Built around Kawasaki's enduro - offroad motorcycle platform, the 2020 Kawasaki KLX 250 relies on a 249 cc (15.2 cu in) liquid-cooled single cylinder, four-stroke powerplant. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 21.5 HP (15.7 kW) at 7,500 rpm while maximum torque reaches 20.5 Nm (15.1 lb-ft) at 7,000 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 6-speed gearbox and chain final drive. With a specific output of 86.3 HP per liter and a 500 rpm working window between peak torque (7,000 rpm) and peak power (7,500 rpm), the engine character is indicating a tractable, stress-free state of tune focused on everyday usability and broad torque delivery.
On the scales, the KLX 250 measures 138 kg (304 lbs) wet (curb), translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.16 HP/kg (6.42 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 890 mm (35 in) seat height — reflecting a long-travel chassis stance that favors ground clearance and off-pavement control, combined with a 1,430 mm (56.3 in) wheelbase engineered for balanced agility and highway composure. The 7.7-liter (2 US gal) fuel tank supports practical everyday commuting and weekend road stints.
Within MotoLibrary's Kawasaki archive, this model family spans 7 indexed model years from 1980 to 2020, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.
Specific Output
86.3 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.16 HP/kg (6.42 kg/HP)
Power Band Window
7,000–7,500 rpm
Standover Height
890 mm (35 in)
Engine
Displacement249.0 ccm (15.19 cubic inches)
Engine TypeSingle cylinder, four-stroke
Power21.5 HP (15.7 kW)) @ 7500 RPM
Torque20.5 Nm (2.1 kgf-m or 15.1 ft.lbs) @ 7000 RPM
Compression11.0:1
Bore x Stroke72.0 x 61.2 mm (2.8 x 2.4 inches)
Valves/Cylinder4
Fuel SystemInjection. DFI with 34mm throttle body
Fuel ControlDouble Overhead Cams/Twin Cam (DOHC)
IgnitionElectric CDI
LubricationForced lubrication, wet sump
CoolingLiquid
Transmission
Gearbox6-speed
Final DriveChain (final drive)
Chassis
Frame TypeTbular, semi-double cradle
Rake26.5°
Trail105 mm (4.1 inches)
Front SuspensionTelescopic fork
Front Travel255 mm (10.0 inches)
Rear SuspensionNew Uni-Trak
Rear Travel230 mm (9.1 inches)
Wheelbase1430 mm (56.3 inches)
Ground Clearance285 mm (11.2 inches)
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre3.00-21
Rear Tyre4.60-18
Front BrakesSingle disc. Dual -piston hydraulic caliper
Rear BrakesSingle disc. Single-piston
Dimensions & Weight
Weight incl.138.0 kg (304.2 pounds)
Seat Height890 mm (35.0 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Use this page to compare this motorcycle by its real specifications, not only by model name. Focus on the details that affect fit, comfort, handling, range and ownership.
Power
Compare engine output with similar motorcycles if acceleration, highway use or two-up riding matters.
Torque
Torque is useful for judging real-world pull, especially for touring, commuting and loaded riding.
Seat Height
Check the seat height against your inseam and riding posture before choosing a motorcycle.
Fuel Capacity
Fuel capacity helps estimate touring range and how often you may need to stop.
Brakes
Brake setup is worth comparing if you ride in traffic, mountains or with a passenger.
Suspension
Suspension details can matter for comfort, road feel and long-distance riding.
Transmission
Transmission and final drive affect maintenance, smoothness and everyday usability.