2023 Kawasaki KX250 & KX250X First Look Preview

Kawasaki has revamped its popular KX250 and KX250X for 2023 with a wide range of revisions intended to improve performance on track and trail. The refreshed machines are available now, with the KX250 priced at $8,499 and the KX250X at $8,599.

Both bikes benefit from a reworked 249cc single featuring numerous changes aimed at improving performance across the rev range. Intake valve pitch is narrower and valve seat clearance is increased; intake valve size was reduced by a millimeter to accommodate the changes, and a new piston crown was designed to function seamlessly with the new valve size and pitch revisions.

The bikes get a reworked straighter downdraft-style intake duct; the injector closest to the airbox has been repositioned, and there’s new ignition timing as well. The exhaust header pipe is now 100mm longer. The clutch gets an updated pushrod to provide lighter operation, and gearing has been changed to help optimize power delivery in first and second gears.

The suspension package also gets a rework, with both front and rear settings revised to improve cornering performance and front-end feel. Engineers did this by revising the oil height in the KYB 48mm fork and updating the valve settings in the KYB shock. There is also a revised Uni-Track system that mounts the linkage arm below the swingarm, providing a longer stroke out back. Fork cover bolts and the rear linkage collar are now aluminum to help save weight.

The KX250 also gets new Dunlop MX33 tires; rear tire size is widened to a 110/90-19. The Kawasaki now uses a 5mm-wider footpeg design positioned 3mm back in order to provide optimal feel and to help save weight.

The KX250X off-road bike, however, will roll on Dunlop Geomax AT81 tires. It gets a softer suspension setup, shorter gearing, and a skid plate and kickstand.