🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Kawasaki

Model:

Ninja 250R

Model Code:

EX250J8F

Model Year:

2008

Vin Range Prefix:

JKAEXMJ1#8DA

Vin Range Start Number:

00001

Model Code Meaning:

EX250J8F denotes specific model configuration for 2008, with 'J' potentially indicating chassis/engine variant, '8' for model year, and 'F' for market or specific trim.

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Entry-level sportbike, popular for new riders and urban commuting.

Competitors 2008:

Honda CBR250R, Yamaha YZF-R250 (though YZF-R250 was not widely available in many markets at this time), Ninja 300 (later model).

Value Proposition:

Known for its reliable parallel-twin engine, agile handling, and attractive sportbike styling at an accessible price point.

Engine Type:

Liquid-cooled, four-stroke, DOHC, parallel-twin.

Design Philosophy:

Focus on user-friendliness, manageable power delivery, and sporty aesthetics.

Manual Benefit:

Empowers owners and technicians with the knowledge to perform maintenance, diagnostics, and repairs accurately and efficiently, reducing reliance on costly dealer services.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Page Count:

428

File Format:

PDF

Searchable Text:

Yes (typical for quality PDF manuals)

Printable:

Yes

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Service:

Complete overhaul, tuning, lubrication, cooling system, fuel system, exhaust system, engine mechanicals (valve clearance, timing, compression testing).

Transmission Drivetrain:

Clutch operation, gearbox inspection and repair, chain and sprocket maintenance, final drive.

Chassis Suspension:

Front fork service and adjustment, rear shock absorber and linkage, swingarm inspection and lubrication.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake system inspection, hydraulic system service (bleeding, fluid replacement), pad and disc replacement, caliper overhaul.

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system (alternator, regulator/rectifier), ignition system, starting system, lighting (headlight, taillight, indicators), wiring diagrams, fuses, relays.

Fuel System:

Carburetor inspection, cleaning, adjustment (jetting, float height), fuel tank, fuel pump (if applicable).

Cooling System:

Radiator, coolant, thermostat, fan operation (if equipped).

Exhaust System:

Muffler and pipe inspection, gasket replacement.

Bodywork Fittings:

Fairing removal and installation, seat, fuel tank, controls, instrumentation.

Preventative Maintenance:

Detailed service intervals, lubrication points, filter changes, fluid checks and replacements.

Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, fault code interpretation (if applicable).

Repair Overhaul:

Step-by-step instructions for component disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly.

Tune Up:

Carburetor synchronization, ignition timing adjustment, idle speed setting, spark plug replacement.

Component Replacement:

Instructions for replacing wear items like brake pads, clutch plates, cables, filters, and bulbs.

Diagnostic Capabilities:

Detailed troubleshooting flowcharts, component testing procedures, and expected readings (resistance, voltage).

Repair Complexity:

Covers everything from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.

Diagrams Illustrations:

High-quality, detailed exploded views and schematics for component identification and assembly.

📊 Manual Specifications

PDF Version:

Typically PDF 1.4 or higher, ensuring compatibility.

Diagram Clarity:

Excellent, designed for clear reproduction of technical drawings.

Text Legibility:

Sharp and easy to read, with professional formatting.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

EX250JE (typical, check VIN for absolute confirmation)

Engine Type:

Liquid-cooled, four-stroke, DOHC, parallel-twin

Bore X Stroke:

55.0 x 52.4 mm

Displacement:

249 cc

Compression Ratio:

11.0:1

Valve Train:

DOHC, 8 valves (2 per cylinder)

Horsepower Est:

Approx. 30-34 HP @ 11,000 RPM (market dependent)

Torque Est:

Approx. 15-17 lb-ft @ 9,000 RPM (market dependent)

Fuel Delivery:

Carburetor (likely Keihin CVK34 twin carburetors)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline, minimum 87 octane (RON + MON)/2

Fuel Tank Capacity Est:

18.0 Liters (4.8 US gal)

Oil Type Recommendation:

SAE 10W-40, API SG or higher, JASO MA certified

Oil Capacity W Filter:

Approx. 1.7 Liters (1.8 US qt)

Oil Filter Part Number Oem:

16097-0004 (Typical Kawasaki filter, verify for specific model)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

Constant mesh, 6-speed return

Clutch Type:

Wet, multiple-disc, cable-actuated

Final Drive:

O-ring sealed chain

Gear Ratios:

Detailed gear ratios are typically provided in the manual for each gear.

Transmission Oil Type:

Manual transmission fluid (typically SAE 75W-90 or similar, consult manual for exact specification).

📐 Dimensions

Overall Length Est:

2,005 mm (78.9 in)

Overall Width Est:

750 mm (29.5 in)

Overall Height Est:

1,110 mm (43.7 in)

Wheelbase Est:

1,370 mm (53.9 in)

Ground Clearance Est:

155 mm (6.1 in)

Seat Height Est:

780 mm (30.7 in)

Curb Weight Est:

Approx. 170 kg (375 lbs)

Dry Weight Est:

Approx. 150 kg (331 lbs)

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Features Standard:

Dual-piston front brake caliper, single-piston rear brake caliper.

Braking System:

Front: 290mm petal-disc. Rear: 220mm petal-disc.

Suspension Front:

37mm telescopic fork, non-adjustable (typical for this model and year).

Suspension Rear:

Bottom-link Uni-Trak, gas-charged shock, 5-way adjustable preload.

Lighting System:

Halogen headlight, LED taillight, incandescent turn signals.

Tires Front:

110/70-17 M/C 54S

Tires Rear:

130/70-17 M/C 62S

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

N/A (Focus on mechanical and electrical systems, no digital infotainment in this model).

ABS:

Not typically available as standard or optional equipment on the 2008 Ninja 250R model.

Dashboard:

Analog speedometer, analog tachometer, odometer, trip meter, fuel gauge, warning lights (oil pressure, neutral, high beam, turn signals).

🔧 Maintenance

Initial Service Mileage:

Usually around 600 miles (1,000 km) - includes oil change, filter inspection, chain adjustment, and general inspection.

Regular Oil Change:

Every 3,000-4,000 miles (5,000-6,000 km) or annually, whichever comes first.

Valve Clearance Check:

Every 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-16,000 km) or biennially.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-16,000 km).

Air Filter Cleaning Replacement:

Inspect every 3,000-4,000 miles (5,000-6,000 km), clean or replace as needed, more frequently in dusty conditions.

Coolant Type:

Kawasaki All-Season Motorcycle Coolant or equivalent (ethylene glycol based, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Chain Lubricant:

Specific O-ring chain lubricant. Regular cleaning and lubrication are crucial.

Common Wear Items:

Clutch plates, brake pads, chain and sprockets, fork seals, wheel bearings.

Carburetor Tuning:

Carburetors can sometimes require periodic cleaning and adjustment due to the nature of carbureted fuel systems, especially after long periods of disuse or with ethanol fuels.

Electrical Connections:

As with any motorcycle, ensure all electrical connections are clean and secure to prevent intermittent issues.

📚 Vehicle History

Kawasaki Legacy:

Kawasaki Heavy Industries has a long history of motorcycle manufacturing, known for performance and innovation across various segments, including sportbikes.

Ninja Lineage:

The Ninja 250R has been a cornerstone of Kawasaki's sportbike lineup for decades, evolving from a simple, accessible sportbike to a more refined machine with modern styling and performance.

2008 Model Update:

The 2008 model received significant styling updates, moving towards the more aggressive look of its larger Ninja brethren, including a new fairing, headlight design, and revised instrumentation.

Manufacturing Locations:

Typically manufactured in Japan or Southeast Asia (e.g., Thailand) depending on market.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Awards And Recognition:

While specific 'awards' for this model are uncommon, the Ninja 250R consistently received praise in motorcycle publications for its value, reliability, and suitability as a beginner sportbike.