Segment:
Entry-level sportbike, beginner-friendly motorcycle.
Target Audience:
New riders, commuters, those seeking an affordable and stylish sportbike experience.
Key Competitors:
Honda CBR250R, Yamaha YZF-R25 (in later iterations), Suzuki GSX250R.
Design Philosophy:
Aggressive sportbike styling combined with accessible performance and manageable ergonomics.
Sportbike Aerodynamics:
Full fairing for improved aerodynamics and sporty appearance.
Primary Coverage:
Operation, maintenance, and basic adjustments for the Kawasaki Ninja 250R (EX250J)
Market Focus:
Likely North American and European markets, given the 'R' designation commonly used.
Estimated Page Count:
Approximately 150-200 pages (typical for owner's manuals of this era)
Format:
Print (physical book)
Engine And Fuel:
Engine overview, lubrication, cooling system, fuel system (carburetor settings for EX250J, fuel injection for later variants), ignition system.
Transmission And Drivetrain:
Clutch operation, gear shifting, final drive (chain maintenance).
Chassis And Suspension:
Frame, front fork, rear shock absorber, suspension adjustments, steering.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems, brake fluid, brake pad inspection.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, lighting, starter motor, instrumentation, fuses.
Wheels And Tires:
Tire pressure, inspection, wheel bearing checks.
Basic Maintenance:
Pre-ride inspection, cleaning, lubrication, tire pressure checks, chain adjustment, oil changes, filter replacement.
Adjustments:
Clutch lever adjustment, throttle cable adjustment, brake lever adjustment, suspension preload.
Troubleshooting:
Basic troubleshooting for common operational issues (e.g., starting problems, unusual noises).
Storage And Care:
Recommendations for seasonal storage and general care.
Depth:
Covers routine owner maintenance and operation. Does not include in-depth engine rebuilds, complex electrical diagnostics, or specialized tool usage typically found in service manuals.
Digital Format If Applicable:
N/A (assuming print)
Print Quality:
Standard OEM print quality, durable paper stock for regular use.
Binding:
Stapled or saddle-stitched binding (common for owner's manuals).
Paper Type:
Standard coated or uncoated paper, suitable for motorcycle environment.
Engine Type:
Liquid-cooled, four-stroke, DOHC, parallel-twin
Bore X Stroke:
55.0 x 52.4 mm
Compression Ratio:
12.4:1
Valve Train:
DOHC, 8 valves (4 per cylinder)
Horsepower:
Approximately 30-32 HP @ 11,000 RPM (varies slightly by market and specific year/tune)
Torque:
Approximately 15-16 lb-ft @ 9,000 RPM (varies slightly)
Fuel Delivery:
Carburetor (for EX250J, often dual Keihin CVK34 or similar). Later models (e.g., EX250K) introduced fuel injection.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 87 octane
Oil Type:
API SG, SF or SE classified SAE 10W-40 motorcycle oil (refer to manual for specific viscosity recommendations).
Oil Capacity With Filter:
Approx. 1.7 L (1.8 US qt)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant with demineralized water (50/50 mix). Refer to manual for specific Kawasaki coolant recommendations.
Length:
Approx. 2,000 mm (78.7 in)
Width:
Approx. 720 mm (28.3 in)
Height:
Approx. 1,110 mm (43.7 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 1,370 mm (53.9 in)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 155 mm (6.1 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 160-165 kg (353-364 lbs) - varies by market and specification
Fuel Tank Capacity:
Approx. 18 L (4.8 US gal)
Crash Test Ratings:
Not applicable for motorcycles in the same way as cars. Emphasis on rider safety features and responsible operation.
Braking System Type:
Disc brakes front and rear. ABS was not standard on most EX250J models but may have been an option in some markets.
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, taillight, brake light, turn signals.
Ride Posture:
Sport-oriented but generally considered manageable for newer riders.
Display Type:
Analog tachometer with digital speedometer and odometer, basic LCD for fuel gauge, clock, trip meters.
ABS Availability:
Optional on select models/markets, not standard on all EX250J.
Connectivity Features:
None (basic instrumentation).
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-4,000 miles or 6 months (refer to manual for exact recommendation).
Air Filter Cleaning Interval:
Every 6,000-8,000 miles or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Every 7,000-10,000 miles.
Chain Maintenance:
Lubricate and adjust chain every 500-1,000 miles, or more frequently in adverse conditions.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years or 12,000-15,000 miles.
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 0.7 L (0.74 US qt)
Fork Oil Type And Level:
Specific viscosity (e.g., 10W) and level will be detailed. Capacity approx. 0.46 L per fork leg.
Common Wear Items:
Chain and sprockets, brake pads, tires, clutch plates (with high mileage). Carburetor synchronization may require periodic adjustment.
Electrical Potential Issues:
Regulator/rectifier failures have been reported on some Kawasaki models of this era, leading to battery charging issues.
Engine Characteristics:
Engine is known for its reliability and longevity when properly maintained, but can be buzzy at higher RPMs.
Kawasaki Motorcycles:
Kawasaki Heavy Industries has a long and rich history in motorcycle manufacturing, known for performance and innovation across various segments.
Ninja Lineage:
The Ninja 250R (EX250 series) has been a cornerstone of Kawasaki's sportbike lineup for decades, evolving through multiple generations to offer accessible performance and styling.
Ex250 Generations:
The EX250J represents a significant update from earlier models, often featuring revised styling and improved performance characteristics, bridging the gap to more modern iterations.
Production Years For Ex250J Variant:
Roughly mid-2000s to early 2010s (e.g., 2008-2012 in many key markets), before being largely superseded by the Ninja 300 (EX300).
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily manufactured in Thailand and Japan.
