Segment:
Lightweight dual-sport motorcycle, appealing to riders seeking versatility for on-road and light off-road use.
Competitors:
Honda CRF250L, Yamaha WR250R, Suzuki DR-Z250 (contemporaneous models).
Versatility:
Adaptable for commuting, trail riding, and light adventure touring.
Engine Type:
Fuel-injected, liquid-cooled, four-stroke engine (for most of the covered period, though earlier models may have been carbureted, this manual specifically covers FI for later years or models).
Suspension:
Upside-down (USD) front forks and adjustable rear suspension for capable off-road performance.
Rider Profile:
New riders, commuters, and experienced riders looking for a nimble and reliable dual-sport machine.
Engine:
Detailed engine disassembly, assembly, tuning, and troubleshooting (e.g., cylinder head, piston, crankshaft, valve train, lubrication system)
Fuel System:
Carburetor (mention specific type if known, e.g., Keihin CVK) maintenance, cleaning, adjustment, and troubleshooting; fuel pump and filter for SF models.
Ignition System:
CDI unit, ignition coils, spark plugs, timing adjustments, and troubleshooting.
Transmission Clutch:
Clutch operation, maintenance, replacement; transmission gear inspection, disassembly, assembly, and troubleshooting.
Frame Suspension Steering:
Front fork (e.g., USD forks) overhaul, oil changes, seal replacement; rear shock absorber adjustment and rebuild; steering head bearing maintenance; swingarm and linkage servicing.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake system inspection, pad replacement, caliper service, master cylinder overhaul, bleeding procedures, hydraulic lines.
Wheels Tires:
Tire pressure, wear inspection, replacement, wheel bearing maintenance, spoke tension adjustment.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery maintenance, charging system (stator, regulator/rectifier), lighting, starting system, instrumentation, and fuses.
Cooling System:
Radiator, cooling fan operation, coolant replacement, hose inspection.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust pipe and muffler inspection, heat shield servicing.
Bodywork Fittings:
Fairings, fenders, seat, fuel tank removal and installation, graphics.
Maintenance Tasks:
Routine inspections, oil changes, filter replacements, chain adjustment, lubrication points, brake fluid flushes, coolant flushes, spark plug checks.
Repair Tasks:
Engine internal repairs, transmission overhauls, suspension rebuilds, brake system repairs, electrical component replacement and troubleshooting.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, including electrical faults, starting problems, running issues, and performance concerns.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repair and maintenance procedures.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Comprehensive diagnostic charts and flow diagrams for identifying and resolving mechanical and electrical problems.
Rebuild Procedures:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for complete engine and major component rebuilds, including torque specifications and clearances.
Diagrams Illustrations:
Exploded views, schematics, and detailed illustrations to guide disassembly, assembly, and component identification.
Wiring Schematics:
Complete and color-coded wiring diagrams for all electrical systems, facilitating troubleshooting and repair.
Engine Type:
Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder, single-cylinder
Displacement:
249 cc (249 cm³)
Bore X Stroke:
72.0 x 61.2 mm
Compression Ratio:
11.0:1
Horsepower:
Approx. 20-25 HP (peak, varies by specific model tune and regulations)
Torque:
Approx. 19-21 Nm (peak, varies by specific model tune and regulations)
Fuel Delivery:
Fuel Injection (EFI) for most 2009+ models, potentially Keihin CVK carburetor on earlier or specific variants not explicitly detailed in the product name.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Oil Type:
Kawasaki recommends KAWASAKI HIGH PERFORMANCE SEMISYNTHETIC MOTOR OIL SAE 10W-40 or API SG, SF, SE, SG, SH, SJ or SL classification.
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 1.5 L (without filter change), 1.7 L (with filter change)
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 Inspection:
Every 6,000 km (3,700 miles).
Chain Lubrication Adjustment:
Every 1,000 km (600 miles) or after riding in wet conditions.
Engine Oil:
SAE 10W-40 API SG, SF, SE, SG, SH, SJ or SL classification (e.g., KAWASAKI HIGH PERFORMANCE SEMISYNTHETIC MOTOR OIL).
Coolant:
Mixture of permanent antifreeze and distilled water (50:50 ratio). Use a high-quality ethylene glycol-based coolant.
Common Wear Items:
Clutch plates, brake pads, chain and sprockets, tires, fork seals.
Potential Tuning Points:
Carburetor jetting (if applicable), fuel mapping (if EFI), suspension setup for rider weight and terrain.