How Much Power Does the 2026 Kawasaki KX250 Make?

When revamping its KX250 for 2025, Kawasaki developed a new frame and switched from KYB to Showa suspension.The heart of the quarter-liter green motocrosser was given attention as well with updates such as a downdraft-style intake tract, redesigned bridged-box bottom piston, and tilting cylinder 5 degrees forward to suit a new intake and exhaust layout. With no mechanical changes for 2026, the KX250 pumps out similar numbers as it did in 2025 with peak figures of 39.2 hp and 18.7 lb.-ft. of torque, as measured by Dirt Rider’s in-house Dynojet 250i rear-wheel dynamometer.

“Where 2023 and 2024 KX250s were top-end screamers, the 2025 and 2026 models have smoother low-end torque and a strong midrange,” test rider Casey Casper said. “The current KX250 powerplant is slightly less exciting than previous versions, but its power is quite usable and better suited for entry-level riders than experienced racers.”