Category:
Entry-level sportbike, popular for new riders and urban commuting.
Target Audience:
Beginner to intermediate motorcyclists, those seeking an economical and reliable sportbike.
Competitors:
Honda CBR250R, Yamaha R25 (though R25 came later and in different markets), Suzuki GS500F (larger displacement but similar niche).
Design Philosophy:
Lightweight, agile, user-friendly handling, and a comfortable riding position for a sportbike.
Styling:
Aggressive sportbike styling with a full fairing, dual headlights, and a sporty riding posture.
Years Covered:
2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012
Estimated Page Count:
Approximately 300-400 pages (typical for a comprehensive factory service manual)
Manual Type:
Factory Service Repair Manual
Engine Systems:
Engine disassembly and reassembly, cylinder head, valves, piston, crankshaft, camshafts, timing chain, oil pump, lubrication system, cooling system, carburetor tuning and overhaul (dual Keihin CVK30), fuel delivery system.
Transmission Systems:
Clutch operation and adjustment, gearbox inspection and repair, gear shift mechanism, transmission lubrication.
Chassis Systems:
Frame inspection, suspension (front forks, rear shock absorber), steering system, swingarm, wheel bearings, brake system (front and rear disc brakes), brake fluid specifications and bleeding procedures.
Electrical Systems:
Wiring diagrams, ignition system (CDI, spark plugs, coils), lighting system (headlight, taillight, turn signals), battery, charging system (alternator, rectifier/regulator), starting system, instrumentation, fuses, relays.
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel lines, fuel filter, carburetor synchronization and adjustment, emission control components.
Body And Frame:
Fairing removal and installation, seat, fuel tank mounting, body panels, logos, and decals.
Maintenance Procedures:
Routine checks, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, chain adjustment and lubrication, brake pad replacement, coolant checks and changes, carburetor cleaning and synchronization.
Repair Procedures:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement, brake caliper rebuilding, electrical component troubleshooting and replacement, carburetor overhaul.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Diagnostic flowcharts for common problems, symptom-based troubleshooting (e.g., engine not starting, poor performance).
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive factory-level detail, suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts. Covers everything from basic adjustments to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Detailed diagnostic procedures for all major systems, including electrical troubleshooting using wiring diagrams and component testing specifications.
Specific Procedures:
Valve clearance adjustment, timing chain inspection, carburetor jetting information, wheel alignment checks, torque specifications for all fasteners.
File Type:
PDF (Portable Document Format)
Image Resolution:
High resolution, optimized for clear viewing of diagrams and illustrations. 'We recommend to use Adobe PDF Reader, to be sure all images ...'
Binding:
N/A (Digital Format - PDF)
Paper Quality:
N/A (Digital Format - PDF)
Text Searchability:
Typically searchable text within the PDF for quick information retrieval (depending on PDF creation).
Engine Type:
Liquid-cooled, four-stroke, DOHC, parallel-twin
Displacement:
249 cc (Cubic Centimeters)
Bore X Stroke:
55.0 mm x 52.4 mm (Typical for this generation)
Compression Ratio:
11.0:1 (Typical)
Horsepower:
Approximately 30-32 hp @ 10,500 rpm (Varies slightly by market and year)
Torque:
Approximately 15-17 lb-ft @ 8,000 rpm (Varies slightly by market and year)
Fuel Delivery:
Two Keihin CVK30 constant velocity carburetors
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 87 octane (91 RON recommended)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
18.0 L (4.8 US gal)
Oil Type Specification:
SAE 10W-40 API SG or higher (refer to manual for exact specification)
Oil Capacity With Filter:
Approximately 1.8 L (1.9 US qt) (refer to manual for exact capacity)
Length:
Approx. 2,000 mm (78.7 in)
Width:
Approx. 750 mm (29.5 in)
Height:
Approx. 1,100 mm (43.3 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 1,380 mm (54.3 in)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 155 mm (6.1 in)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 154 kg (339.5 lbs)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 170 kg (375 lbs) (Includes all necessary fluids and a full tank of fuel)
Weight Distribution:
Typically balanced for neutral handling characteristics.
Crash Test Ratings:
N/A (Motorcycle safety ratings differ from automotive; focus is on rider protection features and design).
Braking System:
Front: Hydraulic disc, Rear: Hydraulic disc (ABS was not a common option on this model during this period).
Tire Specifications:
Front: 110/70-17 M/C 54H, Rear: 130/70-17 M/C 62H (Typical sizes, refer to manual for exact OE fitment and alternatives).
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, LED taillight, incandescent turn signals.
Frame Construction:
Semi-double cradle frame for stability and rigidity.
Rider Ergonomics:
Designed for a comfortable, upright riding posture suitable for longer rides and general commuting.
Infotainment System:
N/A (Basic instrumentation: speedometer, tachometer, odometer, trip meter, neutral indicator, high-beam indicator).
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was not a standard or widely available option for this model and year range.
Connectivity Features:
N/A (No electronic connectivity features).
Ignition System:
Digital CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition) for precise spark timing.
Emissions Control:
Features may include evaporative emission control (EVAP) system and secondary air injection system (SAIS) depending on market regulations.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 6,000 km (3,700 miles) or 6 months, whichever comes first. (Refer to manual for precise interval and conditions).
Air Filter Cleaning:
Inspect every 6,000 km (3,700 miles), clean or replace as needed.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 12,000 km (7,500 miles) or 12 months. (Refer to manual for specific spark plug type and gap).
Chain Maintenance:
Lubricate and adjust every 1,000 km (600 miles).
Valve Clearance Adjustment:
Every 24,000 km (15,000 miles).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 (refer to manual for specific recommendation)
Coolant Type:
Permanent type antifreeze with water (50:50 mixture) - refer to manual for specific Kawasaki coolant or equivalent.
Common Wear Items:
Clutch plates, brake pads, chain and sprockets, fork seals, and regulator/rectifier units can be common wear items depending on usage and maintenance.
Carburetor Sync:
Carburetors may require periodic synchronization for optimal performance and fuel efficiency.
Charging System Notes:
Early models sometimes had issues with the regulator/rectifier, which can lead to battery charging problems.
Kawasaki Legacy:
Kawasaki has a long and distinguished history in motorcycle manufacturing, known for its performance-oriented sportbikes and robust engineering.
Ninja Lineage:
The Ninja 250R (EX250) has been a staple in Kawasaki's lineup for decades, evolving through various iterations to meet changing rider demands and emissions standards. This particular generation (2000-2012) represented a significant update from its predecessors, offering improved styling and handling.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Thailand and Japan.
Sales Performance:
Consistently one of the best-selling entry-level sportbikes globally, appreciated for its value and reliability.
Industry Awards:
While specific awards for the 2000-2012 Ninja 250R might not be widely publicized, it consistently received positive reviews from motorcycle publications for its class and affordability, often being praised as a 'best beginner bike' or 'best value sportbike'.
Owner Satisfaction:
Generally high owner satisfaction due to its reliability, low running costs, and forgiving nature.
Emissions Compliance:
Designed to meet emissions standards of its production years in various global markets.
