Segment:
Entry-level sportbike, beginner-friendly motorcycle
Target Audience:
New riders, commuters, sportbike enthusiasts looking for an affordable and reliable machine
Competitors:
Honda CBR250R, Yamaha YZF-R25 (depending on market availability), Hyosung GT250R
Design Philosophy:
Aggressive sportbike styling, approachable performance, fuel efficiency
Platform Advantage:
Reputable Kawasaki engineering, reliable twin-cylinder engine, user-friendly handling
Professional Focus:
Prepared primarily for professional service technicians, but also suitable for advanced DIY mechanics.
Years Covered:
2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012
Market Coverage:
Global (specific regional variations may exist, but general service procedures apply)
Estimated Page Count:
Approximately 400-500 pages (typical for comprehensive service manuals)
Manual Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Engine:
Complete overhaul, tuning, lubrication, cooling system, fuel system (carburetor), ignition system, exhaust system
Transmission:
Clutch operation, gearbox disassembly/assembly, shift mechanism, lubrication
Brakes:
Front and rear brake system maintenance, caliper overhaul, master cylinder service, bleeding procedures, pad/disc replacement
Suspension:
Front fork service (oil changes, seal replacement), rear shock absorber inspection/replacement, linkage maintenance
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting system, starting system, charging system (alternator, battery), ignition system components, fuse/relay identification and testing
Chassis And Frame:
Frame inspection, steering head bearing service, swingarm maintenance, wheel bearings
Fuel System:
Carburetor synchronization, jetting, float adjustment, fuel pump (if applicable), fuel tank inspection
Bodywork:
Fairing removal/installation, seat maintenance, plastic component repair
Maintenance:
Routine checks, oil changes, filter replacements, chain adjustment, spark plug replacement, brake fluid changes, coolant flushes
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts for common problems, symptom-based repair guidance
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component disassembly, repair, and reassembly
Diagnostics:
Component testing, electrical system diagnostics
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed troubleshooting and diagnostics for professional technicians and experienced DIY enthusiasts.
Engine Type:
Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, DOHC, parallel-twin
Displacement:
249 cc (249 cm³)
Bore X Stroke:
55.0 x 52.4 mm
Compression Ratio:
11.0:1
Valve Train:
DOHC, 8 valves (4 per cylinder)
Horsepower Approx:
30-34 hp @ 10,500 rpm (market dependent)
Torque Approx:
15-17 lb-ft @ 8,000 rpm (market dependent)
Fuel Delivery:
Carburetor (Two Keihin CVK34 carburetors)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 87 octane
Cooling Method:
Liquid-cooled
Coolant Type:
Kawasaki Coolant (or equivalent mixture of ethylene glycol and distilled water 50/50)
Oil Type:
SAE 10W-40 API SG, SH, SJ, SL or SM, JASO MA or MA2
Oil Capacity With Filter:
1.7 L (1.8 US qt)
Transmission Type:
6-speed constant mesh
Clutch Type:
Wet, multiple disc
Gear Ratios:
Refer to manual for detailed gear ratios (typically 1st: 2.833, 2nd: 1.941, 3rd: 1.556, 4th: 1.333, 5th: 1.150, 6th: 1.000)
Final Drive:
Sealed O-ring chain
Transmission Oil Type:
SAE 80 API GL-4 (common for manual gearboxes, verify with manual for exact specification)
Transmission Oil Capacity:
Approximately 0.6 L (0.63 US qt)
Length:
Approx. 2000 mm (78.7 in)
Width:
Approx. 700 mm (27.6 in)
Height:
Approx. 1100 mm (43.3 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 1370 mm (53.9 in)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 155 mm (6.1 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 168 kg (370 lbs)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
17 L (4.5 US gal)
Front Tire Size:
110/70-17 M/C 54H
Rear Tire Size:
130/70-17 M/C 62H
Wheel Type:
3.50 x 17 front, 4.00 x 17 rear (Alloy)
Safety Certifications:
Compliance with applicable national safety standards (e.g., DOT, ECE where applicable for tires/lighting)
Braking System:
Front: Hydraulic disc, Rear: Hydraulic disc (some markets may have ABS as an option, but typically not standard on this model)
Lighting:
Halogen headlamp, LED tail light
Frame Type:
High-tensile steel diamond frame
Infotainment System:
Basic analog instrumentation: Speedometer, Tachometer, Odometer, Trip meter, Fuel gauge, Warning lights. No modern infotainment features.
ABS:
ABS was not a standard or widely available option on this generation of the EX250 in most markets.
Connectivity Features:
None (mechanical and analog systems)
First Service:
1000 km (600 miles) or 1 month, whichever comes first (typically includes oil change, filter check, chain adjustment, bolt torquing).
Regular Maintenance:
Every 6000 km (3750 miles) or 6 months, whichever comes first. Includes detailed checks and replacements of air filter, spark plugs, brake fluid, coolant, and lubrication.
Engine Oil Spec:
SAE 10W-40 API SG, SH, SJ, SL or SM, JASO MA or MA2
Coolant Spec:
Kawasaki Coolant or equivalent (50/50 mix of ethylene glycol and distilled water)
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 4 (refer to manual for specific confirmation)
Fork Oil Spec:
Kawasaki Suspension Oil G10 or equivalent SAE 10W fork oil (check manual for exact grade and quantity)
Common Wear Items:
Clutch plates, brake pads, tires, chain and sprockets, fork seals due to age and mileage.
Carburetor Issues:
Carburetors may require cleaning and synchronization, especially after periods of disuse or with fuel contamination.
Cooling System Maintenance:
Regular coolant checks and flushes are important to prevent overheating and corrosion.
Spark Plug Type:
NGK CR9E or Denso U27ETR (check manual for exact type and gap)
Air Filter Part Number:
Kawasaki Part Number 11013-0029 (or equivalent)
Oil Filter Part Number:
Kawasaki Part Number 16097-0007 (or equivalent HiFlofiltro HF123, K&N KN-123)
Kawasaki Legacy:
Kawasaki's long history in sportbike development, dating back to the iconic Ninja line.
Ninjafamily Introduction:
The Ninja EX250 (often called '250R' or 'Ninja 250' in other markets) has been a staple in Kawasaki's lineup for decades as an accessible entry-point to the Ninja brand.
2Ndgen Introduction:
The 2008 model marked a significant redesign for the EX250, featuring new bodywork inspired by the larger Ninja ZX models, revised chassis, and improved engine components, leading to the 'EX250J' and 'EX250K' designations.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily Thailand for most global markets, with potential variations.
Production Years:
2008-2012 (for this specific generation covered by the manual)
Market Recognition:
Consistently praised as one of the best entry-level sportbikes for its blend of style, performance, and affordability.
Rider Satisfaction:
High rider satisfaction for beginners due to ease of use and low running costs.
Emissions Compliance:
Meets emissions standards relevant to its production year and market. Manual will contain relevant details on emission control systems.
