Kawasaki KX 250

The 2024 Kawasaki KX 250, after its overhaul, looks smarter and more menacing. At a first glance, it becomes obvious that the Japanese two-wheeler manufacturer has stuck to the minimalist approach with subtle graphics on the new radiator shrouds. Apart from these, the rest of the plastics on the bike are of lime green. The white number plates have now been rescinded. The bike gets a whole new lime green colour treatment. This makes the 2024 Kawasaki KX 250 look meaner. Even the plastic shock protector gets a lime-green treatment. There's no graphics, particularly at the place where the rider's legs grip the bike. The scuffed plastic will most certainly look dirty once the bike goes through a season of motocross abuse. The disc brakes have been updated to 250mm. That's 10mm larger than the two-wheeler's earlier version. And finally, the Kawasaki KX 250 gets an electric-start option. Kawasaki has changed the push-rod clutch material from steel to aluminium, making the bike lighter. The dirt-bike runs on Dunlop MX33 tires. 

The 2024 Kawasaki KX 250 comes with a nicely padded flat and wide seat. The rider's triangle is neutral with a lot of room for adjustment, while the handlebar is straight and can be moved backward or forward. The footpegs get an option for lower positioning for taller riders. Setting up the suspension of the 2024 Kawasaki KX 250 is easy. For most riders, minimal adjustment is required. The seating position is straight and causes minimal fatigue during off-road riding. The suspension system is nicely balanced and absorbs most of the road imperfections. The footpegs have two different settings that can be adjusted to the convenience of riders. This is easily adjustable by a socket set. Overall riding comfort on the 2024 Kawasaki KX 250 is good though not the best in class.  

The 2024 Kawasaki KX 250 is equipped with a single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, 249cc engine that's mated to a five-speed transmission. Power delivery is definitely better than most of its rivals but the KX 250 is yet to match the Yamaha midrange. Three different preprogrammed settings are available. These can be changed via a coupler placed on the right side of the steering stem. White is aggressive, Green is standard, and Black is mellow. The Kawasaki KX 450 gets the same system. The chassis of the 2024 Kawasaki KX 250 is mostly neutral like most dirt bikes. The ergonomics are perfect for a wide range of riders. Handling and cornering are quite balanced, though not the best in class.

The 2024 Kawasaki KX 250 comes with lightweight disc brakes on both wheels. There's a 270mm front rotor, with a front master cylinder similar to the Kawasaki KX 450. The rear rotor is 250mm. The brakes have good bite and stop the bike instantly. That's a major advantage for motocross bikes. On metalled roads, the tires offer superb grip, and the traction is better than most of its rivals.

At a starting price of ₱461,000, the 2024 Kawasaki KX 250 is among the most expensive bikes in its segment. That could be a deterrent for many riders. But the KX 250 is an all-out performance bike meant for serious dirt-road enthusiasts and motocross lovers. The flip side of the KX 250 is small in practice compared to the benefits. The 2024 Kawasaki KX 250 is a refreshing change from the inertia-driven, weighty Kawasaki KX 450.