The KX brand is no longer just for motocross! With the release of the 2021 KX250X, Kawasaki brings KX performance to the cross-country scene. Based on the championship-winning KX250 motocrosser, the new cross-country racer boasts an arsenal of factory-style features along with the engine and chassis performance that makes the KX250X such a potent off-road contender. X specific tuning for the engine, suspension and brakes, complemented by a 21”/18” wheel combination fitted with enduro-type tyres, and convenient standard features like a side stand and skid plate make the new KX250X even more attractive for cross-country competitors.
The powerful fuel-injected 249 cm3 liquid-cooled, 4-stroke Single from the KX250 features finger-follower valve actuation, dual injectors and downdraft-style intake to deliver hard-hitting performance complemented by a robust low-mid range. Engine maps optimised for the X scene deliver a broad spread of useable power and facilitate minute throttle control.
Like the KX450 and KX250, the KX250X features a valve train designed by Kawasaki’s World Superbike engineers. Finger-follower valve actuation enables the use of large-diameter valves and aggressive cam profiles.
High-performance piston, featuring the same design used on our factory racers, contributes to strong performance at all rpm. A short skirt, reinforced external ribs and the use of a bridged-box bottom, featuring internal bracing, contributes to a light, strong piston design. A dry film lubricant coating on the piston skirts reduces friction at low rpm and helps with the piston bedding-in process.
Like the KX450, a hydraulic clutch offers direct feel and light lever action. Less play as the clutch heats up during heavy use results in more consistent feeling. The use of coned-disc springs contributes to lighter clutch actuation when the lever has been pulled in, and a wider clutch engagement range, which facilitates control (especially when half-clutching).
Being able to restart an engine quickly during a race can mean the difference between keeping your lead, or having to fight your way back through the pack. Electric start makes restarting the engine as easy as pushing a button. Lightweight, compact
Li-ion battery helps keep weight to a minimum.
Well-balanced frame from the KX250 contributes to the KX250X’s light weight, light handling, and slim ergonomics. The slim aluminium perimeter frame is a lightweight construction composed of forged, extruded and cast parts. Overall rigidity balance was optimised to deliver both light handling and excellent traction.
Adjusting engine settings to suit conditions has never been easier when using the KX’s FI couplers. Plug-and-play style system is quick, easy and stress-free. Instead of a single engine map, the ECU features three (four, counting the Launch Control Mode maps). Initial settings for the three maps are: Standard, Hard and Soft conditions. FI couplers, enables riders to easily switch between the three maps to suit riding conditions. Each of the three maps can be reprogrammed using the optional accessory – KX FI Calibration Kit.
While the KX250 features F21”/R19” aluminium rims, the KX250X uses a F21”/R18” combination that facilitates putting the KX250X’s power to the ground. Dunlop AT81 enduro-type tyres complement the X-specific wheels and are well-suited to the situations encountered in cross country riding.
Sturdy skid plate helps to protect the underside of the engine, and facilitates sliding over obstacles encountered on the trail. Convenient side stand comes in handy when stopping away from the paddock area.
KX450 front master cylinder and petal disc brakes are among the KX250X’s numerous factory-style components. The stylish discs contribute to both sporty looks and a high-quality appearance.
Factory-style o28.6 mm (1-1/8”) Renthal aluminium Fatbar, a popular aftermarket part, is now a standard feature. The thicker handlebar helps reduce vibration and shocks transmitted to the rider, while the new grip position (19 mm lower, 8 mm 10 closer) helps put the rider in a position that makes it easier to weight the front wheel.
Complementing the KX250X’s sleek bodywork, KX factory-style graphics ensure it is the sharpest looking bike in the paddock and further reflect the high potential of its KX-based performance. Coloured highlights on the suspension adjusters and engine oil cap and generator cover plugs contribute to a distinctive Kawasaki look while strengthening the KX family image.
The optional accessory KX FI Calibration Kit features the handheld KX FI Calibration Controller, which enables riders to adjust engine characteristics (by rewriting actual data maps) to suit their preference. This convenient tool can be used without a PC, simply by plugging into the engine’s ECU.
The KX250X features a launch control system similar to that on our AMA factory motocross racers. With the simple press of a button, riders can activate a separate engine map designed to ensure efficient race starts in low-traction conditions. (The Launch Control Mode map retards ignition timing, allowing tyres to gain grip, and allowing riders to focus on their lines.)
KX250X (KX252DMFNN)
4-stroke, liquid cooled, single cylinder
249 cm3
78.0 × 52.2 mm
14.1:1
DOHC, 4 valves
Fuel injection: o44 mm x 1 with dual injectors
Digital DC-CDI
Electric
5-speed, return
Wet multi-disc, manual
Perimeter, aluminium
314 mm
316 mm
80/100-21 (51M)
110/100-18 (64M)
o48 mm inverted telescopic fork with adjustable compression and rebound damping
New Uni-Trak with adjustable dual-range (high/low speed) compression damping, adjustable rebound damping and adjustable preload
Single semi-floating 270 mm semi-floating petal disc with dual piston caliper.
Single 240 mm petal disc with single piston caliper.
2,170 × 820 × 1,260 mm
1,480 mm
330 mm
945 mm
6.2 litres
109.2 kg (includes full fuel tank, all fluids at optimum levels)
Lime Green
