During some model years, brands will choose to leave their steeds alone and opt for the dreaded BNG (bold new graphics) treatment. Fortunately, this is not one of those years for the KX250F. Similar to its bigger brother, the 2015 KX450F, the smaller machine receives updated styling closer to that of the Monster Energy Kawasaki team (not to be confused with the Monster Energy/Pro Circuit/Kawasaki team, which tends towards a distinctly different look). Along with cosmetics, a list of small, yet effective, upgrades should keep the KX in the running for 250 Class excellence.

In the suspension department, the KX250F now has updated valve settings in both the rear shock and the proven Showa SFF (Separate Function Fork), which remains a traditional coil system rather than the SFF-Air TAC system found on the KX450F. A new feature for 2015 are adjustable footpegs that can be moved down 5mm to provide more space for taller riders. On the chassis itself, the subframe is now a few grams lighter.

When Kawasaki first introduced their aluminum perimeter frame, it was greeted with open arms and praised for its handling and form-fitting ergonomics. Now the frame is in its third major iteration, and the fit and feel have only improved for 2015 thanks to the new adjustable footpegs. For the average rider, the ability to lower footpegs probably does not factor into their decision making when buying a new machine. However, for taller riders, those additional 5mm (0.2 inch) can make a world of difference not only for holding the bike with your legs, but also in the transition from sitting to standing. Add in some aftermarket lowered footpegs and a rider can drop about 10mm (0.4 inch), which is enough to make a significant difference in riding posture.

Specification:

Engine: Liquid-cooled, four-stroke single with DOHC and four-valve cylinder head
Displacement: 249cc
Bore x stroke: 77.0 x 53.6mm
Fuel injection: DFI with 43mm Keihin throttle body and dual injectors
Compression ratio: 13.8:1
Ignition: Digital DC-CDI
Transmission: Five-speed with wet multi-disc manual clutch
Final drive: Chain
Frame: Aluminum perimeter
Rake & Trail: 28.7 degrees / 5 inch
Front suspension: 48mm inverted Showa SFF telescopic fork with 40-way spring preload adjustability and 22-position compression and 20-position rebound damping adjustability, with 12.4 inches of travel
Rear suspension: Uni-Trak linkage system and Showa shock with 19-position low-speed and 4-turns high-speed compression damping, 22-position rebound damping, fully adjustable spring preload, with 12.2 inches of travel
Front tire: 80/100-21
Rear tire: 100/90-19
Front brake: Single semi-floating 270mm petal disc with dual-piston caliper
Rear brake: Single 240mm petal disc with single-piston caliper
Overall length: 85.4 inch
Overall width: 32.3 inch
Overall height: 50 inch
Wheelbase: 58.1 inch
Ground clearance: 13 inch
Seat height: 37.2 inch
Curb weight: 233.7 pounds
Fuel capacity: 1.61 gallons