That high-pitched exhaust note is back! Kawasaki debuts 250cc full cowl sportbike with completely redesigned, ultra-high revving 4-cylinder engine. Let's take a look at a machine that has a lot of the latest technology packed into it, not just the engine.
New-generation inline four-cylinder model rides ahead of its time
The front face features air intakes above the LED dual headlights. It's a form that proves it's from the latest Ninja lineage.
Kawasaki continues to unveil hot new models, including a neo-retro model with a rich history and a supercharged sportbike. Among these, the ZX-25R has received more attention than the larger-displacement models. The main point of interest is the super high-revving four-cylinder engine with a red zone starting at 17,000 rpm.
With a maximum output of 45 hp, the specs are reminiscent of the racer replica era of the 80s and 90s, but the content is far more modern. Not only is the fuel supply injected, but an electronically controlled throttle valve is used to control it. Smooth and easy-to-handle power feel is achieved by appropriate fuel supply according to driving conditions.
The short silencer produces a sound-tuned exhaust note that intoxicates the rider. The swingarm has a long curved shape.
In the center of the cowl is the Ninja ZX series' trademark ram air system, which improves air intake efficiency while riding. The combination of the exhaust system and the high exhaust efficiency makes for an exciting ride.
The styling adopts an image common to the modern Ninja series. As you'd expect, it's more glamorous and heavier than the Ninja 250 with its parallel twin-cylinder engine.
However, since it's a 250cc, it shouldn't be too difficult to maneuver in and out of parking lots.
Press the cell button and the engine immediately wakes up, emitting a continuous exhaust note. When you lightly push the accelerator, the engine responds sharply. It's a feel-good moment.
The clutch lever is surprisingly light thanks to the assist and slipper clutch, and I put it in gear to start. While it's not as strong as a two-cylinder at low revs, the higher the revs, the better the link between accelerator operation and speed.
The quickshifter has an excellent auto blip function, especially when downshifting. It matches the engine speed for smooth deceleration.
If you want to go with the flow of the motorcycle without stress in the city, you want to keep the RPM above 7000. The quickshifter that comes standard on the SE (optional on the STD) makes this easier. The ability to shift gears instantly without holding the accelerator and clutch lever makes it easy to keep the engine at the desired RPM.
High stiffness inverted fork with 4-pot radial mount caliper. The brakes have a good touch and provide a wide range of control.
After passing through the city, we come to a pass in the suburbs. This is the stage where you can fully enjoy the charm of the ZX-25R. When approaching a corner, the bodywork, especially the front end, is stable and the brakes can be applied with ease. This is due to the touch and control of the braking system and the stiffness of the trellis frame and inverted fork. It was even praised by professional racers when they tried it out on the track.
Lightweight, high-rigidity trellis frame. The center of gravity, swingarm pivot position, engine shaft position, caster angle and other key dimensions are based on the design philosophy of the Ninja ZX-10RR racer that competes in the Superbike World Championship. It's no wonder the motorcycle has so much potential.
The shock unit and linkage are located above the swingarm. This makes it possible to mount a large capacity chamber and also allows for mass centralization.
When I enter the corner, I bank it honestly. The motorcycle's weight and low center of gravity seem to have a lot to do with it here. The smooth characteristics of the four-cylinder engine also help, providing traction for the rear tires and making it easy to stabilize the attitude. Then, when you open the throttle and the high-pitched exhaust note rises up, it's a "great feeling".
