For almost a decade, no other bike has spent more time on AMA Supercross and Motocross podiums than the Kawasaki KX™250F. The race-proven technology of the quarter-liter motocross leader returns for 2013, with an all-new plug-and-play adjustable ECU, narrower new frame, upgraded Separate Function Fork (SFF) fork and slimmer ergonomics, so the KX250F is poised to continue its class dominance in 2013.

Refined Champion Slims-Down to Chase Another Title

For almost a decade, no other bike has spent more time on AMA Supercross and Motocross podiums than the Kawasaki KX™250F. The race-proven technology of the quarter-liter motocross leader returns for 2013, with an all-new plug-and-play adjustable ECU, narrower new frame, upgraded Separate Function Fork (SFF) fork and slimmer ergonomics, so the KX250F is poised to continue its class dominance in 2013.

The KX250F continues to lead the way, on the race track and with the enthusiast publication critics, who consider it to be one of the best 250F’s to ever put a wheel on the race track. The KX250F offers cutting-edge technology right off the showroom floor, to give riders the winning edge on the circuit. Along with the KX250F’s race-proven performance, no other production motocross bike 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 – it could be the difference between qualifying for the main and making the podium.

Kawasaki maintains its title-winning formula by advancing the theory that slimmer means faster and better handling. So they made the new 2013 KX250F frame 4mm narrower across the main spars for improved ergonomics and enhanced rider control. Since a slimmer chassis allows the rider more freedom of movement on the motorcycle, the radiator shrouds are also significantly smaller and slimmer where they contact the rider’s legs. The side covers were made as small as possible as well and form a smoother line with the redesigned airbox for freer rider movement. Since a motocross racer moves around so much, Kawasaki incorporated a flatter design of the seat and tank interface to provide greater freedom of movement and facilitate sitting farther forward.

The slimmer new frame also has revised steering head gusseting, a new rear shock mount tower and a new curved left rear engine hanger bracket which all help to slightly reduce rigidity for lighter handling and increased rear wheel traction. Adding to the ergonomic enhancements the KX250F has new longer grips with a lower density compound for increased comfort. The longer grips allow the rider to mover their hands up to 20mm closer to the centerline of the bars, for a more compact riding position.
Kawasaki was the first to incorporate a dual-injector fuel injection system on a production 250 four-stroke. For 2013, Kawasaki’s Digital Fuel Injection (DFI®) system with dual fuel injectors returns with enhancements. The second injector is located upstream of the throttle body and 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 power-plant have different body sizes, but deliver the same total capacity, per-cycle. Together, Kawasaki’s dual injectors pack a one-two punch, delivering a second dose of fuel on acceleration to maximize the high-rpm power and overrev capabilities of the KX250F.

Kawasaki engineers widened the intake ports and straightened the intake tract for more direct air flow from the airbox to the combustion chamber. The enhanced downdraft configuration contributes to stronger top-end performance.

They also shortened the cylinder by 0.1mm to increase the compression ratio and add to overall performance. Plus, the revised intake cam retards timing by four degrees to help boost top-end performance and a heavier rotor optimizes inertia to suit the new engine settings.

Performance is also enhanced via an all new exhaust system. The exhaust header is 30mm shorter for increased performance and now has a resonator chamber to help enhance low-end power and reduce noise. The reshaped, KX450F-style muffler is not only 30mm shorter but also features a 12.5mm larger cross section to help centralize mass while meeting sound requirements.

Revised ECU settings compliment the new engine characteristics. And the piston profile features a softer arc at the point of greatest pressure for increased reliability. The bridged box-bottom piston and cylinder walls both feature special surface treatments to minimize wear and enhance long-term durability. Plus, stronger intake valve seat material increases durability. The result of all these improvements is increased overall performance and enhanced reliability.
 
The Digital Fuel injection (DFI®) system comes with three pre-programmed ignition maps which are easily selectable without the use of a laptop computer or any other electronic devices. Maps can quickly be changed between three settings – standard, hard (terrain) and soft (terrain) – by swapping the DFI wire coupler cap clipped to the side of the steering head. No additional accessories are needed to alternate between pre-preprogrammed maps – simply install the appropriate coupler cap to select your desired ignition mode and start winning. The ECU is also fully re-programmable and custom maps can be created by using the accessory KX FI Calibration Kit, the same tool used by Kawasaki factory and privateer teams in AMA and FIM racing.

The KX250F remains the only production motocross bike to feature Showa’s SFF fork, which separates damping and shock absorption duties into the individual fork legs. This has proven to be highly successful for riders at all skill levels. The 2013 KX250F features an upgraded SFF with a host of enhancements for even better suspension performance. The 1mm larger inner fork tubes increase rigidity, contributing to a more planted feel from the front wheel. The increased diameter of the inner fork tubes also allowed the damping components to be larger, with the 2mm larger main piston now measuring 30mm, and the 1mm larger sub-piston now at 35mm. The larger components allow the same damping force to be achieved at a lower internal pressure, this allows firmer damping response and increased riding comfort.

The upgraded SFF also features an inverted compression rod that locates the cylinder at the top of the fork and the rod at the bottom. This new configuration increases the volume of oil at the bottom of the fork for a more progressive increase in damping force, enabling bottoming resistance to be increased without sacrificing ride quality. The revised joint rod arrangement and larger components increase rigidity, especially in the right fork tube which contains the spring, resulting in more even flex characteristics between the left and right tubes. The more closely matched rigidity promotes better handling stability under hard braking and landing from jumps. The lower triple clamp now opens at the rear to increase rigidity and improve fork action.

The Showa-built shock perfectly complements the SFF forks. The shock features revised damping settings with dual compression adjustability, allowing high-speed and low-speed damping to be tuned separately. The rear shock also features the Kashima Coating on its cylinder wall, to help reduce friction and smooth the suspension action. These features improve rear wheel traction and allow the KX250F to put the power down more effectively, making it easier than ever to grab the holeshot.
Any machine built to go this fast needs to be able to stop just as quickly and the braking systems on the KX250F are excellent. The new pushrod-type front brake master cylinder and higher-friction brake pads provide stronger brake force and enhanced control, especially for the initial bite and initial mid-stroke characteristics.

The 2013 KX250F is finished with new fender and front number plate designs. The black rear fender, silver engine covers and new black muffler end cap maintain the factory racer resemblance. And quality race-proven components such as a Renthal aluminum handlebar and black anodized aluminum wheels that are both lightweight and incredibly strong are part of the overall package.

The factory team feel of the KX250F is augmented by the lightweight magnesium clutch, generator and cylinder head covers. Plus, the embossed design on the clutch cover is designed to gradually appear as contact from riding boots wears off the painted surface. A sleek, ribless rear hub and butted spokes further reduce unsprung weight. The blue finish on the oil filler, flywheel nut and timing inspection caps contributes to factory looks and sophistication of this class-winning machine, which is bound to top plenty of podiums in the coming year.

Optional parts available through Kawasaki dealers include lighter/heavier flywheels, front and rear sprockets, solid brake discs, handlebar holder for 1 1/8” handlebar, and stiffer or softer fork and shock springs.

Racers who ride their KX250F at designated events are eligible to receive support from Team Green™, Kawasaki’s amateur racing support program. For over 30 years, Team Green has been providing regional support vehicles and highly trained technicians at more than 100 yearly 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.