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2015 Kawasaki KX250F
2015 Kawasaki KX250F
2015 Kawasaki KX250F
2015 Kawasaki KX250F
2015 Kawasaki KX250F
2015 Kawasaki KX250F Review
2015 Kawasaki KX250F on www.Totalmotorcycle.com
The 2015 model year introduces a host of new updates designed to retain the crown as the most successful 250F on the market
KX design philosophy is simple: put mid-level to expert riders on the top step of the podium. The KX250F is one of the most successful machines in the 250cc class. Proven race-winner and potent track weapon in the hands of any serious rider, the KX250F is loaded with advanced technology and industry firsts that push riders to the front of the pack.
The record books don’t lie. Whether it’s Team Green™ amateur racing, professional AMA Supercross or Motocross, the most successful 250cc motocross bike in the four-stroke category just got even better thanks to a series of upgrades designed to maximize the performance of this already impressive motorcycle.
The Launch Control mode, plug-n-play DFI® Couplers and Separate Function Fork (SFF) are all carried over. New for 2015, the Kawasaki KX250F receives updates to those Showa SFF forks as well as oversized Braking-brand front brake rotor, further improved engine tuning as well as adjustable footpegs and handlebar clamps to fit riders of all sizes. Like its championship-winning bigger brother, the Kawasaki KX™450F, all aspects have been honed to offer improved performance in a variety of conditions.
NEW KX250F FEATURES FOR 2015
•Revised damping settings in the Showa Separate Function Fork (SFF)
•Revised Uni-Trak® rear shock settings
•Adjustable footpegs and handlebar clamps
•New 270mm “oversized” front rotor, petal-style Braking-brand rotors front/rear
•New finer atomizing Downstream Fuel Injector and revised ECU settings
•New Bridged-Box-Bottom piston
•New Magneto Rotor with increased inertia
•Lighter subframe
•New Factory styling
ENGINE
The 249cc motor receives a new, reinforced Bridged-Box-Bottom piston derived from the factory race bikes. Like the KX450F, this light and strong piston design has short skirts with reinforced external ribs and a thicker dome for increased strength. While the added reinforcement for 2015 increased the weight of the piston, the new piston pin is lighter than last year’s model, contributing strength and reliability without any weight penalty.
The exhaust system employs a short header and resonator chamber to enhance low-end power and provide strong top-end power. It also has a short, high-volume muffler that assists with mass centralization and makes good power, yet its large cross section restricts noise levels to an AMA race-legal 94dB.
Further engine improvements include a new magneto rotor with greater inertia to match the increased acceleration performance. The standard rotor now weighs 9.5kg-cm², which is up from 9kg-cm² on the 2014 model.
ENGINE ELECTRONICS
The Digital Fuel Injection (DFI®) system on the KX250F utilizes dual injectors that deliver a second squirt of fuel under acceleration to maximize the engine’s power and over-rev capability at high RPM. Introduced in 2012, this second injector is located upstream in the air duct, helping to create a wider and more potent powerband.
The dual injectors are both fine-atomizing injectors with four holes. The upstream injector disperses particles with a droplet size of 120?m, while the new downstream injector was reduced to 75?m for 2015. With a finer size and wider spray pattern, the downstream injector contributes to a stronger low- to mid-range power, along with improved response and quicker acceleration.
The revised ECU settings match the injector and magneto rotor changes and the combined effects of the engine and electronics improvements in both throttle response and power under-the-curve mean better drive out of the corners and more grunt for steep inclines.
The ECU has three pre-programmed ignition maps that allow riders to quickly and easily change DFI settings without needing to access a laptop or electronic device. Engine maps can be quickly switched between the three settings – Standard, Hard (terrain) or Soft (terrain) – to suit riding conditions. This is achieved by simply replacing the DFI coupler cap located on the side of the steering head. No additional tools or accessories are needed to change between pre-programmed maps – simply swap the appropriate DFI Coupler cap to select your desired ignition mode and feel an immediate change in power.
The ECU is also fully reprogrammable, allowing custom maps to be created using the accessory Kawasaki Racing Software Calibration Kit: the same tool used by Kawasaki factory and privateer teams in AMA and FIM racing.
Additionally, the KX250F retains the factory Launch Control mode that was the first of its kind for any 250 motocross bike when introduced last year. The system works by retarding the ignition in first and second gears, which helps the tire to find grip in low traction situations, helping the rider maximize traction and get a good start.
Launch Control mode is activated by simply pressing a button on the handlebar when in neutral, first or second gear. Shifting into third gear automatically deactivates the system to return ignition timing to the stock setting. This high-tech system is most effective on concrete starting pads or other slippery surfaces.
BRAKES & SUSPENSION
The new 270mm “oversized” front Braking-brand rotor easily corrals the increased speed of the Kawasaki KX250F, giving the rider stronger performance and more control. For 2015, both the front and 240mm rear rotors are a new factory-style petal disc that look stylish and help shed dirt.
The high-friction brake pads grip the new front rotor via a pushrod-type front master cylinder that helps ensure strong braking force. The front brake was tuned to be particularly effective on initial bite and in its mid-stroke action to provide enhanced feel and control.
The rear rotor is mounted to a rib-less rear hub with butted spokes that reduce the unsprung weight. The axles have also been reduced in weight, saving 31 grams on the front and 32 grams rear, with all these changes helping riders achieve even more podium finishes this season.
In 2011, the Kawasaki KX250F was the first production motocross bike to feature the Showa Separate Function Fork (SFF), and for 2015 its damping settings have been revised to improve high-speed handling and stability, keeping the Kawasaki in front of its competitors.
The 48mm SFF forks on the KX250F separate the damping and bump absorption duties into the individual fork tubes. The right fork leg houses the spring, which is easy to adjust for preload, while the left fork leg contains the damping components that achieve the best small- and large bump absorption in its segment. The SFF assembly allows a preload adjuster that significantly simplifies the task of setting the fork preload and front-end height. So rather than disassemble the forks, as you would need to do with conventional forks, Kawasaki’s SFF system means front preload and height can be set with the simple turn of a wrench.
Furthermore, the large fork tubes allow 30mm main- and 35mm sub-pistons that provide smoother action and firm damping performance at lower internal pressure.
The Showa forks have a super-hard titanium coating on the inner fork tubes to prevent abrasion, just like the Kawasaki factory team bikes. This reduces sliding friction and initial stiction to improve overall fork action. Green anodized caps and a new silver finish on the outer fork tube compliments the package and adds Works-racer style.
Rear suspension duties are assigned to the Uni-Trak linkage and a Showa shock has firmer settings to match the front fork upgrades, providing the same high-speed handling and stability. The shock features high- and low-speed compression damping adjustment and there is also a self-lubricating alumite coating on the inner surface of the shock cylinder wall to avoid abrasion, reduce friction and smooth the suspension action. These features help increase rear-wheel traction and power transfer to the ground.
FRAME & BODYWORK
Continuing with the Kawasaki KX250F refinements, the slim aluminium perimeter frame receives a new lightweight subframe for improved mass centralization. The frame features narrow main spars that give the rider better control and allow for greater movement in the saddle.
As an industry first for the 250 class, the increased adjustability of the KX250F extends to new, two-position, adjustable footpeg brackets that allow the rider to lower the position by 5mm, thereby lowering the center of gravity.
Like its big brother, the KX250F also has a new four-way adjustable upper triple clamp with two mounting holes for the 180-degree rotatable handlebar clamps. These offer the rider the choice of four bar positions, including 25mm forward, 15mm forward, standard or 10mm back. The result is the ultimate ergonomic adjustment for riders of many sizes and styles. When combined with the almost limitless ignition mapping capabilities, thanks to the optional KX FI Calibration Kit, the Kawasaki KX250F is uniquely able to adapt to almost any track, any surface conditions and any rider.
The KX250F also shares the enhanced factory styling of its 450F brethren, thanks to factory-style graphics and, new for 2015 are green anodized suspension adjusters, engine oil cap and generator cover plugs. Along with the black alumite-coated wheels, the KX250F has the distinctive Kawasaki look.
Owners will also appreciate embossed design on the clutch cover, which was designed to gradually reveal itself as contact from the rider’s boots gradually wears away the painted surface.
From its styling to the race-proven performance, all aspects of the 2015 Kawasaki KX250F have been addressed to increase its outright ability while also making it more accessible than ever. So whether you’re a weekend racer, or a track rider looking for a lightweight and capable mount, the 2015 KX250F has the ability to continue its reign over the 250F class.
2015 Kawasaki KX250F www.Totalmotorcycle.com Key Features
NEW KX250F FEATURES FOR 2015
•Revised damping settings in the Showa Separate Function Fork (SFF)
•Revised Uni-Trak® rear shock settings
•Adjustable footpegs and handlebar clamps
•New 270mm “oversized” front rotor, petal-style Braking-brand rotors front/rear
•New finer atomizing Downstream Fuel Injector and revised ECU settings
•New Bridged-Box-Bottom piston
•New Magneto Rotor with increased inertia
•Lighter subframe
•New Factory styling
At a Glance…
Revised damping settings in the Showa Separate Function Fork (SFF) provides progressive damping force and features 48mm inner fork tubes for rigidity
Revised Uni-Trak® rear shock settings
New 270mm “oversized” front rotor, petal-style Braking-brand rotors front/rear
New finer-atomizing Downstream Fuel Injector and revised ECU settings
Launch Control increases ability to get good starts, by maximizing available traction
New Bridged-Box-Bottom piston
New Magneto Rotor with increased inertia
Adjustable footpegs and handlebar clamps
Lighter subframe
New Factory styling
2015 Kawasaki KX250F www.Totalmotorcycle.com Features and Benefits
High-revving, High-performance Engine
249cc, liquid-cooled, four-stroke, four-valve, single-cylinder DOHC engine delivers hard-hitting power across the rpm range
Nickel plating on the cylinder wall has a high adhesion factor for optimum durability
Thick-stem connecting rod resists flex and enhances durability
Upgraded crankcase oil jet delivers an optimized stream of oil to the underside of the new Bridged Box piston with short skirts and reinforced external ribs for increased strength.
Thick crank web design features a balance factor on par with the factory racers to help minimize engine vibration, provide smooth power delivery and maximize performance in the mid-high rpm range
Factory-Style Launch Control System
The KX250F Launch Control was a first for the 250 class and increased the rider’s ability to get good starts by maximizing available traction
Launch Control is activated by pushing a button on the left handlebar while stopped, in neutral, first or second gear
Retards ignition timing in first and second gears, giving the greatest effect within the first few seconds of releasing the clutch
Shifting into third gear automatically deactivates Launch Control Mode and returns the ignition to normal mapping
Particularly effective when chasing the holeshot from concrete starting pads and other slippery surfaces
Digital Fuel Injection (DFI®) System
New finer-atomizing Downstream Fuel Injector and revised ECU settings
The dual injectors are fine-atomizing injectors with four holes. The upstream injector has a droplet size of 120 m, while the new downstream injector is 75 m. The finer size and wider spray pattern contributes to a stronger low- to mid-range power, improved response and quicker acceleration.
Intake tract design provides optimal airflow from the airbox into the combustion chamber
Seal between air inlet port and throttle position sensor unit on the 43mm throttle body protects TPS sensor from fuel penetration
Progressive throttle linkage for sharp and precise throttle response across entire rpm range
Simple and efficient system: No battery, fuses or relays
Offers easy engine starting
Bridged Box-Bottom Piston
Thicker dome and reinforcing ribs increase durability
Piston profile helps increase reliability compared to non-box-bottom design
Light and strong piston shares same design as the factory racers, and a tin plating to optimize its interface with the nickel plating on the cylinder wall
Special finish improves surface lubrication and wear resistance
Short piston pin reduces reciprocating weight
Lightweight and Efficient Top End
Intake valve seat material offers increased durability
Ultra-light valves have extremely thin valve stems on par with those found in supersport machines; intake valves feature thick heads for increased strength
Special casting method leaves the intake port surfaces extremely smooth for optimum intake efficiency across the rev range
Silicon-coated head gasket provides excellent sealing
Stainless Steel Exhaust System
Short header and resonator chamber enhance low-end power and provide strong top-end power
Head pipe resonator chamber helps boost low-RPM torque
Short high-volume muffler assists with mass centralization, makes good power, while large cross section restricts noise levels to an AMA race-legal 94dB.
Durable stainless steel construction
Efficient Cooling System
Thick radiators are strong and offer excellent resistance to mud buildup while providing superb cooling performance
Cylinder head water jacket routes coolant to the front of the cylinder head for even cooling
Transmission and Shifting
Transmission gears feature four dogs for smooth shifting
Shift-fork grooves enhance feel at the shift lever
Clutch cable holder is integrated with the crankcase for accurate feel at the clutch lever
Scavenge oil filter screen can be accessed without splitting the crankcases, facilitating easier maintenance
Quick-turning Chassis
The KX250F’s slim and lightweight aluminum perimeter frame helps provide excellent ergonomics and handling
Center of gravity and key dimensions such as swingarm pivot, output sprocket and rear axle locations designed to increase forward drive with minimal rear-end squat
Separate Function Fork
Revised settings on the 48mm Separate Function Fork (SFF) delivers firm damping and increased ride control
SFF design separates spring and damping functions for less weight, better performance, less stiction and easier adjustability compared to traditional forks
Super-hard titanium coating on the outer surface of the inner fork tubes reduces stiction and improves suspension action while also helping prevent scratches and tube damage
Friction-reducing Kashima Coat treatment on the inside of the outer fork tubes contributes to smoother suspension action
Wrap-around fork tube guards provide excellent protection for the inner tubes
Uni-Trak® Rear Suspension
Revised rear shock matches performance of the front forks
Rear shock has dual compression adjustability, allowing high-speed and low-speed damping to be tuned separately
Features Kashima coating on the inside cylinder wall for reduced friction and smoother suspension action
Swingarm features tapered hydroformed spars and forged chain adjusters
Uni-Trak® rear suspension linkage system mounts the suspension arm below the swingarm, allowing more rear suspension stroke and precise tuning
Linkage ratios for the Uni-Trak rear suspension match rear shock damping settings to achieve maximum rear wheel traction
Rider Interface
New two-position, adjustable footpeg brackets allow rider to lower the position by 5mm, lowering the center of gravity.
New four-position upper triple clamp with two sets of handlebar mount slots. These give the rider a choice of four bar positions, including 25mm forward, 15mm forward, standard or 10mm back to suit many sizes and styles of riders
Bodywork components offer the rider a slim interface, making it easy for racers to feel comfortable and go fast
Formed using a double-injection molding process, the shrouds offer a slim design
Right side panel passageways help cool the silencer
Flat design of the seat and tank allow freedom of movement
Frame is wider at the ankles to offer better grip and narrows near the bend below the seat to allow a slim riding position
Slim seat features polyurethane designed to be durable
Seat has a slip-resistant top and side surface for good grip when seated and while standing
50mm wide (front-to-rear) footpegs offer superb grip and feel at the pegs
Clutch cable boot features a large quick adjuster, making it easy for riders to adjust play in the clutch cable while on the fly
Throttle grip has a one-piece collar that provides additional stability during throttle operation
Grips have short barrels and are made from soft material to enhance rider comfort
Factory-style Components
Pushrod-type front brake master cylinder and brake pad material provide strong brake force and enhanced feel
Rear brake pad material offers powerful braking performance
Lightweight black anodized rims are durable and look just like the factory racers
Titanium-coated inner fork tubes minimize stiction and look great
Front and rear petal brake discs help reduce unsprung weight, and the petal shape helps clean the brake pads for more efficient stopping performance
Rear caliper guard protects caliper from damage
Ribless rear hub and butted spokes reduce unsprung weight
Renthal aluminum handlebar is standard equipment
New green anodized suspension adjusters, engine oil cap and generator cover plugs like the factory race bikes
Factory-style graphics complement the KX250F’s performance
Additional Features
Radiator shrouds and side panels provider a slim rider interface and a nimble feel
Embossed design on clutch cover
High-density chain pad on top of the swingarm is more resistant to wear
Large resin skid plate offers great protection with minimum weight
Optional Accessories
Optional DFI® Kawasaki Racing Software Calibration Kit allows custom tuning
Optional FI Indicator Light allows the DFI system to communicate diagnostic information
Optional engine parts include magneto rotors with different inertias and a 12-tooth output sprocket
Optional chassis parts include handlebar holder for a 1 1/8-inch handlebar, 46- to 50-tooth aluminum and steel rear sprockets, solid petal brake rotors, different fork and shock springs and manual decompression lever and cable
2015 Kawasaki KX250F – www.Totalmotorcycle.com USA Specifications/Technical Details
US MSRP Price: $7,599 USD
Engine: Liquid-cooled, four-stroke single with DOHC and four-valve cylinder head
Displacement: 249cc
Bore x stroke: 77.0 x 53.6mm
Fuel injection: DFI® with 43mm Keihin throttle body and dual injectors
Compression ratio: 13.8:1
Ignition: Digital DC-CDI
Transmission: Five-speed with wet multi-disc manual clutch
Final drive: Chain
Frame: Aluminum perimeter
Rake / trail: 28.7 degrees / 5″
Front suspension / wheel travel: 48mm inverted Showa SFF telescopic fork with 40-way spring preload adjustability and 22-position compression and 20-position rebound damping adjustability/ 12.4″
Rear suspension / wheel travel: Uni-Trak® linkage system and Showa shock with 19-position low-speed and 4-turns high-speed compression damping,
22-position rebound damping, fully adjustable spring preload / 12.2″
Front tire: 80/100-21
Rear tire: 100/90-19
Front brake: Single semi-floating 270mm petal disc with dual-piston caliper
Rear brake: Single 240mm petal disc with single-piston caliper
Overall length: 85.4″
Overall width: 32.3″
Overall height: 50″
Wheelbase: 58.1″
Ground clearance: 13″
Seat height: 37.2″
Curb weight: 233.6 lb
Fuel capacity: 1.61 gallons
Color: Lime Green
MSRP: $7,599
2015 Kawasaki KX250F – www.Totalmotorcycle.com Canadian Specifications/Technical Details
Canada MSRP Price: $8,699 CDN
ENGINE
Type 4-stroke, Single
Displacement 249cc
Bore and stroke 77.0 x 53.6 mm
Cooling Liquid
Compression ratio 13.8:1
Valve system DOHC, 4 valves
Fuel system Fuel injection: ø43 mm x 1 (Keihin) with dual injection
Ignition Digital DC-CDI
Starting Primary Kick
Lubrication Forced lubrication (semi-dry sump)
BRAKES
Front: type Single semi-floating 270 mm petal disc
Front: calipers Dual-piston caliper
Rear: type Single 240 mm petal disc
Rear: calipers Single-piston caliper
DIMENSIONS
Overall length 2,170 mm (85.4 in.)
Overall width 820 mm (32.3 in.)
Overall height 1,270 mm (50.0 in.)
Wheelbase 1,475 mm (58.1 in.)
Ground clearance 330 mm (13.0 in.)
Seat height 945 mm (37.2 in.)
Curb mass** 106.0 kg (233.7 lbs.)
Fuel capacity 6.1 litres (1.3 gal.)
DRIVETRAIN
Transmission 5-speed, constant mesh, return shift
Final drive Chain
Primary reduction ratio 3.350 (67/20)
Gear ratio: 1st 2.142 (30/14)
Gear ratio: 2nd 1.750 (28/16)
Gear ratio: 3rd 1.444 (26/18)
Gear ratio: 4th 1.235 (21/17)
Gear ratio: 5th 1.045 (23/22)
Final reduction ratio 3.846 (50/13)
Clutch Wet multi-disc, manual
FRAME
Type Perimeter, aluminum
Wheel travel: front 315 mm (12.4 in.)
Tire: front 80/100-21
Wheel travel: rear 310 mm (12.2 in.)
Tire: rear 100/90-19
Caster (rake) 28.7°
Trail 126.4 mm (5.0 in.)
Steering angle (left/right) 42° / 42°
SUSPENSION
Suspension, front 48 mm inverted Separate Function front Fork (SFF) Type 2 with 22-position compression, 20-position rebound damping and 40-position spring preload
Suspension, rear New Uni-Trak linkage system shock with 19-way low-speed and 4-turn high-speed compression damping, 22-way rebound damping and fully adjustable spring preload
* The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price does not include freight, pre-delivery inspection or applicable taxes. The final price is at the discretion of the dealer. Prices and Specifications are subject to change without prior notice. The amount indicated as “Your price” may include an optional instant Mega Cash credit that is deducted from the manufacturer’s suggested retail price before taxes. This promotion is time limited and certain conditions will apply. See your dealer for complete details. Offer not available on financed purchases and cannot be combined with any other special offers. The final price is at the discretion of the dealer. Prices and Specifications are subject to change without prior notice.
** Includes all necessary materials and fluids to operate correctly, full tank of fuel (more than 90% of capacity) and tool kit (if supplied)
‡ Power / Torque figures measured at the crankshaft.
The specifications mentioned here apply to and have been achieved by production models under standard operating conditions. We intend only to give a fair description of the vehicle and its performance capabilities but these specifications may not apply to every machine supplied for sale. Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd. reserves the right to alter specifications without prior notice. Equipment illustrated and specifications may vary to meet individual markets. Available colours may vary by market.
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