Product description
No other bike in its class has spent more time on the AMA Supercross podium than the Kawasaki KX250F. The race-proven technology of the quarter-liter motocross leader returns for 2012, but with added enhancements that give the KX250F even more usable power, increased durability, and the best-handling chassis yet.
As the KX250F continues to lead the way in stadiums, it also continues to win the favor of enthusiast publications, who repeatedly name it a gold standard in motocross machinery. The KX250F offers cutting-edge technology right off the showroom floor, to give riders the winning edge on the track. Along with the KX250Fs race-proven performance, no other production motocrosser offers as much adjustability, fine-tuning capabilities and rider customization when it comes to motor and suspension. Right off the production line, the KX250F gives a factory advantage to the privateer racer the difference between scratching for a podium and dominating a championship.
For 2012, Kawasaki engineers sought to create a KX250F with even more impressive top-end performance, which they accomplished by equipping its Digital Fuel Injection (DFI) system with a second fuel injector a first for use on production motocross bikes located near the airbox intake. The all-new upstream injector helps build a wider and more potent spread of power as rpm climbs. The two fine-mist atomizing injectors that feed the 250cc four-stroke powerplant are distinct in appearance with different body sizes, but deliver the same per-cycle capacity. Together, Kawasakis dual injectors pack a one-two punch, delivering a second dose of fuel on acceleration to increase the high-rpm power and overrev capabilities of the KX250F.
The addition of the second injector led to multiple modifications to the DFI system. An updated Electronic Control Unit (ECU) harnesses increased ignition power to run the DFI system. An accessory 2012 calibration kit is available and uses the same connector design as 2011, but features upgraded software and is compatible with Windows 7.
The 43mm Keihin throttle body is fitted with a new seal between the air inlet port and throttle position sensor unit designed to prevent fuel penetration from the upstream injector. The 2012 KX250F is also fitted with an air boot specifically altered to allow room for the upstream injector.
The dual-injector system is the central highlight of revisions made to the 2012 KX250F, but engineers didnt stop there in their efforts to hone this 250cc masterpiece. A host of subtle changes throughout the motor continue to make it stronger and more durable throughout, all without weighing heavily on the price tag!
An upgraded crankshaft with redistributed inertial balance harmonizes with the more potent power delivery and also helps improve reliability. The bridged box-bottom piston and cylinder walls both feature new surface treatments to minimize wear and enhance long-term durability.
Modifications to the crankshaft, connecting rod, ACG stator and rotor change their rotational inertia, enhance durability and help provide a masterful balance to the high-performance engine. Overall, the crankshaft assembly features a balance factor of nearly 60 percent, which is right on par with factory Kawasaki race machines.
The seamless power delivery of the upgraded engine and DFI system is supplemented by a handful of transmission upgrades. A slightly shorter stroke of the shift fork and solid (rather than hollow) more smooth shift rods give the rider a more positive feel when changing gears, while keeping shift action as silky smooth as ever. The smooth-shifting transmission and reliably consistent clutch help keep the engine in the thick of its powerband throughout even the most challenging laps.
Sharp new styling touches enhance the appearance of the upgraded powertrain. The oil filler cap and engine plugs are colored blue, matching blue accents on the suspension adjusters and stylish new graphics.
Following the success of the 2011 KX250F and its impressive Separate Function Fork (SFF), the front suspension on the 2012 machine could have remained entirely untouched and still been a class leader. However, never content to leave exceptional alone, Kawasaki engineers analyzed feedback from the race teams and massaged the second-generation SFF accordingly.
Fork spring rate is higher for 2012, going from a 9.1N/mm to a 9.5N/mm. A new, longer rebound spring improves corner approach and offers a more supple initial feel. In the left fork tubes damper stack, the valving has been adjusted to complement the heavier spring rate. Two key features that retained from last year are the external fork preload adjuster and the trick titanium coating on the outer surface of the inner fork tubes.
The Showa-built shock also receives a stiffer spring rate, advancing from 51N/mm to 53N/mm. Along with a re-valve on the shock body, the compression damping restrictor and piston rod specs have been enhanced to refine the action of the shock. Complementing the shock upgrades is a thinner tie-rod on the suspension linkage with less rigidity, for smooth suspension action and improved traction. These refinements improve rear wheel traction and allow the KX250F to put the power down more effectively, making it easier than ever to grab the holeshot.
The KX250F is frequently praised for its rider interface and natural layout that fits a variety of sizes and abilities. Sleek and attractive bodywork includes a one-piece shroud and number-plate design. For 2012 the KX250F receives a new polyurethane seat that is more resistant to wear. The remainder of the chassis retains its finely crafted balance allowing the rider to have optimum leverage at all contact points for maximum performance gains on the track.
The KX250F is finished with quality race-proven components such as a Renthal aluminum handlebar and black alumite-coated aluminum wheels that are both lightweight and incredibly strong. A sleek, ribless rear hub and butted spokes further reduce unsprung weight, and factory-style graphics with a splash of blue that matches the alumite suspension adjusters and engine plugs finish off the sophisticated look of the class-winning machine, which is bound to top plenty of race podiums and enthusiast publication shootouts in the coming year.
Racers who ride their KX250F at designated events are eligible to receive support from Team Green, Kawasakis amateur racing support program. Each year, Team Green provides regional support vehicles and highly trained technicians at more than 100 events throughout the United States, offering technical information and assistance to those who race Kawasaki products. Kawasaki also offers a comprehensive contingency program for amateur and professional riders who place well at designated events.
Authentic Kawasaki Accessories are available through Kawasaki dealers.
Engine
Liquid-cooled, four-stroke single with DOHC and four-valve cylinder head
Displacement
249cc
Bore x stroke
77.0 x 53.6mm
Fuel injection
DFI with 43mm Keihin throttle body and dual injectors
Compression ratio
13.5:1
Ignition
Digital DC-CDI
Transmission
Five-speed
Final drive
Chain
Frame
Aluminum perimeter
Rake / trail
28.2 degrees / 4.7 in.
Front suspension / wheel travel
47mm inverted Showa SFF telescopic fork with 60-way spring preload adjustability, 22 position compression and 20 position rebound damping adjustability/ 12.4 in.
Rear suspension / wheel travel
Uni-Trak linkage system and Showa shock with 13 position low-speed and stepless (2-turn)high-speed compression damping, 17 position rebound damping and fully adjustable spring preload / 12.2 in.
Front tire size
80/100-21
Rear tire size
100/90-19
Front brake
Single semi-floating 250mm petal disc with dual piston caliper
Rear brake
Single 240mm petal disc with single-piston caliper
Overall length
85.4 in.
Overall width
32.3 in.
Overall height
50.0 in.
Wheelbase
58.1 in.
Ground clearance
13.0 in.
Seat height
37.2 in.
Curb weight
233.8 lbs.
Fuel capacity
1.9 gal.
Color
Lime Green
Engine
Liquid-cooled, four-stroke single with DOHC and four-valve cylinder head
Displacement
249cc
Bore x stroke
77.0 x 53.6mm
Fuel injection
DFI with 43mm Keihin throttle body and dual injectors
Compression ratio
13.5:1
Ignition
Digital DC-CDI
Transmission
Five-speed
Final drive
Chain
Frame
Aluminum perimeter
Rake / trail
28.2 degrees / 4.7 in.
Front suspension / wheel travel
47mm inverted Showa SFF telescopic fork with 60-way spring preload adjustability, 22 position compression and 20 position rebound damping adjustability/ 12.4 in.
Rear suspension / wheel travel
Uni-Trak linkage system and Showa shock with 13 position low-speed and stepless (2-turn)high-speed compression damping, 17 position rebound damping and fully adjustable spring preload / 12.2 in.
Front tire size
80/100-21
Rear tire size
100/90-19
Front brake
Single semi-floating 250mm petal disc with dual piston caliper
Rear brake
Single 240mm petal disc with single-piston caliper
Overall length
85.4 in.
Overall width
32.3 in.
Overall height
50.0 in.
Wheelbase
58.1 in.
Ground clearance
13.0 in.
Seat height
37.2 in.
Curb weight
233.8 lbs.
Fuel capacity
1.9 gal.
Color
Lime Green
Tags: 2012 Kawasaki KX250F, Beartooth Kawasaki, Kawasaki, Kawasaki Motorcross, Kawasaki Motorcyle
