Kawasaki Ninja 250SL and Z250SL unveiled at Eicma

KAWASAKI has just unveiled two surprise new 250cc single-cylinder models for 2015, the Ninja 250SL and Z250SL.

Essentially faired and unfaired versions of the same machine, they produce 28hp and 16.7lbft, and will make more budget-focussed alternatives to the £5,200 Ninja 300 and newly unveiled Z300.

Their launch helps split the sub-500cc market into two distinct categories, one populated by singles and the other by more powerful twins like the Ninja 300 and Yamaha R3.

Both the new 250 models were launched for Asian markets earlier this year - the Ninja 250SL in February and the Z250SL in May. At that time it was not known they were also headed for Europe. 

They're expected to cost around £4,000.

The Ninja 250SL and Z250SL were unveiled today at the Eicma Milan motorcycle show alongside the Z300, a naked version of the Ninja 300.

The 250s have a steel trellis frame which Kawasaki says helps provide a slim package with nimble handling. The Z250SL weighs 148kg and the Ninja 151kg.

The 249cc engine is quick-revving with 'robust mid-range', according to Kawasaki.

ABS is an option using the 'world's smallest ABS unit'.

There's a single 290mm petal-style front brake disc with a twin-piston caliper and a 220mm disc at the rear. The shock is preload adjustable.

The Z250SL has flat bars while the Ninja's are clip-ons.

The Z250SL comes in green or black and the Ninja 250SL in green and black or white and black.

Kawasaki's release included:

'249 cm3 liquid-cooled, 4-stroke Single

Offering quick-revving sporty performance in a slim, lightweight and compact package, the single-cylinder engine delivers smooth, responsive power at low and medium rpm and hard-hitting power at high rpm.

Fuel injection -

Fine-atomising injectors ensure ideal fuel delivery at all rpm.

Electric start -

With fuel injection and electric start, starting is simple and hassle-free.

Original trellis frame -

Trellis frame enables a slim, lightweight and compact package as well as contributing to nimble handling.

37 mm telescopic fork -

37 mm telescopic fork contributes to both light, nimble handling as well as riding stability.

Uni-Trak rear suspension -

Kawasaki’s original linkage-equipped Uni-Trak rear suspension delivers a smooth ride and stable handling over a wide range of speeds and road conditions.

Radiator fan cover -

A cover for the radiator fan directs engine heat down and away from the rider for increased comfort.

Petal disc brakes -

Petal disc brakes front and rear deliver strong, easy-to-control stopping power and add to sporty looks.

Independent sport ABS -

For additional rider reassurance, an ABS model is also available. Its high-spec system was designed specially for motorcycles and features the world’s smallest ABS unit. Independent activation maximises sporty control.

All-digital instrumentation -

All-digital instrument panel gives the cockpit a modern, sporty look.'

SPECIFICATIONS