The 2015 model year introduces a host of new updates designed to retain the crown as the most successful 250F on the market
The record books don’t lie. Whether it’s Team Green™ amateur racing, professional AMA Supercross or Motocross, the most successful 250cc motocross bike in the four-stroke category just got even better thanks to a series of upgrades designed to maximize the performance of this already impressive motorcycle.
The Launch Control mode, plug-n-play DFI® Couplers and Separate Function Fork (SFF)are all carried over. New for 2015, the Kawasaki KX250F receives updates to those Showa SFF forks as well as oversized Braking-brand front brake rotor, further improved engine tuning as well as adjustable footpegs and handlebar clamps to fit riders of all sizes. Like its championship-winning bigger brother, the Kawasaki KX™450F, all aspects have been honed to offer improved performance in a variety of conditions.
NEW KX250F FEATURES FOR 2015
- Revised damping settings in the Showa Separate Function Fork (SFF)
- Revised Uni-Trak® rear shock settings
- Adjustable footpegs and handlebar clamps
- New 270mm “oversized” front rotor, petal-style Braking-brandrotors front/rear
- New finer atomizingDownstream Fuel Injector and revised ECU settings
- New Bridged-Box-Bottompiston
- New Magneto Rotor with increased inertia
- Lighter subframe
- New Factory styling
ENGINE
The 249cc motor receives a new, reinforced Bridged-Box-Bottompiston derived fromthe factory race bikes. Like the KX450F, this light and strong piston design has short skirts with reinforced external ribs and a thicker domefor increased strength. While the added reinforcement for 2015 increased the weight of the piston, the new piston pin is lighter than last year’s model, contributing strength and reliability without any weight penalty.
The exhaust system employs a short header and resonator chamber to enhance low-end power and provide strong top-end power. It also has a short, high-volume muffler that assists with mass centralization and makes good power, yet its large cross section restricts noise levels to an AMA race-legal 94dB.
Further engine improvements include a new magneto rotor with greater inertia to match the increased acceleration performance. The standard rotor now weighs 9.5kg-cm², which is up from 9kg-cm² on the 2014 model.
ENGINE ELECTRONICS
The Digital Fuel Injection (DFI®) system on the KX250F utilizes dual injectors that deliver a second squirt of fuel under acceleration to maximize the engine’s power and over-rev capability at high RPM. Introduced in 2012, this second injector is located upstream in the air duct, helping to create a wider and more potent powerband.
The dual injectors are both fine-atomizing injectors with four holes. The upstream injector disperses particles with a droplet size of 120mm, while the new downstream injector was reduced to 75mm for 2015. With a finer size and wider spray pattern, the downstream injector contributes to a stronger low- to mid-range power, along with improved response and quicker acceleration.
The revised ECU settings match the injector and magneto rotor changes and the combined effects of the engine and electronicsimprovements in both throttle response and power under-the-curve mean better drive out of the corners and more grunt for steep inclines.
The ECU has three pre-programmed ignition maps that allow riders to quickly and easily change DFI settings without needing to access a laptop or electronic device. Engine maps can be quickly switched between the three settings – Standard, Hard (terrain) or Soft (terrain) – to suit riding conditions. This is achieved by simply replacing the DFI coupler cap located on the side of the steering head. No additional tools or accessories are needed to change between pre-programmed maps – simply swap the appropriate DFI Coupler cap to select your desired ignition mode and feel an immediate change in power.
The ECU is also fully reprogrammable, allowing custom maps to be created using the accessory Kawasaki Racing Software Calibration Kit: the same tool used by Kawasaki factory and privateer teams in AMA and FIM racing.
Additionally, the KX250F retains the factory Launch Control mode that was the first of its kind for any 250 motocross bike when introduced last year. The system works by retarding the ignition in first and second gears, which helps the tire to find grip in low traction situations, helping the rider maximize traction and get a good start.
Launch Control mode is activated by simply pressing a button on the handlebar when in neutral, first or second gear. Shifting into third gear automatically deactivates the system to return ignition timing to the stock setting. This high-tech system is most effective on concrete starting pads or other slippery surfaces.
BRAKES & SUSPENSION
The new 270mm “oversized” front Braking-brandrotor easily corrals the increased speed of the Kawasaki KX250F, giving the rider stronger performance and more control. For 2015, both the front and 240mm rear rotors are a new factory-style petal disc that look stylish and help shed dirt.
The high-friction brake pads grip the new front rotor via a pushrod-type front master cylinder that helps ensure strong braking force. The front brake was tuned to be particularly effective on initial bite and in its mid-stroke action to provide enhanced feel and control.
The rear rotor is mounted to a rib-less rear hub with butted spokes that reduce the unsprung weight. The axles have also been reduced in weight, saving 31 grams on the front and 32 grams rear, with all these changes helping riders achieve even more podium finishes this season.
In 2011, the Kawasaki KX250F was the first production motocross bike to feature the Showa Separate Function Fork (SFF), and for 2015 its damping settingshave been revised to improve high-speed handling and stability, keeping the Kawasaki in front of its competitors.
The 48mm SFF forks on the KX250F separate the damping and bump absorption duties into the individual fork tubes. The right fork leg houses the spring, which is easy to adjust for preload, while the left fork leg contains the damping components that achieve the best small- and large bump absorption in its segment. The SFF assembly allows a preload adjuster that significantly simplifies the task of setting the fork preload and front-end height. So rather than disassemble the forks, as you would need to do with conventional forks, Kawasaki’s SFF system means front preload and height can be set with the simple turn of a wrench.
Furthermore, the large fork tubes allow 30mm main- and 35mm sub-pistons that provide smoother action and firm damping performance at lower internal pressure.
The Showa forks have a super-hard titanium coating on the inner fork tubes to prevent abrasion, just like the Kawasaki factory team bikes. This reduces sliding friction and initial stiction to improve overall fork action. Green anodized caps and a new silver finish on the outer fork tube compliments the package and adds Works-racer style.
Rear suspension duties are assigned to the Uni-Trak linkage and a Showa shock has firmer settings to match the front fork upgrades, providing the same high-speed handling and stability. The shock features high- and low-speed compression damping adjustment and there is also a self-lubricating alumite coating on the inner surface of the shock cylinder wall to avoid abrasion, reduce friction and smooth the suspension action. These features help increase rear-wheel traction and power transfer to the ground.
FRAME & BODYWORK
Continuing with the Kawasaki KX250F refinements, the slim aluminium perimeter frame receives a new lightweight subframe for improved mass centralization. The frame features narrow main spars that give the rider better control and allow for greater movement in the saddle.
As an industry first for the 250 class, the increased adjustability of the KX250F extends to new, two-position, adjustable footpeg brackets that allow the rider to lower the position by 5mm, thereby lowering the center of gravity.
Like its big brother, the KX250F also has a new four-way adjustable upper triple clamp with two mounting holes for the 180-degree rotatable handlebar clamps. These offer the rider the choice of four bar positions, including 25mm forward, 15mm forward, standard or 10mm back. The result is the ultimate ergonomic adjustment for riders of many sizes and styles. When combined with the almost limitless ignition mapping capabilities, thanks to the optional KX FI Calibration Kit, the Kawasaki KX250F is uniquely able to adapt to almost any track, any surface conditions and any rider.
The KX250F also shares the enhanced factory styling of its 450F brethren, thanks to factory-style graphics and, new for 2015 are green anodized suspension adjusters, engine oil cap and generator cover plugs. Along with the black alumite-coated wheels, the KX250F has the distinctive Kawasaki look.
Owners will also appreciate embossed design on the clutch cover, which was designed to gradually reveal itself as contact from the rider’s boots gradually wears away the painted surface.
From its styling to the race-proven performance, all aspects of the 2015 Kawasaki KX250F have been addressed to increase its outright ability while also making it more accessible than ever. So whether you’re a weekend racer, or a track rider looking for a lightweight and capable mount, the 2015 KX250F has the ability to continue its reign over the 250F class.
TEAM GREEN SUPPORT PROGRAMS
With the introduction of another highly capable motorcycle, Kawasaki will continue to offer the same support to racers of all ages and levels that it has for more than 30 years. The Team Green support program has given riders the tools for success by providing technicians and support staff at selected events throughout the year. Team Green provides racers with unparalleled trackside support at no cost, while emergency parts are for sale for last-minute adjustments. When helping amateur athletes achieve success, Kawasaki never forgets its most important goal is to ensure a positive and enjoyable experience for every rider, while giving them the chance to win the race! For more information about Team Green, visit http://www.kawasaki.com/Racing_TeamGreen/Landing.aspx
ABOUT KAWASAKI
Kawasaki started full-scale production of motorcycles over a half century ago. The first Kawasaki motorcycle engine was designed based on technical know-how garnered from the development and production of aircraft engines, and our entry into the motorcycle industry was driven by Kawasaki’s constant effort to develop new technologies. Numerous new Kawasaki models introduced over the years have helped shape the market, and in the process have created enduring legends based on their unique engineering, speed, power, design and riding pleasure. In the future, Kawasaki’s commitment to maintaining and furthering these strengths will surely give birth to new legends.
Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A. (KMC) markets and distributes Kawasaki motorcycles, ATVs, Side x Sides, and Jet Ski® watercraft through a network of almost 1,200 independent retailers, with close to an additional 7,400 retailers specializing in general purpose engines. KMC and its affiliates employ nearly 3,100 people in the United States, with approximately 300 of them located at KMC’s Irvine, California headquarters.
Kawasaki’s tagline, “Let the good times roll.™”, is recognized worldwide. The Kawasaki brand is synonymous with powerful, stylish and category-leading vehicles. Information about Kawasaki’s complete line of powersports products and Kawasaki affiliates can be found on the Internet at www.kawasaki.com.
2015 Kawasaki KX™250F
Features and Benefits
At a Glance…
– Revised damping settings in theShowa Separate Function Fork (SFF) provides progressive damping force and features 48mm inner fork tubes for rigidity
– Revised Uni-Trak® rear shock settings
– New 270mm “oversized” front rotor, petal-style Braking–brandrotors front/rear
– New finer-atomizingDownstream Fuel Injector and revised ECU settings
– Launch Control increases ability to get good starts, by maximizing available traction
– New Bridged-Box-Bottompiston
– New Magneto Rotor with increased inertia
– Adjustable footpegs and handlebar clamps
– Lighter subframe
– New Factory styling
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
– Upgraded crankcase oil jet delivers an optimized stream of oil to the underside of the new Bridged Box pistonwith short skirts and reinforced external ribs for increased strength.
– 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
Factory-Style Launch Control System
– The KX250F Launch Control was a first for the 250 class and increased the rider’s ability to get good starts by maximizing available traction
– Launch Control is activated by pushing a button on the left handlebar while stopped, in neutral, first or second gear
– Retards ignition timing in first and second gears, giving the greatest effect within the first few seconds of releasing the clutch
– Shifting into third gear automatically deactivates Launch Control Mode and returns the ignition to normal mapping
– Particularly effective when chasing the holeshot from concrete starting pads and other slippery surfaces
Digital Fuel Injection (DFI®) System
– New finer-atomizingDownstream Fuel Injector and revised ECU settings
– The dual injectors are fine-atomizing injectors with four holes. The upstream injector has a droplet size of 120mm, while the new downstream injector is 75mm. The finer size and wider spray pattern contributes to a stronger low- to mid-range power, improved response and quicker acceleration.
– Intake tract design provides optimal 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 for sharp and precise throttle response across entire rpm range
– Simple and efficient system: No battery, fuses or relays
– Offers easy engine starting
Bridged Box-Bottom Piston
– Thicker dome and reinforcing ribs increase durability
– Piston profile helps increase reliability compared to non-box-bottom design
– 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
– 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
– Short header and resonator chamber enhance low-end power and provide strong top-end power
– Head pipe resonator chamber helps boost low-RPM torque
– Short high-volume muffler assists with mass centralization, makes good power, while large cross section restricts noise levels to an AMA race-legal 94dB.
– 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
– Transmission gears feature four dogs for smooth shifting
– Shift-fork grooves enhance feel at the shift lever
– 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 helps provide excellent 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
Separate Function Fork
– Revised settings on the 48mm Separate Function Fork (SFF) delivers firm damping and increased ride control
– SFF design separates spring and damping functions for less weight, better performance, less stiction and easier adjustability compared to traditional forks
– 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
Uni-Trak® Rear Suspension
– Revised rear shock matches performance of the front forks
– Rear shock has dual compression adjustability, allowing high-speed and low-speed damping to be tuned separately
– Features Kashima coating on the inside cylinder wall for reduced friction and smoother suspension action
– Swingarm features 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
– New two-position, adjustable footpeg brackets allow rider to lower the position by 5mm, lowering the center of gravity.
– New four-position upper triple clamp with two sets of handlebar mount slots. These give the rider a choice of four bar positions, including 25mm forward, 15mm forward, standard or 10mm back to suit many sizes and styles of riders
– 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
– Right side panel passageways help cool the silencer
– Flat design of the seat and tank allow 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 polyurethane designed to be durable
– 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
– Grips have short barrels and are made from soft material to enhance rider comfort
Factory-style Components
– Pushrod-type front brake master cylinder and brake pad material provide strong brake force and enhanced feel
– 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 reduce unsprung weight
– Renthal aluminum handlebar is standard equipment
– New green anodized suspension adjusters, engine oil cap and generator cover plugs like the factory race bikes
– Factory-style graphics complement the KX250F’s performance
Additional Features
– Radiator shrouds and side panels provider a slim rider interface and a nimble feel
– Embossed design on clutch cover
– High-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® Kawasaki Racing Software 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
2015 Kawasaki KX™250F Specifications*
| 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” |
| 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” |
| Rear suspension / wheel travel: | Uni-Trak® linkage system and Showa shock with 19-position low-speed and 4-turns high-speed compression damping, 22-position rebound damping, fully adjustable spring preload / 12.2” |
| Front tire: | 80/100-21 |
| Rear tire: | 100/90-19 |
| Front brake: | Single semi-floating 270mm petal disc with dual-piston caliper |
| Rear brake: | Single 240mm petal disc with single-piston caliper |
| Overall length: | 85.4” |
| Overall width: | 32.3” |
| Overall height: | 50” |
| Wheelbase: | 58.1” |
| Ground clearance: | 13” |
| Seat height: | 37.2” |
| Curb weight: |
|
| Fuel capacity: | 1.61 gallons |
| Color: | Lime Green |
| MSRP: | $7,599 |
| Wholesale distributor: | Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A.
9950 Jeronimo Road, Irvine, California 92618 949-770-0400 (www.kawasaki.com) |
*Specifications are subject to change.
