Sportbikes
2018Kawasaki Ninja 250
41 fields on record
The 2018 Kawasaki Ninja 250 is an accessible entry-level sportbike designed for new riders seeking an affordable, manageable machine. Known for its lightweight frame, nimble handling, and reliable parallel-twin engine, it delivers genuine sport bike styling without intimidating performance. Its low seat height and compact dimensions make it ideal for shorter riders or those building confidence.
- Capacity
- 248.0 ccm
- Engine
- Parallel Twin, four-stroke
- Gearbox
- 6-speed
- Wet weight
- 172.0 kg
- Seat height
- 795 mm
- Power
- 36.5 HP (27.2 kW) @ 12500 RPM
What’s new for the 2018 Kawasaki Ninja 250
vs the 2017| Spec | 2017 | 2018 |
|---|---|---|
| Power | 31.0 HP (22.6 kW) @ 9700 RPM | 36.5 HP (27.2 kW) @ 12500 RPM |
| Torque | 21.0 Nm (2.1 kgf-m or 15.5 ft.lbs) @ 8200 RPM | 23.0 Nm (2.3 kgf-m or 17.0 ft.lbs) @ 10000 RPM |
| Dry weight | 169.6 kg (373.9 pounds) | not listed |
| Seat height | 780 mm (30.7 inches) | 795 mm (31.3 inches) |
| Fuel capacity | 11.00 litres (2.91 US gallons) | 14.00 litres (3.70 US gallons) |
| Rear brakes | Single disc. Two-piston calipers. Optional ABS. | Single disc. Two-piston calipers. |
| Wheelbase | 1410 mm (55.5 inches) | 1370 mm (53.9 inches) |
Other years
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2027
How it rides
Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested- Best for
- Built for spirited road riding and the occasional track day, trading some comfort for sharper performance and handling.
- Built for
- A sport bike from Kawasaki with a 248cc engine; its character is versatile and engaging, with 36 hp on tap.
- Not ideal for
- Not for riders who want touring comfort, a passenger-friendly seat or off-road ability.
Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.
Will it fit you?
Worked out in your browser - nothing is sent to usEngine
- Capacity
- 248.0 ccm
- Power
- 36.5 HP (27.2 kW) @ 12500 RPM
- Torque
- 23.0 Nm (2.3 kgf-m) @ 10000 RPM
- Engine type
- Parallel Twin, four-stroke
- Power/weight ratio
- 0.2122 HP/kg (wet)
- Bore x stroke
- 62.0 x 41.0 mm
- Compression
- 11.3:1
- Cooling system
- Liquid
- Fuel system
- Injection
- Starting
- Electric
- Ignition
- TCBI with digital advance
- Valves per cylinder
- 4
- Lubrication system
- Forced lubrication, wet sump
Transmission
- Gearbox
- 6-speed
- Transmission type
- Manual
- Final drive
- Chain
- Clutch
- Wet, Multi-Plate
Dimensions & weight
- Wheelbase
- 1370 mm
- Overall length
- 1990 mm
- Overall width
- 710 mm
- Overall height
- 1125 mm
- Seat height
- 795 mm
- Wet weight
- 172.0 kg
- Fuel capacity
- 14.00 litres
- Dry weight
- Not on record - add it
Chassis & suspension
- Frame
- Tube diamond
- Front suspension
- Telescopic fork
- Rear suspension
- Bottom-link Uni-Trak with 5-way adjustable preload
- Front wheel travel
- 119 mm
- Rear wheel travel
- 130 mm
- Rake (fork angle)
- 26.0°
- Trail
- 82 mm
Brakes & wheels
- Front brakes
- Single disc. Hydraulic. Two-piston calipers. Optional ABS.
- Front brakes diameter
- 290 mm
- Rear brakes
- Single disc. Two-piston calipers.
- Rear brakes diameter
- 220 mm
- ABS
- Optional
- Front tyre
- 110/70-17
- Rear tyre
- 130/80-17
Other
- Warranty
- 12
- Comments
- Listed power is the Japanese-market figure; other markets (e.g. India, Indonesia) quote 39 PS (38.5 hp) @ 12,500 rpm.
Specs last verified against published sources: .
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 | 1994 | 2000 | 2007 | 2013 | 2018 | 2027 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 250 cc | 248 cc | 248 cc | 249 cc | 248 cc | 248 cc |
| Dry weight | 138 kg | 138 kg | 138 kg | 170 kg | — | — |
| Seat height | 744 mm | 744 mm | 787 mm | 775 mm | 795 mm | 795 mm |
| Fuel capacity | 18.2 L | 18.2 L | 18.2 L | 18.2 L | 14 L | 14 L |
Illustrative - generated automatically by diffing the year records already on file, not a manufacturer-published changelog.
Safety Recalls
⚠ 2 recalls may applyPOWER TRAIN:MANUAL TRANSMISSIONNov 2020 · 20V676000
Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A. (KMC) is recalling certain 2018-2020 Ninja H2 SX, Ninja H2 SXSE, and 2019-2020 Ninja H2 SXSE+ motorcycles. In the event of a gear misengagement the engine electronic control unit (ECU) programming doesn't have the capability to suppress high RPM during transmission. If the transmission gears are not properly engaged while shifting into 4th or 5th gear, high engine RPM can cause the output gears of 4th or 5th to fracture when the gears re-engage.
Risk: Damaged gears and the inability to shift can cause the engine to lock up, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: KMC will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the FI-ECU software, free of charge. Owners are advised to not ride their motorcycle until the repair has been completed. The recall began November 16, 2020. Owners may contact KMC customer service at 1-866-802-9381. KMC's number for this recall is MC20-10.
STRUCTURE:MOTORCYCLE:KICKSTAND/CENTER STANDAug 2018 · 18V580000
Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A. (Kawasaki) is recalling certain 2018 Kawasaki Ninja H2 SX SE (ZXT02BJ) motorcycles. The pin for the center stand spring may have been improperly welded, and, as a result, the pin may shift or fall off resulting in the spring detaching and the center stand dropping to the ground unexpectedly and dragging while riding.
Risk: The dragging center stand can cause a loss of control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Kawasaki will notify owners, and dealers will replace the left center stand bracket, free of charge. Owners may contact Kawasaki customer service at 1-866-802-9381. Kawasaki's number for this recall is MC18-05.
These recalls cover some 2018 bikes of this model. Whether one applies to a specific bike, and whether the repair has already been done, depends on its VIN — check your VIN with NHTSA or ask a dealer.
Source: NHTSA. View all Kawasaki recalls →
Rider Reviews
Common questions
What is the engine size of the Kawasaki Ninja 250?
The 2018 Kawasaki Ninja 250 has a Capacity of 248.0 ccm (15.13 cubic inches).
What engine power does the Kawasaki Ninja 250 have?
The 2018 Kawasaki Ninja 250 has a Power of 36.5 HP (27.2 kW) @ 12500 RPM.
How many gears does the Kawasaki Ninja 250 have?
The 2018 Kawasaki Ninja 250 has a Gearbox of 6-speed.
What is the torque of the Kawasaki Ninja 250?
The 2018 Kawasaki Ninja 250 has a Torque of 23.0 Nm (2.3 kgf-m or 17.0 ft.lbs) @ 10000 RPM.
How much does the Kawasaki Ninja 250 weigh?
The 2018 Kawasaki Ninja 250 has a Wet weight of 172.0 kg (379.2 pounds).
Shop this bike
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The 2018 Kawasaki Ninja 250 is a top-of-the-line motorcycle that offers a thrilling riding experience. With its powerful 250cc engine, excellent handling, and sleek design, it's a perfect choice for riders who crave speed and performance. The Ninja 250 also boasts a comfortable riding position and agile maneuverability, making it a great option for both beginner and experienced riders. Overall, this bike delivers on all fronts and is sure to impress anyone looking for a high-quality sports motorcycle.
The 2018 Kawasaki Ninja 250 is a standout model in the world of motorcycles. It's an excellent choice for those looking for a powerful and stylish bike that offers a smooth and enjoyable ride. Whether you're hitting the open road or navigating through city streets, the Ninja 250's performance and handling will not disappoint. With its sleek design and impressive features, it's easy to see why this motorcycle is a popular choice among riders.
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