🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Kawasaki

Model:

Z250

Year:

1980

Engine Code Identifier:

KZ250-D1 (example for standard Z250)

Chassis Code Identifier:

KZ250D (example for standard Z250)

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Compact, entry-level to mid-range sport/standard motorcycle in its era.

Target Audience:

Beginner riders, commuters, and enthusiasts seeking an affordable and manageable motorcycle.

Key Competitors:

Yamaha XS250, Suzuki GS250, Honda CB250.

Feature 1:

Compact and lightweight design for easy handling.

Feature 2:

Reliable parallel-twin engine.

Feature 3:

Stripped-down, classic sportbike styling.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Kawasaki Z250 motorcycle (1980 model year)

Secondary Coverage:

Likely includes variations or sub-models of the Z250 for the 1980 model year.

Estimated Pages:

Variable, typically 300-600 pages for a comprehensive factory service manual of this era.

Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual

Language:

English (standard for factory service manuals unless specified otherwise)

Format:

Likely printed book format, though digital versions (PDF) are common for resale.

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Complete engine overhaul, including disassembly, assembly, inspection, and repair of all internal components (pistons, rings, crankshaft, camshaft, valves, etc.).

Fuel System:

Carburetor(s) disassembly, cleaning, adjustment, rebuilding kits, fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel lines.

Ignition System:

Ignition coil, spark plugs, breaker points (if applicable), timing, CDI unit.

Transmission:

Gearbox disassembly, inspection, repair, gear shift mechanism, clutch operation and adjustment.

Drivetrain:

Chain drive, sprockets, rear wheel hub, primary drive.

Suspension:

Front forks (telescopic), rear shock absorbers, linkage (if applicable), swingarm, wheel bearings.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems (likely drum brakes for this model), brake shoes, brake drums, brake levers, cables.

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, battery, lighting system (headlight, taillight, indicators), charging system (alternator/stator, rectifier/regulator), starting system (starter motor, solenoid).

Frame And Bodywork:

Frame inspection, handlebars, seat, fenders, fuel tank, side covers, emblems, mounting hardware.

Wheels And Tires:

Wheel mounting, spoke tension (if applicable), tire specifications, valve stems.

Maintenance:

Routine maintenance tasks, lubrication points, oil change intervals, filter replacement, cable adjustments, spark plug checks.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common problems, symptom-based troubleshooting guides.

Repair:

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

Adjustment:

Detailed instructions for adjusting various systems, including carburetor idle speed and mixture, clutch and throttle cables, brake levers, ignition timing.

Overhaul:

Comprehensive guides for complete engine and component overhauls.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to full engine rebuilds and electrical system diagnostics. Designed for professional mechanics and skilled DIY enthusiasts.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Likely printed paper; if digital, PDF is standard. Quality would depend on the source of the digital copy (scanned quality).

Print Quality:

Factory manuals are typically high quality with clear diagrams and text. Scanned PDFs may vary.

Binding Type:

Stapled or perfect bound (for printed versions).

Paper Type:

Durable paper stock suitable for workshop environments (for printed versions).

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

4-stroke, DOHC, parallel-twin

Displacement:

239 cc

Bore X Stroke:

Approx. 56.0 x 47.4 mm (typical for KZ250 variants)

Cooling System:

Air-cooled

Compression Ratio:

Approx. 9.3:1 (typical for KZ250 variants)

Horsepower:

Approx. 23-27 hp @ 9,000 rpm (estimated, depending on tuning and specific model variant)

Torque:

Approx. 18-20 Nm @ 7,500 rpm (estimated)

Carburetion:

Twin carburetors (e.g., Mikuni VM20 or similar) or single larger carburetor, depending on exact model variant.

Fuel Capacity:

Approx. 10-12 liters (2.6-3.2 US gal)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed, constant mesh

Clutch Type:

Wet, multi-plate

Final Drive:

Chain drive

Gear Ratios:

Specific ratios would be detailed in the manual, essential for performance tuning and diagnostics.

Transmission Fluid:

Gear oil (e.g., SAE 80W-90 or SAE 10W-40 motorcycle transmission oil)

📐 Dimensions

Overall Length:

Approx. 2040 mm (80.3 in) (typical for KZ250 variants)

Overall Width:

Approx. 745 mm (29.3 in) (typical for KZ250 variants)

Overall Height:

Approx. 1080 mm (42.5 in) (typical for KZ250 variants)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 1350 mm (53.1 in) (typical for KZ250 variants)

Dry Weight:

Approx. 130-140 kg (287-309 lbs) (typical for KZ250 variants)

Wet Weight:

Approx. 140-150 kg (309-331 lbs) (estimated with fluids)

Maximum Load:

Not explicitly specified in product info, but typically around 150-180 kg rider + cargo.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Ratings:

Motorcycles of this era were not subjected to standardized crash testing as automotive vehicles are.

Braking System:

Front and rear drum brakes. Essential for understanding brake pad replacement, adjustment, and drum condition.

Lighting System:

Standard headlight, taillight, and turn signals for visibility.

Frame Design:

Steel cradle frame provides structural integrity.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

N/A (This era of motorcycle did not feature infotainment systems).

Driver Assistance Systems:

N/A (No electronic rider aids or driver assistance systems were present).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000-5,000 km (1,800-3,000 miles) or annually. Manual will specify exact mileage and time. (e.g., every 4,000 km)

Spark Plug Check:

Every 3,000-6,000 km (1,800-3,000 miles). (e.g., every 4,000 km)

Chain Lubrication:

Every 500-1,000 km (300-600 miles) and after washing or riding in rain.

Valve Clearance Check:

Typically every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles). Manual will provide precise intervals and specifications.

Engine Oil Type:

API SE or SF, SAE 10W-40 or 20W-40 motorcycle oil.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 1.7 - 2.0 liters with filter change. Manual will specify exact capacity.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (if hydraulic, though likely cable actuated drums). Manual will confirm.

Common Wear Items:

Clutch plates, brake shoes, fork seals, carburetor diaphragms (if present), charging system components (rectifier/regulator).

Electrical Gremlins:

Corrosion in connectors, aging wiring insulation, weak battery, and charging system issues are common in motorcycles of this age. Wiring diagrams are crucial.

Carburetor Issues:

Gumming and clogging due to fuel degradation, worn needle valves, and float level adjustments.

📚 Vehicle History

Kawasaki History:

Kawasaki Heavy Industries is a Japanese conglomerate with a long history in manufacturing, including a strong legacy in motorcycles known for performance and innovation.

Z Series Lineage:

The Z-series has been a cornerstone of Kawasaki's sportbike offerings since the iconic Z1 900 in the 1970s. The Z250 represents an accessible entry into this performance lineage.

Z250 Chronology:

The Z250 nameplate has been used for different engine displacements over the years. The 1980 model fits into the period of smaller-displacement, versatile motorcycles designed for everyday use and spirited riding.

Manufacturing Location:

Japan

Production Period:

Early 1980s

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Industry Awards:

Specific awards for the 1980 Z250 are unlikely to be prominent. Its success was more in its accessibility and reliability as an everyday rider.

Consumer Ratings:

Contemporary reviews would have focused on performance, handling, and value for money, rather than formal ratings.