With a shootout win and at least one Bike of the Year vote under its seat, the KX250F certainly has a lot going for it. As a long-term bike, the Kawasaki continues to impress us as the numbers on the hourmeter keep ticking up. Presently, this machine has seen a lot of hard track time in a multitude of different conditions-from hot and dusty track days to traction-filled play rides in the rain. I even did some stunt work on it for CBS' "The Mentalist," as well as two days of hard riding at Sebastien Tortelli's Champ Factory School for an upcoming DR feature.
Naturally, the first part on this bike to wear out was the chain slider; the '09 KX250F is already notorious for prematurely burning through these. Fortunately, T.M. Designworks' Chain Slide-N-Guide kit has brought much more durability to these components. Right now I've spent about $500 in mods (see list). However, the chain, sprockets and brake pads are on their last legs and will be replaced shortly. Kawasaki has advised that as soon as this bike hits the 30-hour mark, it would be smart to open up the top end and pop in a new piston. The stock clutch will also likely be replaced at that time, though the 250F's steady diet of Bel-Ray oil seems to be serving it quite well. In the meantime, I'll be tossing on a new set of Factory Effex graphics to replace the stock stickers (which simply fell off at the track!) as well as Leo Vince's new X3 stainless steel muffler. Beyond that, I'd like to get a new handlebar on the bike, and we just took possession of a new Fox Shox Podium RC3 shock for the back end that I'm super excited to dial in.
All told, I'm thinking that this is going to be a fairly smooth year for our KX250F. Given the long-term performance of our '07 KLX450R, it's no secret that Kawasaki has a solid grasp on durability. As long as the motor keeps ripping, the components stay together and the bike maintains its convincing performance lead on the rest of the pack, this should be a fine season for our little Kawasaki.
Running Tally
Hours on Bike: 26.3
Modifications
Works Connection engine guards: $109.95
Works Connection skid plate: $69.95
Dr.D hourmeter: $36.99
T.M. Designworks Chain Slide-N-Guide kit: $179.95
T.M. Designworks rear disc protector: $79.95