Segment:
Entry-level sportbike, popular for new riders and commuting.
Target Audience:
Beginner motorcyclists, budget-conscious riders, those seeking an economical and reliable sportbike.
Key Competitors:
Honda CBR250R, Suzuki GS500F, Yamaha R25 (though R25 came later).
Engine Type:
Inline-twin, liquid-cooled, DOHC, 8-valve.
Styling:
Full fairing, aggressive sportbike aesthetics.
Handling:
Nimble and predictable, suitable for urban riding and twisty roads.
Reliability:
Known for its robust and durable powertrain.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, connecting rods, valve train, timing chain, lubrication system.
Engine Fuel System:
Carburetor overhaul (dual Keihin CVK), fuel lines, fuel pump, fuel tank, fuel filter.
Ignition System:
Ignition coil, spark plugs, CDI unit, wiring, timing checks.
Cooling System:
Radiator, cooling fan, coolant hoses, thermostat, coolant capacity and type.
Transmission And Drivetrain:
Clutch operation, gearbox disassembly/assembly, gear selection, final drive chain and sprockets, lubrication.
Chassis And Suspension:
Frame inspection, front fork (telescopic, cartridge type) disassembly/assembly, rear shock absorber (monoshock) adjustment/replacement, swingarm.
Braking System:
Front and rear disc brakes, brake caliper overhaul, master cylinder, brake lines, brake fluid type and bleeding procedures, pad replacement.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery, starter motor, alternator, lighting system (headlight, taillight, indicators), horn, fuses, relays, instrument cluster.
Bodywork And Trim:
Fairing removal/installation, seat, fuel tank cover, fenders, decals, emblems.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacement, chain adjustment, brake checks, tire pressure, coolant level checks, spark plug replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, common problems and solutions, symptom-based troubleshooting.
Engine Repair:
Complete engine rebuild procedures, cylinder head gasket replacement, piston ring replacement, valve adjustments.
Transmission Repair:
Gearbox internal component replacement, clutch pack servicing.
Suspension Overhaul:
Front fork seal replacement, rear shock absorber service.
Brake System Service:
Caliper seal replacement, master cylinder rebuild, brake line replacement.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Wiring harness inspection, component testing, fault finding for electrical systems.
Carburetor Tuning:
Idle speed adjustment, mixture screw settings, synchronization procedures.
Specifications And Torques:
All critical bolt torques, engine clearances, fluid capacities, tire pressures.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to full engine and component rebuilds).
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Advanced diagnostic procedures and troubleshooting charts specific to the model's systems.
Diagrams And Illustrations:
Detailed exploded views, wiring schematics, and step-by-step procedural illustrations.
Engine Type:
4-stroke, liquid-cooled, DOHC, parallel-twin
Displacement:
249 cc (249 cm³)
Bore X Stroke:
55.0 x 52.4 mm
Compression Ratio:
11.6:1
Valve Actuation:
DOHC, 8 valves (4 per cylinder)
Horsepower:
Approximately 28-30 PS (19.9-21.5 kW) @ 11,000 rpm (model dependent, may vary by market)
Torque:
Approximately 18-20 Nm (13.3-14.8 lb-ft) @ 10,000 rpm (model dependent, may vary by market)
Carburetor Type:
Dual Keihin CVK30 semi-downdraft carburetors
Fuel Tank Capacity:
18 Liters (4.8 US gal)
Oil Type Recommendation:
SAE 10W-40 API SG or SH with JASO MA specification (check manual for precise spec).
Oil Capacity:
2.0 Liters (2.1 US qt) with filter change.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 6,000 km (3,700 miles) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Oil Filter Change Interval:
Every 12,000 km (7,500 miles) or 12 months (recommended with oil change).
Spark Plug Check/Replace:
Check at 6,000 km (3,700 miles), replace as needed. Replace typically at 12,000-18,000 km (7,500-11,000 miles) depending on conditions.
Valve Clearance Check:
First check at 24,000 km (15,000 miles), then every 12,000 km (7,500 miles) or 12 months thereafter.
Chain Adjustment:
Check and adjust every 2,000 km (1,200 miles) or as needed.
Engine Oil:
SAE 10W-40 API SG or SH, JASO MA.
Coolant:
Mixture of high-quality ethylene glycol base antifreeze and distilled water (50/50 ratio). Kawasaki recommends their own coolant or equivalent.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 (refer to manual for exact specification and replacement interval).
Fork Oil:
SAE 10W (check manual for specific type and amount).
Carburetor Performance:
Can be sensitive to atmospheric pressure changes, may require periodic cleaning and adjustment for optimal performance.
Cam Chain Tensioner:
Some owners report the automatic cam chain tensioner can become noisy over time, requiring replacement.
Clutch Feel:
Clutch can feel a bit heavy for some riders; adjustment and lubrication are key.
Fairing Vibration:
Minor vibration from fairing panels at certain RPMs can occur; check mounting points.
Manufacturer:
Kawasaki Heavy Industries Motorcycle & Engine Company.
Legacy:
Kawasaki has a long history of producing performance motorcycles, including the iconic Ninja line.
Predecessor:
Kawasaki Ninja 250R (EX250H, previous generation).
Key Changes For This Generation:
New chassis (J-series), updated styling with a sharper, more aggressive Ninja look, improved aerodynamics, revised suspension and braking components.
Generation Lifespan:
This generation (EX250K) generally spanned from 2008/2009 through to 2012/2013 globally, with minor updates.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily produced in Thailand, with components sourced globally.
Market Success:
Highly successful globally as an entry-level sportbike, known for its affordability and performance for its class.