Vehicle Segment:
Entry-level sportbike, popular for new riders and urban commuting
Target Audience:
Beginner motorcyclists, budget-conscious riders, those seeking a nimble and efficient sportbike
Key Competitors:
Honda CBR250R, Suzuki GS500F (though slightly higher displacement), Yamaha YZF-R25 (in some markets)
Styling:
Aggressive Ninja styling, full fairing, sporty ergonomics
Engine Characteristics:
Smooth power delivery, user-friendly for new riders, fuel-efficient
Handling:
Lightweight and nimble, easy to maneuver in city traffic and on twisty roads
Owner Benefit:
Empowers owners to perform routine maintenance and advanced repairs, saving on labor costs and ensuring proper upkeep
Vehicle Years Covered:
2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012
Model Variant Coverage:
EX250J series
Estimated Page Count:
Hundreds (Specific number not provided, but typical for a comprehensive service manual)
Manual Category:
Service Repair Workshop Manual
Manual Purpose:
Maintenance, servicing, troubleshooting, and repair
Primary Language:
English
Delivery Format:
PDF Download
Engine:
Complete overhaul, tuning, diagnostics, fuel injection system, ignition system, lubrication system, cooling system, emissions control
Transmission:
Clutch system, gearbox operation, gear inspection, shift mechanism, lubrication
Chassis:
Frame inspection, suspension (front forks, rear shock), steering system, wheel bearings, swingarm
Brakes:
Front and rear brake system components, hydraulic lines, master cylinders, calipers, pads, discs, bleeding procedures
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting system, starting system, charging system (alternator, battery), instrumentation, ECU diagnostics, sensor testing
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator, ECU control of fuel delivery
Exhaust System:
Muffler, catalytic converter, exhaust pipes, gasket replacement
Bodywork:
Fairings, seat removal, tank cover, body panel fasteners, decals
Routine Maintenance:
Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, spark plug inspection/replacement, chain adjustment, brake fluid replacement, coolant checks
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts for common problems, electrical system fault finding, engine performance issues
Repair Procedures:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component disassembly, repair, and reassembly
Engine Rebuild:
Piston removal/installation, cylinder head service, valve adjustment, crankshaft inspection
Suspension Service:
Fork oil replacement, seal replacement, rear shock linkage lubrication
Brake Overhaul:
Caliper rebuilding, master cylinder replacement, brake line installation
Electrical Diagnostics:
Wiring harness troubleshooting, sensor testing, diagnostic trouble code (DTC) interpretation
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Advanced diagnostics for fuel injection and ignition systems, including sensor data and ECU responses
Repair Complexity:
Covers everything from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission overhauls
Specification Detail:
Includes torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, and electrical resistance values
Engine Type:
Liquid-cooled, four-stroke, DOHC, parallel-twin
Displacement:
249 cc (15.2 cu in)
Bore X Stroke:
62.0 x 41.2 mm (2.44 x 1.62 in)
Compression Ratio:
12.4:1
Valve Train:
DOHC, 8 valves
Engine Oil Type:
API SG, SH, SJ, SL or SM, SAE 10W-40 recommended (refer to manual for precise specifications)
Engine Oil Capacity:
1.7 L (1.8 US qt) without filter change; 1.9 L (2.0 US qt) with filter change (refer to manual)
Horsepower:
Approximately 34 hp @ 13,000 rpm (varies slightly by region and tuning)
Torque:
Approximately 17 lb-ft @ 11,000 rpm (varies slightly by region and tuning)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with dual throttle valves (DTC)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 87 octane (91 RON)
Ignition Type:
Digital CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition) with electronic advance
Cooling Method:
Liquid-cooled
Coolant Type:
Kawasaki Motorcycle Antifreeze/Coolant (or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant)
Coolant Capacity:
Approximately 1.1 L (1.2 US qt) (refer to manual for exact capacity)
Transmission Type:
6-speed constant mesh, sequential manual
Automatic Transmission:
Not available
Clutch Type:
Wet, multi-disc, manual engagement
Final Drive:
O-ring sealed chain
Transmission Oil Type:
API GL-4, SAE 80W-90 hypoid gear oil (refer to manual for exact specification)
Transmission Oil Capacity:
Approximately 0.7 L (0.7 US qt) (refer to manual)
Crash Test Ratings:
N/A (Motorcycle safety is assessed differently than automobiles, focus is on rider protection and vehicle stability)
Braking System:
Front: Single 290mm petal disc with dual-piston caliper. Rear: Single 220mm petal disc with dual-piston caliper. ABS not standard on most models in this generation.
Lighting:
Halogen headlamp, LED taillight
Frame Construction:
High-tensile steel diamond frame for rigidity and rider feedback
Tires:
Sport-oriented bias-ply or radial tires (refer to manual for specific sizes and recommended types)
Ergonomics:
Designed for rider comfort and control, with accessible controls and a balanced riding position.
Infotainment System:
N/A (This model focuses on core motorcycle performance, no advanced infotainment features)
Traction Control:
Not available
ABS:
Not standard on most models within this year range; optional on some markets/trims.
Bluetooth Connectivity:
Not available
Dashboard Type:
Analog tachometer with digital display for speedometer, odometer, trip meters, clock, and warning lights.
Efi Diagnostics:
The ECU supports diagnostics via specific connectors, and the manual details how to access and interpret this data.
Oil Filter Change:
Every 6,000 km (3,750 miles) or annually, whichever comes first (refer to manual for precise interval)
Engine Oil Change:
Every 6,000 km (3,750 miles) or annually, whichever comes first (refer to manual)
Air Filter Inspection:
Every 6,000 km (3,750 miles), clean or replace as needed. Replace every 12,000 km (7,500 miles) or if damaged.
Spark Plug Inspection:
Every 6,000 km (3,750 miles). Replace every 12,000 km (7,500 miles).
Valve Clearance Check:
Every 24,000 km (15,000 miles) (refer to manual for specific torque and adjustment procedures)
Brake Fluid Replacement:
Every 2 years, or as needed if contaminated (refer to manual for specific fluid type and procedure)
Coolant Replacement:
Every 2 years or 24,000 km (15,000 miles), whichever comes first (refer to manual for specific coolant type)
Engine Oil Viscosity:
SAE 10W-40
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (refer to manual for specific requirements)
Coolant Specification:
Ethylene glycol-based, Kawasaki Motorcycle Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent
Common Wear Items:
Clutch plates, brake pads, chain and sprockets, fork seals due to typical usage patterns.
Potential Electrical Faults:
While generally reliable, occasional rectifier/regulator issues can occur, particularly on higher-mileage units. The manual will cover diagnosis.
Fuel System Maintenance:
Regular injector cleaning and fuel filter checks can prevent performance degradation, especially with varying fuel quality.
Engine Idle Issues:
Erratic idle can sometimes be related to air leaks, dirty throttle bodies, or sensor issues, all of which are covered in the manual's troubleshooting section.
Kawasaki Motorcycle Division:
Kawasaki Heavy Industries' Motorcycle & Engine division has a long history dating back to the 1950s, known for performance and reliability.
Ninja Lineage:
The Ninja 250R (EX250) is part of Kawasaki's long-standing lineage of small-displacement sportbikes, evolving through various generations since its introduction.
250R Specific Generation:
The 2008-2012 generation (EX250J) received a significant styling update with sharp, aggressive Ninja ZX-R inspired bodywork, improved aerodynamics, and a larger fuel tank, differentiating it from earlier models.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily manufactured in Thailand, with some assembly potentially occurring in other regions.
Market Success:
The Ninja 250R was a highly successful model globally, particularly in entry-level markets and regions with engine displacement restrictions.
Motorcycle Of The Year Awards:
While not typically winning major 'Motorcycle of the Year' awards, it consistently received high marks for value, performance, and reliability in its class from automotive publications.
User Reviews And Ratings:
Generally receives positive user ratings for its affordability, ease of use, and sporty aesthetics.
Emissions Standards:
Compliant with relevant emissions standards for the respective market of sale (e.g., EPA, Euro III).