Kawasaki KX 250F 2018 — Specifications

Kawasaki presents its new MX2 KX for 2018. Not all details, but a preview announcing great potential. Anticipate: a host of changes for the coming season... and it is presented as the most technically advanced.

Modifications to components and new fork settings are accompanied by new damper settings for better shock absorption and optimized operation.

Engine evolution was the top priority. With the ultimate goal of reduced lap times - thus the emphasis is on optimizing acceleration at the start - the new KX 250 F sees changes to the intake design and features a new exhaust system.

With new injection settings, fuel pump pressure increases for this new model year, the injector mounting angle is less open, and the intake body has been shortened. This results in a reduced compression ratio, going to 13.4:1, as well as an increase in power and torque.

The redesigned exhaust is both longer and wider and contributes to a double advantage: additional power and torque. The result? A better feel at low and mid-range, which improves the feeling of power across the range and allows for better control at high RPM.

With more manageable power and torque, the new 2018 KX 250 F is poised to be the benchmark in MX2 and the queen of the holeshot.

Key features of the 2018 KX 250 F:

- The perimeter aluminum frame is narrower between the main spars and features revised stiffness for improved front-end feel.

- The high-performance piston (inspired by those used in competition) features a new design, optimized stiffness, and reduced weight.

- Thanks to their adjustable platform, the footpegs can be lowered by 5 mm; lowering the center of gravity and the line of sight, this position reinforces physical and psychological stability.

- The SFF type 2 fork separates damping functions in the left leg and the spring in the right leg. The 48 mm diameter tubes and the arrangement of internal components improve riding comfort, front-end feel, reduce nose-diving, and improve stability upon landing jumps or applying the brakes. For 2018, revised settings improve braking and cornering stability.

- A "Super-hard" titanium surface treatment prevents fork wear. The self-lubricating alumite surface finish provides a resistant surface that generates little friction on the external tube face, allowing the fork to operate smoothly.

- The three factory mapping settings are: Standard, Hard, and Soft. Using the supplied DFI plugs, the rider can easily switch between maps to adapt the settings to riding conditions.

- The 270 mm front disc delivers impressive braking power while remaining controllable. The petal brake discs also contribute to the overall impression of quality and sporty looks.

- The ECU has been completely designed to meet the needs of Motocross competition. The ECU contains 3 engine maps (plus a fourth that governs the Launch Control). The settings of these 3 maps can be easily adjusted thanks to the optional KX FI injection calibration tool.

- The use of dual injectors for the KX 250 F is one of the keys to the air-fuel mixture efficiency. The engine, optimized for performance, revs very easily and is complemented by a very quick response. For 2018, acceleration of the air-fuel mixture thanks to the adoption of a more vertical intake and the reduction of mechanical losses improve engine efficiency.

- The swingarm system is mounted under the swingarm for more precise suspension adjustment. The double compression adjustment offers a wide range of optional settings. The Kashima cartridge surface treatment improves its operation. For 2018, the KX25F features a new lightweight spring and revised settings for improved feel and optimized rear wheel feedback.

- The KX 250 F benefits from a launch assist device called "Launch Control," very similar to that of the Kawasaki factory KX models. With a simple press of a button, the rider can activate a distinct engine settings map that multiplies the chances of a good start in races on slippery terrain.

- The all-new minimalist plastics integrate, thanks to reoriented radiators, even thinner fairings, a flatter seat and fuel tank, and the seamless seat is smoother, making rider movements easier.

- On the top handlebar, two mounting positions for the handlebar clamps and reversible handlebars offer four handlebar settings: 25 mm forward, 15 mm forward, normal, and 10 mm rearward.

- The new design of the plastics makes the bike visually even more compact and perfectly respects the style of factory bikes. In order to perfect the belonging to the great family of Kawasaki KX, the plastics are now adorned with molded graphics, the aluminum rims are black, the fork protectors are also black, and touches of green embellish the entire machine.

Credits for info and media: Kawasaki