2009 Kawasaki KX250F Preview

Introduction

2009 Kawasaki KX250F

Purely designed for racing, the 2009 banger comes with a host of refinements that end up making it pull stronger, smoother and linear. First, Kawasaki modified the intake ports in the cylinder head in order for these to host properly the new titanium valves. This change and new addition have a great result on the engine’s performance and power delivery, making it rev freer, stronger and yet smoother. But what goes in must come out, and the burned fuel is being taken through a tapered titanium exhaust pipe, also aiming at a greater power delivery and smoothening out the hit when the throttle is opened.

Such an important engine revision couldn’t have passed without reestablishing the crankshaft’s balance factor. As a result of that, the engine will vibrate significantly lesser and still get a stronger bang in the low-and-mid rpm range.

Making an engine pull stronger will always determine a check or two on its cooling system in order to make sure that it stays up for the challenge. But in this case there was the need for a new water jacket routing which increases flow. Dealing with that are the larger radiators with new, four-blade louvers for greater cooling effectiveness.

In order to reduce weight and mechanical loss, the engine oil volume got significantly lower (1.3L) and the KX450F made sure to provide a crankcase scavenge pump oil filter to its smaller sibling.

The new model also comes with a longer tranny life expectation as there are bigger intervals between the gear shafts now, allowing stronger gears, clutch and generator covers. Clutch cable holder is now integrated into the crankcase, improving clutch feel and a new ratchet drive shift system was implemented. The lever ratios, spring rates and shaft locations were also revised.

2009 Kawasaki KX250F

In order to keep the bike steady under hard acceleration with less effort, Kawasaki adds a new frame and sub-frame to the already light and impressive package. Well, it is now even lighter (with 2.2 lbs, to be precise) and it is all due to the forged, extruded cast parts. Reshaping the frame spars narrowed the overall profile with 6mm, leaving the rider more in control as it keeps its knees tighter on the machine’s body.

Just like on the KX450F, the “D” profile swingarm now pivots from a higher position, improving traction and control feel. Also, the Uni-Trak rear suspension system is being positioned below the swingarm, offering longer rear stroke and more precise rear suspension tuning.

A 50mm piston diameter Showa shock comes new on the KX and has revised layout and damping characteristics. Shock internals feature Kashima Coat.

Up front there are the new Showa fork upgrades with titanium coated inner tubes. Surface inside the outer fork tubes is Kashima Coated for friction reduction. Front suspension new settings offer even more control through tight corners.

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