spark plug type.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or higher, JASO MA certified, SAE 10W-40 recommended. (Consult manual for exact specifications and viscosity ranges based on temperature).
Coolant Type:
High-quality ethylene glycol-based antifreeze with distilled water (50/50 mix). Refer to manual for specific Kawasaki coolant recommendations or equivalent.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (for hydraulic systems).
Common Wear Items:
Clutch plates, brake pads, tires, chain and sprockets are typical wear items. Carburetor synchronization may be needed over time.
Electrical Potential Issues:
While generally reliable, like any motorcycle of this age, electrical connections (especially grounds) can degrade, leading to intermittent issues.
Engine Considerations:
The parallel-twin engine is known for its longevity and ease of maintenance. Proper fluid changes and occasional valve clearance checks are key.
Kawasaki Legacy:
Kawasaki Heavy Industries has a long and storied history in motorcycle manufacturing, known for performance and reliability across various classes, from cruisers to superbikes and off-road machines.
Ninja Lineage:
The Ninja 250 platform has been a cornerstone of Kawasaki's entry-level sportbike offerings for decades, evolving through multiple generations to meet changing rider demands and emissions standards. This 2008-2012 generation marked a significant styling and engineering update from the previous EX250F model.
Production Years For Generation:
2008-2012
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Thailand and Japan, depending on specific market origin.
