2025 Kawasaki KX250 and KX250X – First Look

Both the 2025 KX250 and KX250X share the same 249cc Single, redesigned to improve low and mid-range power delivery. The Single cylinder has been tilted five degrees forward for a new intake and exhaust layout, and to reduce friction and improve efficiency. The aluminum cylinder is also offset 3mm forward to further improve power generation and reduce friction. The piston has also been redesigned, with a flatter crown to accommodate a new intake valve angle, and a slightly lower compression.

The engine uses finger-follower valve actuation with a Diamond-Like Carbon (DLC) coating on the followers for reduced friction and to prevent wear. The camshaft lobes received a chromium nitride coating to improve durability. Kawasaki also designed a new airbox to maximize the dual injectors’ potential. The air-filter is dome shaped, and designed to slide in and out of the mounting grooves and secured by quick-release hooks. The side cover is also quick-release, allowing for easier, toolless maintenance.

The new intake and exhaust alignment is now symmetrical, and flows straight down the middle of the bike instead of at an angle like the 2024 model. Kawasaki also raised the intake cam by 10mm to create more of a downdraft intake, claiming improved efficiency. The exhaust port now exits from the center of the cylinder head, routing through the frame cradle.

Kawasaki also added a new 44mm throttle body layout, and reversed the direction the butterfly valve opens. The downstream injector was moved 11mm closer to the engine, directing the fuel into a high-flowing airstream.

The KX250 comes with two engine maps, Normal and Aggressive, with settings that can be fine-tuned using a smartphone app. Riders can switch modes using a button on the left handlebar. The left switchgear also includes a button for activating the traction control system and toggling between two levels of intervention. Pressing both the engine mode and traction control settings simultaneously activates launch control.

The front wheel is equipped with a 270mm semi-floating disc, while the rear wheel uses a 240mm disc, both with a petal-style design. The KX250 comes with a 21-inch front wheel and 19-inch rear wheel, both clad in Dunlop MX34 tires. The KX250X swaps in an 18-inch rear wheel, and Dunlop AT81 tires.

The updated bodywork is slimmer than before, with fewer hooking points to hinder a rider’s boots or knees. For improved comfort, the KX250 and KX250X come standard with ODI Lock-On grips.

The 2025 Kawasaki KX250 is priced at $8,999, while the KX250X comes in at $9,099. Both are available in Lime Green (what else?), and should arrive in dealerships this summer.