250Ninja.net

All about the Kawasaki Ninja 250

 
 

4th Generation - 2008-present

In 2008 Kawasaki released the 4th generation 250 Ninja. Though similar in concept to the 3rd generation bike, it's almost completely re-engineered.

It's still a carbureted parallel twin, but the frame, bodywork and engine are all different from the 3rd generation model and parts are not interchangeable. Kawasaki state that 70% of the engine and drivetrain are new to the 4th generation model.

Part of the revisions concern emissions, since the 4th generation 250 Ninja now uses a catalytic converter in the exhaust system, which is now a 2-into-one system with a single muffler. Other changes include 17" wheels (with larger brake rotors) and a revised suspension system (with a rear shock with adjustable preload and beefed up front shocks). Kawasaki have also traded some top end power for low range torque, so that the 4th generation model pulls better at low revs, but runs out of steam earlier. Combined with increased weight (an extra 22lbs), this means that the 4th generation 250 Ninja tends to be a little slower than the 3rd generation models, though the difference may not be really noticeable to most riders.

Kawasaki Ninja 250
2009 Kawasaki 250 Ninja 4th generation

The 4th gen bikes have dropped the center stand of the 3rd gen bikes. This saves a little weight (and the 4 gen bikes are already heavier), but makes things like changing wheels and adjusting the chain more difficult. The 4th gen bikes also replaced the temperature gauge of the 3rd gen bikes with a fuel gauge. The bungee hooks of the 3rd gen bikes are missing on the 4th gen. The rider position on the 4th gen bikes is also a little more "sporty" (read that also as less comfortable).

In terms of styling the 4th generation models now more closely resemble Kawasaki's larger sport bikes. Most people think the 4th gen models look better (or at least more "modern") then the 3rd gen models, which is not surprising since the 3rd gen models are basically 1988 styling.

In Europe (and other places outside North America where the 250 Ninja is sold), the 4th generation Ninja 250 is equipped with fuel injection, but the FI models are not available in North America (at least up to the 2011 models). Fuel injection would probably add another $500 to the cost, but might make cold staring easier and (when it's working right) it's more reliable than carburation and more adjustable for optimum fuel/air ratios and pollution control. I suspect that it's only a matter of time before the FI model is introduced in the USA since Honda have announced a 250cc (single cylinder) FI bike for 2011 which will be available in the US.

2012 Update: Well, rather than add FI to the Ninja 250, Kawasaki have introduced the fuel injected Ninja 300. The Ninja 250 will no longer be sold in North America.

Next: The 1st Generation Ninja 300 (2012-present)