The 2009 Kawasaki EX250-J, more commonly known as the Ninja 250R, represents the fourth generation of Kawasaki's highly successful entry-level sportbike. With its full-faired body style, it offered a sleek, supersport aesthetic. This iteration, produced from 2008 to 2012, quickly became a standout for its approachable performance, exceptional reliability, and affordable price point, often retailing around $4,000-$4,300 new. Its popularity stems from being an ideal choice for new riders seeking a sporty yet forgiving machine.
The Good
The 2009 Kawasaki Ninja 250R boasts numerous advantages. Its peppy twin-cylinder engine offers engaging performance for both city and highway, coupled with legendary reliability. Riders appreciate its relatively comfortable ergonomics and aggressive sportbike design. Exceptional fuel efficiency and low maintenance costs appeal to practical buyers, while its "Ninja" branding and sporty handling fulfill emotional desires for a true sportbike experience without intimidation.
The Bad
While highly reliable, the 2009 Ninja 250R has some known weaknesses. Its single front brake disc offers adequate but not outstanding stopping power for aggressive riding. The suspension is basic, lacking adjustability for serious track use. Additionally, being carbureted, it can suffer from rough idling or starting issues if the carbs aren't cleaned or synced regularly, especially after prolonged storage.
2009 Kawasaki EX250-J: Quick Overview
Here are the key specifications for the 2009 Kawasaki EX250-J (Ninja 250R):
- Engine: Liquid-cooled, 249cc, DOHC, eight-valve, parallel twin cylinder engine. This robust and high-revving engine is known for its durability and smooth power delivery.
- Fuel System: It utilizes two Keihin CVK30 carburetors, which require proper maintenance for optimal performance.
- Horsepower: The engine typically produces around 30-33 horsepower at the crankshaft, providing ample power for its class and making it lively for new riders.
- Torque: Peak torque is generally in the range of 14-15 lb-ft, contributing to its responsive acceleration.
- Transmission: Power is sent to the rear wheel via a smooth-shifting 6-speed manual transmission, offering good gear spacing for various riding conditions.
- Fuel Economy: Riders can expect excellent fuel efficiency, often ranging from 50 to 70 miles per gallon depending on riding style, making it very economical to run.
- 0-60 mph Time: The 0-60 mph acceleration typically falls between 5.7 and 7 seconds, which is respectable for a 250cc motorcycle.
- Top Speed: Its top speed hovers around 95-105 mph, capable of highway speeds with some reserve.
- Brakes: Stopping power comes from a single 290mm petal disc with a two-piston caliper at the front and a single 220mm petal disc with a two-piston caliper at the rear.
- Suspension: The front features a 37mm hydraulic telescopic fork, while the rear uses Kawasaki's Uni-Trak® system with a 5-way adjustable preload shock absorber.
- Weight: The motorcycle has a wet weight of approximately 375 lbs, contributing to its nimble handling.
- Fuel Capacity: It has a generous fuel tank capacity of 4.8 gallons.
- Tires: It rides on 110/70-17 front and 130/70-17 rear tires.
- Towing Capacity: As a motorcycle, towing capacity is not applicable.
- Trim-level features: The 2009 EX250-J was largely offered as a single standard trim, sometimes with different color options like "Special Edition" graphics in certain markets. Standard features included a full aerodynamic fairing, dual headlights, a combination analog tachometer and digital speedometer with odometer, trip meters, and a clock. It also featured a comfortable two-up seat and a compact instrument panel.
2009 Kawasaki EX250-J Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2009 |
| Make | Kawasaki |
| Model | EX250-J |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Motorcycle |
| Category | Motorcycle |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Japan |
| Manufacturing City | AMPHUR PLUAK DAENG |
Dimensions
| Doors | - |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 249-CC Gasoline |
| Engine Size | 249L |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | - |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
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What Problems Does the 2009 Kawasaki EX250-J Have?
The 2009 Kawasaki EX250-J (Ninja 250R) is renowned for its exceptional reliability, but like any vehicle, it has a few frequently reported problems and areas to watch for over the long term. The most common issue, given its carbureted nature, involves the carburetors. Riders frequently report hard starting, rough idling, or poor performance if the fuel system isn't regularly maintained, especially after periods of storage with untreated fuel. Fuel can gum up the jets, requiring cleaning and synchronization. This is not a defect but rather a characteristic of carbureted engines that requires specific attention compared to fuel-injected models.
Another area that sometimes sees issues, though less frequently, is the charging system. While less prone than some other Kawasaki models, failures of the stator or rectifier/regulator can occur over time, leading to battery drain or charging problems. It's always wise to check the battery's voltage and the charging system's output during inspections.
Some owners at very high mileages might report a noisy cam chain tensioner (CCT), which can indicate it's nearing the end of its service life. This isn't a widespread early failure but a wear item to monitor on older, well-used examples. The stock brakes, while adequate for daily riding, are often noted as lacking aggressive stopping power for spirited riding, and consistent bleeding ensures optimal feel. The suspension is basic; the front forks are non-adjustable, and only the rear shock offers preload adjustment, which can lead to a soft ride for heavier riders or less precise handling under aggressive conditions.
As for recalls, the 2009 Ninja 250R had a very clean record, with no major widespread safety recalls that significantly affected all units. Any recalls would typically be minor and addressable by a dealer. Long-term reliability concerns primarily revolve around general wear and tear of consumables like chains, sprockets, tires, and brake pads, as well as the degradation of rubber components (hoses, seals) over time, which is normal for any motorcycle of this age. Regular maintenance is key to its longevity.
Another area that sometimes sees issues, though less frequently, is the charging system. While less prone than some other Kawasaki models, failures of the stator or rectifier/regulator can occur over time, leading to battery drain or charging problems. It's always wise to check the battery's voltage and the charging system's output during inspections.
Some owners at very high mileages might report a noisy cam chain tensioner (CCT), which can indicate it's nearing the end of its service life. This isn't a widespread early failure but a wear item to monitor on older, well-used examples. The stock brakes, while adequate for daily riding, are often noted as lacking aggressive stopping power for spirited riding, and consistent bleeding ensures optimal feel. The suspension is basic; the front forks are non-adjustable, and only the rear shock offers preload adjustment, which can lead to a soft ride for heavier riders or less precise handling under aggressive conditions.
As for recalls, the 2009 Ninja 250R had a very clean record, with no major widespread safety recalls that significantly affected all units. Any recalls would typically be minor and addressable by a dealer. Long-term reliability concerns primarily revolve around general wear and tear of consumables like chains, sprockets, tires, and brake pads, as well as the degradation of rubber components (hoses, seals) over time, which is normal for any motorcycle of this age. Regular maintenance is key to its longevity.
How long will the 2009 Kawasaki EX250-J last?
The 2009 Kawasaki EX250-J is a testament to long-term durability, often seeing average mileage well beyond 50,000 miles, with many examples comfortably exceeding 80,000 or even 100,000 miles if properly maintained. These bikes can easily provide 10 to 15 or more years of reliable service. The parallel-twin engine is particularly robust, often described as "bulletproof" when routine oil changes and valve adjustments are performed. Its fundamental mechanical design is incredibly sound.
However, long-term weaknesses primarily center around the carbureted fuel system, which, if neglected, can lead to persistent performance issues. Over time, the basic suspension components can wear out or become "mushy," affecting handling. Rubber components like hoses, seals, and intake boots can degrade and crack, leading to vacuum leaks or fluid leaks. Fairing plastics, while durable, can become brittle or show stress cracks, especially if the bike has been dropped or frequently disassembled. Consistent, diligent maintenance—including carburetor cleaning, fluid changes, and attention to consumables—is paramount to achieving the highest mileage and longest service life from this model.
However, long-term weaknesses primarily center around the carbureted fuel system, which, if neglected, can lead to persistent performance issues. Over time, the basic suspension components can wear out or become "mushy," affecting handling. Rubber components like hoses, seals, and intake boots can degrade and crack, leading to vacuum leaks or fluid leaks. Fairing plastics, while durable, can become brittle or show stress cracks, especially if the bike has been dropped or frequently disassembled. Consistent, diligent maintenance—including carburetor cleaning, fluid changes, and attention to consumables—is paramount to achieving the highest mileage and longest service life from this model.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2009 Kawasaki EX250-J, being an entry-level sportbike from its era, featured built-in technology that was quite fundamental, focusing on rider essentials rather than advanced electronics. Its instrumentation included an easy-to-read analog tachometer for monitoring engine RPMs, a digital speedometer for road speed, along with an odometer, dual trip meters, and a digital clock. Notably, it did not feature a fuel gauge, instead relying on a low-fuel warning light and a reserve setting on the fuel petcock. There were no built-in entertainment systems, Bluetooth connectivity, or integrated GPS; these were functionalities typically found in aftermarket accessories for motorcycles of this vintage.
In terms of driver-assistance or advanced safety features, the 2009 Ninja 250R offered none by modern standards. Features like traction control, multiple riding modes, quick shifters, or cornering ABS were far from standard on bikes in this segment at the time. Its safety suite was purely mechanical: effective disc brakes (single disc front and rear) for its weight and power, a sturdy steel frame providing good handling stability, and dual halogen headlights ensuring decent visibility at night. The bike's approachable power delivery and nimble chassis also contributed to a less intimidating riding experience, which can be seen as a passive safety benefit for novice riders.
There were no significant factory optional features related to technology, entertainment, or driver assistance. Any upgrades in these areas would have been purely aftermarket additions by owners. As with all motorcycles, standardized crash-test ratings like those for automobiles (e.g., NHTSA or IIHS) are not conducted, so specific crash-test scores are not available. Rider skill, protective gear, and riding conditions are the primary factors in motorcycle safety. The simplicity of the Ninja 250R's design meant fewer complex systems to potentially malfunction, contributing to its reputation for reliability.
In terms of driver-assistance or advanced safety features, the 2009 Ninja 250R offered none by modern standards. Features like traction control, multiple riding modes, quick shifters, or cornering ABS were far from standard on bikes in this segment at the time. Its safety suite was purely mechanical: effective disc brakes (single disc front and rear) for its weight and power, a sturdy steel frame providing good handling stability, and dual halogen headlights ensuring decent visibility at night. The bike's approachable power delivery and nimble chassis also contributed to a less intimidating riding experience, which can be seen as a passive safety benefit for novice riders.
There were no significant factory optional features related to technology, entertainment, or driver assistance. Any upgrades in these areas would have been purely aftermarket additions by owners. As with all motorcycles, standardized crash-test ratings like those for automobiles (e.g., NHTSA or IIHS) are not conducted, so specific crash-test scores are not available. Rider skill, protective gear, and riding conditions are the primary factors in motorcycle safety. The simplicity of the Ninja 250R's design meant fewer complex systems to potentially malfunction, contributing to its reputation for reliability.
What Colors Options are Available?
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In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
2009 Kawasaki EX250-J Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2009 Kawasaki EX250-J (Ninja 250R) typically retailed for approximately $3,999 to $4,299 USD, making it a very accessible and attractive entry point into sportbike ownership. Today, the used market prices for these bikes are quite robust, reflecting their enduring popularity and reliability. Current used prices in 2024 can range from as low as $1,500 for a well-used or cosmetically flawed example to over $3,500 for a pristine, low-mileage specimen with clear titles and good maintenance records.
Depreciation was relatively gentle for the Ninja 250R compared to larger, more expensive bikes. Its high demand as a beginner bike means it holds its value remarkably well over time. Factors significantly affecting resale value include the overall mechanical and cosmetic condition (especially the fairings, which are prone to damage), total mileage, a clear title, and evidence of consistent maintenance. Aftermarket modifications can sometimes deter buyers or decrease value unless they are well-chosen performance upgrades. Its reputation for reliability and low running costs ensures a steady market for used examples.
Depreciation was relatively gentle for the Ninja 250R compared to larger, more expensive bikes. Its high demand as a beginner bike means it holds its value remarkably well over time. Factors significantly affecting resale value include the overall mechanical and cosmetic condition (especially the fairings, which are prone to damage), total mileage, a clear title, and evidence of consistent maintenance. Aftermarket modifications can sometimes deter buyers or decrease value unless they are well-chosen performance upgrades. Its reputation for reliability and low running costs ensures a steady market for used examples.
2009 Kawasaki EX250-J Cost of Ownership
The 2009 Kawasaki EX250-J is exceptionally economical to own, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious riders. Insurance costs are typically very low, often among the cheapest for motorcycles, due to its smaller engine displacement and classification as a beginner-friendly model. Fuel costs are minimal, as it sips regular unleaded gasoline, achieving impressive figures of 50-70 miles per gallon.
Maintenance is straightforward and affordable; many tasks are DIY-friendly, and parts are readily available and reasonably priced. Regular oil changes, chain adjustments, and occasional carburetor cleaning are the primary ongoing costs. Repair expenses are generally low due to the bike's robust reliability. Long-term ownership costs are among the lowest in the motorcycle world, making the Ninja 250R a highly practical and budget-friendly vehicle.
Maintenance is straightforward and affordable; many tasks are DIY-friendly, and parts are readily available and reasonably priced. Regular oil changes, chain adjustments, and occasional carburetor cleaning are the primary ongoing costs. Repair expenses are generally low due to the bike's robust reliability. Long-term ownership costs are among the lowest in the motorcycle world, making the Ninja 250R a highly practical and budget-friendly vehicle.
2009 Kawasaki EX250-J Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
-
Fuel Capacity
-
City Mileage
-
Highway Mileage
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2009 Kawasaki EX250-J Warranty
Basic
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
Rust
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
2009 Kawasaki EX250-J Insurance
Insurance for a 2009 Kawasaki EX250-J is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Motorcycle with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2009 Kawasaki EX250-J Compare to Other Motorcycle?
The 2009 Kawasaki EX250-J (Ninja 250R) carved out a dominant niche in the entry-level sportbike segment, often outshining its direct competitors in key areas.
Performance: Compared to rivals like the Suzuki GW250 (Inazuma), the Ninja 250R offered a significantly more potent and sportier twin-cylinder engine, with higher horsepower and a more engaging, high-revving powerband. While the Honda CBR250R, introduced a few years later, offered modern fuel injection and comparable power, its single-cylinder engine had a different, less rev-happy character. Older rivals like the Hyosung GT250R often struggled with inconsistent quality and lower power output despite its V-twin configuration.
Features: The Ninja 250R, with its full fairing and dual headlights, presented a more aggressive, 'mini supersport' aesthetic that many buyers preferred over the naked styling of the GW250. Feature-wise, all bikes in this class were relatively basic, lacking advanced electronics. The Ninja's carbureted system was a minor drawback compared to the fuel-injected CBR250R, but its simplicity also contributed to its ruggedness.
Reliability: This is where the Ninja 250R truly excels. Its legendary reliability often surpassed even Honda's offerings, making it a benchmark for dependability and low maintenance. The Hyosung models, in particular, had a reputation for lesser reliability and quality control issues.
Price: New, the Ninja 250R was aggressively priced, offering exceptional value. On the used market, its strong resale value reflects its desirability and reliability, often commanding higher prices than less popular rivals of the same vintage.
For those seeking a similar experience, the Honda CBR250R is a viable alternative, offering fuel injection and comparable performance but with a single-cylinder engine. The Suzuki GW250 is a more sedate, naked twin-cylinder option. However, if modern features like ABS, more power, and fuel injection are priorities, newer alternatives like the Kawasaki Ninja 300/400, Honda CBR300R, Yamaha YZF-R3, or KTM RC390 offer significant upgrades in performance and technology, making them "better" alternatives for those not strictly adhering to the 250cc class. For its segment and era, the 2009 Ninja 250R was a top-tier choice.
Performance: Compared to rivals like the Suzuki GW250 (Inazuma), the Ninja 250R offered a significantly more potent and sportier twin-cylinder engine, with higher horsepower and a more engaging, high-revving powerband. While the Honda CBR250R, introduced a few years later, offered modern fuel injection and comparable power, its single-cylinder engine had a different, less rev-happy character. Older rivals like the Hyosung GT250R often struggled with inconsistent quality and lower power output despite its V-twin configuration.
Features: The Ninja 250R, with its full fairing and dual headlights, presented a more aggressive, 'mini supersport' aesthetic that many buyers preferred over the naked styling of the GW250. Feature-wise, all bikes in this class were relatively basic, lacking advanced electronics. The Ninja's carbureted system was a minor drawback compared to the fuel-injected CBR250R, but its simplicity also contributed to its ruggedness.
Reliability: This is where the Ninja 250R truly excels. Its legendary reliability often surpassed even Honda's offerings, making it a benchmark for dependability and low maintenance. The Hyosung models, in particular, had a reputation for lesser reliability and quality control issues.
Price: New, the Ninja 250R was aggressively priced, offering exceptional value. On the used market, its strong resale value reflects its desirability and reliability, often commanding higher prices than less popular rivals of the same vintage.
For those seeking a similar experience, the Honda CBR250R is a viable alternative, offering fuel injection and comparable performance but with a single-cylinder engine. The Suzuki GW250 is a more sedate, naked twin-cylinder option. However, if modern features like ABS, more power, and fuel injection are priorities, newer alternatives like the Kawasaki Ninja 300/400, Honda CBR300R, Yamaha YZF-R3, or KTM RC390 offer significant upgrades in performance and technology, making them "better" alternatives for those not strictly adhering to the 250cc class. For its segment and era, the 2009 Ninja 250R was a top-tier choice.
Final Verdict: Is the 2009 Kawasaki EX250-J a Good Motorcycle?
The 2009 Kawasaki EX250-J (Ninja 250R) is an exceptionally well-rounded motorcycle, making it an ideal choice for a diverse range of riders. It's perfect for new riders due to its forgiving power delivery, light weight, and confidence-inspiring handling. Commuters will appreciate its stellar fuel economy, nimble nature in traffic, and low running costs. Even experienced riders looking for an economical, fun-to-ride track day machine or a reliable secondary bike will find it appealing.
This vehicle is absolutely worth buying, particularly as a used model. Its depreciation curve is favorable, meaning you can often acquire a well-maintained example at a fantastic price. When buying used, prioritize bikes with a clear maintenance history, a clean title, and good cosmetic condition (especially the fairings), over simply low mileage. Since there were no significant trim levels beyond standard color options, focus on overall condition and how well it has been cared for. It represents an outstanding blend of reliability, affordability, and genuine sportbike fun, making it one of the best value propositions in the used motorcycle market.
This vehicle is absolutely worth buying, particularly as a used model. Its depreciation curve is favorable, meaning you can often acquire a well-maintained example at a fantastic price. When buying used, prioritize bikes with a clear maintenance history, a clean title, and good cosmetic condition (especially the fairings), over simply low mileage. Since there were no significant trim levels beyond standard color options, focus on overall condition and how well it has been cared for. It represents an outstanding blend of reliability, affordability, and genuine sportbike fun, making it one of the best value propositions in the used motorcycle market.
Jovan
Jovan specializes in interpreting vehicle records and making sense of VIN data. With over 10 years of experience in the automotive data industry, his work ensures that every report is clear, accurate, and useful for car buyers.