250cc Sport Bike | Kawasaki Ninja 250R (2008-Current)

In our first look, we saw the sleek styling and best in class rider position that the new Kawasaki 250R offers. In part two of our review we find out just how great this 250cc motorcycle from Kawasaki can be.

Suspension….

As great as the previous generation 250R was, the suspension at times left us wanting more. To our delight, you notice right away, that the guys at Kawasaki addressed these suspension concerns. Right out of the 600cc and greater sport bike play book, the Kawasaki Ninja 250R employs an adjustable rear shock. With 5 levels of preload adjustment the rear end can be fine tuned to the rider’s preferences. This is a great feature allowing heavier riders to increase the preload for their commuting comfort, but importantly allowing all riders to have an adjustable rear on the track. Complimenting the upgraded rear section this new 250cc sport bike also fixes the once soft front fork of its dated name sake. Firming the front end makes the Kawasaki Ninja 250R that much more fun on the track. The ability to corner and the stability of the act are increased with this new attribute. However potholes and rough roads are going to feel rougher when compared to the soft almost bouncy front end of the last generation.

Transmission/Brakes/Tires….

The braking system could always be found in the pro column for the older generation Ninja 250R. Good news cause the new model retains this same braking prowess. The front and rear are blessed with 290mm and 220mm discs. Applying the stopping power are two piston calipers front and rear, giving this 250cc sport bike plenty of braking bite. The brakes are precise and forgiving just like the six speed transmission of the Kawasaki Ninja 250R.

These 250cc motorcycles are great for beginner riders, one of the main reasons being the transmission. The clutch is easily engaged and the transmission very forgiving yet still sport bike precise, it’s uncanny to say the least. The smooth power band of this 250cc sport bike really allows for a consistent and predictable shifts. Six speeds assure you won’t run out of fun, and combined with rider comfort make these bikes manageable for highway commuting or long distant trips.

Kawasaki was kind enough to use Bridgestone as their tire of choice.  The Kawasaki Ninja 250R sports a 110/70-17 front tire and a 130/70-17 rear tire both Bridgestone Battlax BT45’s. Bridgestone makes some of the best motorcycle tires in the world from cruisers to sport bikes Bridgestone has you covered. However, if there was one area on the Kawasaki Ninja 250R that could be improved in the future it would be the use of these tires. The BT45 has proven to be a pretty good tire for most riders needs, but to add a touch more sport to this superb motorbike we would like to see the use of a radial tire.

To recap, in part one we admired the comfort, ergo’s, and edgy styling. Part two brought much love for the sportier suspension tweaks Kawasaki implemented, and to top things off the continued excellence of the drive train. It’s with great admiration that Kawasaki was able to take a wonderful motorcycle and make it even better. GO GREEN.

(2008-Current) Kawasaki Ninja 250R Specifications

Tagged as: 250cc motorcycle, 250cc Motorcycles, 250cc sport bike, 250cc Sport Bikes, 250R, Kawasaki, Kawasaki Ninja, Kawasaki Ninja 250R, Ninja 250R