Market Segment:
Entry-level sportbike, popular for new riders and commuters due to its accessible performance and manageable size.
Competitive Landscape:
Competed with models like the Honda CBR250R, Yamaha YZF-R25 (in some markets), and Suzuki GSX-R250 (in some markets).
Key Selling Points:
Kawasaki's reputation for reliable parallel-twin engines, sporty styling derived from larger Ninja models, and affordability.
Design Philosophy:
Sporty aesthetics with a focus on everyday usability and accessible performance, embodying the 'Ninja' family DNA.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides essential information for owners and technicians to maintain, repair, and troubleshoot the ZXR 250R Ninja, ensuring longevity and optimal performance.
Engine:
Complete engine overhaul, including carburetor systems (if applicable), fuel injection systems (if applicable to specific sub-models within EX250), lubrication, cooling, ignition, and exhaust.
Transmission:
Gearbox, clutch operation, shift mechanism, and related components. Includes disassembly, inspection, and reassembly procedures.
Chassis:
Frame inspection and repair, suspension (front forks, rear shock absorber), steering system, swingarm, and wheel bearings.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (hydraulic disc brakes), including master cylinders, calipers, brake lines, and bleeding procedures. ABS information if equipped on specific variants.
Electrical:
Complete wiring diagrams, lighting system, starting system, charging system (alternator, battery), ignition system components, instrument cluster, and accessory circuits.
Fuel System:
Carburetor tuning and maintenance (for models so equipped), fuel pump operation (if applicable), fuel lines, and fuel tank servicing.
Bodywork:
Fairings, seat, fuel tank, fenders, and associated fasteners and mounting points. Includes removal and installation procedures.
Cooling System:
Radiator, fan, thermostat, coolant flow, and servicing procedures. Includes leak detection and repair.
Scheduled Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, chain adjustment and lubrication, brake fluid flushes, coolant checks, spark plug replacement, air filter cleaning/replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based guides for common issues related to engine performance, electrical systems, and braking.
Engine Repair:
Piston removal/installation, cylinder head service, valve adjustments, crankshaft and connecting rod checks, seal and gasket replacement.
Transmission Repair:
Clutch inspection, gear selection mechanism adjustment, bearing replacement, and transmission disassembly/reassembly.
Brake System Overhaul:
Caliper rebuilds, master cylinder replacement, line bleeding, pad replacement, and rotor inspection.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Use of multimeters, troubleshooting starting and charging system faults, diagnosing lighting issues, and interpreting wiring diagrams.
Suspension Service:
Fork oil changes, fork seal replacement, shock absorber adjustment, and swingarm bearing maintenance.
Wheel And Tire Service:
Tire mounting/dismounting, wheel balancing, spoke tension adjustment (for spoked wheels, though EX250 is typically cast), and wheel bearing replacement.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive: Covers from basic maintenance and fluid changes to complete engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, and detailed electrical system diagnostics.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Detailed diagnostic flowcharts and step-by-step troubleshooting guides for specific symptoms.
Torque Specifications:
Extensive listing of all critical torque values for fasteners across all systems.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage guidelines for specialized tools required for specific repair procedures.
Engine Type:
Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, DOHC, parallel-twin
Bore X Stroke:
55.0 x 52.4 mm
Compression Ratio:
11.0:1
Valve Train:
DOHC, 8 valves (4 per cylinder)
Horsepower Ps:
Approx. 34-37 PS @ 12,000 rpm (varies by market and tuning)
Torque Nm:
Approx. 23-25 Nm @ 10,000 rpm (varies by market and tuning)
Fuel Delivery:
Carburetor (Mikuni BDSR30 x 2 for most models in this generation), or Keihin CVK32 (earlier EX250 variants). Manual will specify precise carburetors for the 2008-2010 models.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum octane rating typically 91 RON.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 4,000 km or 6 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for exact specification and oil type).
Valve Clearance Check:
Typically around 10,000-12,000 km. Manual provides precise interval and procedure.
Chain Maintenance:
Inspect and lubricate every 1,000 km, adjust tension as needed (typically 20-30 mm free play).
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 10W-40 API SG or higher, JASO MA certified (e.g., Kawasaki Genuine Oil, Motul 5100, Castrol Power 1).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based coolant, 50% mixture with distilled water (e.g., Kawasaki Coolant).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (refer to manual for specific recommendation).
Fork Oil Type:
SAE 10W fork oil (capacity and level will be specified).
Common Wear Items:
Clutch plates, fork seals, chain and sprockets, brake pads, and spark plugs are common wear items requiring periodic replacement.
Carburetor Synchronization:
On carbureted models, periodic synchronization of the carburetors can improve engine smoothness and performance.
Electrical Connections:
Corrosion or loose connections in the electrical system can lead to intermittent issues; thorough inspection is recommended.
Kawasaki Legacy:
Kawasaki Heavy Industries has a long history of producing high-performance motorcycles, with the Ninja line representing their commitment to sportbike technology and design.
Ex250 Lineage:
The EX250 platform has been a cornerstone of Kawasaki's smaller displacement offerings for decades, evolving from earlier iterations to incorporate modern styling and technology.
2008-2010 Updates:
This generation (EX250J/K) received significant styling updates, often including a more aggressive fairing design, improved aerodynamics, and potential minor engine refinements over previous models.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily manufactured in Thailand for global markets, though specific plants might vary.
Production Span For This Generation:
Approximately 2008-2012, with the manual specifically covering 2008, 2009, and 2010 models.