Saturday 10 December 2011

2012 Kawasaki KX250F

2012 Kawasaki KX250F
2012 Kawasaki KX250F
2012 Kawasaki KX250F
2012 Kawasaki KX250F
2012 Kawasaki KX250F
2012 Kawasaki KX250F
2012 Kawasaki KX250F
2012 Kawasaki KX250F
2012 Kawasaki KX250F
2012 Kawasaki KX250F
- 2012 Kawasaki KX250F
2012 Kawasaki KX250F Review
No other bike in its class has spent more time on the AMA Supercross podium than the Kawasaki KX™250F. The race-proven technology of the quarter-liter motocross leader returns for 2012, but with added enhancements that give the KX250F even more usable power, increased durability, and the best-handling chassis yet.
As the KX250F continues to lead the way in stadiums, it also continues to win the favor of enthusiast publications, who repeatedly name it a gold standard in motocross machinery. The KX250F offers cutting-edge technology right off the showroom floor, to give riders the winning edge on the track. Along with the KX250F’s race-proven performance, no other production motocrosser 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 – the difference between scratching for a podium and dominating a championship.
For 2012, Kawasaki engineers sought to create a KX250F with even more impressive top-end performance, which they accomplished by equipping its Digital Fuel Injection (DFI®) system with a second fuel injector –a first for use on production motocross bikes– located near the airbox intake. The all-new “upstream” injector 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 powerplant are distinct in appearance with different body sizes, but deliver the same per-cycle capacity. Together, Kawasaki’s dual injectors pack a one-two punch, delivering a second dose of fuel on acceleration to increase the high-rpm power and overrev capabilities of the KX250F.

2012 KX250F Looks Set to Dominate
The Kawasaki KX250F revolutionised the industry in 2011 with the world's first mass-production use of Separate Function front Fork (SFF) on a motocrosser. Now with the announcement of another first for 2012, the world's first dual injectors for a motocrosser, the 2012 Kawasaki KX250F continues to set the standard for what a race-winning quarter litre motocross bike should be.

The Kawasaki KX250F is a winner's bike! Luke George piloted the model to an MX Championship victory in Australia in 2008. The model won both the East and West Coast SX Championships in the USA in 2010 and another West Coast Title this year. With a host of changes announced for the soon to arrive 2012 model, the model looks set to continue its winning tradition.

The KX250F received Fuel Injection in 2011. That is stepped up in 2012 with the addition of dual injectors. This gives the 2012 KX250F a significant increase in power. Power is greater at all RPM but especially in the high RPM range. The torque is reminiscent of a carburetted engine and the superb FI response is unchanged.

The KX250F is the only mass-produced motocrosser to feature Showa's SFF (Separate Function front Fork) which separates damping and shock absorbing duties. The result is a configuration that offers both smooth action and firm damping performance - a combination difficult to achieve with a conventional fork. In 2012, the KX250F receives a new, stiffer main spring to optimise performance and a longer top-out spring allowing it to operate over a greater range. The super hard titanium coating on the outside surface of the inner fork tubes to reduce sliding friction is also retained on the 2012 model. (The KX250F is the only motocrosser in its class to feature this race-ready coating standard.)

Superior rear wheel traction is achieved through the new Uni-Trak rear suspension. The linkage still mounts below the swing-arm for more precise suspension tuning for 2012 and now, less rigid tie rod arms are used enabling smoother action and improved bottoming resistance. The 2012 KX250F also receives new seat urethane to help keep its shape longer and a revised shift drum to reduce the distance shift forks need to travel to engage gears. The result is a smoother shifting action.

The beautiful factory styling cues of the 2011 model, namely the factory style graphics, black alumnite rims and a blue alumnite finish on the suspension adjusters have been retained with the addition of a blue finish on some of the engine trim for 2012 to give the KX250F the looks to match its highly tuned performance.


2012 Kawasaki KX250F Features and Benefits
Addition of second fuel injector helps build a wider spread of power

Unique Separate Function Fork (SFF), just like the factory racers

More robust high-rpm engine output extends deep into the overrev

Increased spring rates on front and rear suspension aimed at race-level riders

Thicker, more robust engine components boost reliability

Smooth-shifting transmission offers even more positive feel 

At a glance…
- New dual injector Digital Fuel Injection system
- More robust high-rpm engine output extends deep into the overrev
- Revised transmission offers improved shifting action and durability
- Thicker, stronger engine components improve reliability
- Revised Showa Separate Function Fork (SFF) offers more supple initial hit, and improved action during corner entry
- Increased spring rates on front and rear suspension enhance traction and offer a more solid feel

High-Revving, High Performance Engine
- 249cc, liquid-cooled, four-stroke, four-valve, single-cylinder DOHC engine delivers hard-hitting power across the rpm range
- Improved decompressor spring action for easier starting
- New nickel plating on cylinder walls has a higher adhesion factor for increased durability
- New connecting rod has a thicker stem for improved reliability
- New more rigid crankshaft is re-balanced for better performance and higher durability
- Thicker crank web design features a balance factor on par with the factory racers for reduced engine vibration, smoother power delivery and increased performance in the mid-high rpm range
- Revised ACG stator and rotor inertia complements the changes made to the crankshaft

Digital Fuel Injection (DFI) System
- Upgraded system adds a new “upstream” injector located closer to the airbox
- All-new second injector features different body size, but same capacity as primary injector
- Added 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
- Optional accessory calibration Kit features new 6-pin connector type allows easy tunability
- Optional accessory FI Indicator Light allows the DFI system to communicate diagnostic information

Bridged Box-Bottom Piston
- Light and strong piston shares same design as the factory racers, with a new tin plating to optimize its interface with the new nickel plating on the cylinder wall
- Changed shape of streak finish improves lubrication and wear resistance
- Short piston pin reduces reciprocating weight

Lightweight and Efficient Top End
- Lightweight, highly rigid, titanium 31mm intake and 25mm exhaust valves reduce reciprocating weight and offer high-rpm reliability
- Ultra-light valves have extremely thin valve stems on par with those found in supersport machines; intake valves feature thick heads for increased strength
- Intake ports designed for peak performance at all rpm, especially in the high-rpm range
- 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
- Stainless steel construction offers extra durability
- High-volume muffler assembly keeps noise levels at 94 dB while retaining power production
- Joint between pipe and muffler offers excellent sealing, while a rubber damper collar on the rear silencer mount equals serious durability

Efficient Cooling System
- Thick and wide 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 - Shorter shift fork stroke and more smooth solid shift forks (not hollow) offer improved shifting action
- 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
- Utilizes a low-rigidity steering stem for lighter handling
- The KX250F’s slim and lightweight aluminum perimeter frame is composed of forged, extruded and cast parts
- 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
- Upper engine mounts on head cover sides increase overall rigidity

Race-oriented Suspension
- Revised race-oriented suspension features heavier spring rates and revised damping settings both front and rear
- Separate Function Fork (SFF) separates springing and damping functions for less weight, better performance, less stiction and easier adjustability
- Fork features the only external spring preload adjustability in its class
- 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 greater protection for the inner tubes
- Altered piston rod specs improve shock setting flexibility and offer better rear wheel traction
- Features Kashima Coat on the inside of the shock reservoir for reduced friction and smoother suspension action
- Rear shock features dual compression adjustability, allowing high-speed and low-speed damping to be tuned separately

Superior Rear-wheel Traction
- Swingarm features optimum internal bracing and flex characteristics for superb cornering performance
- Alloy swingarm uses a 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 system receives upgraded tie-rod which has less rigidity for smoother suspension action and improved traction
- 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 two-tone shrouds offer a slim design
- Side number plates also two-toned and contribute to the slim package
- Right side panel has an added passageway to help cool the silencer
- 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
- Lightweight short-length grips feature a pattern designed to provide excellent grip

Factory-style Components
- Black alumite-coated rims, just like the factory racers
- Titanium coated inner fork tubes to minimize stiction
- Lightweight rims offer maximum strength and weight savings
- Thick and rigid front fender
- Rear brake pad material offers powerful braking performance
- 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 countershaft sprocket cover improves look
- New polyurethane resin drive chain roller reduces weight
- Redesigned air boot allows room for second fuel injector
- 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







2012 Kawasaki KX250F - USA Specifications/Technical Details
US MSRP Price: 
$7,399.00 USD
Engine Four-stroke single with DOHC and four valves

Displacement 249cc

Bore x stroke 77.0 x 53.6mm

Cooling Liquid

Fuel injection DFI® with 43mm Keihin throttle body and dual injectors

Compression ratio 13.5:1

Ignition Digital CDI

Transmission Five-speed with wet multi-disc manual clutch

Final drive Chain

Frame Aluminum perimeter

Rake / trail 28.2 degrees / 4.7 in.

Front suspension / wheel travel 47mm inverted Showa SFF telescopic fork with 60-way spring preload adjustability, 22 position compression and 20 position rebound damping adjustability/ 12.4 in.

Rear suspension / wheel travel Uni-Trak® linkage system and Showa shock with 13 position low-speed and stepless (2-turn)high-speed compression damping, 17 position rebound damping and fully adjustable spring preload / 12.2 in.

Front tire 80/100-21

Rear tire 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 233.8 lbs.

Fuel capacity 1.9 gal.

Color Lime Green



2012 Kawasaki KX250F - Canadian Specifications/Technical Details
Canada MSRP Price: 
See Canadian Kawasaki Dealer for pricing.
ENGINE
Type 4-stroke, Single
Displacement 249cc
Bore and Stroke 77.0 x 53.6 mm
Cooling Liquid
Compression Ratio 13.5:1
Valve System DOHC, 4 valves
Fuel System Digital fuel injection with 43 mm Keihin throttle body
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) 28.2°
Trail 120.2 mm (4.7 in.)
Steering Angle (Left/Right) 42° / 42°
SUSPENSION
Suspension, Front 47 mm inverted Separate Function front Fork (SFF) with 22-position compression and 20-position rebound damping
Suspension, Rear New Uni-Trak linkage system shock with 13-way low-speed and 2-turn high-speed compression damping, 17-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** 106.1 kg (233.9 lbs.)
Fuel Capacity 7.2 litres (1.6 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
Colour Lime Green

* 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.



2012 Kawasaki KX250F Press Release:
2012 KX250F Looks Set to Dominate
The Kawasaki KX250F revolutionised the industry in 2011 with the world's first mass-production use of Separate Function front Fork (SFF) on a motocrosser. Now with the announcement of another first for 2012, the world's first dual injectors for a motocrosser, the 2012 Kawasaki KX250F continues to set the standard for what a race-winning quarter litre motocross bike should be.

The Kawasaki KX250F is a winner's bike! Luke George piloted the model to an MX Championship victory in Australia in 2008. The model won both the East and West Coast SX Championships in the USA in 2010 and another West Coast Title this year. With a host of changes announced for the soon to arrive 2012 model, the model looks set to continue its winning tradition.

The KX250F received Fuel Injection in 2011. That is stepped up in 2012 with the addition of dual injectors. This gives the 2012 KX250F a significant increase in power. Power is greater at all RPM but especially in the high RPM range. The torque is reminiscent of a carburetted engine and the superb FI response is unchanged.

The KX250F is the only mass-produced motocrosser to feature Showa's SFF (Separate Function front Fork) which separates damping and shock absorbing duties. The result is a configuration that offers both smooth action and firm damping performance - a combination difficult to achieve with a conventional fork. In 2012, the KX250F receives a new, stiffer main spring to optimise performance and a longer top-out spring allowing it to operate over a greater range. The super hard titanium coating on the outside surface of the inner fork tubes to reduce sliding friction is also retained on the 2012 model. (The KX250F is the only motocrosser in its class to feature this race-ready coating standard.)

Superior rear wheel traction is achieved through the new Uni-Trak rear suspension. The linkage still mounts below the swing-arm for more precise suspension tuning for 2012 and now, less rigid tie rod arms are used enabling smoother action and improved bottoming resistance. The 2012 KX250F also receives new seat urethane to help keep its shape longer and a revised shift drum to reduce the distance shift forks need to travel to engage gears. The result is a smoother shifting action.

The beautiful factory styling cues of the 2011 model, namely the factory style graphics, black alumnite rims and a blue alumnite finish on the suspension adjusters have been retained with the addition of a blue finish on some of the engine trim for 2012 to give the KX250F the looks to match its highly tuned performance.

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