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2013 Kawasaki KX250F Review
2013 Kawasaki KX250F
Refined Champion Slims-Down to Chase Another Title
Lead – Don’t follow. Even slimmer for ultimate control, the Championship winning, dual injector equipped KX250F is more trackside tuneable, powerful and rider-compliant than ever.
For almost a decade, no other bike has spent more time on AMA Supercross and Motocross podiums than the Kawasaki KX™250F. The race-proven technology of the quarter-liter motocross leader returns for 2013, with an all-new plug-and-play adjustable ECU, narrower new frame, upgraded Separate Function Fork (SFF) fork and slimmer ergonomics, so the KX250F is poised to continue its class dominance in 2013.
The KX250F continues to lead the way, on the race track and with the enthusiast publication critics, who consider it to be one of the best 250F’s to ever put a wheel on the race track. The KX250F offers cutting-edge technology right off the showroom floor, to give riders the winning edge on the circuit. Along with the KX250F’s race-proven performance, no other production motocross bike offers as much adjustability, fine-tuning capabilities and rider customization when it comes to motor and suspension. Right off the production line, the KX250F gives a factory advantage to the privateer racer – it could be the difference between qualifying for the main and making the podium.
Kawasaki maintains its title-winning formula by advancing the theory that slimmer means faster and better handling. So they made the new 2013 KX250F frame 4mm narrower across the main spars for improved ergonomics and enhanced rider control. Since a slimmer chassis allows the rider more freedom of movement on the motorcycle, the radiator shrouds are also significantly smaller and slimmer where they contact the rider’s legs. The side covers were made as small as possible as well and form a smoother line with the redesigned airbox for freer rider movement. Since a motocross racer moves around so much, Kawasaki incorporated a flatter design of the seat and tank interface to provide greater freedom of movement and facilitate sitting farther forward.
The slimmer new frame also has revised steering head gusseting, a new rear shock mount tower and a new curved left rear engine hanger bracket which all help to slightly reduce rigidity for lighter handling and increased rear wheel traction. Adding to the ergonomic enhancements the KX250F has new longer grips with a lower density compound for increased comfort. The longer grips allow the rider to mover their hands up to 20mm closer to the centerline of the bars, for a more compact riding position.
Kawasaki was the first to incorporate a dual-injector fuel injection system on a production 250 four-stroke. For 2013, Kawasaki’s Digital Fuel Injection (DFI®) system with dual fuel injectors returns with enhancements. The second injector is located upstream of the throttle body and helps build a wider and more potent spread of power as rpm climbs. The two fine-mist atomizing injectors that feed the 250cc four-stroke power-plant have different body sizes, but deliver the same total capacity, per-cycle. Together, Kawasaki’s dual injectors pack a one-two punch, delivering a second dose of fuel on acceleration to maximize the high-rpm power and overrev capabilities of the KX250F.
Kawasaki engineers widened the intake ports and straightened the intake tract for more direct air flow from the airbox to the combustion chamber. The enhanced downdraft configuration contributes to stronger top-end performance.
They also shortened the cylinder by 0.1mm to increase the compression ratio and add to overall performance. Plus, the revised intake cam retards timing by four degrees to help boost top-end performance and a heavier rotor optimizes inertia to suit the new engine settings.
Performance is also enhanced via an all new exhaust system. The exhaust header is 30mm shorter for increased performance and now has a resonator chamber to help enhance low-end power and reduce noise. The reshaped, KX450F-style muffler is not only 30mm shorter but also features a 12.5mm larger cross section to help centralize mass while meeting sound requirements.
Revised ECU settings compliment the new engine characteristics. And the piston profile features a softer arc at the point of greatest pressure for increased reliability. The bridged box-bottom piston and cylinder walls both feature special surface treatments to minimize wear and enhance long-term durability. Plus, stronger intake valve seat material increases durability. The result of all these improvements is increased overall performance and enhanced reliability.
The Digital Fuel injection (DFI®) system comes with three pre-programmed ignition maps which are easily selectable without the use of a laptop computer or any other electronic devices. Maps can quickly be changed between three settings – standard, hard (terrain) and soft (terrain) – by swapping the DFI wire coupler cap clipped to the side of the steering head. No additional accessories are needed to alternate between pre-preprogrammed maps – simply install the appropriate coupler cap to select your desired ignition mode and start winning. The ECU is also fully re-programmable and custom maps can be created by using the accessory KX FI Calibration Kit, the same tool used by Kawasaki factory and privateer teams in AMA and FIM racing.
The KX250F remains the only production motocross bike to feature Showa’s SFF fork, which separates damping and shock absorption duties into the individual fork legs. This has proven to be highly successful for riders at all skill levels. The 2013 KX250F features an upgraded SFF with a host of enhancements for even better suspension performance. The 1mm larger inner fork tubes increase rigidity, contributing to a more planted feel from the front wheel. The increased diameter of the inner fork tubes also allowed the damping components to be larger, with the 2mm larger main piston now measuring 30mm, and the 1mm larger sub-piston now at 35mm. The larger components allow the same damping force to be achieved at a lower internal pressure, this allows firmer damping response and increased riding comfort.
The upgraded SFF also features an inverted compression rod that locates the cylinder at the top of the fork and the rod at the bottom. This new configuration increases the volume of oil at the bottom of the fork for a more progressive increase in damping force, enabling bottoming resistance to be increased without sacrificing ride quality. The revised joint rod arrangement and larger components increase rigidity, especially in the right fork tube which contains the spring, resulting in more even flex characteristics between the left and right tubes. The more closely matched rigidity promotes better handling stability under hard braking and landing from jumps. The lower triple clamp now opens at the rear to increase rigidity and improve fork action.
The Showa-built shock perfectly complements the SFF forks. The shock features revised damping settings with dual compression adjustability, allowing high-speed and low-speed damping to be tuned separately. The rear shock also features the Kashima Coating on its cylinder wall, to help reduce friction and smooth the suspension action. These features improve rear wheel traction and allow the KX250F to put the power down more effectively, making it easier than ever to grab the holeshot.
Any machine built to go this fast needs to be able to stop just as quickly and the braking systems on the KX250F are excellent. The new pushrod-type front brake master cylinder and higher-friction brake pads provide stronger brake force and enhanced control, especially for the initial bite and initial mid-stroke characteristics.
The 2013 KX250F is finished with new fender and front number plate designs. The black rear fender, silver engine covers and new black muffler end cap maintain the factory racer resemblance. And quality race-proven components such as a Renthal aluminum handlebar and black anodized aluminum wheels that are both lightweight and incredibly strong are part of the overall package.
The factory team feel of the KX250F is augmented by the lightweight magnesium clutch, generator and cylinder head covers. Plus, the embossed design on the clutch cover is designed to gradually appear as contact from riding boots wears off the painted surface. A sleek, ribless rear hub and butted spokes further reduce unsprung weight. The blue finish on the oil filler, flywheel nut and timing inspection caps contributes to factory looks and sophistication of this class-winning machine, which is bound to top plenty of podiums in the coming year.
Optional parts available through Kawasaki dealers include lighter/heavier flywheels, front and rear sprockets, solid brake discs, handlebar holder for 1 1/8” handlebar, and stiffer or softer fork and shock springs.
Racers who ride their KX250F at designated events are eligible to receive support from Team Green™, Kawasaki’s amateur racing support program. For over 30 years, Team Green has been providing regional support vehicles and highly trained technicians at more than 100 yearly events throughout the United States, offering technical information and assistance to those who race Kawasaki products. Kawasaki also offers a comprehensive contingency program for amateur and professional riders who place well at designated events.
KX design philosophy is simple: put mid-level to expert riders on the top step of the podium.
And the KX250F is one of the most successful machines in the 250cc class. Engine and chassis performance delivers what riders need to win.
Complementing this dominant performance, the KX250F is loaded with advanced technology and industry firsts that push riders to the front of the pack.
Authentic Kawasaki Accessories are available through Kawasaki dealers.
2013 Kawasaki KX250F Features and Benefits
At a glance…
• Upgraded Showa Separate Function Fork (SFF) provides more progressive damping force and features larger-diameter 48mm inner fork tubes for improved rigidity and less stiction
• Dual injector Digital Fuel Injection system
• More robust high-rpm engine output extends deep into the overrev
• Stronger engine components improve reliability
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
• 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
Digital Fuel Injection (DFI) System
• Revised intake tract provides a straighter shot into the combustion chamber for more direct 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 opens more quickly after 3/8 open position
• Simple and efficient system: No battery, fuses or relays
• Sharp and precise engine response across entire rpm range
• Offers easy engine starting
• Helps prevent engine hesitation after landing from jumps and other high-impact situations
Bridged Box-Bottom Piston
• Revised piston profile helps increase reliability
• 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
• Stronger 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
• New 30mm shorter head pipe improves performance with a resonator chamber to help boost low-rpm torque
• New high-volume muffler assembly is 30mm shorter with a larger cross section keeps noise levels at 94 dB while retaining power production
• 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
• Strong, beefy crankcases feature additional material around the engine mounts to help increase long-term durability
• 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 is 4mm narrower for improved 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
Upgraded SFF Fork
• Upgraded 48mm Separate Function Fork (SFF) features new 1mm larger inner fork tubes which allow the internal damping components to be larger, for firmer damping response and increased ride comfort
• SFF design separates springing and damping functions for less weight, better performance, less stiction and easier adjustability
• 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
• Revised lower triple clamp open at the back for increased rigidity and improved fork action
Uni-Trak® rear suspension
• Rear shock features dual compression adjustability, allowing high-speed and low-speed damping to be tuned separately
• Features Kashima Coat on the inside cylinder wall for reduced friction and smoother suspension action
• New swingarm uses a longer cast front section, 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
• 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
• New smaller side number plates also contribute to the slim package
• Right side panel has an added passageway to help cool the silencer
• Flatter design of the seat and tank offer greater 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 upgraded polyurethane, designed for greater durability
• 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
• Longer hand grips allow the rider to hold the bars closer to the centerline and are made of lower density material for improved rider comfort
Factory-style Components • New pushrod type front brake master cylinder and new brake pad material provide stronger brake force and enhanced feel
• New 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 wave shape helps clean the brake pads for more efficient stopping performance
• Rear caliper guard protects caliper from damage
• Ribless rear hub and butted spokes further reduce unsprung weight
• Renthal aluminum handlebar is standard equipment
• Blue ignition cover plugs and oil filler cap match the blue accents on the factory race bikes
• Factory-style graphics complement the KX250F’s highly tuned performance
Additional Features
• New radiator shrouds and side panels provider a slimmer rider interface and a more nimble feel
• New front fender
• Redesigned front number plate
• New embossed design on clutch cover
• New higher-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 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
2013 Kawasaki KX250F Additional Details
Separate function fork (SFF) Type 2
The KX250F is the only mass-production motocrosser featuring Showa’s Separate function fork (SFF) type 2. Thicker fork tubes and new internal construction offer increased damping performance and stability when on the breakes or landing jumps.
Factory Styling
Factory-style graphics, black alumite rims, black front guard and rear fender, blue alumite finish on the suspension adjusters, and a blue finish on some of the engine trim give the KX250F the looks to match high tuned performance.
Race-ready front suspension
A super-hard titanium coating on the outer surface of the inner forktubes combined with Kashima coat on the inside of the outer tubes reduces sliding friction and improves action, for a better ride feel.
Race-oriented break system
Front and rear petal discs are complemented by a new front break master cylinder and front break pads, for stronger breaking performance and control.
New uni-trak rear suspension
Linkage mounts below the swingarm for more precise suspension tuning. dual compression adjustability offers a wide range of tuning options. Kashima coat on the tank cylinder improves action. revised dumping settings match the new front fork and revised chassis balance.
Easy engine tuning: DFI setting data selection
Adjusting engine settings to suit conditions has never been easier than with the new DFI couplers. The new ECU features three engine maps (soft, standard and hard). riders can easily switch between them to suit riding conditions just by plugging in each of the 4-pin coupler.
KX FI Calibration Kit (option)
The KX FI Calibration Kit is the same style kit as used by Kawasaki’s works teams in Europe and the U.S. The kit enables expert riders to adjust engine characteristics (by rewriting actual data maps) to suit their preference, record riding data, and analyse their riding data to further fine-tune their race and practice settings.
High-speed chassis with factory-style components
Aluminium perimeterframe is a lightweight construction composed of forged, extruded and cast parts. Revised rigidity contributes to lighter handling and improved rear wheel traction, while a slimmer design contributes to improved ergonomics.
Even more powerful, high-revving dual-injection engine with factory-style tuning
Tuned to suit the demands of race-experienced riders, the 249 cm3 liquid-cooled, 4-stroke Single’s wide powerband focuses on high-rpm performance and extends rideability way into the over-rev. Already highly acclaimed for its high output and power delivery – thanks to race-inspired tuning and factory style parts like the high-performance piston with bridged-box bottom – the 2012 KX250F takes MX engine performance to the next level with the world’s first moto cross dual injection system. The power increase – recognisable by riders of any level – is complemented by inheriting the smooth FI response feel of the 2011 model. Further engine changes offer even smoother shifting and increased durability.
Slimmer new frame, new minimalist bodywork, a flatter tank-seat line and new handle grips offer a slimmer riding position and improved ergonomics, making it even easier for riders to go fast.
High-performance piston
A high-performance piston features the same design used on our factory racers, contributing to improved performance at all rpm. A short skirt, reinforced external ribs and the industry’s only mass-production use of a bridged-box bottom, (featuring fully flush internal bracing) result in a lighter, stronger piston.
Dual Injectors
The KX250F fuel injection system features dual injectors: an injector downstream of the throttle valve (where injectors are usually located on standard FI systems), and an upstream second injector close to the airbox. Unlike the dual injection set ups found on supersport models (where the upper injector operates only part-time, providing additional fuel when necessary), the two injectors in the KX250F fuel injection system have different roles. The downstream injector is used to ensure smooth, instant response while the upstream injector is charged with providing power. As rpm and the throttle position increase, operation switches from the downstream injector to the upstream injector. (Depending on whether in a low (1st, 2nd) or high (3rd, 4th, 5th) gear, the switch is either progressive or almost instantaneous.)
Lightweight throttle body
A 43 mm throttle body makes use of a progressive throttle link to deliver airflow in much the same way as would an FCR carburettor. Using two linked shafts, the throttle body opens more quickly after the 3/8 open position, delivering sharp response and excellent power feeling. The lightweight throttle body is approximately half the weight of an FCR carburettor – a weight saving of about 600 g.
2013 Kawasaki KX250F – 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 / 5.0 in.
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 in.
Rear suspension / wheel travel Uni-Trak® linkage system and Showa shock with 9 position low-speed and stepless high-speed compression damping, 22 position rebound damping and fully adjustable spring preload / 12.2 in.
Front tire size 80/100-21
Rear tire size 100/90-19
Front brake Single semi-floating 250mm petal disc with dual piston caliper
Rear brake Single 240mm petal disc with single-piston caliper
Overall length 85.4 in.
Overall width 32.3 in.
Overall height 50.0 in.
Wheelbase 58.1 in.
Ground clearance 13.0 in.
Seat height 37.2 in.
Curb weight 233.6 lbs.
Fuel capacity 1.61 gal.
Color Lime Green
2013 Kawasaki KX250F – Canadian Specifications/Technical Details
Canada MSRP Price: TBA 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)
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
BRAKES
Front: Type Single semi-floating 250 mm petal disc
Front: Caliper Dual-piston caliper
Rear: Type Single 240 mm petal disc
Rear: Caliper 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.)
** Includes all necessary materials and fluids to operate correctly, full tank of fuel (more than 90% of capacity) and tool kit (if supplied)
DETAILS
MSRP* TBA
Lime Green KX250ZDF
* 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 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.
2013 Kawasaki KX250F – United Kingdom Specifications/Technical Details
UK MSRP Price: £6,349 (Prices are recommended and inclusive of VAT @ 20% and delivery)
Engine
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
Engine type Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke Single
Displacement 249 cm³
Bore x stroke 77.0 x 53.6 mm
Compression ratio 13.5:1
Valve/Induction system DOHC, 4 valves
Transmission
Clutch Wet multi-disc, manual
Primary reduction ratio 3.350 (67/20)
Gear ratios: 1st 2.142 (30/14)
Gear ratios: 2nd 1.750 (28/16)
Gear ratios: 3rd 1.444 (26/18)
Gear ratios: 4th 1.235 (21/17)
Gear ratios: 5th 1.045 (23/22)
Final reduction ratio 3.846 (50/13)
Transmission 5-speed, return
Final Drive Chain
Frame
Frame type Perimeter, aluminium
Rake/Trail 28.2° / 120.2 mm
Wheel travel, front 315 mm
Wheel travel, rear 310 mm
Tyre, front 80/100-21 51M
Tyre, rear 100/90-19 57M
Steering angle, left / right 42° / 42°
Suspension
Suspension, front Type: 47 mm upside-down
telescopic
Separate Function front Fork
(SFF)
Compression damping: 22-way
Rebound damping: 20-way
Spring preload: 60-way
Suspension, rear Type: New Uni-Trak
Compression damping: 13-way
(low-speed),
2-turns or more (high-speed)
Rebound damping: 17-way
Spring preload: Fully adjustable
Brakes
Brakes, front Type: Single semi-floating 250
mm petal disc
Caliper: Dual-piston
Brakes, rear Type: Single 240 mm petal disc
Caliper: Single-piston
Dimensions
Dimensions (L x W x H) 2,170 mm x 820 mm x 1,270 mm
Ground Clearance 330 mm
Wheelbase 1,475 mm
Seat height 945 mm
Fuel capacity 7.2 litres
Curb Mass 106.2 kg
2013 Kawasaki KX250F – Australia Specifications/Technical Details
Australia MSRP Price: TBA AU
Type Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke Single
Displacement 249 cm3
Bore and Stroke 77.0 x 53.6 mm
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
Drivetrain
Transmission 5-speed, return
Final drive Chain
Clutch Wet multi-disc, manual
Frame
Type Perimeter, aluminium
Wheel travel:
front 315 mm
rear 310 mm
Tyre:
front 80/100-21 51M
rear 100/90-19 57M
Caster (rake) 28.7°
Trail 126.4 mm
Steering angle (left/right) 42° / 42°
Suspension
Front
Type 48 mm upside-down telescopic
Separate Function front Fork (SFF) Type 2
Compression damping 22-way
Rebound damping 20-way
Spring preload 40-way
Rear
Type New Uni-Trak
Compression damping 19-way (low-speed), 4 turns (high-speed)
Rebound damping 22-way
Spring preload Fully adjustable
Brakes
Front:
Type Single semi-floating 250 mm petal disc
Caliper Dual-piston
Rear:
Type Single 240 mm petal disc
Caliper Single-piston
Dimensions
Overall length 2,170 mm
Overall width 820 mm
Overall height 1,270 mm
Wheelbase 1,475 mm
Ground clearance 330 mm
Seat height 945 mm
Curb mass 106.2 kg with full tank of fuel
Fuel capacity 6.1 litres
2013 Kawasaki KX250F – Press Release
New KX250F and KX450F racers – 2013 bikes unveiled
With many riders already looking towards the next season in Motocross and Supercross racing, Kawasaki has stolen the initiative and unveiled its incoming adult off-road racers.
Featuring a host of changes as a result of countless podiums and many wins in the current season, the new machines can truly said to be factory derived and inspired by the feedback from off-road hero’s like Ryan Villopto, the Pourcel brothers, British star, Tommy Searle and many, many others
Sharing some new features while having a host of influential and unique updates, both bikes would be podium contenders even if left unchanged but, with these new mods, Team Green is hoping to push the off-road bar even higher and deliver success to a far greater range of riders across the experience and ability spectrum.
As Ross Burridge, Racing Coordinator for Kawasaki Motors UK says, the four stroke KX range is highly respected and each season’s bikes are eagerly anticipated.
“It’s such a delicate balance, the relationship between the demand for more power and aspects like a fluid and controllable over-rev with some of the basic must-have’s like strong pull from low revs plus start gate dominating urge. It’s no secret that the factory work directly with our top riders and, in many cases, machines ridden or tested in the current season feature the mods being lined up for the incoming bikes”.
So what’s new about the 2013 crossers, and does it mean a sea-change in KX thinking?
New for both bikes is the narrowing of the chassis by 4mm to make direction changes and control even easier. On paper it seems like a small amount but, according to riders, it has made a significant effect and marries well with other updates and innovations for the new season pushing KXF technology another step forwards.
Also, both machines feature plug and play trackside tuning thanks to a range of colour coded plugs to simply add to the loom and change the ECU power and fuel settings for such things as hard pack and soft sand etc. With the addition of the optional Fi Calibration kit, numerous maps can be created on a bespoke basis as well as a handy data logging function to build a picture of laps completed and settings tried, just like a factory team would.
Suspension too has been tweaked on both machines. Most radical is the addition of a Pneumatic front fork on the KX450F. An innovative feature,. It allows quick and simple adjustment using air proposed to make small changes and negating the need to dismantle forks to change internal mechanical components for a setting change.
In the case of the 2013 KX250F, the successful separate function front fork has been upgraded further still for more compliance and better performance over a wider range of settings suiting an even large cross-section of rider abilities. And in the performance stakes, the well-received twin injector fuelling system is retained which, along with further subtle mods to piston dimensions etc. have crated even more power for urge hungry riders.
Although now shirt of go, the KX450F also enjoys increased power for 2013 along with the carry-over of its highly praised push-button launch control system. And let’s face it, what could be better than taming a mega-performance machine like the mighty KX450F off the line to ensure the holeshot and rush to the first, and possible race-wining, corner.
As Ross Burridge concludes, the success already being enjoyed this season looks set to be repeated in 2013 thanks to these clever additions, along with the retention of current innovative technology.
“It’s always a considered aspect when launching new bikes. You have to see what it well received and effective on the current machinery and what also needs to be added to raise the bar another notch. With such a strong development team of riders and factory technicians all pulling on the same direction, the incoming bikes represent the very peak of current technology and look set to be heading the pack from clubman level all the way to the GP heights in the upcoming season both in Europe and in the States.”
For more details of the KX250F, KX450F- and to find out about the other machines in the incoming 2013 Kawasaki off-road range – contact your nearest Team Green dealer now.
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