Temperature Ranges

Winter 2007

E-mail me pictures of your ZZ-R250 along with Year, Predominate Riding Style (Laid back - Half&Half - Aggressive) and your Country Of Preference and they'll be posted in the pics section for all to see.

Chains

Buying a Second-Hand Motorcycle

Special thanks to Netrider

ZZ-R250 Rev Ranges

2001 ZZ-R250 Blue/Silver Paint

Stoppies

Summer 2006/2007

Essential Reading!!

I have manage to get my hands on the most comprehensive compilation of information, regarding the EX250 range, I have come across to date. However due to the size limitations of this web site (tripod), I have reproduced as much info as possible in text form. Be sure to check for updates! Ride safe, ride on.

The EX250 Range

Buying a Second-Hand EX250

Good Riding Techniques

Special thanks to Ninja 250 Rider's Club

I Just Got An EX250 - FAQ

Special thanks to Ninja 250 Rider's Club

Maintenance & Repairs

Special thanks to Ninja 250 Rider's Club

I Need Help Repairing My Bike

Special thanks to Ninja 250 Rider's Club

Modifications & Performance

Special thanks to Ninja 250 Rider's Club

Here are some documents well worth reading if you desire to ride smarter/safer.

All files in .PDF format and relative to Australian and VicRoads standards.

Tips for better riding

Road maintenance practices

Characteristics of motorcycle crashes

Hazard detection and anticipation

Motorcycle signage

Road builders guide to motorcycle safety

Designing for motorcycle clearances

Designing for the unexpected

Road markings and slippery surfaces

Loose surfaces and motorcycles

Winter 2006

Autumn 2006

Well, been riding for 2 years now, so I have more info for anybody who is thinking of buying or who just bought a ZZR250. The ZZR can sometimes be a handful for newbies, looks like a sports bike, handles a little less like a sports bike. Best to learn one step at a time with the ZZR for it can be very unforgiving, like most bikes.

If you grab a handful of front break mid-corner it'll stand upright on you... or low-side without warning. If you have to break though a corner, remember riding basics and use the rear break. However be smooth, the ZZR250 likes to slide the rear end in the wet if your too aggressive. Conversely, keeping it on the boil like a madman is way too much fun.

Don't let your confidence exceed your ability. Remember to ride safe and arrive alive!

Winter 2005

The Kawasaki EX250-H, more commonly known as the ZZ-R250, is one of the best learner motorcycles around. Combining the performance of a sports bike and the comfort of a cruiser, this sports-tourer an ideal first bike. Its quality and reliability has kept this bike at the top of the "L" Plate list since it was first released in the 80's.

This web page is aimed at all those new-comers to the 250cc motorcycle game. When I fist started I found it somewhat hard to find the info I wanted, especially on the ZZR 250. So I hope this fills in some of the gaps.

Featuring as standard:

• 248cc, Liquid-cooled, 2-cylinder (parallel), 4-stroke, DOHC, 27.9kW @ 12,000 RPM

• Redline 14,000 - 16,000 RPM, Top speed: 170Kph Or  195kph with cold air intake

• Electric start, electronic ignition

• 6 speed, constant mesh, return shift transmission

• Wet, multi disk clutch

• Practical cockpit design and instruments

• Small faring storage at front for keys and mobile phone/or disk lock

• Medium under-seat fairing storage at rear for wets

• Wide side faring for effective wind/rain protection

• Aluminium frame for better strength to weight ratio

• 18L fuel tank giving a range of 350Km to 430Km (depending on riding aggression)

In addition to these features the ZZR is nicely balanced. It has predicable engine response / feedback and adjustable rear ride height.

For a 250cc the ZZR is slightly more heavy than the average 250 sports bikes. Weighing in at 146Kg (dry weight), this is both a blessing and a curse. The weight results in a smooth ride, making clutch and throttle errors less violent and increasing the bikes stability in high wind usage. Although the acceleration is less at higher rev's (compared to lighter sports bikes) this is well compensated with mid range toque.

 The ZZR also allows a learner to become accustom to the weight of a larger bike, such as modern 600's and 750's.

One can find a used ZZ-R250 from around AUS$3,400 to AUS$5,600 via private sale. Or go to your local Kawasaki dealer to buy new, if you still can, for around AUS$6,500.