Kawasaki is a company based in Japan; founded by Kawasaki Shozo. It all started in 1924 when Kawasaki was involved in aircraft and metallurgy industry. In 1949, they decided to penetrate the rising motorcycle industry by designing engines for motorcycles.
First Range of Products from Kawasaki Motorcycles - Motorcycle Engines
Here comes the role of another famous company in the making of Kawasaki Motorcycles, i.e. - BMW. They designed 60cc two-stroke and many 150cc as well as 250cc four-stroke engines by using the technology from BMW; the company with whom, they had relationship since the early stages of their business in aeronautical industry.
They made and supplied motorcycle engines till 1954, when they finally decided to produce their first motorcycle. It was marketed under the name of Meihatsu, which was a subsidiary of Kawasaki Aircraft Co.
It was the same time when they also tried their hands on scooter industry by introducing their own range of scooters in the market but soon stepped back when they recognized that it is not possible for them to compete against market giants of that time, i.e. - Mitsubishi Silver Pigeon and the Fuji Rabbit.
Buying of Meguro Motorcycles
The story of Kawasaki Motorcycles is incomplete without the Meguro Motorcycles segment. At that time, Meguro Motorcycles was known as the "King of four strokes" and "senior make". Meguro came into the market during 1930's. Due to their good association with the government, they got a lot of benefit from the army orders.
The first motorcycle made by them was Z97. It was a rocker-valve motorcycle of 500cc and largely influenced by Swiss Motosacoche. This model turned out to be a great success and was manufactured till 1950's. After unbeatable success of Z97, the company launched some decent rocker-valve, single-cylinder as well as high performance twins. All of them were influenced by British motorcycles. The great success of all of their models motivated them to launch their low end rocker-valve 125cc and a twin cylinder 650cc escort their existing 500cc.
But their endless success provoked them to take some big decisions which ended up in ruining the company.
One of those decisions was taken in 1958, when they tried to get rid of their British influence and everything started to go wrong. Examples - 250cc F, 125cc E3 and the infamous 350cc Y A. It was very unfortunate that these bikes ended up to be too heavy to handle and were not able to get enough attention from buyers. Meguro Motorcycles again started to make rocker-valve models and remained as in top 10 manufacturers till 1960. Unfortunately, due to certain decisions like the one mentioned above, the company kept on declining and was bought by Kawasaki Motorcycles.
In 1960, they signed their first agreement with Kawasaki Motorcycles and before 1963, they vanished from the market.
And that was 1960 only when Kawasaki Aircrafts decided to give a serious up thrust to its Motorcycle division -
They took Meihatsu brand out of the market and also decided to build their own plant of low end and low powered machines after buying Meguro.
And they brilliantly executed many other decisions which have brought Kawasaki Motorcycles to one of the best Motorcycle Manufacturers.
Many fine pieces of art have been manufactured, many milestones have been crossed but one name was always there is every heart Kawasaki motorcycles.
Saturday, 4 June 2011
Story Behind the World Famous Kawasaki Motorcycles
Friday, 3 June 2011
Detail kawasaki ninja 250
Look for "250" on this Kawasaki, and you won't find it. This was another appealing feature of the Kawasaki Ninja. Kawasaki has done a great job at hiding the fact that your "Bad Ass" new bike has a mere 248 CC displacement.
The Practical Features
The Kawasaki Ninja 250 is a lightweight street bike, weighing in at 300 lbs., yet can still reach speeds of 115 mph. A small, nimble motorcycle like the Kawasaki Ninja is great for the starter, because it has a 29.3" seat height. This low seat height is comfortable, and appeals to those riders who have a short inseam. Short riders are able to touch the ground with both feet.
Like an old friend, the Ninja is forgiving. If a new rider grabs too much throttle or grabs too much brake, not a lot happens. This motorcycle offers a gentler introduction to a beginner with its "pliant and forgiving gearbox." The beginner is not likely to spin the rear tire and/or dump the bike.
For the first time rider, choosing your first motorcycle is often a daunting decision. Now, more than ever, the motorcycle industry in North America is making high-quality, smaller displacement motorcycles that make excellent first motorcycles. But what bike is right for you? That really depends on a number of factors. In many jurisdictions, your choice in motorcycles may be limited by a graduated motorcycle licensing scheme. Often these systems limit your engine displacement or power-to-weight ratio rating. Be sure to check these details before purchasing a motorcycle.
The purpose of the bike is your primary consideration. Are you looking solely for a bike just to learn the basics? A 250cc bike or smaller, such as the Honda CBR125, or the Kawasaki Ninja 250, are both modern, high quality bikes that provide reliable mounts while you learn the ropes. The aforementioned Ninja can even manage highway speeds.
If you would like your first motorcycle to carry you past your first riding season, you may want to consider a motorcycle with a slightly larger displacement. Something in the 250-500cc range, such as the Suzuki GS500 or the Kawasaki Ninja 500 will allow for more than one season of riding. Larger displacement also means a larger bike, which may fit a slightly larger rider more comfortably, and also increase the feasibility of long range highway rides.
Thursday, 2 June 2011
Kawasaki Ninja 250 king of indian roads..
Kawasaki Ninja 250
Kawasaki has marketed the Ninja 250R since 1986 as an entry-level sport motorcycle intended for use on paved roads. The bike is marketed in the US as the Ninja 250R, as the ZX250 in the UK, and as the GPX250 elsewhere. Bajaj India has launched the much awaited Kawasaki Ninja 250R in Indian market and deliveries are going to start immediately.
But it is not going to compete with R15 and Karizma ZMR because of its high price tag which is a mind boggling 2.69 lakhs (Ex-Showroom India) which is quite high in comparison to specultions made which were between 1.85 lakhs and 2.10 lakhs. Bajaj is going to import the Ninja250R in CKD form and it will be sold in the Bajaj probiking showrooms. They plan to sell around 1000 units of the Ninja 250R. Bajaj is also planning to increase the number of probiking showrooms to 30. They will soon bring some products from the KTM lineup via the CBU route.
Update: New 2011 Kawasaki Ninja 250R Unvieled at EICMA
Kawasaki has unvieled the 2011 model of Ninja 250R at the EICMA Auto Show 2010. The 2011 Ninja 250R gets new graphics, new instrument cluster and new shades.
For more details - New 2011 Kawasaki Ninja 250R
Major Announcements Made By Bajaj At The Launch Of Ninja 250R:
- All New Bajaj Pulsar by 2011
- KTM Bikes To Be Launched in the January/February 2011
- Big Bikes From Kawasaki Stable To Fight Yamaha & Suzuki
- Bajaj Pro-Biking showrooms will offer complete three S’s – Sales, Service and Spares
- Ninja 250R spares will be imported directly from Japan and Thailand
Kawasaki Ninja 250r Looks
The best selling bike of Kawasaki,Kawasaki Ninja 250r 250 R, is widely acknowledged as the best quarter litre bike ever. The sexy and superb sporty looks contribute a lot in the success of the Ninja. The Kawasaki Ninja 250r 250 R is launched in two colours- green and black. The green is Kawasaki’s trademark colour and dominates the web world and its brochure as well.
The baby Ninja comes with front full fairing. The front fairing is designed in a clever way that covers upside of the engine section and shows half of the engine. The fairing is in plastic while fuel tank is in steel. The mask houses the dual lamp headlights with Day time Running Lamps (DRL) for safety. In other words, the headlamps work automatically in dark and turn off in day light. Large wind screen is fitted at the top of the mask to protect the rider from gusty winds. Mounted rear view mirrors are having very different shape.
The whole front face seems like an crowned owl. Compact and sleek front turn indicators are mounted at the airscoops. The dashboard of the bike is designed in analogue format. The three-
pod instrument panel is comprised of speedometer, tripmeter, tachometer and fuel gauge. The instrument panel also features turn indicators, high beam, low fuel, low oil, high oil temperature, choked air filter, and low battery indicators. As far as graphical work is concerned, Kawasaki used a minimum. The Kawasaki logo is pasted at petrol tank and Iconic Ninja logo is there on airscoops.
The body colour of Kawasaki Ninja 250r 250 R is sprayed at front full fairing, mask, full front fender, petrol tank and pillion seat (in green body colour). Rear suspension can’t be sighted easily as it is fitted down under the rider’s seat. Under the rear seat, there are two helmet holders. Race ready dual seats look stunning. However, no grab rails and backrest for the passenger. Safety depends on rear footpegs and the rider for passenger. The tail lamp is razor shaped and has a tiny brake light. Toe-shifter gear adds to the sporty look of the bike. Petal disc brake oil box is naked and clearly visible on the rear side. The Kawasaki Ninja 250r 250 R comes loaded with six spoke black alloy wheels with shining racing strips at rim.
Instrument Cluster & Features
The instrument cluster of Ninja 250R disappoints a bit as it comes in analog format. Speedometer, odometer, trip meter and tachometer are in analouge mode. It looks a bit boring in comparison to other Indian bikes we are used to, like we have digital cum analog instrumet cluster for Apache RTR, Pulsar 220 and Karizma ZMR. The cluster features some warning lights such as low oil, low fuel, choked air filter, high oil temperature and low battery indicators.
Engine & Trasmission
Bajaj has launched the European Spec Kawasaki Ninja 250R in Indian market. It is powered by a 249cc liquid cooled, parallel twin, DOHC petrol engine which develops maximum power of 32 Bhp at 11000 rpm with maximum torque of 22 Nm at 8200 rpm. The Ninja 250R features a six-speed transmission that has been revised for smoother shifting, and is mated to a more durable clutch. It also features an entirely new radiator provides better cooling while being lighter in weight.
Though Ninja is in league of its own and a proper 250cc sports bike – it is not fair to compare it with Karizma ZMR, Pulsar 220 & Yamaha R15. But here we have some data comparison of four best bikes you can buy under 3 lakh rupees.
| Data | New Karizma ZMR | Bajaj Pulsar 220 | Yamaha R15 | Ninja 250R |
| Engine | 4 Stroke | 4 Stroke | 4 Stroke | 4 Stroke |
| Displacement | 223cc | 220cc | 149.8cc | 249cc |
| Max Power | 17.6 Bhp-7000 rpm | 21 Bhp-8500 rpm | 17 Bhp-8500 rpm | 32.5 Bhp-11000 rpm |
| Max Torque | 18.5 Nm-6000 rpm | 19 Nm-7000 rpm | 15 Nm-7500 rpm | 22 Nm-8500 rpm |
| Gears | 5 Speed | 5 Speed | 6 Speed | 6 Speed |
| Cooling Type | Liquid Cooled | Air & Oil Cooled | Liquid Cooled | Liquid Cooled |
| Top Speed | 126 kmph | 144 kmph | 135 kmph | 176 kmph |
| 0-60 kmph | 3.70 secs | NA | 3.20 secs | 5.75 secs (0-100km) |
| Brakes | Discs | Discs | Discs | Discs |
| Price | 91000.00 | 71000.00 | 97000.00 | 269000.00 |
The engine of Ninja 250R has been tuned to deliver smooth, step-free power with an emphasis on low- and mid-range power for rider-friendly response. The Pistons feature reinforced heads and strengthening in the pin boss area for increased durability and also thick piston (longitudinally) rings help minimize oil consumption. The combustion chamber has been designed and optimized to maximize combustion efficiency and reduce emissions
Performance Figures Of Kawasaki Ninja 250R:
1) 0-100km/h : 5.75 sec
2) Top speed : 176km/h
3) Fuel economy : 42.5 Kmpl – Claimed By Bajaj India
Ninja 250R features refined intake and exhaust ports contribute to good off-idle response and smooth power delivery. Also the valve timing and lift has been designed for strong low- and mid-range torque while direct valve actuation ensures reliable high-rpm operability. And valves with thin heads and stems reduce reciprocating weight with 2-into-1 exhaust system contributes to the Ninja 250R’s low- and mid-range torque and smooth, step-free power curve. It meets strict emissions with dual catalyzers; one in the collector pipe and the other in the silencer positioning the first catalyzer as close to the exhaust ports maximizes its efficiency as well
The silky smooth 6-speed Gearbox features involute splines reduce friction and backlash between gears and shafts for easier gear meshing and smooth shifting under power. Also with spring-type clutch damper reduces jerkiness at very low speeds and minimizes shocks when rolling on and off the throttle for a smoother clutch feel. The paper-base friction plates help increase clutch durability.
Chasis, Suspension & Brakes
On the chassis front, Ninja 250R features a new diamond-type frame constructed of high tensile steel provides a steeper steering head rake angle, which results in an unchanged wheelbase when mated with a longer swingarm. The fork is larger and stiffer, with revised settings in comparison to 2008 model of Ninja 250R.
Ninja’s 37mm telescopic front fork with firm settings contribute to the 250R’s smooth, stable handling and enhanced ride control. Also with uni-Trak rear suspension which compliments the rigid frame and re-tuned fork and provides great road holding ability. Rear shock features 5-way adjustable preload, enabling ride height to be maintained whether riding solo or with a passenger
The stopping power of Ninja 250R comes from large-diameter, 290mm front hydraulic disc at the front and a balanced action two-piston caliper offers excellent braking performance and a natural, direct feeling at the lever. The rear features two-piston caliper grips the rear 220mm petal disc
Booking Amount & Price Of Ninja 250R
The booking amount to book a Ninja 250R is 40,000 rupees and a consignment of 50 Ninjas have reached the Bajaj Pro-Biking showrooms. The only sore point in the deal is high price tag of 2.69 lakhs which is quite high for a 250cc bike and it is only going to help in boosting New Karizma ZMR’s sales which is powered by a 223cc engine which is available for Rs. 91,000.
Ex-Showroom Price Of Ninja 250R In Other Cities:
New Delhi – 2,69,970.00
Chennai – 2,69,580.00
Though it was speculated that Ninja 250R is going to be priced around 1.85 lakhs but Ninja 250R is priced at Rs. 2.69 lakhs (Ex-Showroom India) which is very high and keep many prospective buyers away from buying this awesome bike.
Kawasaki Ninja 250r Mileage, Average and Fuel Economy
The Kawasaki Ninja 250r 250 R boasts large fuel tank. The maximum fuel tank capacity is 17 litres. That means you can take Kawasaki Ninja 250r 250 R to long routes without locating petrol pumps till a good distance. The claimed fuel economy of the bike is 42 kmpl. Fuel injection technology and better combustion system work for maximum mileage. But as you are opting for a super sports bike, mileage figures do not come in the way. On the other hand, heavy weight, petal disc brakes and larger wheelbase effect the mileage accordingly.
Kawasaki Ninja 250r Pick up
Kawasaki Ninja 250r 250 R is a world class super sports bike known for cutting-edge power, technology and styling. As you might have seen the power and torque figures, its obvious that power and pick-up would be awesome. The baby Ninja,Kawasaki Ninja 250r 250 R, clears 0-60 km/h in just 3.1 seconds and 0-100 km/h in mere 8.1 seconds. The top speed is 176 km/h.
Colors of Kawasaki Ninja 250r
The baby Ninja,Kawasaki Ninja 250r 250 R, was launched in two vibrant hues-Ebony black and Lime Green. Earlier, it was expected to be launch in four shades. The body colour of Kawasaki Ninja 250r 250 R is painted over doom, front fairing, full front mudguard, fuel tank and pillion seat. Silver colour can be seen at disc brakes, exhaust and passenger foot pegs. Ninja and Kawasaki stickers at air scoops and fuel tank are in black in green body colour while it is in white in black body colour. Otherwise, its having black treatment at the rest of the parts.
Kawasaki Ninja 250r Dimensions
The overall length, height and width of the Kawasaki Ninja 250r 250 R is 2,085mm, 1,115 and 715mm respectively. Seat height is 790mm. The ground clearance is little low that is 135mm. The Kawasaki Ninja 250r 250 R comes with rugged diamond shaped frame chassis that is coupled with a beefy square cross-section swingarm lays the foundation of a sturdy machine. It got an impressive wheelbase of 1400 mm. The curb weight of the bike is 172 kg.
How comfortable is Kawasaki Ninja 250r
Kawasaki Ninja 250r 250R is sports bike and has all the sporty comfort. It should be clear in one’s mind that this not a family bike. The machine is equipped with advanced suspensions and petal disc brakes that make your ride jerk free and comfortable. Seat arrangements is quite different in the baby Ninja-Kawasaki Ninja 250r 250R. Race-ready dual seat is fitted for rider and pillion. Footpegs are place at the right height for both the riders. Seat lock is also there. One interesting thing is incorporated in the bike that is dual-lamp headlights with Day time Running Lamps (DRL) for safety. The headlamps turn on when sense dark and turn off when enough light. For the sake of style and comfort, toe-shifter gear is fitted. For the travel on highways and bad weather conditions, the Kawasaki Ninja 250r 250R is equipped with big front protection and large windscreen. Large fuel tank that can have 17 liters of fuel is an added comfort. The full front fairing and wind screen protects the rider from the gusty wind. The riding position is reasonably comfortable on long trips.
Kawasaki Ninja 250r Tyres
The big bike Kawasaki Ninja 250r 250R is loaded with widest tyres and wheelbase. Let’s see the specifications of the tyres-110/70-17 (front) and 130/70-17(rear). The rear tyre is widest and does its duty quite reasonably. The Kawasaki Ninja 250r 250R sports black alloy wheels that come in six spokes. The spokes are sleek but rigidness is there. The wheel travel is 120mm (front) and 130mm (rear).
Engine of Kawasaki Ninja 250r
Kawasaki Ninja 250r 250R is equipped with a mind-blowing 249cc DHOC four stroke power mill which belts out 33PS of maximum power at 11,000 rpm and generates, harnessing low and mid range torque, 22NM at 8200 rpm. This power mill is supported with parallel twin-cylinders. It houses new generation liquid cooling Desno radiator that is small, light-weight and offers superior cooling with the
added help of fins on the lower side of the crankcase. The entry-level sports bike is fitted with fine-atomising injectors for mid and high RPM throttle response. Kawasaki Ninja 250r 250R also features dual throttle valves for responsiveness across the rev range. The reinforced piston builds resistance and increase durability. It’s combustion chamber design optimise the squish area, maximising combustion efficiency and thereby reducing emissions.Kawasaki Ninja 250r 250R incorporates 6 speed transmission that is found in a few bike in India. It also give a chance to bikers for styling and racing. Exhaust system comes is a two-into-one feature that ensure step-free power curve and smoothness. Its dual catalysers, not only minimizes power loss but also maximizes efficiency by locating the first catalyser as close to the exhaust ports as possible. It also promise clean emissions.
On Road Control and handling of Kawasaki Ninja 250r
All required features for handling and control are installed in the Kawasaki Ninja 250r 250 R. These include petal disc brakes and large wheelbase. The flying machine comes with largest disc brakes at both end. The petal disc brakes can halt the bike with just a push of brakes at any speed. Petal disc brakes offer excellent heat dissipation and braking power. Its 290mm large-diameter front disc, gripped by balanced action two-piston caliper, offers excellent braking performance and natural, direct feeling at the lever. And the rear features a 220mm disc gripped by a two-piston caliper. These petal disc brakes not only seem eye-catching but also ensure superb halting. Low-profile tyres are used for confident handling. The baby Kawasaki Ninja 250r 250R boasts widest tyres and wheelbase. The wheelbase is 1400mm. This large wheelbase ensure the best gripping on road and thus premises great stability as well. Forget about skidding!
Riding Experience – Suspension of Kawasaki Ninja 250r
The Kawasaki Ninja 250r 250R is fitted with best kind of comfort features. In view to provide optimum comfort, it is equipped with 37mm telescopic front shock absorbers with rigid setting ensure that the pitching motion is minimum and so is rider discomfort. In the same way, the Kawasaki Ninja 250r 250R is provided with Uni-Trak shock absorbers at rear side, five-time adjustable for various preloads, provides great road-holding ability and bump absorption.
Kawasaki Ninja 250r Pros
The sports bike looks different with its smart design. Sensor dual-lamp headlights are new to the market. For handling and control, best features are installed.
Kawasaki Ninja 250r Cons
The bike do not have main stand but side stand. The instrument panel comes in analogue format. It should be at least one meter in digital mode. No rear garb bars or backrest for pillion. Complete no-no for older people. The price tag of the bike is too high to own it for a common bike enthusiasts.
Wednesday, 1 June 2011
New Kawasaki Ninja 250 R
More and more Ninja 250R lovers both young and old. Motor that will be imported from Thailand is it seems going to enliven the two-wheeled vehicle market. Ninja 250R EX250 is also known as in Europe, ZZR ZXR250 250 in America or in Australia. Kawasaki 250cc class it was first produced in 1986 and still continues to this day, and since 2007 Ninja 250R manufactured in Thailand.
Ninja 250R using engine 4 stroke parallel twin, DOHC, liquid cooled, 8 valves and equipped with counterbalancer. With the engine such as that generated power can reach 36HP at 11000RPM. The resulting torque can reach 24Nm at 10,000 RPM. Using the electric motor is a hallmark of the current moge. Compression ratio is also quite high at 12.4:1. Its use 2 Keihin carburator CVK30. Using a wet type clutch system. Using a hydraulic telescopic front suspension fork, and use unitrack mono rear shock. Brakes front and rear disc brake wear. Using size 100/80-16 front tire and 130/80-16 rear use. Weighing 138 kg, power-to-weight ratio of this motor reaches 0:26 HP / kg.