Segment:
Entry-level sportbike / lightweight motorcycle.
Target Audience:
New riders, commuters, budget-conscious sportbike enthusiasts.
Competitors:
Honda CBR250R, Suzuki GS500F (though larger displacement, often cross-shopped for price/performance), Yamaha FZR250 (where available).
Handling:
Nimble and forgiving handling, suitable for urban riding and learning.
Reliability:
Known for robust Japanese engineering and dependability when properly maintained.
Affordability:
Attractive price point for initial purchase and ongoing ownership costs.
Years Covered:
1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007
Estimated Page Count:
~400-500 pages (typical for a comprehensive service manual of this era)
Type:
Full Repair Manual / Service Manual
Engine:
Complete engine overhaul, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, valve train, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system (carburetors), ignition system.
Transmission:
Gearbox removal and installation, clutch operation, gear shifting mechanisms, lubrication.
Chassis:
Frame inspection and repair, front suspension (forks), rear suspension (shock absorber, linkage), steering system.
Brakes:
Front disc brake, rear drum brake (or disc on later models), hydraulic system, bleeding procedures, pad/shoe replacement.
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, battery, starter motor, charging system (alternator/stator, rectifier/regulator), ignition coils, lighting, instrumentation, switches.
Bodywork:
Fairing removal and installation, seat, fuel tank, fenders, minor body panel repairs.
Maintenance:
Routine service, oil and filter changes, air filter cleaning/replacement, spark plug replacement, chain adjustment, brake inspection, fluid checks and changes.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts for common performance issues, electrical faults, starting problems, and engine malfunctions.
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for disassembly, reassembly, and repair of all major components.
Calibration:
Carburetor synchronization and tuning, ignition timing checks.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complete engine and component rebuilds. Includes detailed torque specifications, clearances, and tolerances.
Searchability:
Searchable text within the PDF document for quick information retrieval.
Printability:
Printable pages allowing for physical reference during repairs.
Image Resolution:
High-resolution scans ensuring clarity of diagrams, schematics, and photographs.
Binding:
N/A (Digital PDF format)
Paper:
N/A (Digital PDF format)
Type:
Liquid-cooled, four-stroke, parallel-twin
Displacement:
248 cc (249 cc for later models)
Bore X Stroke:
55.0 x 52.4 mm
Valve Train:
DOHC, 8 valves (2 per cylinder)
Compression Ratio:
11.0:1
Horsepower:
Approximately 30-35 HP (varies slightly by year and emissions regulations)
Torque:
Approximately 17-19 lb-ft (varies slightly)
Carburetors:
Dual Keihin CVK32 carburetors (or similar)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Oil Capacity:
Approximately 1.6-1.8 Liters (with filter change)
Oil Type Recommendation:
API SG or SH, JASO MA certified 10W-40 or 20W-50 motorcycle oil
Coolant Capacity:
Approximately 1.2 Liters
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Overall Length:
Approximately 2000 mm (varies slightly by year)
Overall Width:
Approximately 700-750 mm (varies slightly by year)
Overall Height:
Approximately 1100-1150 mm (varies slightly by year)
Wheelbase:
Approximately 1350-1380 mm (varies slightly by year)
Dry Weight:
Approximately 140-148 kg (varies by year)
Wet Weight:
Approximately 155-165 kg (with fluids)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
Approximately 15-17 Liters (varies by year)
Crash Test Information:
Motorcycles of this era did not undergo standardized crash testing like automobiles. Safety is primarily derived from rider skill and protective gear.
Braking System:
Front hydraulic disc brake, rear drum brake (later models may have rear disc).
Lighting:
Halogen headlamp, tail/brake lights, turn signals.
Frame Construction:
Steel diamond frame providing structural integrity.
Rider Ergonomics:
Sporty yet relatively comfortable riding position for its class.
Features:
Basic analog instrumentation: speedometer, tachometer, odometer, trip meter, neutral indicator, high beam indicator, turn signal indicators.
Features:
None (This motorcycle predates advanced rider aids like ABS or traction control in its base configurations).
Oil Change:
Every 2,000-3,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Air Filter:
Inspect every 3,000 miles, clean or replace as needed. Replace typically every 6,000-12,000 miles.
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 6,000-8,000 miles. Check gap at 3,000 miles.
Chain Adjustment:
Check and adjust chain slack every 1,000 miles. Lubricate chain at same interval.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2 years or 12,000 miles.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 1-2 years.
Engine Oil:
API SG/SH, JASO MA certified 10W-40 or 20W-50 motorcycle oil.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Coolant:
50/50 mix of ethylene glycol based coolant and distilled water.
Carburetor Issues:
Can be prone to clogging if fuel is left standing for long periods. Synchronization may be required periodically.
Fuel Tap Vacuum Actuation:
The vacuum-operated fuel tap can fail, leading to fuel starvation or leakage. Replacement is usually straightforward.
Regulator Rectifier Failure:
Common on many motorcycles of this era, failure can lead to battery charging issues or overcharging.
Winter Storage:
Proper fuel stabilization, battery care, and fogging of cylinders are crucial for long-term storage. Detailed instructions are in the manual.
Kawasaki Legacy:
Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd. has a long-standing reputation for producing innovative and performance-oriented motorcycles.
Generations:
The GPX250R (later often just Ninja 250) saw significant updates around the year 2000, including styling changes and minor engine tuning. The core platform remained largely consistent.
Styling Updates:
Early models featured a more angular, 80s-inspired sportbike look, while later models adopted a sleeker, more modern faired design. Changes included headlight design, fairing shape, and instrument cluster.
Production Period:
1988-2007
Key Markets:
Globally popular, particularly in North America, Europe, and Asia.
Awards Received:
While specific awards are not prominently documented, the Ninja 250R has consistently received praise for its value proposition, ease of use, and long-term reliability in the beginner motorcycle segment.
Motorcycle Reviews:
Consistently rated highly by motorcycle publications for its beginner-friendliness, fuel efficiency, and low running costs.
Emissions Compliance:
Meets applicable emissions standards for its respective model years and market of sale.
