Naked Motorcycles
1981Kawasaki Z 250 A
19 fields on record
The 1981 Kawasaki Z 250 A is an accessible middleweight twin ideal for beginner and intermediate riders seeking reliable everyday transportation. Known for its lightweight handling and fuel efficiency, this air-cooled parallel-twin delivers steady performance through a six-speed transmission, making it practical for commuting and casual riding.
- Capacity
- 249.0 ccm
- Engine
- Parallel Twin
- Gearbox
- 6-speed
- Wet weight
- 167.0 kg
- Seat height
- Not on record
Know it? Add it → - Power
- 27.0 HP (19.9 kW) @ 10000 RPM
How it rides
Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested- Best for
- It suits casual commuting, learning fundamentals, and light weekend rides rather than performance or long-distance work.
- Built for
- The Z250 offers classic naked-bike charm with a simple, approachable, and forgiving nature typical of early-80s Kawasaki twins.
- Not ideal for
- It is not suited to riders seeking high speed, off-road capability, or comfortable long-distance touring performance.
Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.
Engine
- Capacity
- 249.0 ccm
- Power
- 27.0 HP (19.9 kW) @ 10000 RPM
- Engine type
- Parallel Twin
- Power/weight ratio
- 0.1617 HP/kg (wet)
- Bore x stroke
- 55.0 x 52.4 mm
- Compression
- 9.5:1
- Cooling system
- Air
- Valves per cylinder
- 2
- Torque
- Not on record - add it
Transmission
- Gearbox
- 6-speed
- Transmission type
- Manual
- Final drive
- Chain
Performance
- Top speed
- 145.0 km/h (90.1 mph)
Dimensions & weight
Brakes & wheels
- Front brakes
- Single disc
- Rear brakes
- Single disc
- Front tyre
- 3.00-18
- Rear tyre
- 3.50-18
Compiled from manufacturer documentation and user contributions, corrected on an ongoing basis. Spotted something wrong? Tell us.
What changed, year to year
Differences highlighted| Specification | 1980 | 1981 | 1982 | 1983 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 249 cc | 249 cc | 249 cc | 249 cc |
| Fuel capacity | 13.5 L | 13.5 L | 13.5 L | 13.5 L |
Illustrative - generated automatically by diffing the year records already on file, not a manufacturer-published changelog.
Rider Reviews
Common questions
What is the engine size of the Kawasaki Z 250 A?
The 1981 Kawasaki Z 250 A has a Capacity of 249.0 ccm (15.19 cubic inches).
What engine power does the Kawasaki Z 250 A have?
The 1981 Kawasaki Z 250 A has a Power of 27.0 HP (19.9 kW) @ 10000 RPM.
How many gears does the Kawasaki Z 250 A have?
The 1981 Kawasaki Z 250 A has a Gearbox of 6-speed.
How much does the Kawasaki Z 250 A weigh?
The 1981 Kawasaki Z 250 A has a Wet weight of 167.0 kg (368.2 pounds).
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