2011 Kawasaki Ninja Review

Intro

The 2011 Kawasaki Ninja is respected as a product of one of the top motorcycle designers in the world. Not only is the bike an aesthetically pleasing mode of transportation, but the handling and speed hold up to high expectations as well. The first Kawasaki Ninja was the GPZ900R, which was debuted in 1984. Since then, multiple models of four-cylinder bikes, two-cylinder bikes and even a racing model have been sold under the Kawasaki Ninja name. These motorcycles provide a great introduction to the two-wheel transportation world for novices, and yet they manage to keep veteran riders satisfied through the years as well.

The Kawasaki Ninja is available in several sport bike models. These include the ZX-6R, the 1000, the ZX-14, the ZX-10R, the ZX-10R ABS, the 250R and the 650R. The ZX-6R received a visual overhaul in 2009, making it very similar to the ZX-10R. Both of these bikes, as with the other Ninja models, provide comfort and speed for riders who prefer two wheels. The Kawasaki Ninja 1000 was introduced in 2011 and is a sport touring motorcycle. This bike was dubbed the “sport bike for the real world” by Kawasaki. It has very little in common with other models carrying on the Ninja designation.

The 250R is respected as one of the better choices for riders who have long commutes or regularly take extended trips and log large numbers of highway miles. The Kawasaki Ninja 250R underwent a significant remodel in 2008, improving intake, exhaust, cooling system, and several other aspects of the bike. The seat height was raised, the brakes were revamped, the valve stems were made thinner, and the combustion chamber smaller; all adding up to a significant player in the sport bike market that continues to hold its ground in 2011 without any other significant modifications.

New For 2011

  • Bold New Graphics (BNG) treatment

2011 Kawasaki Ninja Specs

  • Model: 2011 Kawasaki Ninja 250R
  • Engine Type: 249-cc, two-cylinder
  • Bore and Stroke: 2.44 inches and 1.62 inches
  • Compression ratio: 11.6:1
  • Valve Train: Double overhead camshaft
  • Induction: Liquid
  • Ignition: Electric
  • Transmission: Six-speed manual
  • Final Drive: O-ring chain
  • Fuel Capacity: 4.8 gallons
  • Estimated Fuel Economy: N/A
  • Brakes (Front): Hydraulic, 11.4-inch disc
  • Brakes (Rear): Hydraulic, 8.7-inch disc
  • Suspension (Front): Telescopic fork
  • Suspension (Rear): Twin sided swing arm
  • Wheelbase: 55.1 inches
  • Rake: 26 degrees
  • Trail: 3.2 inches
  • Seat Height: 30.5 inches
  • Curb Weight: 374.9 pounds
  • Tires (Front): 110/70 R17
  • Tires (Rear): 130/70 R17

Accessories

  • Bubble screen
  • Dust cover
  • Deluxe cover
  • Seat cowl

Key Competitors For The 2011 Kawasaki Ninja

  • Honda CBR 250R
  • Hyosung GT 250R
  • Honda CBR 250R ABS