Equip this championship-proven race machine for the most technical terrain. Climb the ranks quickly and confidently with the bike built for victory. Be Next on the KX250X.
Review – Key Features – Features & Benefits – Specifications
2025 Kawasaki KX250X: BE NEXT FOR VICTORY.
Introducing the 2025 Kawasaki KX250X…
With a rich history in off-road racing, Kawasaki’s new KX250X cross-country racer retains all of the championship-winning performance, factory-style features and significant engine and chassis changes of the KX250 motocross racer, but adds X-specific suspension settings, 21/18-inch wheels fitted with enduro-type tires, and convenient side stand to deliver the edge for off-road competition.
The all-new KX250X motorcycle takes cross-country racing to the next level. Tuned for off-road racing, advanced tech like Power Mode Selection and Kawasaki TRaction Control (KTRC) combine with a high-performance chassis, a more powerful engine, and off-road ready suspension to equip this championship-proven race machine for the most technical terrain. Climb the ranks quickly and confidently with the bike built for victory. Be Next on the KX250X.
2025 Kawasaki KX250X Totalmotorcycle.com Key Features
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- NEW Cylinder head
- NEW Straight exhaust port and center exhaust
- NEW Smartphone connectivity
- NEW Handlebar-mounted traction control switch
- NEW Lightweight aluminum perimeter frame
- NEW ODI Lock-On grips
- NEW Easy-to-remove side cover
- NEW Slim ergonomic bodywork
- NEW KTRC and riding modes
- NEW Engine tuning
- NEW Suspension settings
- Kickstand
- 18-inch rear wheel
- Dunlop AT81 off-road tires
- Sealed chain
ADDITIONAL VEHICLE FEATURES:
- FI settings optimized for off-road
- New exhaust for improved power and mass centralization
- Revised intake downdraft angle and optimized fuel injection settings
- Revised piston shape
- New single-shaft primary crankshaft balancer
- Coned disc-spring hydraulic clutch
- Showa 48mm coil-spring fork and single shock with revised settings
- New ODI lock-on grips
- New bodywork and shrouds for improved rider interface
- New airbox shape with quick-release side cover
- 12V bullet terminal for aftermarket accessories
2025 KAWASAKI KX250 AND KX250X MOTORCYCLES
BE NEXT
Over the past five decades, the Kawasaki KX motorcycle series has been instrumental in guiding motocross riders to the podium. KX stands as one of the most notable brands in motocross and supercross, with the KX250 constantly challenging its competition in the class. Drawing inspiration from the Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki racing team, the newly redesigned KX250 is a force to be reckoned with on any motocross track. Among its 2025 upgrades are a redesigned cylinder head, a new lightweight aluminum frame, a center port exhaust, and several first-time features for the Kawasaki KX250, including ODI Lock-On grips, Kawasaki TRaction Control (KTRC), customizable riding modes accessible via handlebar-mounted switch box, and Bluetooth connectivity using RIDEOLOGY THE APP KX*.
The KX250 isn’t just a motorcycle; it’s the bike that builds champions. Riders benefit from the unparalleled support of the Team Green race team including industry-leading Racer Rewards, support programs and trackside support nationwide. Kawasaki riders gain access to the Kawasaki Rider Rewards program, which offers generous contingency rewards for a wide variety of race series throughout the country.
2025 Kawasaki KX250X Totalmotorcycle.com Features and Benefits
The redesigned intake and exhaust significantly contribute to more potent low to mid-range power. Kawasaki’s multi-time World Superbike Championship-winning engineers designed the finger follower valve train that, combined with minimal friction loss and steep downdraft style intake tract, contributes to the power.
4-Stroke Engine
• New piston has a flatter crown to accommodate a narrower valve angle for improved combustion. Piston rigidity balance was optimized by removing material from the underside of the piston.
• Reduced compression ratio helps improve power feel at lower rpm.
• The piston features the same bridged-box bottom design used on our factory racers. A short skirt, reinforced external ribs and a bridged-box bottom, featuring fully flush internal bracing, results in a lighter, stronger piston.
• Molybdenum coating on the piston’s outer surface helps reduce mechanical loss and resists wear. Striation helps retain oil to minimize sliding friction.
• The cylinder has been tilted five degrees forward to suit the new intake/exhaust layout, which also reduces friction for more efficient power generation.
• Thick cylinder wall for rigidity to prevent deformation and reduce mechanical loss.
• Cylinder offset is 3mm forward to reduce friction and enable more efficient power generation.
• 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.
• Connecting rod design decreases the piston’s lateral force on the cylinder walls to reduce mechanical loss and contribute to performance.
• Light crank web for quick revs.
• New single-shaft primary engine balancer contributes to smoother power delivery and reduced vibration for improved throttle control, especially when exiting slower speed corners.
• Low-friction plain bearings at the connecting rod big end reduce mechanical loss and help boost power.
• 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 KX250’s already slim profile.
Race-tuned 4-Valve Cylinder Head(KP)
• New symmetrically aligned intake and exhaust ports increase intake and exhaust flow efficiency for increased power output and low to mid-range power feel.
• The intake cam was raised 10mm to allow for a more downdraft intake, the valve angle is a degree narrower and the cylinder
head shape was revised to suit the new symmetrical cylinder head and increase low-speed 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.
DOWNDRAFT INTAKE WITH DUAL INJECTORS
• Downdraft-style intake routing now has a slightly steeper 34˚ approach angle for a straighter approach for intake air that enhances cylinder filling efficiency and contributes to power.
• 44mm throttle body layout is optimized to match the new intake and exhaust port layout. The straighter path to the cylinder evens the airflow balance for greater intake efficiency and better power feel.. A reversed orientation tilts the butterfly valve open from the top toward the cylinder for optimum fuel atomization and throttle response.
• The main (downstream) injector was moved 11mm closer to the cylinder so the fuel is injected into a high-flow airstream This supplies fuel to the combustion chamber more quickly for improved, more linear throttle response. The upstream secondary injector sprays fuel down the center of the intake duct, which enables better fuel atomization and allows more time for the mixture to cool before entering the combustion chamber.
• The dual, fine atomizing fuel injectors help deliver both instant throttle response and strong power throughout the rev range. 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.
• New airbox design maximizes the potential of the dual injectors and features a slide-in air filter that is secured with quick-release hooks for easier filter maintenance. The air filter is dome shaped to offer greater filtering area to help reduce intake resistance as the filter collects dust during a race.
Resonator Exhaust
• New center-port exhaust allows header pipe to exit the center of the cylinder head and travel through the frame cradle instead of to the side of the frame downtube as on the previous design. With the exhaust header end moved forward the muffler could also be moved forward to help centralize mass. The muffler end is two inches further forward than the previous model.
• A flatter-shaped exhaust resonator chamber, which effectively increases exhaust pipe length and reduces exhaust noise, has been moved just over two inches inward for less interference with the rider’s leg. The new position also contributes to an easier reach to the ground, .which is especially
helpful on the starting line.
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 light clutch actuation when the lever is pulled and a wide clutch engagement range that helps the rider control the clutch.
• The friction plates also have offset segments to promote clean separation of the discs to help reduce drag when the clutch is disengaged.
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.
ELECTRONICS
New Power Modes
Riders can now quickly and easily switch between Normal and Aggressive engine mapping in the ECU by using the Mode button on the left handlebar.
• The Power Mode button on the left handlebar replaces the DFI couplers used on the previous model so that riders can change engine mapping at the touch of a button.
• Aggressive mode provides a sharper throttle response.
• Each map can now be fine-tuned using one’s smartphone with RIDEOLOGY THE APP KX.
Kawasaki TRaction Control (KTRC)
• Using the Traction button on the left handlebar pod, riders can quickly and easily select between Weak and Strong levels of traction control to suit conditions and rider preference. The system can also be turned off.
• Monitoring engine speed, the ECU senses rpm spikes when rear wheel speed increases too quickly and retards ignition timing to enhance traction.
Launch Control Mode
• Similar to the system used on the Monster Energy/Pro Circuit Kawasaki factory racers, allows riders to activate a separate engine map designed to assist them get holeshots by pressing the Mode and KTRC buttons simultaneously.
• The Launch Control Mode uses dedicated KTRC, ignition and fuel maps 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.
• The system automatically disengages when the transmission is shifted into third gear, switching back to the selected Power Mode.
Smartphone Connectivity
Using the smartphone application “RIDEOLOGY THE APP KX,” riders are able to access and adjust their bike’s engine maps. Functionality (adjusting fuel and ignition timing) is similar to that offered by the accessory KX FI Calibration Kit used with previous models. Maintenance and setup logs are also available. *RIDEOLOGY THE APP KX is not intended for use during vehicle operation. Only use RIDEOLOGY THE APP KX when the vehicle
is not being operated and it is safe to do so.
• A communication unit mounted to the left rear frame rail enables riders to connect to their bike wirelessly. No accessory equipment is needed.
• A number of functions are available.
– KX FI Calibration: using the app’s six-by-six grid interface, fuel volume and ignition timing of the bike’s two original maps can be fine-tuned to suit conditions and/or preference via the smartphone.
– Engine Monitoring: while the engine is running, features like engine rpm, throttle angle, engine intake pressure, coolant temperature, air temperature, and ignition offset can be viewed from the smartphone.
– Maintenance Log: memo-style maintenance logs can be recorded.
– Setup Log: memo-style setup notes can be recorded.
Lightweight Aluminum Perimeter Frame(KP)
Redesigned frame accommodates the engine’s new symmetrically aligned intake and exhaust ports while continuing to deliver a high level of both light, nimble handling and a composed character. Optimized rigidity balance contributes to increased front end feel for improved cornering performance in a wider range of conditions, plus greater composure under acceleration and braking for faster lap times.
• To accommodate the new center-port exhaust the front downtube Y joint was reshaped and moved 4.9 inches higher. The new steeper downdraft intake layout required the upper cross pipe to be moved down below the intake, moving the lower cross pipe downwards and lowering the rear shock mount.
• The new downtube Y joint shape and position along with a new upper cross pipe shape, revised rib shape at the swingarm bracket, and new square lower cross pipe all contribute to the optimized rigidity.
• Revised torsional rigidity provides increased front end feel when cornering in a wider range of track conditions for more consistent cornering performance.
• Increased mass centralization contributes to the nimble handling feeling.
• The rear engine mounting brackets are now made of aluminum and complement the steel front engine mounting brackets to help provide both nimble handling and straight-line stability.
• Composed of a combination of forged, extruded and cast parts, the new aluminum frame is just over 0.5 pounds lighter than the previous version.
• The engine is used as a stressed member, contributing to the frame’s rigidity balance.
• Swingarm delivers the rigidity to match the frame, and contributes to rear wheel traction.
• Chassis balance and settings are all set to suit race-experienced riders.
• Design emphasis on providing maximum traction under acceleration. Specific chassis dimensions and design (reinforcing ribs, swingarm pivot, output shaft, linkage mounts and rear axle) are placed to prevent chassis squat and improve traction.
RACE-READY SUSPENSION
New Showa suspension components have fine-tuned settings (internal valving and oil level) to match the new frame for superb bump absorption performance and traction.
Showa 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.
• Fork settings match the frame rigidity, contribute to bump absorption performance and help maximize traction.
New Uni-Trak Rear Suspension
• New Showa shock complements the Showa fork.
• With the lower shock mounting position, the shock unit was shortened 32mm but suspension stroke remains the same, so suspension performance is unaffected.
• The reservoir tank is repositioned to the left side to create more space for the exhaust pipe.
• Dual compression adjustability allows high speed and low-speed damping to be tuned separately.
• Shock settings match the frame rigidity balance to help maximize traction.
• The inside of the shock reservoir has friction reducing Kashima Coat for improved suspension action.
Brakes/Tires
• Oversized semi-floating 270mm petal front brake disc provides superb stopping power.
• Front master cylinder provides superb initial control while contributing to overall braking performance feedback.
• Rear disc diameter is 240mm to optimize performance and contribute to controllability.
• Now equipped with Dunlop MX34 tires for increased cornering performance, traction and longevity.
Slim, Adjustable Ergonomics
• With its highly-acclaimed slim ergonomics, the KX250’s redesigned bodywork offers an even smoother rider interface. New shrouds, side covers and rear fender are firmer and designed to eliminate hooking points with the rider’s boots and knees for easier movement.
• New quick-release side cover can be removed without tools for easier air filter maintenance.
• Now equipped with medium-compound ODI Lock-On grips for increased comfort, excellent feel, and the screw-type fastening system greatly simplifies changing grips.
• The top of the fuel tank is low so the seat is flat for freedom of movement and sliding forward on the motorcycle.
• Bodywork features long, smooth surfaces and a flat tank-seat line designed to facilitate rider movement and control. 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. The bend helps make it easy for riders to weight the front wheel.
• 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.
• Green 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 front and rear sprockets, stiffer or softer fork and shock springs and graphic-free shrouds ready for custom graphics. The nature of off-road racing differs from that of motocross/ supercross. Therefore the KX250X has the following changes from the KX250 motocross model.
• 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.
• 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.
• Sealed chain for added durability in mud and longer off-road events.
• 12-volt bullet terminal for adding off-road accessories.
2025 Kawasaki KX250X – Totalmotorcycle.com USA Specifications/Technical Details
US MSRP Price: $9,099 USD
Canada MSRP Price: $ See Dealer CDN
Europe/UK MSRP Price: £ NA GBP (On The Road inc 20% Vat)
Engine Type 4-Stroke, Liquid Cooled, DOHC, 4-Valve, Single
Displacement 249cc
Bore & Stroke 78.0 x 52.2mm
Compression Ratio 14.0:1
Fuel System DFI with Keihin 44mm Throttle Body & Dual Injectors
Ignition Digital DC CDI
Transmission 5-Speed
Rake/Trail TBA°/TBA in.
Front Wheel Travel 12.0 in.
Rear Wheel Travel 12.1 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 TBA in.
Front Brake Type Semi-Floating 270mm Disc
Rear Brake Type 240mm Disc
Fuel Tank Capacity 1.64 gal.
Ground Clearance TBA in.
Seat Height TBA in.
Weight Without Fuel TBA lb.
Curb Weight= TBA 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).
2025 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 | 14.0:1 |
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 / 305 mm (12.0 in) |
Rear Suspension / Wheel Travel | New Uni Trak with adjustable dual-range (high/low-speed) compression damping, adjustable rebound damping and adjustable spring preload / 307 mm (12.1 in) |
Rake / Trail | 27.5° / 121 mm |
Steering Angle (L/R) | 42° / 42° |
Front Tire | 80/100-21 51M |
Rear Tire | 110/100-18 64M |
Front Brake | 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) | 2,180 x 820 x 1,260 mm (85.8 x 32.3 x 49.6 in) |
Wheelbase | 1,485 mm (58.5 in) |
Road Clearance | 330 mm (13.0 in) |
Seat Height | 945 mm (37.2 in) |
Curb Mass** | 110.3 kg (243 lb) |
Mass Without Fuel | 105.8 kg (233 lb) |
Fuel Capacity | 6.2 litres |
2025 Kawasaki KX250X – Totalmotorcycle.com European Specifications/Technical Details
Manufacturer Specifications and appearance are subject to change without prior notice on Total Motorcycle (TMW).