1997Kawasaki Ninja 250

41 fields on record

The 1997 Kawasaki Ninja 250 R is an ideal entry-level sport bike for novice riders seeking an affordable, manageable machine with genuine sportbike styling. Its lightweight 138 kg frame and accessible 248cc twin-cylinder engine deliver predictable performance without intimidation. Known for reliability and value, it remains a popular choice for riders learning fundamental motorcycle skills.

Capacity: 248.0 ccm
Engine: Parallel Twin, four-stroke
Gearbox: 6-speed
Dry weight: 138.3 kg
Seat height: 744 mm
Power: 32.0 HP (23.5 kW)

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What’s new for the 1997 Kawasaki Ninja 250

vs the 1996

Spec	1996	1997
Power	—	32.0 HP (23.5 kW)
Top speed	—	180.0 km/h (111.8 mph)

Other years 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2027

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail5%

Cornering80%

City riding25%

Daily riding20%

Touring10%

Two-up25%

Track75%

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 32 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?

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Your height

Inseam (optional)

Units

At 744mm, a rider of 68.9" with a 31" (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 1997 Kawasaki Ninja 250, with a cramped knee angle of around 65 degrees and a forward-leaning riding position.

Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated. This is an approximation from category-typical geometry, not a measurement of this bike or of you - sit on one before you buy.

More bikes at 750 mm or under — Short Kings →

Find bikes that fit your height →

Full specifications

Engine

Capacity: 248.0 ccm
Power: 32.0 HP (23.5 kW)
Engine type: Parallel Twin, four-stroke
Power/weight ratio: 0.2314 HP/kg (dry)
Bore x stroke: 62.0 x 41.0 mm
Compression: 12.4:1
Cooling system: Liquid
Fuel system: Carburettor
Starting: Electric
Ignition: CDI
Valves per cylinder: 4
Lubrication system: Forced lubrication, wet sump
Torque: Not on record - add it

Transmission

Gearbox: 6-speed
Transmission type: Manual
Final drive: Chain
Clutch: Wet, Multi-Plate

Performance

Top speed: 180.0 km/h (111.8 mph)

Dimensions & weight

Wheelbase: 1400 mm
Overall length: 2032 mm
Overall width: 711 mm
Overall height: 1095 mm
Seat height: 744 mm
Dry weight: 138.3 kg
Wet weight: 170.1 kg
Fuel capacity: 18.20 litres
Ground clearance: 155 mm

Chassis & suspension

Frame: Diamond high-tensile steel
Front suspension: Hydraulic fork
Rear suspension: Bottom-Link UNI-TRAK
Front wheel travel: 119 mm
Rear wheel travel: 130 mm
Rake (fork angle): 27.0°
Trail: 84 mm

Brakes & wheels

Front brakes: Single disc
Front brakes diameter: 260 mm
Rear brakes: Single disc
Rear brakes diameter: 230 mm
Front tyre: 100/80-16
Rear tyre: 130/80-16

Other

Color options: Red

Specs last verified against published sources: October 2026.

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	1997	2000	2007	2013	2027
Capacity	250 cc	248 cc	248 cc	248 cc	249 cc	248 cc
Dry weight	138 kg	138 kg	138 kg	138 kg	170 kg	—
Seat height	744 mm	744 mm	744 mm	787 mm	775 mm	795 mm
Fuel capacity	18.2 L	18.2 L	18.2 L	18.2 L	18.2 L	14 L