For those about to enjoy their first taste of two-wheeled freedom, Kawasaki's Ninja 250R->ke1738 sportbike has always been a great option to start. It doesn't come with off-the-wall features, but it does have enough of an 'oomph' that novice riders - and veterans, for that matter - can enjoy.

Kawasaki->ke299 has established a reputation in the business as one of the best bike designers in the world and the aesthetic profile of the Ninja 250R only adds to the company's already glowing reputation. The sharp styling of the bike makes it look like a supersport, while its compact engine and superior handling offers a perfect blend of power and stability that riders can fully enjoy.

There's definitely a lot to like about the Kawasaki Ninja 250R. Heck even the name sounds as stealthy as those Japanese warriors. The Ninja250R is all that and plenty, plenty more.

Find out more about the Kawasaki Ninja 250R after the jump. } }

2011 Kawasaki Ninja 250R

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2011 Kawasaki Ninja 250R
  • Engine/Motor: DOHC parallel-twin cylinder engine
  • Transmission: six-speed transmission
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array

Design

The Kawasaki Ninja 250R comes with a natural riding position and comfortable ergonomics with a low seat height that translates into hours of fun for both novices and veterans. The bike also has a fairing and windscreen that not only looks great, but also delivers wind protection for a wide range of riding situations. There's also an easy-to-read instrument panel with fuel gauge and neutral indicator that makes it convenient for riders of all shapes and sizes.

Performance

Powering the Ninja 250R is a 249cc DOHC parallel-twin cylinder engine that offers good mass centralization for superior handling and mated to a six-speed transmission that features involute splines, reducing friction, and backlash between gears and shafts for easier gear meshing and smooth shifting under power. The engine has been tuned to deliver smooth, step-free power with an emphasis on low- and mid-range power for rider-friendly response. Reinforced piston heads are also part of the package as are the thick piston rings that help prevent oil consumption. Likewise, a combustion chamber design has been optimized to maximize combustion efficiency and reduce emissions.

Chassis and Suspension

As for the bike's chassis, Kawasaki built the Ninja 250R on a sturdy and durable diamond-style frame of thick-walled steel tubing that offers strength and stability at both high and low speeds. A beefy swingarm bracket and a square-tube swingarm with 60 x 30mm cross section further contributes to the frame’s rigidity. A 37mm telescopic front fork with firm settings contribute to the Ninja 250R’s smooth, stable handling and enhanced ride control, as does a Uni-Trak rear suspension that complements the rigid frame and provides great road holding ability.

Specifications

Engine

Four-stroke, liquid-cooled, DOHC, parallel twin

Displacement

249cc

Bore x stroke

62.0 x 41.2mm

Compression ratio

11.6:1

Cooling

Liquid

Carburetion

Keihin CVK30 x 2

Ignition

TCBI with digital advance

Transmission

Six-speed

Final drive

O-ring chain

Frame

Semi-double cradle, high-tensile steel

Wheelbase

55.1 in.

Rake / trail

26 degrees / 3.2 in.

Front suspension / wheel travel

37mm hydraulic telescopic fork / 4.7 in.

Rear suspension / wheel travel

Bottom-link Uni-Trak® with 5-way adjustable preload / 5.1 in.

Front tire

110/70-17

Rear tire

130/70-17

Front brake

Single 290mm hydraulic petal disc with two-piston caliper

Rear brake

Single 220mm petal disc with two-piston caliper

Overall length

82.1 in.

Overall width

28.1 in.

Overall height

43.7 in.

Seat height

30.5 in.

Curb weight

374.9 lbs.

Fuel capacity

4.8 gal.

Color choices / special edition

Ebony, Lime Green / Ebony (SE),

Pearl White / Ebony (SE)

Warranty

12 months