2st Generation - 1986-1987
The 2nd generation 250cc Ninja marked the start of the line which continues to today. It was known as the GPZ-250R in Japan or the EX250-E in the US. The engine was now the familiar water cooled parallel twin, with dual carbs and 4 valves per cylinder. Wheels were 16", it had a chain drive and the nose fairing was integrated into the body to give a sleeker look.
Power output was reported as 37.4 hp @ 11000 rpm and the engine had a 14,000rpm red line. Top speed was around 95 mph. However this model had a fairly short life and only lasted for two years before it was replaced by the 3rd generation of 250cc Ninjas
Though similar to the 3rd generation models, not many parts are truely interchangable between them. All the body plastics are different. The gearing is different, the camshaft is different, the carbs are different, the seat is different and some of the wiring and electronics are different. In general the differences are small, but large enough to prevent parts from being directly interchangable with those on 3rd generation bikes.