Segment:
Entry-level Sportbike / Lightweight Sportbike
Target Audience:
Beginner riders, commuters, budget-conscious sportbike enthusiasts.
Key Competitors:
Yamaha YZF-R3 (later model), Honda CBR250R (later model), Ninja 300 (later model), Hyosung GT250.
Design Philosophy:
Nimble handling, accessible power delivery, fuel efficiency, sporty styling.
Manual Value Proposition:
Empowers owners to perform routine maintenance and repairs, saving on labor costs and extending the life of the motorcycle.
Primary Coverage:
Complete Service and Repair
Secondary Coverage:
Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Diagnostics, Specifications
Estimated Page Count:
400-500 (typical for this model and manual type)
Manual Type:
Workshop Service Manual (WSM)
Engine Mechanical:
Engine removal/installation, cylinder head, valves, crankshaft, pistons, lubrication system, cooling system (radiator, fan, thermostat), timing system.
Fuel System:
Carburetor systems (cleaning, adjustment, synchronization), fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel tank, fuel lines.
Ignition System:
Ignition timing, spark plugs, ignition coils, ECU (Engine Control Unit) identification and basic function.
Transmission Drivetrain:
Clutch operation, gearbox overhaul, shift mechanism, final drive (chain, sprockets).
Braking System:
Front and rear brake caliper service, master cylinder overhaul, brake fluid replacement, bleeding procedures, brake disc specifications.
Suspension Steering:
Front fork service (oil change, seal replacement), rear shock absorber replacement, steering head bearing adjustment, wheel bearing service.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator, regulator/rectifier), starter motor, lighting circuits, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, horn, instrument panel.
Frame Bodywork:
Frame inspection, body panel removal/installation, fairing components, seat, handlebars, footpegs.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug checks/replacement, chain adjustment, brake fluid changes, coolant checks.
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic flowcharts for common running issues, electrical faults, and mechanical problems.
Component Overhaul:
Detailed instructions for disassembling, inspecting, repairing, and reassembling major components like the engine, transmission, and suspension.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specific tools required for various maintenance and repair tasks.
Depth Level:
Comprehensive (covering everything from basic adjustments to full engine rebuilds).
Engine Type:
Four-stroke, DOHC, parallel-twin
Displacement:
249 cc (cubic centimeters)
Bore X Stroke:
55.0 mm x 52.4 mm
Compression Ratio:
11.7:1
Fuel Induction:
Dual Keihin CVK34 carburetors
Cooling System:
Liquid-cooled
Horsepower:
Approx. 30-32 HP (at crankshaft, varies slightly by region)
Torque:
Approx. 17-18 lb-ft (at crankshaft, varies slightly by region)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 87 octane
Fuel Tank Capacity:
18.0 Liters (4.8 US gal)
Instrument Cluster:
Analog tachometer, digital speedometer, odometer, trip meter, clock, coolant temperature warning light, oil level warning light.
ABS:
Available as an option on some models, providing enhanced braking control.
Lighting:
Halogen headlamp, LED taillight.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 6,000 km (3,700 mi) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Air Filter Inspection:
Every 6,000 km (3,700 mi)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 12,000 km (7,500 mi) or 12 months
Brake Fluid Change:
Every 2 years or as needed
Coolant Change:
Every 24,000 km (15,000 mi) or 2 years
Valve Clearance Check:
Every 24,000 km (15,000 mi)
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 10W-40 API SG or higher, JASO MA certified motorcycle oil.
Engine Oil Capacity:
1.6 Liters (1.7 US qt) without filter change; 1.8 Liters (1.9 US qt) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
Kawasaki Coolant 50% or equivalent ethylene glycol based antifreeze/coolant.
Common Wear Item:
Clutch plates can wear over time, especially with aggressive riding.
Carburetor Tuning:
Carburetors may require periodic cleaning and synchronization for optimal performance and fuel economy.
Electrical Component Reliability:
Regulator/rectifier can be a failure point on some older Kawasaki models, though generally reliable on this generation.
Suspension Performance:
Front forks can benefit from servicing (oil change and seal replacement) after significant mileage for maintained damping.
Manufacturer:
Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd.
Segment Focus:
Kawasaki has a long history of producing reliable and performance-oriented motorcycles across various segments.
Predecessor:
Ninja 250 (EX250-F, EX250-G, EX250-J generations)
Successor:
Ninja 300 (EX300)
Production Period Covered:
2008-2012
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Japan (e.g., Akashi)