Kawasaki KX 250 Top Speed, Specs and Features- All You Want

The Kawasaki KX 250 is a beast of a motocross bike that has earned its place on the top of the racing scene. Its agility and speed make it a force to be reckoned with, and its impressive design features make it stand out. But as with any vehicle, it’s essential to ask whether it still lives up to its legacy.

The Kawasaki KX 250 is a high-performing bike designed especially for off-roading. It owns an exceptional top speed of 75 mph (120 km/h). The KX 250 also comes with race-ready suspension, advanced technologies, and customizable ergonomics, making it a formidable machine on the track.

In this article, I’ll take a closer look at the KX 250’s specs and features and explore common questions that arise for those who own or are considering purchasing this iconic bike. Whether you’re a seasoned racer or just getting started, read on to learn more about the Kawasaki KX 250.

Specifications of Kawasaki KX 250:

So, let’s move to the all-important features and top speed for the Kawasaki KX 250.

Features of Kawasaki KX 250:

I’ll go one by one manner for all the essential features of the Kawasaki KX 250:

1. Engine of Kawasaki KX 250:

• The KX 250 is powered by a liquid-cooled 249cc, 4-stroke engine that delivers impressive performance and acceleration.
  
• It features a DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) design and a lightweight aluminum cylinder, which helps to reduce the bike’s overall weight. The DOHC design allows for precise valve timing, which results in better engine performance and efficiency. The four-valve cylinder head design allows for better breathing and increased power output.
  
• The engine also has a digital fuel injection system, ensuring smooth and consistent power delivery. The fuel injection system gives the engine the right amount of fuel at the right time, allowing optimal performance and improved fuel efficiency.

The Kawasaki KX 250 is a true powerhouse on the dirt, delivering an impressive 39.6 BHP (brake horsepower) at a thrilling 13,200 RPM (revolutions per minute). With its high-revving engine, this motocross marvel generates a jaw-dropping 24.9 Nm (Newton-meters) of torque at 9,400 RPM, ensuring explosive acceleration and unmatched performance.

Overall, the engine of the KX 250 is a crucial component that provides the bike with impressive performance capabilities. The high-tech design, fuel injection system, and broad power band make it a top-performing dirtbike.

2. Kawasaki KX 250 Suspension:

• The KX 250 features a Showa SFF (Separate Function front Fork) suspension system that provides excellent stability and control over rough terrain. The rear suspension is also adjustable, allowing riders to fine-tune the bike’s handling to their preferences.
  
• The Showa SFF Type 2 front suspension system is designed to provide exceptional handling and stability while absorbing bumps and rough terrain. It features a spring in each fork leg, allowing for better balance and smoother performance.
  
• The SFF system also allows for easy adjustability, so the rider can customize the suspension settings to match their riding style and conditions.
  
• The Uni-Trak rear suspension system is designed to offer excellent traction and handling while also providing a comfortable ride. It features a single shock absorber mounted beneath the swingarm, allowing for a more compact design and better weight distribution.
  
• The Uni-Trak system also offers a range of adjustability, including preload, compression, and rebound damping, allowing the rider to fine-tune the suspension settings to their preference.

3. Kawasaki KX 250 Brakes:

• The KX 250 features powerful disc brakes on both the front and rear wheels, providing reliable stopping power even at high speeds.
  
• The front brake is a 270mm petal disc, while the rear brake is a 240mm petal disc. The front braking system is designed to provide a strong initial bite, essential for dirtbike racing.
  
• The dual-piston caliper ensures consistent and controlled braking, even under extreme conditions. The semi-floating petal disc design also helps to dissipate heat more efficiently, reducing the risk of brake fades during prolonged use.
  
• The rear braking system complements the front braking system and provides additional stopping power and control. The single-piston caliper offers consistent and controlled braking, while the petal disc design helps to reduce heat buildup and minimize weight.

Overall, the braking system of the Kawasaki KX 250 is a crucial component that ensures the rider can stop the bike quickly and safely. The powerful braking system allows riders to confidently navigate tight corners and tricky terrain, providing a critical advantage during dirtbike racing.

4. Transmission:

• The KX 250 comes with a 5-speed transmission allowing smooth and precise shifting.
  
• The bike also features a hydraulically activated clutch, which provides consistent and predictable engagement.
  
• The transmission is designed to deliver smooth and reliable performance, with close gear ratios that allow for rapid acceleration and quick shifting. The gears are precisely engineered and manufactured, ensuring they mesh smoothly and precisely for smooth and seamless shifts.
  
• The clutch of the KX 250 is designed to provide a light and consistent feel, allowing the rider to engage and disengage the clutch easily. The clutch is also durable and reliable, capable of withstanding the demands of motocross racing.

5. KX 250 Precision Control- Hydraulic Clutch and Gearing:

The precision control offered by the hydraulic clutch and gearing system of the Kawasaki KX 250 is a key factor in achieving optimal performance and maximizing rider control on the track. Let me delve deeper into the technical details and analyze how these features contribute to precision control.

The hydraulic clutch system in the KX 250 utilizes fluid pressure to engage and disengage the clutch, resulting in consistent and smooth operation. This system minimizes variations in clutch play as the clutch heats up during intense riding sessions. 

Studies have shown that the KX 250's hydraulic clutch maintains a remarkably stable clutch feel, with a clutch play variation of less than 1mm, even under extreme conditions. This level of precision ensures that riders can confidently modulate the clutch for smooth power delivery and controlled acceleration, giving them an edge on the track.

Regarding the gearing system, the KX 250 is engineered with racer-friendly ratios that are finely tuned to suit the demands of motocross racing. The choice of gearing ratios significantly affects the bike’s acceleration, top speed, and overall performance. 

Through extensive testing and analysis, Kawasaki has optimized the gearing on the KX 250 to strike a balance between explosive acceleration and effective power transfer to the rear wheel. 

The carefully selected ratios enable riders to exploit the engine’s powerband and extract maximum performance in different riding scenarios.

Let’s look at some numerical data to provide a more comprehensive analysis below: 

• The KX 250 boasts a first gear ratio 2.000, enabling quick and responsive acceleration off the line. 

• Moving up the gears, the second gear ratio is 1.688, followed by 1.400 for the third gear, 1.182 for the fourth gear, 1.000 for the fifth gear, and a tall overdrive ratio of 0.846 for the sixth gear. 

These ratios are meticulously designed to optimize each gear’s power delivery and speed characteristics, ensuring that riders have the right amount of torque and control in different track sections.

Modifying the gear ratio affects the trade-off between top speed and acceleration. Choosing the suitable configuration depends on your riding style and preferences.

6. Kawasaki 250 Intake, Exhaust:

The intake and exhaust system of the Kawasaki KX 250 plays a crucial role in optimizing engine performance, maximizing power output, and enhancing the overall riding experience. Let’s dive deeper into the technical aspects and analyze how these components contribute to the bike’s performance.

6.1. Kawasaki 250 Intake:

The KX 250 has a downdraft-style intake configuration starting with the intake system. This design allows for efficient airflow into the engine, ensuring a constant and ample supply of fresh air-fuel mixture. 

The downdraft layout facilitates the direct path of the intake charge, minimizing turbulence and maximizing intake efficiency. This, in turn, enhances throttle response, improves low-end torque, and promotes overall engine performance.

To provide more precise data, the KX 250's intake system features a throttle body with a diameter of 44mm. The carefully selected size of the throttle body ensures optimal airflow and fuel atomization, contributing to improved combustion efficiency and power delivery. 

This attention to detail in the intake system design allows riders to experience crisp and immediate throttle response, providing them with the control and acceleration needed on the track.

6.2. Kawasaki 250 Exhaust:

Moving on to the exhaust system, the KX 250 is equipped with a high-performance exhaust designed to optimize power output and enhance the engine’s overall efficiency. The exhaust system incorporates tuned header pipes and a specially designed muffler to manage exhaust gas flow effectively. 

By carefully shaping the exhaust system, Kawasaki engineers have achieved a balance between reducing back pressure and maintaining optimal exhaust gas velocity, resulting in improved power delivery throughout the rev range.

To analyze the exhaust system further, let’s consider some numerical details. The KX 250’s exhaust system features a header pipe diameter of 36mm, designed to optimize exhaust gas flow and velocity. 

The diameter is carefully chosen to maintain a balance between low-end torque and top-end power, ensuring riders have access to a broad and usable powerband. 

Additionally, the muffler on the KX 250 is engineered with internal baffles and chambers that help control noise levels while minimizing power loss. This means riders can enjoy a high-performance exhaust note without sacrificing engine performance.

The combination of an efficient downdraft-style intake system and a well-designed exhaust system on the KX 250 leads to several benefits. Let me explain below:

• Firstly, it enhances throttle response and low-end torque, allowing riders to have immediate power delivery when exiting corners or navigating technical sections of the track. 

• Secondly, the optimized intake and exhaust systems improve overall engine performance, enabling riders to extract maximum power throughout the rev range. 

• Lastly, the thoughtful design of these components ensures a smooth and linear power delivery, providing riders with confidence and control on the track.

7. Kawasaki KX 250- Kawasaki Launch Control Mode (KLCM):

The Kawasaki KX 250 is equipped with an advanced feature, Kawasaki Launch Control Mode (KLCM), designed to provide riders with a competitive edge during race starts. 

I’ll explain the details and analyze how KLCM enhances the bike’s performance and maximizes traction off the line.

Kawasaki Launch Control Mode is a technology that optimizes the engine's power delivery and traction during race starts. It regulates the engine's output and manages wheel spin to ensure a smooth and controlled launch. 

By reducing wheel spin, riders can maintain traction and accelerate more efficiently, gaining an advantage over competitors right from the start.

If I say more technically, KLCM on the KX 250 features multiple adjustable launch control maps. These maps allow riders to customize the launch characteristics based on track conditions and personal preferences. 

The ability to fine-tune the launch control settings allows riders to optimize their starts for different surfaces, such as hard-packed dirt, soft soil, or sand, maximizing their chances of getting ahead of the competition.

The KX 250 offers 3 different launch control maps that riders can choose from. Each map has specific parameters for ignition timing, fuel delivery, and throttle response, finely tuned to suit different track conditions and riding styles. 

For example, one map may provide a more aggressive launch for hard-packed tracks, while another map may deliver smoother power for slippery or muddy surfaces. This level of customization empowers riders to adapt to varying race scenarios and extract the best performance from their machine.

The advantages of Kawasaki Launch Control Mode extend beyond race starts. It can also be beneficial when encountering challenging terrain or obstacles during a race. 

By maintaining traction and minimizing wheel spin, KLCM helps riders navigate through difficult sections of the track with confidence and control. This technology gives riders a competitive advantage by maximizing their traction and allowing them to maintain a higher level of speed and momentum.

8. Kawasaki KX 250 Finger-Follower Valve Actuation:

The Kawasaki KX 250 features an innovative technology called Finger-Follower Valve Actuation, crucial in enhancing the engine’s performance and overall efficiency. 

Now, I’ll explore the details and explain the benefits of this advanced valve system, supported by insightful analysis and relevant numerical data.

Finger-Follower Valve Actuation is a design concept that replaces traditional tappet-style valve actuation mechanisms with a more advanced system. 

In the KX 250, this technology utilizes a finger-follower setup, where the cam lobe directly contacts a finger-like follower instead of a tappet. This design offers several advantages, including improved valve control, increased durability, and enhanced high-rpm performance.

One of the key benefits of Finger-Follower Valve Actuation is its ability to provide precise valve control, resulting in improved power delivery and throttle response. The direct contact between the cam lobe and the follower reduces the inertia and friction associated with traditional tappet systems. 

As a result, the valve operation becomes more efficient, allowing for quicker and more accurate opening and closing of the valves. This enhanced control translates into improved engine performance and increased power output across the rev range.

When I researched more technically, I found that the Finger-Follower Valve Actuation system in the KX 250 contributes to the engine’s impressive power output. I illustrated the key points below:

• With a displacement of 249cc, the engine delivers substantial horsepower and torque figures, enabling riders to accelerate quickly and maintain high speeds on the track. 

• The precise valve control provided by the finger-follower setup plays a significant role in achieving these performance metrics.

• Furthermore, the Finger-Follower Valve Actuation system also contributes to the overall durability and reliability of the engine. 

• The reduced friction and wear associated with this design minimize the stress on the valvetrain components, leading to increased longevity and reduced maintenance requirements. 

• This is particularly important for high-performance dirt bikes like the KX 250, where reliability and durability are crucial factors in competitive racing.

9. Kawasaki KX 250 Frame:

• The KX 250 features a lightweight aluminum perimeter frame that is strong and rigid. This design helps to improve the bike’s handling and stability, allowing riders to take on even the most challenging terrain confidently.
  
• The frame features a twin-spar design, which provides excellent balance and stability while minimizing weight. The twin-spar design makes the frame more compact and offers improved handling and cornering capabilities.
  
•  The frame is also designed with an optimized center of gravity, allowing for better weight distribution and handling. This helps the rider to maintain control and stability even when the bike is pushed to its limits.

Overall, the frame of the KX 250 is a crucial component that ensures the bike can easily handle the demands of motocross racing. Its lightweight design, twin-spar construction, optimized center of gravity, and advanced engineering make it unique.

10. Kawasaki KX 250 Ergonomics-Customizable Riding Experience:

The Kawasaki KX 250 is designed with a strong emphasis on rider comfort and customization. It offers a range of ergonomic features that allow riders to tailor the bike to their individual preferences.

The KX 250’s ergonomics are centered around Kawasaki’s ERGO-FIT system, which allows riders to adjust various components of the bike to suit their body size, riding style, and preferences. 

This system offers four-way adjustable handlebar positions, allowing riders to fine-tune the handlebar height, forward/backward positioning, and angle. Additionally, the KX 250 provides two footpeg positions, further enhancing the rider's ability to find their optimal riding position.

By customizing the ergonomics to match their body and riding style, riders can achieve improved control, comfort, and confidence on the bike.

The ability to adjust the handlebars allows riders to find the optimal reach and height, ensuring a natural and relaxed riding posture. 

This is particularly beneficial during long rides or intense motocross races, where rider fatigue can significantly impact performance.

When I analyzed the reported data, it showed that the customizable ergonomics of the KX 250 contribute to a more personalized riding experience. The four-way adjustable handlebar positions allow for a wide range of adjustments to suit riders of different heights and arm lengths. 

Similarly, the two footpeg positions provide flexibility in finding the most comfortable foot placement for improved control and stability.

The customizable ergonomics of the KX 250 not only enhance rider comfort but also play a vital role in optimizing performance. When riders are in a comfortable and natural riding position, they can better utilize their body’s weight distribution and leverage, allowing for more precise control and maneuverability.

11. Kawasaki KX 250 Tires:

The KX 250 comes with high-performance tires designed to provide excellent traction and grip on various surfaces. The front tire is 80/100-21, while the rear tire is 100/90-19.

The Kawasaki KX250 has lightweight and durable wheels designed to enhance performance on and off the track. The front hub of the KX250 is 15mm smaller in diameter compared to its predecessor, resulting in reduced unsprung weight and improved handling. Similarly, the rear hub is smaller and lighter, improving overall agility and responsiveness.

To further enhance strength and durability, the spokes of the KX250 have been upgraded from a two-cross pattern to a three-cross pattern. This configuration provides increased stability and resilience, ensuring that the wheels can withstand the rigors of motocross racing.

The KX250 features high-quality aluminum alloy rims manufactured by Excel, a reputable company that produces hubs for Kawasaki’s factory racing team. Excel rims are renowned for their strength and reliability, making them ideal for demanding off-road conditions.

The Kawasaki KX250 is equipped with Dunlop D756 tires as its standard option. These tires offer excellent traction and grip on various terrains, allowing riders to confidently maintain control and navigate through challenging tracks. 

The front tire measures 2.75 inches in width, providing precise steering and maneuverability, while the rear tire is 4.5 inches wide, offering enhanced stability and traction during acceleration and cornering.

While primarily intended for off-road racing, the Dunlop D756 tires are also suitable for street use. This versatility allows riders to take their KX250 from the track to the trails and even venture onto the road if desired, providing a well-rounded riding experience.

Top Speed of Kawasaki KX 250:

The top speed of the Kawasaki KX 250 is around 75 mph (120 km/h). However, it is essential to note that the top speed can vary depending on rider weight, riding conditions, and terrain.

Increasing the Top Speed of the Kawasaki KX 250:

To increase the top speed of your Kawasaki KX250, several factors and modifications must be considered. Here let me explain some key points to help you achieve higher speeds:

• Gear Ratio Optimization: 

Adjusting the gear ratios can significantly impact the top speed. By selecting sprockets with different tooth counts for the front and rear, you can alter the gear ratios to achieve a higher top speed. 

Increasing the rear sprocket size or reducing the front sprocket size will result in higher top speed but may sacrifice low-end acceleration.

• Performance Exhaust System: 

Upgrading to a high-performance exhaust system can improve engine efficiency and increase power output, enhancing the top speed. 

A less restrictive exhaust system allows for better airflow, optimizing the engine's performance and potentially raising the top speed.

• Engine Tuning and Modifications: 

Fine-tuning the engine can maximize its power potential. This may involve adjusting the carburetor, optimizing the air-fuel mixture, and ensuring proper ignition timing. 

Additionally, installing performance enhancements such as a high-flow air filter, aftermarket fuel controller, or upgrading engine components can increase horsepower and improve top speed.

• Aerodynamic Upgrades: 

Enhancing the bike’s aerodynamics can help reduce drag and increase top speed. Consider installing a windscreen or fairings explicitly designed to reduce air resistance. 

These additions can streamline the bike’s profile, allowing it to cut through the air more efficiently.

• Tire Selection: 

Choosing tires with lower rolling resistance can improve the bike’s overall performance, including its top speed. 

Look for tires specifically designed for high-speed applications, as they can reduce friction and provide better grip at higher velocities.

• Weight Reduction: 

Minimizing the bike’s weight can improve acceleration and top speed. Consider replacing heavy components with lightweight alternatives, such as carbon fiber or aluminum parts. 

Removing unnecessary accessories or accessories that create the drag, such as large handguards, can also help improve top speed.

• Professional Tuning and Dyno Testing: 

Consulting with an experienced motorcycle tuner or performance shop is recommended for optimal results. 

They can analyze your bike’s specific needs, fine-tune the engine, and conduct dyno testing to measure the impact of modifications on top speed.

It’s important to note that while these modifications can potentially increase top speed, it’s crucial to prioritize safety and ensure that any modifications comply with local regulations and track requirements. Always ride within your skill level and consider the limitations of the bike and your own riding abilities.

Pros and Cons of Kawasaki KX 250:

Users’ Feedback/Review of the Kawasaki KX 250:

“Its a really good bike. Have 60 hours or more on it and has plenty of topend left. It’s hard to use all its power. This is a great machine, I ride freestyle motocross and it with stands the abuse of jump after jump and is light and nimble in the air and a very thin bike.”

Source: cycleinsider.com

“I bought a KX250R in October of ’06 and have ridden it on a variety of terrain, except deep sand. Previously I rode a Honda CRF150, which was at best a trail bike and got boring quickly. It was fun to ride around with my kids, but Dad has to have excitement too. So I traded in the 150 for a rocket. And a rocket it is!. I grew up on a 2-stroke in my early teens (Yamaha100) in Tahoe. Honda had just released their Elsinore 250 and then the 125. I always wanted a faster more powerful bike. I considered a vintage Maico 490, must have been a death wish. Well the KX250 has all the power I could ever use and more. I swear this bike can wheelie in 1st through 3rd even with my weight on it. I ride it near Victorville, CA, and even trail riding can be negotiated if you blow out the goop once in a while. It really wants to scream, like holding a Tiger by it’s tail!”

Source: cycleinsider.com

“My dad and I have a 2004 Kawasaki kx-250. We bought it used last year along with a 2003 kx-100 for my birthday. The kx-250 is a monster! It flies! It is easy to dump it around the corner, so be careful. And it’s pretty heavy to pick up off the ground too. If you want to ride on the back wheel, you don’t have to pull back. Just give it the gas and WOMP! You might say it’s easy for me cause I’m so light, But my dad is 5 foot 5 inches, and weighs 145 lbs and he still gets thrown off by it. If you are an adrenaline junky, you’ll be happy to ride this bike. If you are unaware of the power, you’ll be awaken just as soon as your hand pulls the trottle. This should not be the first bike you ride. If you don’t have good neck muscles, you will snap your neck from the acceleration. that’s why we nicknamed our 250 KAWABEAST!”

Source: cycleinsider.com

Final Thought:

The Kawasaki KX 250 proves itself as a formidable force in the world of dirtbikes and off-road racing. With its impressive top speed, race-ready features, and cutting-edge technology, it offers an exhilarating riding experience for seasoned riders and aspiring champions alike.

Whether you’re an experienced rider seeking the thrill of pushing the limits or a rising star in the motocross world, the Kawasaki KX 250 is ready to take you to new heights.

So, if you’re looking for a motorcycle that combines speed, versatility, and cutting-edge technology, the Kawasaki KX 250 is the ultimate choice. The Kawasaki KX 250 is your ticket to an adrenaline-fueled journey of victory and exhilaration.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

How much maximum speed can be attained by KX 250?

Kawasaki KX 250 can reach a top speed of about 65-75 mph. The speed factor does not depend on the modifications and multiple factors.

What are some of the specifications of the Kawasaki KX 250?

Some of the Kawasaki KX 250 specifications include the liquid-cooled, 4-stroke engine with a 249 cc engine capacity. This vehicle owns a single cylinder with four valves in it.

How many gears are present in the Kawasaki KX 250?

There are 5-speed return gears in the Kawasaki KX-250 bike.

Is Kawasaki 250 considered a good vehicle to ride?

Kawasaki KX 250 is considered an excellent bike and has not reported any significant weak linkages or poor performance. It has an overall excellent power ranking.

What is the average fuel consumption of the Kawasaki KX 250?

The average fuel consumption of Kawasaki KX 250 is 25km/liter. It has a fuel capacity of 6.3 liters and an engine capacity of 249cc.