2005 KX
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2005 Kawasaki KX250
2005 KX250F (below) / The rest of the 2005 KX line

2005 Kawasaki KX250
Mostly new and ready to rock, this is the bike Stewart will ride in 2005
The KX250 represents the epitome of Kawasaki’s two-stroke motocross development, and it arrives for 2005 with major revisions to the engine and chassis, resulting in more power and better handling to help keep KX250 racers at the head of the pack.

Kawasaki engineers began by creating an all-new Kawasaki Integrated Power Valve System (KIPS®) for the liquid-cooled 249cc two-stroke engine. Previously, the main and sub valves operated simultaneously, causing a power surge after a slight gap in the 6,000 to 7,000 rpm range. By having the valves operate independently, the sub valves begin to open only after the main valve is fully open. Power comes on more smoothly, resulting in a more linear powerband, improved traction and overall more tractable power characteristics. Plus, the cylinder’s forward mounting angle has been reduced from 10 degrees to five degrees, which allows for the use of a longer exhaust port, further enhancing power across the rev range. The engine’s coolant passageways within the cylinder are also redesigned for improved cooling, particularly around the exhaust port, to prevent heat-induced power fade during long motos.

The most significant modification to the lightweight steel perimeter frame is a decrease in steering rake from 27 degrees to 26 degrees, which quickens steering response for superb cornering performance. The frame’s stiffness balance has also been improved, and a new lower swingarm bracket improves ground clearance. While the design of the aluminum swingarm remains unchanged, the wall thickness of the main spars is increased for enhanced stability and handling. Changes to the front suspension include new twin-chamber Kayaba forks, which help to keep oil and air separate for stable damping performance during long motos, and low-friction fork seals contribute to smoother action. In addition, the new UNI-TRAK® rear suspension system features redesigned linkage ratios to suit the new frame and swingarm. The revised frame is narrower at the footpegs, giving the bike a slimmer feel, and higher footpegs complement the new riding position while increasing ground clearance. The rear brake pedal is also mounted 15mm higher for increased ground clearance, and to suit the new riding position. Other ergonomic changes include a revised handlebar bend, which contributes to improved rider mobility, and a new seat that is flatter and raised 10mm higher for improved rider mobility. The seat cover also uses a high-grip top and smooth sides for good grip when sitting and high mobility when standing on the pegs, while more durable urethane foam improves comfort and wear.

For 2005, Kawasaki’s trademark Lime Green bodywork is more vibrant than ever before, so the KX250 stands out even more.

Engine/Transmission

• Head gasket changed from metal gasket to O-rings for improved sealing and more accurate deck height
• New intake design features a single port with modified length and angle for improved intake efficiency
• Scavenging port exit angle is changed for improved scavenging efficiency, and the crankcase mating area around the scavenge ports has been increased. Third scavenging port also modified for improved flow
• New reed valve angle, air guide and reed block are changed for improved throttle response
• Intake air duct is reshaped to suite revised intake manifold
• New expansion chamber dimensions and improved construction (changed from four-piece to a three-piece) contributes to improved engine performance
• Redesigned piston uses new rings and new piston sealing grooves to prevent ring snagging; stronger pin boss improves durability
• Clutch release shaft and lever modified, and release mechanism moved behind generator cover
• Shift performance improved by using involute splines on the fifth gear and on the output shaft. A needle bearing added to the shift shaft improves shift feel
• New water pump uses new pump gear ratios and a new impellor for increased coolant circulation, plus a new water jacket around the exhaust port eliminates the need for an external coolant hose
• Sprocket cover, governor cover, inner/outer clutch covers, and water pump cover changed to suit new crankcases
• Generator cover changed from plastic to magnesium for improved appearance and increased functionality
• Revised carburetor settings contribute to improved throttle response, and a new carb holder allows straighter incoming airflow
• Radiator core length increased (from 220 to 240 mm) for improved cooling performance
• Upgraded ignition system features increased condenser capacity and a generator with a built-in regulator for light weight. Stator shape changed, and new wiring harness used. Ignition timing changed to suit new power characteristics
• New, shorter spark plug eases maintenance and weighs less
• New, lightweight ignition coil is more compact
• Ignition coil primary terminals feature waterproof couplers for increased reliability
• Low-friction throttle barrel also reduces throttle operating friction

Controls

• Stainless throttle cable wire with a greater number of thinner strands delivers superb, low-friction throttle operation
• Clutch cable outer liner changed from polyethylene to Teflon for reduced friction
• Clutch adjuster added to clutch lever perch
• New front brake lever has better feel

Chassis/Suspension

• Steering rake reduced to 26 degrees to quicken steering response
• Footpegs are wider and offer better grip; shorter transverse length means greater cornering clearance
• Wider handlebar mounts (increased from 90 to 98 mm) help prevent handlebar bending
• New lightweight DID front rims with lightweight spokes and nipples reduce unsprung weight
• New cross-section for rear rims also designed for light weight
• Light fork and shock mounting bolts and a new rear brake master cylinder with a unitized reservoir and shorter yoke (17.5 mm shorter than ’04 KX250) contribute to light weight
• Fork mounting bolt locations changed on the top triple clamp for easier maintenance and stronger mounting
• New front brake pad material offers better feel and performance
• Chain guide roller now uses two bearings for greater durability
• Rear subframe has larger forged upper mounting brackets for improved durability
• Fuel tank filler outlet is increased form 37 to 46mm for easier fueling

Kawasaki Accessories

• Carburetor tuning parts
• Ignition rotors with different inertial weights
• Larger 14T front sprocket
• Spark plugs of varying heat ranges
• 20-inch front wheel
• Solid brake discs
• Aluminum and steel rear sprockets
• Different fork and shock springs
• Steel spoke nipples
• Front and rear wheel assemblies

 

2005 KAWASAKI KX250 SPECIFICATIONS*
Engine Two-stroke single with KIPS®
Displacement 249cc
Bore x stroke 66.4 x 72.0mm
Cooling Liquid
Carburetion Keihin PWK38S with Power Jet
Induction Piston reed valve
Compression ratio 10.5 (low speed) – 9.1 (high speed):1
Ignition Digital CDI
Transmission Five-speed
Frame Perimeter style, high-tensile steel with aluminum
subframe
Rake/trail 26 degrees / NA
Suspension type, front 48mm twin chamber inverted cartridge-type telescopic
fork
Suspension adjustments, front 16-way compression and rebound damping
Suspension type, rear New UNI-TRAK® swingarm, single shock
Suspension adjustments, rear 16-way compression and rebound, threaded preload
Wheel travel, front 11.8 in.
Wheel travel rear 12.2 in.
Tire, front 80/100 x 21
Tire, rear 110/90 x 19
Brakes, front / rear Hydraulic disc
Overall length 86.0 in.
Overall width 33.1 in.
Overall height 49.8 in.
Ground clearance 13.4 in.
Seat height 38.0 in.
Dry weight 213.8 lb.
Wheel base 58.3 in.
Fuel capacity NA
Color Kawasaki Lime Green
MSRP: (US) $

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2005 Kawasaki KX250F
KX250F Test / 2005 KX250 (above)

2005 Kawasaki KX250F
Refined and improved for 2005
The KX250F four-stroke, released last year, was fun, easy to ride and comfortable. This model wasn't without it's gremlins however, including some overheating issues. For 2005 Kawasaki has seriously addressed these areas as well as provided additional improvements to the bike. We can't wait to throw a leg over the 2005 version.

To keep the KX250F on the leading-edge of power and performance, Kawasaki engineers began by refining the engine. The liquid-cooled 249cc four-stroke engine provides improved low and mid-range response courtesy of a modified intake port, a straightened exhaust port, and revised ignition timing for improved top-end and over-rev performance.

To maintain optimal engine performance temperatures, the radiators are 40mm longer for improved cooling efficiency, and the throttle cable is revised for smoother operation to enhance rider control of the broad four-stroke powerband.

The KX250F’s quick-shifting five-speed transmission is improved with stronger third and fourth input gears, and the clutch friction plates now have fewer friction elements to provide the rider with a more direct feel. The stainless steel clutch cable and cable liner are changed for smoother operation, and a new clutch adjuster is added to the lever perch, making rider adjustments on the track quick and easy.

The KX250F chassis and suspension have also been improved. The steering head wall thickness is increased for improved handling and the 48mm inverted Kayaba forks have new, low-friction seals for smoother action. The fork mounting bolts have also been moved on the top triple clamp for easier maintenance.

The KX250F’s high-performance disc brakes are stronger than ever and feature new front brake pad material for enhanced performance, while a new front brake lever provides the rider with better feedback.

Changes to rider accommodations include new footpegs that are wider and offer better grip; a new seat cover with high-grip top for sitting while cornering and smooth sides for transitioning from sitting to standing; and wider handlebar mounts to help prevent bending.

Engine

• Straighter exhaust port, and extended ribs in both the intake and exhaust ports improve low to mid-range response
• Throttle barrel utilizes new low-friction design for improved rider control and performance feedback
• Revised ignition system timing improves top-end and over-rev performance
• Rev-limiter changed to spark drop out control for smooth power drop-off and excellent over-rev characteristics
• Radiators are 40mm longer for improved cooling efficiency
• Water pump cover and oil filter cap are now separate for simplified maintenance.
• Muffler features new packing and construction for longer service and increased durability
  (large download of image at right)

Transmission

• Third and fourth input gears are shotpeened for improved reliability and durability
• New clutch friction plates have fewer contact pads to provide the rider with a more direct clutch feel
• Clutch springs are made from new, more durable material to resist sagging
• Clutch adjuster makes adjustments on the track quick and easy
• Clutch cable outer liner now made of Teflon for smoother clutch action

Chassis

• Head pipe wall thickness has been increased from 2.6 to 3.2mm for improved handling
• Footpegs are wider and offer better grip
• Chain guide roller now uses two bearings for greater durability

Front Suspension

• Kayaba semi-sealed, 48mm inverted cartridge forks have new low-friction seals for smoother action through the stroke range. Fork mounting bolts have been relocated on the top triple clamp for easier maintenance and stronger mounting
• Lighter fork and rear shock mounting bolts contribute to reduced overall weight
• Width of handlebar mounts have been increased from 90 to 98mm to help prevent bending

Brakes

• Dual-piston 250mm front disc brake uses new pad material for improved performance and rider feel
• New front brake lever provides rider with better feedback

Bodywork

• New seat cover uses high-grip top for good grip when cornering and smoother sides for transitioning from sitting to standing
• More durable urethane foam improves comfort and durability

Kawasaki Options (Available Through Kawasaki Dealers)

• Aluminum and steel sprockets
• Carburetor setting parts
• Front fork and rear shock springs
• Flywheel rotors for altering the amount of engine inertia to suit riding style and track conditions
• Right handlebar-mounted lever allows manual operation of engine decompression, making it easier to clear a flooded engine
• 20-inch front wheel

2005 KAWASAKI KX250F SPECIFICATIONS*

Engine Four-stroke single cylinder with DOHC, four valves
Displacement 249cc
Bore x stroke 77.0 x 53.6
Cooling Liquid
Carburetion Keihin FCR37 with hot start circuit
Compression ratio 12.6:1
Ignition Digital AC-CDI
Transmission Five-speed with wet multi-disc manual clutch
Frame Perimeter style, high-tensile steel with D-section upper
frame rails
Rake/trail 26.5° / 4.3 in.
Suspension type, front 48mm inverted, cartridge-type telescopic fork
Suspension adjustments, front 16-way compression and rebound damping
Suspension type, rear UNI-TRAK® single shock system
Suspension adjustments rear 16-way compression and rebound damping, spring
preload
Wheel travel, front 11.8 in.
Wheel travel, rear 12.2 in.
Tire, front 80/100-21 51M
Tire, rear 100/90-19 57M
Brakes, front / rear Single semi-floating 250mm disc, dual-piston / single
240mm disc, single-piston
Overall length 85.4 in.
Overall width 33.1 in.
Overall height 50.0 in.
Ground clearance 13. 4 in.
Seat height 37.8 in.
Dry weight 203.9 lbs.
Wheelbase 58.1 in.
Fuel capacity 2.0 gal.
Color Kawasaki Lime Green (enhanced)
MSRP: (US) $

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