New baby Ninja launched

New 250 twin to shake up class

Kawasaki is launching a new Ninja 250R in Paris this week, taking over where the much loved GPX250 and ZZ-R250 series left off.

The most important news in the release is the launch of a much-updated version of the powerplant, promising more power over a broader rev range, quieter operation, exceptional economy and clean emissions thanks to a dual catalyser in the exhaust system.

The mechanical package is liquid-cooled, runs big 30mm carbs, and is mated to a six-speed gearbox.

Kawasaki has clearly aimed to give its 250 four-stroke model a more modern image, with ZXR influences in the styling, right down to the petal brake discs.

Below is the company's list of new features.

See: www.kawasaki.com

DOHC 249cc Parallel Twin-cylinder Engine

Compact parallel-twin design offers good mass centralization for superior handling
Tuned to deliver smooth, step-free power with an emphasis on low- and mid-range power for rider-friendly response
Pistons feature reinforced heads and strengthening in the pin boss area for increased durability
Thick piston (longitudinally) rings help minimize oil consumption
Combustion chamber design optimized to maximize combustion efficiency and reduce emissions
Ample high-rpm performance will please riders using the full range of the engine

Cylinder head

Refined intake and exhaust ports contribute to good off-idle response and smooth power delivery
Valve timing and lift were designed for strong low- and mid-range torque
Direct valve actuation ensures reliable high-rpm operability
Valves with thin heads and stems reduce reciprocating weight

Carburetor

Twin Keihin CVK30 carburetors fine-tuned for good power feel and low fuel consumption

Exhaust system

2-into-1 system contributes to the Ninja 250R's low- and mid-range torque and smooth, step-free power curve
Slightly upswept silencer extensively tested to determine chamber size, connecting pipe length and diameter to achieve least noise and most power
Meets strict emissions with dual catalyzers; one in the collector pipe and the other in the silencer
Using two catalyzers minimizes the power loss
Positioning the first catalyzer as close to the exhaust ports maximizes its efficiency as well

Reduced mechanical noise

Cam chain tensioner with an automatic adjuster, like that on the KX450F motocrosser, eliminates mechanical noise caused by a loose cam chain and reduces power-robbing friction loss
Silencing mechanical noise allows the use of a freer flowing exhaust for a better sound quality
Complex construction with reinforcing ribs helps eliminate airbox reverberation and reduce intake noise
Air filter accessible from the side, for easy replacement

Liquid Cooling

Latest generation Denso radiator offers superior cooling with minimal space and weight
Ring-fan uses a quiet-running motor that also saves space
Fins on the lower side of the crankcase further helps cool the engine

Six-speed Transmission / Clutch

Involute splines reduce friction and backlash between gears and shafts for easier gear meshing and smooth shifting under power
Spring-type clutch damper reduces jerkiness at very low speeds and minimizes shocks when rolling on and off the throttle for a smoother clutch feel
Paper-base friction plates help increase clutch durability

Chassis

Sturdy and durable diamond-style frame of thick-walled steel tubing offers confidence-inspiring stability at both high and low speeds
Beefy swingarm bracket contributes to the frame's rigidity and helps achieve an ideal chassis stiffness balance
Square-tube swingarm with a 60 x 30mm cross-section further adds to rigidity

Suspension

New 37mm telescopic front fork with firm settings contribute to the Ninja 250R's smooth, stable handling and enhanced ride control
Uni-Trak rear suspension compliments the rigid frame and re-tuned fork and provides great road holding ability
Rear shock features 5-way adjustable preload, enabling ride height to be maintained whether riding solo or with a passenger

Wheels / Tires

Features 17" wheels like its larger supersport brothers
Low-profile sportbike tires on wide rims contribute to its easy, neutral handling at low speeds

Brakes

Large-diameter, 290mm front petal disc and a balanced action two-piston caliper offers excellent braking performance and a natural, direct feeling at the lever
Two-piston caliper grips the rear 220mm petal disc

Ergonomics

Natural riding position with slightly forward-slanting seat and wide, raised handlebars

Bodywork

Styling matches its larger-displacement Ninja supersport siblings
Fit and finish of striking full-fairing bodywork on par with that of top-class Ninja supersports
Aggressive dual-lamp headlight design, slim tail cowl and separate seats further enhance the supersport look
Front cowling and windscreen offer the rider a substantial amount of wind protection
Two helmet holders conveniently located under the rear seat
Under-seat storage can hold a U-lock or similar device
Two hooks under the tail and the rear passenger pegs provide anchor points for securing items to the rear of the bike

Instrumentation

Instrument panel features an easy-to-read, large-face analog speedometer along with an analog tachometer, odometer, trip meter, fuel gauge and warning lights

New baby Ninja launched

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