Segment:
Dual-sport/Off-road motorcycle
Target Audience:
Enthusiast riders, DIY mechanics, and service technicians.
Competitors:
Honda CRF250L (later model), Yamaha WR250R, Suzuki DR-Z250.
Klx250S Advantage:
Known for its user-friendly nature, capable off-road suspension, and reliable engine, making it a popular choice for trail riding and commuting.
Design Philosophy:
Lightweight, agile, and versatile for both on-road and off-road use.
Engine Configuration:
Liquid-cooled, DOHC, four-valve, single-cylinder engine.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine disassembly, assembly, inspection, troubleshooting, and repair of all internal and external components.
Fuel System:
Carburetor (Keihin CVK34) tuning, disassembly, cleaning, repair, and adjustment.
Ignition System:
CDI ignition system, spark plug specifications, troubleshooting, and testing.
Cooling System:
Radiator, fan, thermostat, coolant specifications, and bleeding procedures.
Lubrication System:
Oil pump, oil passages, oil filter specifications, and oil change procedures.
Transmission:
Clutch operation, gearbox disassembly, assembly, inspection, and maintenance.
Suspension Front:
Inverted telescopic fork service, oil levels, seal replacement, and adjustments.
Suspension Rear:
Uni-Trak rear suspension, shock absorber service, linkage maintenance, and adjustments.
Braking System:
Hydraulic disc brakes (front and rear), caliper service, master cylinder, fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, and pad replacement.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, charging system (stator, regulator/rectifier), battery specifications, starter motor, and fuse box.
Frame And Bodywork:
Frame inspection, handlebars, seat, fuel tank, fenders, and all body panel removal/installation.
Wheels And Tires:
Wheel bearing service, spoke tensioning, tire replacement, and pressure specifications.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, chain adjustment, spark plug checks, air filter cleaning/replacement.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues with detailed symptom-cause-remedy charts.
Engine Rebuild:
Complete procedures for cylinder head removal/installation, piston and ring replacement, crankshaft and connecting rod service.
Suspension Overhaul:
Detailed instructions for fork seal replacement, shock absorber servicing, and linkage bearing maintenance.
Carburetor Tuning:
Jetting adjustments, idle speed settings, pilot screw adjustments, and float bowl level checks.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Step-by-step testing of charging system, ignition system, lighting circuits, and starter system.
Brake System Maintenance:
Bleeding procedures, pad replacement, caliper piston service, and master cylinder rebuild.
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic adjustments and fluid changes to complete engine and transmission overhauls.
Detail Level:
Highly detailed with exploded views, torque specifications, and special tool requirements.
Crash Test Ratings:
N/A (Motorcycle safety is assessed differently than automobiles; focus is on design, materials, and component quality covered in manual).
Braking System Type:
Hydraulic disc brakes, front and rear.
Suspension Stability:
Inverted front fork and Uni-Trak rear suspension contribute to stable handling.
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, LED taillight, turn signals.
Ergonomics:
Designed for rider control and visibility.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 miles (4,800 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for exact specification).
Air Filter Cleaning:
Every 3,000 miles (4,800 km) or as needed based on riding conditions.
Spark Plug Check:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km).
Valve Clearance Check:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km).
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or SH, SAE 10W-40 motorcycle oil (refer to manual for exact specification).
Engine Oil Capacity:
1.7 US qt (1.6 L) without filter change; 1.8 US qt (1.7 L) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
Permanent type antifreeze coolant mixed with demineralized water (50/50 ratio).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (refer to manual for exact specification).
Fork Oil Type Viscosity:
Kawasaki KHL15-10W or equivalent SAE 10W (refer to manual for exact specification).
Fork Oil Level:
Refer to manual for exact measurement (typically measured from the top of the fork tube with spring removed and fork compressed).
Carburetor Icng:
Carburetor can sometimes be prone to clogging if fuel is left stagnant for extended periods; regular use and fuel stabilizer recommended.
Cam Chain Tensioner:
Some owners report the automatic cam chain tensioner can become noisy over time, potentially requiring manual adjustment or replacement. The manual will detail inspection and adjustment procedures.
Suspension Seals:
Like many motorcycles of this era, fork seal leaks can occur with heavy off-road use. The manual provides detailed instructions for seal replacement.