2023 Kawasaki KX250X Guide

2023 Kawasaki KX250X: BE NEXT.

Introducing the 2023 Kawasaki KX250X…

The championship-proven technology of KX™ race machines has now been tuned for off-road competition. Purposely designed to take on tough off-road conditions, the KX™250X motorcycle delivers the edge to ride ahead. No matter how technical the terrain, lead with confidence on the KX250X.

Based on the highly advanced Kawasaki KX250, this cross-country motorcycle has received specific cross-country tuning that encompasses the engine, suspension, brakes, wheel size, gearing, enduro tyres, side stands and skid plates, making the KX250X more attractive for cross-country competitors.

With a rich history in off-road racing, Kawasaki’s KX™250X cross-country racer retains all of the championship-winning performance and factory-style features of the KX™250 motocross racer, including engine updates for increased performance across the powerband, but adds X-specific engine tuning and suspension settings, 21/18-inch wheels fitted with enduro-type tires, and convenient standard features like a side stand and skid plate to deliver the edge for off-road competition.

2023 Kawasaki KX250X Totalmotorcycle.com Key Features

• NEW Increased engine performance
• NEW Racer-friendly gearing
• NEW Wider footpeg design
• 18-inch rear wheel
• Off-road ready suspension
• UPDATED 249cc ENGINE WITH ELECTRIC START
• OFF-ROAD READY SUSPENSION
• F21″/R18″ WHEELS AND OFF-ROAD TIRES
• SKID PLATE AND SIDE STAND
• NEW increased engine performance across rev-range
• NEW racer-friendly gearing
• NEW wider footpeg design
• REVISED Coned Disc-Spring Hydraulic Clutch
• Kawasaki Launch Control Mode (KLCM)
• Finger-follower valve actuation
• Slim aluminum perimeter frame
• Renthal® Fatbar® handlebar with 4-way adjustable mounts
• Uni-Trak® linkage system
• ERGO-FIT® adjustable components
• Team Green™ Race Team contingency race rewards

THE BIKE THAT BUILDS CHAMPIONS

Giving Kawasaki more Supercross and Motocross championships than any other manufacturer, the KX™ name is synonymous with winning. The KX™250 motorcycle is the championship-proven machine built so you can ‘Be Next’. Be the next champion. Be the next hero. Be the next legend. Be the next trailblazer for an entire generation of greatness. On the KX250, your time is now.

Thanks to an updated engine, the most powerful KX250 to date was achieved, increasing performance at all rpm. Complementing the improved power is the new racer-friendly gearing, revised suspension settings, and new tires that offer improved handling when cornering. Together, these updates contribute to quicker lap times that make the KX250 an even more potent weapon on the racetrack.

With a championship heritage that boasts 18 AMA professional titles and 194 race wins since 2004, the KX250 is the ideal platform for riders looking to reach the top step of the podium or take their riding to the next level.

In addition to the KX250, the KX™250X cross country model returns for 2023 and shares many of the updates found on its motocross counterpart. The KX250X has been purposely tuned for closed-course off-road to dominate race courses in both the woods and the desert, offering riders the required components for off-road competition.

2023 Kawasaki KX250X Totalmotorcycle.com Features and Benefits

The KX250X shares many winning traits with its KX250 motocross counterpart including the engine, frame, chassis and styling. Similar to the KX250, it benefits from several updates for 2023 with a new more powerful engine, more racer-friendly gearing thanks to transmission revisions, new magneto rotor with increased moment of inertia, revised clutch pushrod for lighter clutch operation and a new wider footpeg design. In addition to the successful KX250 base, the KX250X returns with several unique cross-country features such as softer suspension settings, shorter gearing, off-road 21”/18” wheel combination, Dunlop Geomax AT81 tires, skid plate, and kickstand. The softer suspension settings and shorter gear ratio were designed to help create the optimal handling package for the race-ready off-road KX lineup.

NEW FOR 2023

Increased Engine Performance
* Intake valve pitched reduced from 37mm to 35.5mm, coupled with increased clearance at the valve seats, helps deliver increased cylinder-filling efficiency and improved combustion for increased peak performance.
* The 31mm intake valves are 1mm smaller from the previous year, which contributes to cylinder-head/valve-seat reliability while enabling the tighter valve pitch.
* Piston crown revised to match the valve size and pitch changes.
* Downdraft-style intake duct is straighter, and the upstream injector is repositioned to the underside of the duct to further contribute to increased cylinder-filling efficiency, which adds to peak performance.
* The exhaust system features a 100mm longer header pipe for increased low-mid range torque.
* Advanced ignition timing matches the engine changes.
* Magneto rotor has an increased moment of inertia to contribute to the racer-friendly power delivery.
* Revised clutch pushrod helps provide lighter clutch operation.
* Connecting rod big-end bearing crush height was increased, contributing to reliability and durability.
* A longer first gear makes it easier to use in a greater number of situations. The second gear ratio was also fine-tuned to offer a smooth transition from first to third gear.

Wider Footpegs
* Revised footpeg design is 5mm wider front-to-rear and positioned 3 mm rearward, for excellent grip, superb feel, and making it easier to weight the pegs.

KX250X EXCLUSIVE FEATURES
The nature of off-road racing differs from that of motocross/ supercross. Therefore the KX™250X has the following changes from the KX™250 motocross model.
• While all of the power of the KX250’s engine is retained, fuel injection/ignition mapping was optimized to provide the ideal amount of useable power for cross country racing situations. Riders can further tailor the power delivery to their specific needs using the Kawasaki Genuine Parts & Accessories KX FI Calibration Kit.
• One-tooth larger rear sprocket than the KX250 provides shorter gearing more suitable to navigating off-road courses with loose rock sections, slick uphills, rootinfested trails, and other obstacles requiring lower gearing.
• High-performance 48mm inverted coil-spring fork and New Uni Trak rear suspension come directly from the KX250 motocross racer. But since cross country courses don’t have the big jumps of a motocross track, spring rates and damping settings are optimized for cross country racing to offer
increased feedback, especially when riding on aggressive trails.
• X-specific front brake pads optimize off-road brake performance.
• Off-road specific 18-inch rear wheel allows tire to have a larger sidewall for a smoother ride over rocks and roots, plus better resistance to pinch flats when riding in such terrain. Premium-quality Dunlop AT81 tires are designed specifically for the demands of off-road racing.
• Standard side stand provides convenient parking out on the trail.
• Skid plate and enhanced engine guards help protect the engine from trail debris.

4-Stroke Engine
The piston features the same bridged-box bottom design used on our factory racers. A short skirt, reinforced external ribs and bridged-box bottom, featuring fully flush internal bracing, results in a lighter, stronger piston.
• Connecting rod design decreases the piston’s lateral force on the cylinder walls to reduce mechanical loss and contribute to performance.
• Low-friction plain bearings at the connecting rod big end reduce mechanical loss and help boost power.
• Cylinder offset is 3mm forward to reduce friction and enable more efficient power generation.
• Upright engine orientation helps straighten the intake path. The downdraft-style intake routing fills the cylinder more efficiently, contributing to power production.
• Plateau honing of the cylinder bore provides a smooth surface to help reduce mechanical loss.
• Molybdenum coating on the piston’s outer surface helps reduce mechanical loss and resists wear. Striation helps retain oil to minimize sliding friction.
• Aluminum cylinder with chrome composite plating(KP) provides rapid heat transfer, superb wear resistance and optimum lubrication retention for increased performance and durability.
• Semi-dry sump(KP) lubrication system for quicker engine response. The majority of oil is stored in the transmission to keep excess oil away from the crankshaft and prevent power-robbing stirring loss. With only a shallow chamber to collect oil at the bottom of the crankcase, where a scavenge pump moves it to the transmission, the crank is located as low as possible to help lower the center of gravity.
• Twin oil pumps ensure proper lubrication and oil scavenging for optimum performance.
• Radiators are turned inward 10˚ which narrows to the KX™250X’s already slim profile.

ENGINE

Race-tuned 4-Valve Cylinder Head(KP)
• Finger-follower valve train designed by Kawasaki’s multitime World Superbike Championship winning engineers allows aggressive cam profiles and high rev limit for superb high-rpm performance.
• Finger-follower valve actuation reduces valve train mass (intake is 3.5 percent lighter, exhaust is 4.3 percent lighter) compared to tappet-style actuation, as well as reducing friction at the cam lobe. DLC (Diamond-Like Carbon) coating on the followers help prevent wear.
• Aggressive camshaft lobes have a chromium nitride coating for durability.
• Straight intake ports contribute to intake efficiency to help boost performance throughout the powerband.
• Special valve seat material helps prevent wear on the titanium valves.
• Located on the exhaust camshaft, the Automatic Compression Release (KACR)(KP) allows for easy starting.

KAWASAKI DFI® SYSTEM WITH DUAL INJECTORS
• Big 44mm throttle body diameter flows abundant air and contributes to top-end performance.
• Downstream injector located on the bottom of the intake duct for quick throttle response, while the position and angle the upstream injector matches the airbox design to contribute to top-end performance.
• Tapered intake funnel contributes to top-end performance.
• Intake duct angle optimized for a straight approach for intake air, which improves cylinder-filling efficiency and contributes to performance.
• A Kawasaki innovation introduced in 2012, dual, fine atomizing fuel injectors help deliver both instant throttle response and strong power throughout the rev range. One injector is located downstream of the throttle valve and the second, upstream injector is located close to the airbox.
• The downstream injector provides smooth, instant response while the upstream injector provides the power boost. As rpm and throttle position increase, primary operation switches from the downstream injector to the upstream injector. In lower gears (first and second) the switch is gradual, while in higher gears it is instantaneous.
• 44mm throttle body is compact to shave weight and provides easy starting, sharp throttle response, stable fuel delivery over jumps and whoops, and automatically compensates for changing atmospheric conditions.
• To ensure a stable fuel supply during hard riding the fuel pump features a unitized plastic fuel filter cover.

Electric Start
• Provides the convenience of quick and easy push-button engine starting.
• Powered by a lightweight, compact lithium-ion battery that helps keep weight gain to a minimum.
• Automatic centrifugal compression release system on the exhaust cam lifts one exhaust valve to facilitate starting.

The system’s simple construction is light weight and highly reliable
• NOTE: Only use Lithium-ion specific battery charger to help prevent fatal battery damage.

Coned Disc-spring Hydraulic Clutch
• Kawasaki’s hydraulic clutch offers more direct feel and lighter lever action. Less play as the clutch heats up during heavy use results in a more consistent feel.
• The clutch uses a single coned disc spring instead of five coiled springs for lighter clutch actuation when the lever is pulled and a wider clutch engagement range that helps the rider control the clutch. The coned disc spring rate decreases as the clutch lever is pulled in so that lever action is very light to help reduce rider fatigue during long off-road events.
• The friction plates also have offset segments to promote clean separation of the discs to help reduce drag when the clutch is disengaged.

Easy DFI Tuning
• Riders can change DFI settings by simply replacing a coupler located on the right side of the steering stem. Riders can choose between Standard, Hard, or Soft terrain settings to suit riding conditions.
• Further tuning options are available for more advanced users who wish to use the optional Kawasaki KX FI Calibration Kit (hand held).

Easy-to-Use KX FI Calibration Kit (Optional)
• Accessory KX FI Calibration Kit features a handheld Controller that enables users to adjust engine characteristics trackside simply by plugging the controller into the engine’s ECU.
• The kit’s user interface is easy to understand and easy to use.
• Seven different maps come loaded on the Controller to adjust the ECU to suit track conditions. Additional maps can be created and stored on the hand held controller, or on a PC with data transfer between the Controller and PC performed via SD card.
• When connected to the ECU, the Controller can be used to display the status of a running engine.
• Can be used on all KX models equipped with DFI.

Launch Control Mode
• Similar to the system used on the Monster Energy® Kawasaki factory racers, allows riders to activate a separate engine map designed to assist them get holeshots in live-engine starts by pressing a button.
• The Launch Control Mode map retards ignition timing, allowing the tire to gain grip in low traction situations to help riders maximize traction and increase the chance of getting a good start.
• Launch Control Mode has the greatest effect within the first few seconds of releasing the clutch off the start – the most crucial time to get ahead of rivals for better positioning going into the first corner.
• Activated when the engine is running by pressing and holding the launch control button, located at the left handlebar, for two seconds or more while in neutral, first or second gear. When activated, the indicator lamp next to the button flashes quickly to let the rider know the system is engaged.
• The system automatically disengages when the transmission is shifted into third gear, switching back to the normal engine map.
• The Launch Control Mode indicator light also serves as a warning light if the DFI system malfunctions.

CHASSIS
Lightweight Aluminum Perimeter Frame(KP)
• KX450 motocross racer-based frame contributes to the KX250X’s light weight, light handling, and slim ergonomics.
• Engine is used as a stressed member, contributing to the frame’s rigidity balance.
• The frame is slim at the main spars for easy rider movement.
• Down-tube combines a forged front portion with cast aluminum rear piece for superb front-end feel.
• Composed of a combination of forged, extruded and cast parts, the aluminum frame is designed with a balance of torsional and longitudinal rigidity for quick handling and stability.
• Design emphasis on providing maximum traction under acceleration. Specific chassis dimensions and design (reinforcing ribs, swingarm pivot, output shaft, linkage mounts and rear axle) placed to prevent chassis squat and improve traction.

RACE-READY SUSPENSION
Kayaba Coil-Spring Fork
• High-performance 48mm inverted coil spring fork has smooth action throughout the fork stroke.
• The large-diameter inner tubes allow large 25mm damping pistons to be used so a firm damping force can be achieved with a lower internal pressure. This allows firmer damping performance and increased riding comfort.
• Kashima Coat creates a hard, low-friction surface on the inside of the fork outer tubes to help prevent wear abrasion and keep the sliding surfaces smooth for a long time. The lubricating material in the coating contributes to smoother suspension action, especially at the initial part of the stroke, and a better ride feel.

New Uni-Trak® Rear Suspension
• Kayaba shock complements the KYB fork.
• New Uni-Trak® rear suspension mounts underneath the swingarm, allowing additional rear suspension travel yet maintaining a low seat height. The additional travel offers improved suspension action over a wide range of track conditions.
• Dual compression adjustability allows high speed and low-speed damping to be tuned separately.
• The inside of the shock reservoir has friction reducing Kashima Coat for improved suspension action.
• Shock bottoming bumper cushion designed to help dampen bottoming action for increased feeling of control for the rider.

Big Brakes
• 270mm Braking brand petal front brake disc provides superb stopping power.
• Front master cylinder from the KX450 motocross racer combined with X-specific front brake pads deliver strong stopping power and a high level of brake control.
• 240mm rear disc matches the large front disc, offering a balance of stopping power and controllability. The rear disc size enhances rider feedback and feel, beneficial in longer off-road races where endurance is tested.
• Bodywork features long, smooth surfaces and a flat tank-seat line designed to facilitate rider movement and control.
• Slim shrouds are positioned close to the frame. Designed to be slim where they come in contact with the rider’s legs, the single-piece shrouds enhance the rider’s ability to grip with the legs.

ERGO-FIT® Components
• Upper triple clamp provides two mounting positions for the reversible handlebar clamps so that the handlebars can be set in one of four positions with a 35mm range of adjustment.

• Equipped with 1-1/8 inch Renthal aluminum Fatbar handlebar that helps reduce vibration and shocks transmitted to the rider as well as optimizing the riding position.

• The footpeg brackets can be mounted in two positions, allowing the rider to change footpegs height by 5mm.

Factory-style Details
• Green plastic number plates and air box emulate the factory racers look.
• Gold finish on the oil filler, flywheel nut cap and timing inspection cap plus green highlights on the suspension adjusters contribute to factory looks.
• Black wheels, triple clamps, and cylinder head covers complement Kawasaki’s racing lime green color.
• Lightweight magnesium clutch, generator and cylinder head covers.
• Optional parts available through Kawasaki dealers include lighter/heavier flywheels, front and rear sprockets, solid brake discs, handlebar holder for 7/8” handlebar, and stiffer or softer fork and shock springs.

CHROME COMPOSITE CYLINDER PLATING
Features:
Kawasaki‘s chrome composite cylinder plating is a mixture of nickel-phosphorous alloy, ceramic, silicone carbine and some organic materials that is bonded directly to aluminum cylinder walls. This plating improves heat transfer, is porous so it holds lubrication well, is hard to resist abrasion and seizure, and provides a consistent coating of the cylinder wall, even around the chamfered edge at the top of the cylinder.
Benefits:
Chrome composite plating adds durability, helps provide consistent power output, allows closer piston tolerances for more power, and prevents hot spots that can lead to pre-ignition.

KAWASAKI DFI® SYSTEM
Features:
An on-board, digital microprocessor reads various inputs from the engine, like ignition timing, rpm, and throttle position, and from the environment, like air temperature and pressure. It uses the information to decide the precise amount of fuel that the engine needs at that moment, and injects it into the intake tract.
Benefits:
The fuel injection system feeds the engine just the amount of fuel it needs, when it needs it. No extra fuel is wasted, nor is the engine forced to run too lean. The result is excellent throttle response so that the engine runs smoothly and powerfully from idle to top speed.

DUAL-OVERHEAD CAMS
Features:
Individual camshafts are placed in the cylinder head and operate the intake and exhaust valves. One cam opens the intake valves and the second cam opens the exhaust valves. Placing the cams in the head allows for optimum placement for more efficient combustion. Dual camshafts simplify valve actuation, allow for a lightweight compact valve actuation system, and are suited for high RPM use.
Benefits:
Dual-overhead cams allow closer valve tolerances and timing for optimum performance.

KAWASAKI AUTOMATIC COMPRESSION RELEASE (KACR)
Features:
When the engine is rotated during starting, KACR automatically holds the exhaust valve(s) slightly open as the piston nears TDC (Top Dead Center). Once the piston passes TDC, the exhaust valve(s) closes. This releases some of the cylinder compression that causes resistance during starting. Once the engine begins to run, the valves operate normally. KACR is used on both kickstart and electric start 4-stroke models.
Benefits:
KACR makes the engine easier to start and eliminates the need for a manual compression release.

PERIMETER FRAME
Features:
From the steering head, two upper frame tubes sweep around the sides of the cylinder head to the Uni-Trak® shock mount then down to the swingarm pivot. The direct path between the two load points makes the frame very rigid and light at the same time.
Benefits:
The perimeter frame is very rigid and low in weight while allowing space for the easy breathing engine intake and exhaust systems. The result is phenomenal handling and the feel of solid control.

SEMI-DRY SUMP
Features:
When the crankshaft rotates, oil can be drawn around with the flywheels. At high RPM, friction between the oil and the crankshaft consumes several horsepower. The power lost to this phenomena is called stirring loss. To prevent stirring losses, oil is stored in the transmission away from the crankshaft.
Benefits:
Reducing engine stirring losses leaves more power for driving the wheels.

2023 Kawasaki KX250X – Totalmotorcycle.com USA Specifications/Technical Details
US MSRP Price: $8599 USD
Canada MSRP Price: $10099 CDN
Europe/UK MSRP Price: £ See Dealer GBP (On The Road inc 20% Vat)

Engine Type 4-Stroke, Liquid Cooled, DOHC, 4-Valve, Single
Displacement 249cc
Bore & Stroke 78.0 x 52.2 mm
Compression Ratio 14.1:1
Fuel System DFI® w/Keihin 44mm Throttle Body & Dual Injectors
Ignition Digital DC CDI
Transmission 5-Speed
Rake/Trail 27.8°/4.8 in.
Front Wheel Travel 12.4 in.
Rear Wheel Travel 12.4 in.
Front Tire Size 80/100-21
Rear Tire Size 110/100-18
Front Suspension 48mm Inverted, Coilspring Fork with Adjustable Compression and
Rebound Damping
Rear Suspension Uni-Trak® w/ Adjustable Preload, Adjustable Dual-range (Low/High Speed)
Compression Damping, Adjustable Rebound Damping
Wheelbase 58.3 in.
Front Brake Type Semi-Floating 270mm Disc
Rear Brake Type 240mm Disc
Fuel Tank Capacity 1.64 gal.
Ground Clearance 13.0 in.
Seat Height 37.2 in.
Weight Without Fuel 230.2 lb.
Curb Weight= 240.2 lb.
Specifications subject to change without notice.
Ask about Kawasaki’s Team Green™ amateur rider support program.
(KP) = See Kaw-Pedia section for more details.
* = Changes from previous model year.
= = Includes all necessary materials and fluids to operate correctly, full tank of fuel (more than 90% of capacity) and tool kit (if supplied).

2023 Kawasaki KX250X – Totalmotorcycle.com  Canadian Specifications/Technical Details

POWER
Engine 249cc, liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, DOHC 4-valve single
Bore x Stroke 78.0 x 52.2 mm
Compression Ratio 14.1:1
Fuel System Fuel injection: ø44 mm x 1, with dual injectors
Ignition Digital DC-CDI
Starting Electric
Lubrication Forced lubrication, semi-dry sump
Transmission 5-speed, return
Clutch Wet multi-disc, manual
Final Drive Chain

PERFORMANCE
Frame Perimeter, aluminum
Front Suspension / Wheel Travel ø48 mm inverted fork with adjustable compression and rebound damping / 314 mm (12.4 in)
Rear Suspension / Wheel Travel New Uni Trak with adjustable dual-range (high/low-speed) compression damping, adjustable rebound damping and adjustable spring preload / 316 mm (12.4 in)
Rake / Trail 27.8° / 123 mm
Steering Angle (L/R) 42° / 42°
Front Tire 80/100-21 51M
Rear Tire 110/100-18 64M
Front Brakes Semi-floating ø270 mm petal disc with dual-piston caliper
Rear Brake ø240 mm petal disc with single-piston caliper

DETAILS
Dimensions (L x W x H) 2,170 x 820 x 1,260 mm (85.4 x 32.3 x 49.6 in)
Wheelbase 1,480 mm (58.3 in)
Road Clearance 330 mm (13.0 in)
Seat Height 945 mm (37.2 in)
Curb Mass** 109.0 kg (240 lb)
Mass Without Fuel 104.4 kg (230 lb)
Fuel Capacity 6.2 litres

2023 Kawasaki KX250X – Totalmotorcycle.com European Specifications/Technical Details

Engine
Engine typeLiquid-cooled, 4-stroke Single
Displacement249 cm³
Bore x stroke78 x 52.2 mm
Compression ratio14.1:1
Valve systemDOHC, 4 valves
Fuel systemFuel injection: Ø 43 mm x 1 (Keihin) with dual injection
IgnitionDigital DC-CDI
Starting SystemElectric
LubricationForced lubrication, semi‑dry sump
Gear Transmission
Transmission5-speed
Final driveChain
Primary Reduction Ratio3.350 (67/20)
Gear Ratios 1st2.077 (27/13)
Gear Ratios 2nd1.688 (27/16)
Gear Ratios 3rd1.438 (23/16)
Gear Ratios 4th1.235 (21/17)
Gear Ratios 5th1.045 (23/22)
Final reduction ratio3.923 (51/13)
ClutchWet multi-disc, manual
Suspensions Brakes & Suspension
Brakes, frontSingle semi-floating 270 mm petal disc. Caliper: Dual-piston
Brakes, rearSingle 240 mm petal disc. Caliper: Single-piston
Suspension, front48 mm inverted telescopic fork with adjustable compression and rebound damping
Suspension, rearNew Uni Trak with adjustable dual-range (high/lowspeed) compression damping, adjustable rebound damping and adjustable preload
Dimensions Frame & Dimensions
Frame typePerimeter, aluminium
Trail123 mm
Wheel travel front314 mm
Wheel travel rear316 mm
Tyre, front80/100-21 51M
Tyre, rear110/100-18 64M
Steering angle, left / right42° / 42°
L x W x H2,170 x 820 x 1,260 mm
Wheelbase1,480 mm
Ground clearance330 mm
Fuel capacity6.2 litres
Seat height945 mm
Curb mass109.2 kg

Manufacturer Specifications and appearance are subject to change without prior notice on Total Motorcycle (TMW).