2013 KAWASAKI KX250F UPDATES

Kawasaki’s 2013 KX250F gets updates to the chassis, suspension, engine and bodywork, further aligning the Japanese manufacturer’s production and factory machines on the track.

Find out about the 2013 Kawasaki KX450F here.

For 2013, Kawasaki has left no stone unturned in their revision of the KX250F. Chasing higher rev-limit and more power, the KX-F has a 0.1mm shorter stroke (36.2mm), which increased the compression ratio to 13.8:1. It gets a new intake cam that retards timing 4 degrees (going from 106 to 110 degrees). The intake tract has moved from the bottom to the top of the airbox, which Kawasaki claim allows the air to flow in a more direct route to the combustion chamber. The exhaust pipe is also 30mm shorter and benefits from a resonator chamber.

The bike’s ergonomics have also been updated while the width of the chassis has been reduced by 4mm. Plus there’s slimmer shrouds, lowered fuel tank, and longer grips (by 10mm) – but same-length handlebars – that are all reminiscent of similar changes made to the ’12 KX450F.

The separate function fork inner tubes have been increased from 47mm to 48mm and the spring fork’s joint rod has been inverted to position the cylinder at the top, which Kawasaki say will increase fork rigidity and help the front wheel feel more planted. The lower triple clamp has also been revised, now with the pinch-bolt access at the back.

Kawasaki has introduced DFI couplers – like on the 2012 KX450F – to quickly modify the engine map. You’ll now be able to change from the standard configuration to a more aggressive or retarded power map to suit the conditions. And if you want to refine the engine further, each map can be reprogrammed using the optional KX FI Calibration Kit.

To meet stricter noise regulations Kawasaki has bolted on a larger volume muffler that incorporates and pinched cutouts in the silencer tube that help to direct exhaust gases into the packing. They’ve also eliminated the hole in the airbox as well as included the aforementioned resonator chamber.

Tailing off the updates to the 2013 model, the KX250F gets a new black fender and front number plate design, new embossed clutch cover, silver engine covers, a black silencer end cap and factory-style graphics.

We’ll be heading out to Appin on June 12 for the Australian launch of the 2013 KX250F where we’ll give you an insight into its performance and bring you an action packed video from the day. Stay tuned.

If you’re interested in Kawasaki’s PR on the 2013 KX250F you can download their PDF here.