Segment:
Motocross Competition
Target Audience:
Motocross racers and enthusiasts seeking performance and reliability in a competitive environment.
Key Competitors 2007:
Honda CRF250R, Yamaha YZ250F, Suzuki RM-Z250
Model Focus:
High-performance, liquid-cooled, two-stroke engine designed for competitive motocross use.
Manual Value:
Provides essential guidance for owners to maintain peak performance and longevity of their KX250R.
Powertrain Systems:
Engine operation, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system
Chassis Systems:
Frame, suspension (front and rear), steering, wheels, tires, brakes (front and rear), drivetrain (chain, sprockets)
Electrical Systems:
Ignition system, lighting system, battery, basic wiring principles (as relevant to owner maintenance)
Control Systems:
Throttle control, clutch control, gear shifting, braking controls
Maintenance Procedures:
Pre-ride inspection, periodic inspections, cleaning, lubrication, chain adjustment, tire pressure checks, fluid level checks
Adjustment Procedures:
Clutch lever free play, throttle cable free play, chain slack adjustment
Troubleshooting Guidance:
Basic troubleshooting steps for common operational issues (e.g., starting difficulties, performance anomalies)
Depth:
Owner-level maintenance and basic operation
Scope:
Focuses on safe and proper operation, routine maintenance, and owner-replaceable parts/adjustments. Does not cover in-depth repair or engine overhaul.
Engine Type:
Liquid-cooled, 2-stroke, single-cylinder
Bore X Stroke:
66.4 x 72.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
8.8:1 (as specified in manual for owner reference)
Valve Mechanism:
Reed valve induction
Horsepower Estimated:
Approximately 45-50 HP (manufacturer may not explicitly state this in owner's manual, but it's a common performance benchmark for this class)
Torque Estimated:
Specific torque figures are often not detailed in owner's manuals for this type of vehicle.
Carburetor:
Keihin PWK38S (38mm) with dual injectors (KIPs - Kawasaki Integrated Powervalve System)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Fuel Octane Rating:
91 octane or higher recommended
Fuel Tank Capacity:
8.0 L (2.1 US gal)
Transmission Oil Type:
Kawasaki Genuine Air-Cooled 2-stroke Engine Oil, or SAE 10W-30 API SE or SF
Premix Ratio:
50:1 (gasoline to 2-stroke oil)
Safety Certification:
Typically conforms to relevant racing standards where applicable, but owner's manuals focus on safe operation rather than formal safety ratings.
Braking System Front:
Hydraulic disc brake
Braking System Rear:
Hydraulic disc brake
Protective Gear Recommendation:
Mandatory recommendation for helmet, goggles, gloves, boots, and protective clothing.
Operation Warnings:
Emphasis on understanding terrain, rider skill, and operating within safe limits.
Oil Change Frequency:
Recommended after every few rides or specific operating hours, as per manual guidance for premix engines.
Air Filter Cleaning:
Frequent cleaning recommended, especially in dusty conditions.
Chain Lubrication Adjustment:
Regular checks and lubrication are crucial for performance and longevity; specific intervals provided in the manual.
Spark Plug Inspection:
Periodic inspection and replacement as needed based on condition.
Coolant Type:
Hard-working antifreeze coolant, mix of distilled water and appropriate coolant as specified by Kawasaki. (Manual will detail specific type)
Transmission Oil Capacity:
Approximately 0.8 L (0.85 US qt) - Specific capacity will be detailed in the manual.
Common Wear Items:
Clutch plates, piston rings, spark plugs, chain and sprockets, wheel bearings, fork seals due to high-performance use.
Carburetor Tuning:
May require adjustment based on altitude, temperature, and modifications; owner's manual provides basic tuning guidelines.
Kawasaki Motorsports:
Kawasaki has a long and storied history in motocross, dating back to the early days of the sport, with numerous championship wins.
Kx Series:
The KX250R is part of Kawasaki's long-standing and highly successful KX line, known for its potent two-stroke power and competitive chassis.
Kx250R Production Years:
The KX250R was a prominent model in the 250cc two-stroke motocross class for many years, with the 2007 model representing a refined iteration.