The 2008 Kawasaki 250R has been redesigned and it looks good. The 250R makes a great entry level ride and it doesn’t lack for performance either, plus it’s the only 250cc sportbike for sale over here in the states. You get a 249cc DOHC parallel twin with a six speed transmission, great handling, high mileage and all for $3500. The little Ninja now looks a lot more like its current big brothers, the ZX-6R and ZX-10R, with bigger 17 inch wheels, single exhaust and a lot of other upgrades to make it an even better value than before, a nice bike to start with and for some, it may be all the bike they need.
From Kawasaki press release:
One look at the new Ninja 250R tells everyone that this bike is the genuine article. With a new full-fairing similar to the Ninja ZX-6R and -10R supersport bikes, a single kicked-up muffler, UNI-TRAK rear suspension, high-performance petal disc brakes and a dual seat, this is the most stylish performer in its category.
Compact size, exceptional personality and a low price tag highlight Kawasaki’s new Ninja 250R quarter-liter performer. Considering how much fun it is to ride and the fact that it’s the only 250cc sportbike sold in the U.S., it’s no wonder the Ninja 250R has been a strong seller for over a decade. Its successful blend of a rider-friendly engine, easy-to-operate chassis and supersport styling worthy of its Ninja moniker, this model was developed to offer real world performance to riders of all skill levels and goes to show that good things do come in small packages.
At the core of the lightweight Ninja 250R is an engine that thrives on high-rpm excitement. The gutsy 249cc parallel twin has been retuned to spice up its smooth and predictable power delivery. It now offers more low- and mid-range torque thanks to revisions to its dual overhead camshafts and a new 2-into-1 exhaust system. A silky smooth six-speed transmission tops off the sportbike equipment list, enabling the 250R to exploit a powerband that’s sure to please riders with its beginner friendly low-end grunt and a lively top-end rush that’ll keep seasoned veterans satisfied. The coup de’ grace, is its ability to deliver excellent fuel economy.
The 250R’s new fairing and windscreen not only look great, they deliver improved wind protection for a wide range of riding situations. This lightweight sportbike is loaded with even more rider-friendly features such as an easy-to-read instrument panel and positive neutral finder.
A natural riding position and comfortable ergonomics combined with its lightweight handling, easy controllability and improved throttle response make the 250R a pleasure to ride on city streets. Also new for 2008 are larger 17-inch wheels that offer great handling and improved stability. A larger 290mm front brake rotor is gripped by a powerful 2-piston caliper to provide a healthy dose of stopping power with a responsive feel at the lever. Like Kawasaki’s other sport models, the Ninja 250R is fitted with petal discs for efficient heat dissipation.
The simple formula of providing easy-handling agility, lightweight responsiveness, and low ownership costs make the Ninja 250R a force to be reckoned with in the entry-level sportbike category.
DOHC 249cc Parallel Twin-cylinder Engine
– Compact parallel-twin design offers good mass centralization for superior handling
– Tuned to deliver smooth, step-free power with an emphasis on low- and mid-range power for rider-friendly response
– Pistons feature reinforced heads and strengthening in the pin boss area for increased durability
– Thick piston (longitudinally) rings help minimize oil consumption
– Combustion chamber design optimized to maximize combustion efficiency and reduce emissions
– Ample high-rpm performance will please riders using the full range of the engine
Cylinder head
– Refined intake and exhaust ports contribute to good off-idle response and smooth power delivery
– Valve timing and lift were designed for strong low- and mid-range torque
– Direct valve actuation ensures reliable high-rpm operability
– Valves with thin heads and stems reduce reciprocating weight
Carburetor
– Twin Keihin CVK30 carburetors fine-tuned for good power feel and low fuel consumption
Exhaust system
– 2-into-1 system contributes to the Ninja 250R’s low- and mid-range torque and smooth, step-free power curve
– Slightly upswept silencer extensively tested to determine chamber size, connecting pipe length and diameter to achieve least noise and most power
– Meets strict emissions with dual catalyzers; one in the collector pipe and the other in the silencer
– Using two catalyzers minimizes the power loss
– Positioning the first catalyzer as close to the exhaust ports maximizes its efficiency as well
Reduced mechanical noise
– Cam chain tensioner with an automatic adjuster, like that on the KX450F motocrosser, eliminates mechanical noise caused by a loose cam chain and reduces power-robbing friction loss
– Silencing mechanical noise allows the use of a freer flowing exhaust for a better sound quality
– Complex construction with reinforcing ribs helps eliminate airbox reverberation and reduce intake noise
– Air filter accessible from the side, for easy replacement
Liquid Cooling
– Latest generation Denso radiator offers superior cooling with minimal space and weight
– Ring-fan uses a quiet-running motor that also saves space
– Fins on the lower side of the crankcase further helps cool the engine
Six-speed Transmission / Clutch
– Involute splines reduce friction and backlash between gears and shafts for easier gear meshing and smooth shifting under power
– Spring-type clutch damper reduces jerkiness at very low speeds and minimizes shocks when rolling on and off the throttle for a smoother clutch feel
– Paper-base friction plates help increase clutch durability
Suspension
– New 37mm telescopic front fork with firm settings contribute to the Ninja 250R’s smooth, stable handling and enhanced ride control
– Rear shock features 5-way adjustable preload, enabling ride height to be maintained whether riding solo or with a passenger
Wheels / Tires
– Features 17†wheels like its larger supersport brothers
– Low-profile sportbike tires on wide rims contribute to its easy, neutral handling at low speeds
Brakes
– Large-diameter, 290mm front petal disc and a balanced action two-piston caliper offers excellent braking performance and a natural, direct feeling at the lever
– Two-piston caliper grips the rear 220mm petal disc
Bodywork
– Styling matches its larger-displacement Ninja supersport siblings
– Fit and finish of striking full-fairing bodywork on par with that of top-class Ninja supersports
– Aggressive dual-lamp headlight design, slim tail cowl and separate seats further enhance the supersport look
– Front cowling and windscreen offer the rider a substantial amount of wind protection
– Two helmet holders conveniently located under the rear seat
– Under-seat storage can hold a U-lock or similar device
– Two hooks under the tail and the rear passenger pegs provide anchor points for securing items to the rear of the bike
jim says
Good for Kawasaki, keeping a model in a market the rest of the industry is ignoring. Perhaps if this were a more competitive niche with bikes from several manufacturers motorcycling would look less like an AARP convention. Cheap to buy, cheap to insure and not scary for beginners, but still sporty looking.
Then the AMA could help out by dumping the 600cc sport bike class and pushing a 250 class. Make quarter liter bikes cool.
Ry says
I miss the RZ350’s and the slower but basic Honda CB350’s and 400’s.
The new Ninja 250 looks like it will perform in the twisties but a 350 version would be both: easily controllable and enough power to keep it interesting for more than a season. Or maybe offer a RR version with that 45 50 HP , I bet the stunters would enjoy that.
PigIron says
Kawasaki did some nice updates to this bike. I like the better suspension components and wheels and the styling is very sharp.
As gas goes to $5+ per gallon in the US you will see more of these on the road.
Richard says
After seeing the comments yesterday on the ZX-14, I waited for this story on the 250 to come along. Those comments led me to expect something more exciting, so I was disappointed.
However, kudos to Kawi for making a bike that someone might be able to learn on. Like Ry, I miss the CB350’s.
Matt in NC says
With an MSRP of $3499 it sure seems like this would be a fantastic little commuter bike.
The updated look was long overdue, and this looks great.
I know the green is a classic Kawi color, but I think the red or blue look better, but that’s just me.
I wonder what real world mileage will be, and if the insurance companies will classify this as a standard of sport bike.
PigIron says
250cc bikes on the street typically get between 50 and 70 mpg depending on the riders size and weight. I weigh 215 and get around 54-57 mpg on my KLR250.
It is best to keep a running average for several tanks to get an accurate mileage calculation as most 250’s have small tanks and it is next to impossible to fill them to the same exact level each time.
zipidachimp says
waiting for honda to bring out a cbr250r, a modern ducati 250 single equivalent. nice of kawasaki to do this though. might be tempted.
PigIron says
700 Miles on a Ninja 250 – A motorcyclist’s review:
http://www.pashnit.com/forum/showthread.php?t=1145
Willie Schmitz says
This is a really great bike! Lotta fun for experienced riders also. The 17″ wheels are a step in the right direction. Wish there was an R version. A beginner bike for the balance sheet and a R version for the twisties.
tedder says
Matt- yes, they have always classified it as a sportbike. That means it’s significantly more expensive than a larger-cc standard or dualsport with most insurance companies.
The ninjette has always been a cult favorite for commuting, sport strafing, and even longer-distance riding (for some). Mileage has always been 50-90 depending on speed.
It’s too bad they don’t offer ABS. That would make it a killer beginner bike.
GAMBLER says
bout time!!!
great bike for newbs & off highway commuters
lot’s of cheap fun
I wish they would bring back some 2 stroke power
Erik says
Kawasaki has been updating alot of models lately and this tiny Ninja looks excellent. I’ve had big bikes and little bikes and little bikes just seem to produce alot more grins per mile.
akbar says
gosh, that looks like a fun, little commuter. I would much rather tool around town on this then a Vespa, say. Not that I don’t have some fond memories of a Vespa
Sean says
Why 250? Because in many parts of the world, that’s the legal limit on capacity for a learner to ride. We do need more affordable 250s. You don’t need a 1200cc monster to get your kicks, my VT250 Honda has just on 40hp and is more than a match for most cars. Something kinda nice about a late-model Porsche pulling over to let your 25 year old machine past.
Dodgy says
Here in Australia we have a restricted ‘Learner’ category. It used to be 250cc, but bikes like the Aprilia RS250/Suzuki RGV250 made it a bit meaningless. Now most states use a power:weight ratio system (up to 650cc, limited power).
The biggest selling ‘new’ bike is the HYosung GT250R, but that is being chased by the CBR125, because it looks great, and is so cheap…
The 250R should sell well, and maybe legislators over there could slow down the death rate on the GSXCBZX1R’s by restricting idiots from buying liter bikes to learn on?
Bryce says
Looks like a great update to a great bike. On the subject of Vespas/scooters, I’d love to see this engine in one.
Morgan says
I read somewhere about a few performance bits to go on this 250cc via Kawasaki (rather than aftermarket). Can’t recall where but it may get interesting . . .
chris says
maybe now that they’ve updated the looks more people will follow that little voice inside their own head that tells them something bigger might be too much for a beginner. i’ve gotta say (and i’m not proud of it) the Ninja 250 was the obvious choice for a totally green newbie like myself. but those looks! UGH! i was genuinely considering a used CBR600. not the best thing for a beginner. now all is right and the 250 is it. very nice job Kawasaki!
Adam says
Strip the fairing, tack on a single headlamp, and subtract $200 from price and you have one hell of a great starter/commuter bike.
PigIron says
They have a page of tips about turning the Ninja 250 into a standard/streetfighter over at Ninja 250 Riders Club:
http://faq.ninja250.org/wiki/I_want_to_make_my_bike_into_a_streetfighter.
todd says
I see the earlier Ninja 250’s and EX250’s all around everywhere I go. They are the perfect bike for getting around in the twisty San Fran Bay Area.
I have to argue with Kawasaki’s claim that they have the only 250 sport bike: What about the Hyosung 250 Comet? I’ve seen a few of them around but they are down a little on HP from the Ninja.
The previous Ninja 250 was around 30HP which makes it pretty comparable with an RD350 and a bit quicker than the old 20-25HP CB360 and Yamaha 400’s. From what I recall those bikes were a bit more respected in their day than the Ninja 250 is today.
-todd
Prester John says
So now the big question: will Kawasaki USA actually import a bunch of these, or will this be a “sorry, we’ve sold this year’s allocation of 250s, but let me show you this 650” deal?
Tom
GAMBLER says
the old EX250 had 30bhp & if lucky 17hp at the rear wheel, so I will be interested in seeing honest dyno results on the new bike
now Yamaha needs to step up & import the YZF-R125
http://www.motorcyclenews.com/MCN/News/newsresults/mcn/2007/September/sept10-16/sep10072008yamahayzfr125–2/
Ted says
Living on the island of Kauai, I find that this little Ninja is a perfect bike for here. I’ve got a 1989 Honda NX-250 that I ride now, but this little Ninja looks so good!
I think I’ll be getting one and really look forward to enjoying it. 50 mph speed limit will never over burden this bike!
jp says
This might very well be my next bike. Hard to beat the starting price, and my go-fast urges are satisfied by living an hour and a half from Pocono Raceway. Good mileage, good looks, bulletproof little motor…what’s not to like?
AJ says
Everyone keeps saying how the Ninja 250 is a nice little learner bike, great for “off highway” commuters. Y’all are very uninformed. I ride my 250 on the freeway to work every day, and have no trouble maintaining 75 – 85 miles an hour with engine to spare. I ride the twisites nearly every weekend and I can tell you that the light weight makes it easier to throw around than a liter bike. Everyone has all these negative things to say about the 250 when in fact those same poeple have never ridden one and wouldn’t be caught dead riding one because (until now) it wasn’t “sporty” looking. It doesn’t matter how fast you got to 60MPH when you hit the wall – you’re still dead.
JC in Bay Area says
I’ve been doing a great deal of research, being the first time I’m going to buy a bike… and I just keep coming back to this one. I love the way it looks, and it really seems this will be the best for me to learn the ropes. Not to mention the very affordable price tag. I see very few negative things said about it, and I can’t wait to get home from LA to find a decent dealer in the Bay Area to pick one up.
Jack says
I just got an 07 250R and love it!! Too bad I didn’t wait for the 08’s to come out, thats a fine looking bike
Brendan Conneely says
I’d like to get some feedback from any rider 5’3″ tall and under who has a 2008 Ninja 250R. Kawasaki bumped the seat height up from 29.3″ to 30.7″. My wife is 5’3″ and I was considering purchasing a 2008 for her. Is the 1.4″ height difference a big deal or does the new seat design offset this? I realize the obvious solution would be to find one in a showroom and have my wife throw a leg over it but finding the new 250 at dealerships dominated by dual purpose bikes, larger sportbikes and cruisers is a challenge in itself. Thanks for the feedback.
todd says
I recently checked my local dealer. They will not start receiving the bikes until November or so… according to them.
I have a feeling the shape of the seat will allow possibly better sure footedness. The seat should reflect the current trend of being very narrow and down-sloping at the front, essentially making it narrower and not bowing the legs out as much. One disadvantage to this type of seat is that it tends to keep the rider locked into one position and, though it fits more like a glove at the dealership, sore-butt sets in sooner. This wasn’t always the case with bikes designed 20 plus years ago like the previous 250. Those seats were fairly broad allowing one to move around. Problem is, being flat, they tended to be too thick to overcome the resulting high pressure points. The flat seats are actually less comfortable but a little squirming tended to fend off discomfort.
I’m waiting for one of these too, “for my wife”.
-todd
alex says
this is what we have been waiting for over here in Europe. Pity the deliveries are planned for january (at least here in Macedonia).
This should be about the most enjoyable get-up-and-go lightweight bike out there.
The November dilemma will be: green or black ?
Joe says
I can’t wait for spring! This’ll be my first bike! I can’t decide on which color I like the best but I have plenty of time to think it through. 😀
Grace says
I’m 5’2″ and have been riding my 05 Ninja 250 since it arrived at the dealer. Love it to death. Ride it on the hwy to work every day just fine thank you very much. 😉
I have to remind everybody to think in terms of inseam length rather than height when asking seat height questions. Keep in mind that most women have longer legs than men but we like our bikes shorter when we start out due to our weaker upper body strength.
Anyway, my inseam is 28.5″ and it’s greatly enhanced by my Daytona Ladystar GTX boots which add almost an inch to my inseam. (look ’em up and get them for your women. They also make a version for men). I wouldn’t worry about the slightly higher seat height. If it becomes a problem you can get the boots. (I recommend them anyway since they have great grip on oily surfaces.) Also remember the rear shock will be adjustable so that will help.
Mel says
To Brendan who was concerned about the increased seat height of the new 250r, check out this comment and photo. http://forums.ninja250.org/viewtopic.php?p=628937#628937
franky j says
Just bought a Chinese Yamaha (Yamiti) Strada 150cc scooter on ebay and then saw this real machine. Tomorrow to the local dealer to probably purchase if in stock and sell the scoot. Don’t buy anything made in China that costs more than $35.00
joe p says
Just bought this sweet 2008 Ninja 250R in green two days ago for about $5600 total! I’m 5’6” and I have no problem. My gf rides too and she’s 5’3” and it’s a little problem for her. Her feet don’t quite reach the ground and so backing up the bike is pretty hard for her since she has to tiptoe kinna. This bike is for real out in the West Coast and waiting lists are up! Get yours now!!!!
emily says
i just got mine about two weeks ago blue first one in sd county any way i’m 5’2″ and have no problem. yes i have to tip toe but it doesnt really matter. and ya the waiting lists are full and for good reason.
Danielle says
Hi, Joe P-
How much did your dealership charge for set up fee etc? Even with the sale tax, this is still $2100 above the 250R’s $3500 MSRP. I live in Missouri, and wonder approximately how much the out the door price should be? Do people usually pay MSRP plus set up fee for a new bike? Sorry about the naive question, but I am a newbie. Thanks.
fred martinez says
i have an 07 jet black i changed a fue things about it. i wished i’ve waited for the 08 its BEAUTIFUL bike
Inigo says
I think the 2008 looks much better. I’m going to be working on the East coast for about 4 months and was thinking about buying one of these, using it for 4 months, then selling it…any idea how easy it is to sell a barely used 250? My other concern is whether I would fit on this bike with my height.
todd says
My step-dad is still waiting for his. Supposedly Kawasaki only delivers one a week, that’s terrible considering they have a year long waiting list down at the dealership. I’ve sat on one at the cycle show. I’m 6’3″ and I fit fine. I’ve ridden the earlier versions and they are very comfortable and not cramped at all. They’re very quick for a 250 and a viable freeway commuter/canyon carver. I can’t wait for my step-dad to get his so I can ride it more than him and consider getting one for myself… but I’m not on the waiting list.
-todd
todd says
We turned it down. After all was said and done the local Kawasaki Dealer was going to be getting $7000 for a $3500 motorcycle. The dealer explained that MSRP in bikes is not the same as cars. They implied that they buy the bike at MSRP and need to make profit over and above that. Is that correct? Doesn’t sound right to me.
I don’t remember the break-down but it was something like $5600 for the bike and then add on the 3 additional warranty years and “GAP” protection. After financing we were looking at something north of $8000 for a bike that is only worth $3500.
It wasn’t too hard to convince my step-dad that I can find him an excellent used bike for less than $3500. The dealer made us feel like we wasted his time. He said there was something going on that we weren’t telling him. I think it was he who wasn’t honest with us.
Doesn’t look like I’ll be buying that Versys when it comes to California. If it goes the same way I’d be out the door for well over $10,000!
-todd
cory says
That is definately a shady move on that dealer’s part. I just made a deal with a local shop here in Southern Illinois for $3800 for a Black ’08 along with some 6ft Transport Ramps. Also, they’re cutting me a deal on some new riding gear too and giving me a huge discount. Just shop around and don’t let them feed you any b.s.
Kimberly says
I want to get one of these new 08 models, but someone told me it doesn’t have any get up. They told me it runs like a moped, could someone please get back with me to let me know how this runs.
todd says
Kimberly, I own a number of motorcycles, including a moped. I’ve ridden a 2005 Ninja 250, same thing with slightly less power. If a moped could run like the Ninja 250 that would be flat out amazing. I am more likely to compare the amount of power to a 500 single cylinder bike or a stock Yamaha RD350 two-stroke. It’ll top 100 mph and accelerates nicely on its way up there. Comparing it to a car it’s about as fast as my brother’s Acura Integra but the bike would easily beat it from stop light to stop light. The little Ninja 250 is impressive to say the least.
Whoever told you it runs like a moped has some personal issues to deal with.
-todd
Danny from IL says
I am a newbie this year when it comes to bikes. i was not really intesrested on buying the Kawi 250R because of the style/look of the bike, but then the ’08 250R was revealed and i loved it! The way it looks and the upgrades make this bike ideal for me, but i have acouple of questions that i want answered from an experience rider if possible before i make my decision on buying one:
1. what is the top speed (mph) on the bike?
2. I want a bike just to cruise around town. i want to feel safe, but yet fast and i dont want to use it for only 1 season and then get rid of it- i want to use it for awhile. Would this be a good bike for me or should i get something a little bigger on the CC level?
3. After 1 season, would i get bored of it and think that i rather have something in the 600 range?
todd says
Danny from IL;
From reading your comments I’ve gathered you have limited experience with motorcycles. Whether or not you’ll be happy with the Ninja 250R you should really consider it as the type of bike you should learn on. I’ve ridden an older Ninja 250R and it’s no slouch. Other 250’s do not compare with it. I’ve ridden one a short while on the freeway at 80 plus and it was only at half throttle. My buddy told me he had it up to around 110 mph, that’s as good as my 500cc bike. It’s an entirely competent motorcycle, the only reason people trade-up are because they can’t handle the ribbing from their friends. Around town they are faster than just about any other vehicle on the road (other motorcycles not withstanding).
On the other hand, I’ve ridden a CBR600F3, these modern 600’s (granted, it’s old now) are flat out amazing. I would never recommend one to learn on. Consider the 250R has 30+ HP and is fast. A modern 600 has around 100 HP; that’s 3-times the power and you can feel it – if you can find a place and the skill to wield it.
Personally I’ve rarely been in a situation where (even on my 35HP 500 or 50HP 750) I’ve ran out of power and I’m actually slower on bigger bikes through the types of roads I like to ride on. The 600’s – and the 1200’s – are good fun to scare yourself on; quick blasts and stop-light drag racing. People assume you’re a better rider because you own one, but in reality it will probably cause you to be a worse rider, or actually hurt yourself.
Ultimately it’s up to you and what you want. I’d definitely give the Ninja 250 a try (test ride a used one?) before I considered buying something bigger just because of public opinion.
-todd
ROHORN says
Rent one and race it for cheap:
http://roadracingworld.com/news/article/?article=32264
Danny from IL says
Todd,
thanks for the feedback, i will consider trying out the 250 for now and see what happens. i might just fall in love with it. thanks again!
Taz says
Hi guys, i’m looking to buy this bike in the next month or so… I live in NSW, Australia and am wondering if any Aussies here have purchased it, and where form and how much? thanks
Emmy says
Ok… so I’m buying this bike this week and I’ve been searching high and low to find a good price. The lowest I’ve seen so far is $4399 out the door… is that a good price or does anyone think it can be negotiated any lower in CA?
girlgraphix says
I am 5 ft. 1.5 inches and I just bought the 08 250 ninja! I love it. I am going to go get some motorcycle boots with a longer heel to I can touch better. I can reach but it’s not a secure reach so I haven’t been riding it. But I did ride it home 20 miles and did just fine at lights and what not!
Drew says
i would say that the older 250 was trash, i got beat with a ugly stick, but who cares if its ugly you cant beat the mpg’s, that is my favorite part you can ride full trotle and still get 60+ mpg. i plan to get this bike in about a year or less, gotta save some money but i had a dealer who says that if i come to him in a couple months he will cut me a deal at $2,800 its nice to have great next door neighbors….
Tom says
Hello,
I just bought my bike ( Green ) about a mth ago and I must say this bike is really nice. It has great throttle response an comfortable to ride and fast enough. I am a newbie. I paid $ 3500 for it with taxes and ext wrty out the door was $ 4100. I am in Sc.
Tom
michael chong says
I bought mine in Penang, Malaysia for Ringgit 21000, about USD6000. You guys in United States are so lucky to get it at USD3500.
stu says
I got mine 2 days ago. I can tell you this is one happy noob. I have ridden 160kms. I have pushed it to 100km/hr at less than half the max revs in top gear, no sorry i am on L license. 80km/hr. But I can tell you it will do highways no worries. I rode it up a steep winding mountain today and it just kept sounding better. Its maybe not a big engine but its so easy to ride and tuned to excite – it only ever wants more revs and teaches me how to ride every trip… I give it the big thumbs up.
Brendan says
Many thanks to Grace, Todd and Joe P., for their feedback regarding shorter riders on the new Ninja 250. I ultimately found a used 1991 Bandit 400 for my wife. A great beginner’s bike if you can find one. Thanks again.
LEO REY says
it’s really necessary to buy the 5 year warranty $572 & the GAP $499 for a 2009 ninja 250r… OUT THE THE DOOR THE BIKE WUZ $4,700 BUT WITH WARRANTY & GAP IS $5,830 …. IS THIS OK? LITTLE HELP HERE!