Kawasaki Ninja ZX-2R

The ZXR 250 is a 249 cc (15.2 cu in) inline four four-stroke sport motorcycle made by Kawasaki. It was introduced in 1988, with a minor update for the 1990 model year, and a considerable redesign for 1991, after which the ZXR250 received only colour scheme changes until production ceased in 1999. Like the Honda CBR250, Yamaha FZR250RR and Suzuki GSX-R250, the ZXR250 is noted for advanced, almost excessive, engineering and design.

Ninja ZXR-250 models

• ZX-250A: Sold from 1988 to 1991.
• ZX-250C: Sold from 1991 to 2004 1991-1998 in Japan 1999-2004 in Malaysia (these models were only produced in a silver and black color scheme). Changes in bodywork and front suspension 1994 models and after restricted to 40HP and reduced weight (141kg vs 144kg). This bike was unofficially re branded as the ZX-2R or ZXRR in Australia by importers.

The factory Kawasaki catalog claims engine output is 45 metric horsepower (33 kW), and a restriction of 40 horsepower (30 kW) was imposed after a change in Japanese law in 1993. A SP (sports production) model known as the ZXR-250R was also available in 1990-1993 in both B and D models. The R version has larger CVK D32 (32mm)carburetors, taller 1st to 3rd gears than a regular ZXR250, different CDI as well as some other small changes. Some models also had a single seat cowl.

Similar machines

All four of the major Japanese motorcycle manufacturers produced a sporty, high-revving, 4-cylinder, 4-stroke 250cc motorcycle capable of producing up to 45 hp (34 kW). They are the Honda CBR250, Kawasaki ZXR250, Suzuki GSX-R250 and the Yamaha FZR250. With limited exceptions, these bikes were generally only officially available in Japan. However they (particularly the CBR250 and ZXR250) were available in the rest of the world as grey market imports.

References