MILAN SHOW: Kawasaki reveal two new 250s

Kawasaki have taken the wraps off two new 250cc bikes at the Milan show this morning, one is an addition to the Z family, while the other is a faired Ninja sportsbike.

SUPERLIGHT NINJA 250SL
Kawasaki’s newest entry into the 250cc full-fairing sport arena is the Ninja 250SL.  Powered by a 4-stroke single mounted in an original trellis frame, it’s a slim, lightweight and compact package. 

249 cm3 liquid-cooled, 4-stroke Single
Offering quick-revving sporty performance in a slim, lightweight and compact package, the single-cylinder engine delivers smooth, responsive power at low and medium rpm and hard-hitting power at high rpm.

Electric start
With fuel injection and electric start, starting is simple and hassle-free. 

Trellis frame
Trellis frame enables a slim, lightweight and compact package as well as contributing to nimble handling.

Lightweight chassis
At 151 kg, the Ninja 250SL is more than 20 kg lighter than the Ninja 250.

Lightweight wheels with slim tyres
Sporty Ninja-style wheels are fitted with slim tyres (100 front, 130 rear) chosen for their contribution to the bike’s nimble handling. 

Supersport ergonomics
A slim overall package, tight-fit full-fairing bodywork and low clip-on handlebars put the rider in an ideal position for aggressive, sporty riding. 

SUPERLIGHT Z250SL
The second 250 is a naked version of the Ninja, using all the same components, but ditching the fairings – which saves 3 kilos over the Ninja version, at 148kg. Like other models in the Z Series, the Z250SL’s aggressive styling gives it some street attitude, and while it’s not as muscular as the also new Z300, the little 250 is still a looker.

The Z250SL retains the light, nimble handling character of the Ninja 250SL, but a more upright riding position and wider handlebar puts the rider in a more upright position, better suited to urban traffic. The seat height is 785 mm, and the front of the seat near the fuel tank is slimmer, offering riders an easy reach to the ground.
Maximum power comes in at 27bhp, while there are six gears in the ‘box to stir it into action. Both new 250s feature Nissin’s compact ABS control unit. 

Prices and availability to follow soon.