Kawasaki Ninja Z250R was the first modern sports bike launched in India in 2009 that was available at relatively affordable price. But still Rs. 3 lakh price was out of reach for many. Ninja Z250R and Ninja 300 were the entry level sports bike in India till 2014 when Z250 was launched which is more sensible for Indian roads and is cheaper too than its 2 successors.
Design
Lot of cues for the design in terms of styling is taken from Z1000 and Z800 where it could be called as down scaled version of the same. The Z fairing on the sides are made to reveal and looks stylish. Tail lamp and tail piece is inspired by Ninja 300 and that makes it a complete package. The bike has good finishing and is solidly built.
The dual headlamps in the front stay on during the day too for safety. In order to protect instrument cluster a small visor is present. Instrument cluster houses clock, fuel gauge, trip meters and digital speedometer similar to Ninja 300. Control levers present on palm grips are of high quality. The fuel tank render superior thigh grip. Overall quality of finishing and fit is at par with all the other bikes in the segment.
Engine
The bike has same engine that powers its Ninja 250R. The bike is powered by 249cc four-stroke parallel twin cylinder engine which is tuned for city rides. The engine produces peak power of 32PS at 11,000rpm and maximum torque of 21Nm at 10,000rpm. The engine is very responsive at low revs too. At high gears too the speed breakers could be taken and engine does not strain. The bike gets very good torque above 3500rpm but to reach top speed one might have to go past 10,000rpm which is like lot of work for the engine. The bike could reach to 100kmph at 7500rpm and 120kmph at 9000rpm. 6-speed transmission is smooth and shifts to 5 up and 1 down. It can go from 0-60kmph in just 3.4s and 0-100kmph in 8.5s. Overall the bike has no vibrations at any speed and is easy to ride too.
Mileage
Fuel efficiency of Z250 is better than most in the segment as it could go up to 31.5km on a litre of petrol and on highways it gives an average of 40kmpl.
Handling and Ride
Z250 is highly based on Ninja 250 so it is a compact bike that feels light while driving. The tabular steel chassis is fitted with 37mm telescopic fork in the front preloaded adjustable linked gas charged shock in the back. The suspension is designed for better roads but it is not very stiff and one could hardly feel it while driving on bad roads too. Because of its stiff suspension driving the bike is fun and trustworthy. It is fluent and is quick in changing direction around the corners or lanes. Due to the sharp rake angle Z250 has quick steering. ABS should have been offered which might be a concern for the price you are paying for it.
The riding posture is aggressive due to forward set single handlebar and aluminum footrests which is rear-set. Taller riders might find it a bit uncomfortable when their long legs are extended far in the back and trying to find enough room to fit in.
The petal type 200mm rear disc brakes and 290mm front disc brakes works well together and adds to the confidence of the rider even while driving at higher speeds.
Verdict
Z250 can go equally well at 20kmph on city roads and 145kmph on highways. It looks like a naked bike with very less fairing but does not have good torque output at lower revs. Neither it is a complete sports bit as to motor it at high speeds one has to ride hard and work out for it. It would be very difficult for Z250 to compete with the likes of others especially KTM Dukes.
2016 Features and Specifications
Price(Ex-Showroom)
Mumbai: Rs. 3,19,570
Delhi: Rs. 3,11,128
Engine
Type: Liquid cooled, Four Stroke, DOHC, Eight valves
Displacement: 249 square cm
Compression: 11.3:1
Power: 32PS at 11,000 rpm
Torque: 21Nm at 10,000 rpm
Gearbox: 6 Speed
Fuel System: Fuel injection with dual throttle valves
Ignition: Digital
Starting: Electric
Lubrication: Wet sump
Mileage
City: 31.5kmpl
Highway: 40kmpl
Overall: 34kmpl
Performance
0-100kmph: 8.5s
Top speed: 145kmph
Other Specifications
L x B x H: 2010 x 750 x 1020mm
Seat Height: 785mm
Fuel Tank: 17 litres
Suspension(F): 37mm telescopic fork
Suspension(R): Preload adjustable linked gas-charged
Tyres(F): 110/70-17
Tyres(R): 140/70-17
Brakes(F): 290mm Disc
Brakes(R): 220mm Disc
Kerb Weight: 148 Kg
Wheelbase: 1400 mm