Built around Kawasaki's sport motorcycle platform, the 2018 Kawasaki Ninja 250 pairs a 249 cc (15.2 cu in) liquid-cooled single cylinder, four-stroke architecture with road-focused gearing. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 27.6 HP (20.1 kW) at 9,700 rpm while maximum torque reaches 23.5 Nm (17.3 lb-ft) at 8,200 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 6-speed gearbox and chain final drive. With a specific output of 110.8 HP per liter and a 1,500 rpm working window between peak torque (8,200 rpm) and peak power (9,700 rpm), the engine character is reflecting a performance-oriented street tune that balances strong mid-range pull with an energetic top-end rush.
On the scales, the Ninja 250 measures 172 kg (379 lbs) wet (curb), translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.16 HP/kg (6.23 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 780 mm (30.7 in) seat height — offering a neutral standover height that accommodates most average-inseam riders without sacrificing cornering clearance, combined with a 1,410 mm (55.5 in) wheelbase engineered for quick, flickable steering geometry. The 11-liter (2.9 US gal) fuel tank supports practical everyday commuting and weekend road stints.
Within MotoLibrary's Kawasaki archive, this model family spans 6 indexed model years from 1994 to 2018, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.
Specific Output
110.8 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.16 HP/kg (6.23 kg/HP)
Power Band Window
8,200–9,700 rpm
Standover Height
780 mm (30.7 in)
Engine
Displacement249.0 ccm (15.19 cubic inches)
Engine TypeSingle cylinder, four-stroke
Power27.6 HP (20.1 kW)) @ 9700 RPM
Torque23.5 Nm (2.4 kgf-m or 17.3 ft.lbs) @ 8200 RPM
Compression11.3:1
Bore x Stroke72.0 x 61.2 mm (2.8 x 2.4 inches)
Valves/Cylinder4
Fuel SystemInjection
Fuel ControlDouble Overhead Cams/Twin Cam (DOHC)
IgnitionTCBI with digital advance
LubricationForced lubrication, wet sump
CoolingLiquid
Transmission
Gearbox6-speed
Final DriveChain (final drive)
ClutchWet, Multi-Plate
DrivelineO-ring chain
Chassis
Frame TypeTube diamond
Rake26.0°
Trail82 mm (3.2 inches)
Front SuspensionTelescopic fork
Front Travel119 mm (4.7 inches)
Rear SuspensionBottom-link Uni-Trak with 5-way adjustable preload
Rear Travel130 mm (5.1 inches)
Wheelbase1410 mm (55.5 inches)
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre110/70-17
Rear Tyre130/80-17
Front BrakesSingle disc. Hydraulic. Two-piston calipers. Optional ABS.
Front Brake Ø290 mm (11.4 inches)
Rear BrakesSingle disc. Two-piston calipers.
Rear Brake Ø220 mm (8.7 inches)
Dimensions & Weight
Weight incl.172.0 kg (379.2 pounds)
Seat Height780 mm (30.7 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.
