Engine Numerous refinements to the liquid-cooled, two-stroke engine result in improved power. These include:
Reshaped combustion chamber
Higher compression ratio
Revised intake ports
Revised exhaust port timing
Straighter carburetor air ducts
Reshaped two-piece KIPSŪ valve and governor ball guide, new KIPSŪ cover breather
Crankcase "stuffers" mounted to crank webs are changed from aluminum to nylon
Durability Improvements
Piston "streaking" with fine oil-retaining grooves and tin-plating enhances seizure resistance, improving durability
New engine mounting bolts made of stronger material
Steel pin pressed into kickstart stopper prevents stopper area from wearing and kickstart lever from angling out excessively
Stronger radiator side brackets help prevent deformation
Relocated expansion chamber bracket
Stronger chain guard uses more durable material
Chassis and Suspension
New UNI-TRAKŪ rear suspension link is anchored on the swingarm, drastically reducing front-to-back movement of the shock, resulting in smoother, more stable action and improving traction at the rear wheel when accelerating
Forged, one-piece actuating rod for UNI-TRAK replaces two-piece extrusions
Frame construction is lighter due to suspension loads being absorbed by the new 2mm longer swingarm
Upper cross tubes and engine mounts are modified to idealize stiffness balance for enhanced cornering performance and improved durability
New semi-sealed cartridge fork provides better damping and fork action
Front axle is 9mm shorter and axle collar is shorter and lighter (both are common with the new KX250F)
More compact front axle brackets feature new clamping method
Adjustable rubber handlebar mounts help reduce vibration
Flatter seat improves riding position and raises seat height 8mm
Textured slip-resistant seat cover helps keep rider in place
Footpegs raised 3mm to suit the improved riding position
Rear brake pedal pivot is mounted 11.5mm higher for increased ground clearance
Fuel tank uses oblong mounting hole for easier maintenance
Kawasaki Options (Available Through Kawasaki Dealers)
Carburetor tuning parts, head gaskets of different thickness, ignition rotors with varying inertia weights, aluminum and steel rear sprockets
Flywheel rotors allow riders to alter the amount of engine inertia to suit riding style and track conditions
20-inch front wheel, solid brake discs, softer and stiffer suspension springs