2026 KAWASAKI Ninja 500 ABS

Race to victory on the bike built for winning. This KX™250 motorcycle is the most competitive racing package yet, with a lightweight chassis, high-performance engine, and race-ready electronic features like Power Mode Selection and Kawasaki TRaction Control (KTRC). Plus, cutting-edge technology like ERGO-FIT® components and RIDEOLOGY THE APP KX™ offer maximum adjustability, so you can find your unique winning style. Be the fastest in the pack. Be the next champion on the KX250.

Lead the Pack

Victory starts with the KX™250 motorcycle’s potent 249cc engine. The anatomy of this race-winning engine includes finger-follower valve actuation, a downdraft-style intake, and dual injectors. This KX250 is the most competitive racing package to date, based on our championship-proven 250-class platform that’s dominated motocross for decades.

Strong as Ever

On the KX™250 motorcycle, an aligned intake and centrally positioned, straight exhaust port deliver high airflow efficiency, strong overrun, and smooth, low-rpm torque for power when you need it most—when riding at low-end speeds, up hills, or under loads.

Low-End Power

Strong low-end torque pairs with linear throttle control for smooth acceleration and optimum traction.

Efficient Performance

A single-shaft primary engine balancer contributes to smooth power delivery and reduced vibration, improving throttle control especially when exiting tight corners.

Innovated to Win

In today’s ultra-competitive motocross landscape, success at the highest level is aided through advanced tech. The KX™250 motorcycle is equipped with smartphone connectivity and electronic controls sourced directly from Kawasaki factory racing efforts, placing race-proven functionality at your fingertips.

Smartphone Connectivity

One of Kawasaki’s flagship technologies, RIDEOLOGY THE APP KX™, is available on the KX™250 motorcycle. With this game-changing tech, riders can calibrate engine mapping, monitor engine telemetry, track maintenance schedules, and more.

Traction Management

The KX™250 motorcycle features Kawasaki TRaction Control (KTRC) at the push of a button. Using the Traction (T) button on the left handlebar, riders can quickly select from 2 levels (Weak, Strong) of control to suit conditions and preference. Riders may also elect to turn the system off.

Adapt Your Riding Style

Using the Mode (M) button on the left handlebar, riders can easily switch between 2 engine maps (Normal and Aggressive) provided in the ECU.

Every Second Counts

A factory-style launch control system helps put the KX™250 motorcycle’s power to the ground for maximum acceleration. By pushing the Mode and Traction buttons simultaneously, you activate the launch control system for an efficient race start in low-traction conditions. The holeshot is yours for the taking.

Peak Dexterity

Features like a lightweight perimeter frame, Showa 49mm coil-spring fork, and Uni-Trak® rear suspension sharpen handling performance and stability on every section of the track. Start shaving down lap times when you experience it all come together.

Light & Quick

A lightweight, aluminum perimeter frame delivers a high level of both light, nimble handling and composed character while optimized rigidity balance offers precise front-end feel for superior cornering performance across a wide range of conditions.

Highly Responsive Ride

A high-performance Showa 49mm, inverted coil-spring fork handles suspension duties up front. Its large-diameter inner tubes and large, 25mm damping pistons deliver smooth action and firm damping. Uni-Trak® rear suspension offers comfort and control, allowing the rider to adjust settings to suit conditions.

Ride With an Edge

With ERGO-FIT® adjustable components, you can optimize your riding position and unlock your performance potential. Sleek bodywork and aggressive, factory-style graphics reflect the dominant attitude KX™ race machines are known for.

Adjust for Victory

ERGO-FIT® adjustable components allow riders to choose from 4 handlebar positions and 2 footpeg positions to suit body size and preference.

Feel the Advantage

Medium-compound ODI lock-on grips offer excellent grip feel, while their screw-type fastening system makes it easier to swap grips.

Styled to Stand Out

Highly acclaimed for slim ergonomics, the KX™250 motorcycle features nearly seamless bodywork that offers a smooth rider interface. Firm shrouds, side covers, and rear fender help to eliminate hooking points.

Easy Access

The left-side airbox cover can be removed without tools for easy access to the dome-shaped air filter. Secured with quick-release hooks, changing the air filter is an easy task.

Features

Compact exhaust for optimized mass centralization

Optimized intake downdraft angle and fuel injection settings

Single-shaft primary crankshaft balancer

Coned disc-spring hydraulic clutch

Showa 49mm coil-spring fork and single shock

ODI lock-on grips

Flush bodywork and shrouds for optimized rider interface

Quick-release side cover offers tool-less air filter access

Power

Engine - 4-stroke, single-cylinder, DOHC, liquid-cooled

Displacement - 249cc

Bore x Stroke - 78.0 x 52.2mm

Compression Ratio - 14.1:1

Fuel System - DFI® with 44mm Keihin throttle body and dual injectors

Ignition - Digital DC-CDI

Transmission - 5-speed, return shift, with wet multi-disc manual clutch and hydraulic clutch actuation

Final Drive - Chain

Electronic Rider Aids - Power Modes, Kawasaki TRaction Control (KTRC), Launch Control Mode

Performance

Front Suspension / Wheel Travel - 49mm Showa inverted telescopic coil-spring fork with 16-way compression and rebound damping /12.0 in

Rear Suspension / Wheel Travel - Uni-Trak® with dual-range (4 turns high speed/19-way low-speed) compression damping, 22-way rebound damping and adjustable preload/12.1 in

Front Tire - 80/100-21

Rear Tire - 110/90-19

Front Brakes - Single semi-floating 270mm Braking petal disc with dual-piston caliper

Rear Brakes - Single 240mm Braking petal disc with single-piston caliper

Details

Frame Type - Aluminum perimeter

Rake/Trail - 27.0°/4.6 in

Overall Length - 86.2 in

Overall Width - 32.3 in

Overall Height - 49.8 in

Ground Clearance - 13.4 in

Seat Height - 37.6 in

Curb Weight - 230.9 lb* without fuel / 240.8 lb*

Fuel Capacity -1.64 gal

Wheelbase - 58.5 in

Special Features - Smartphone Connectivity via RIDEOLOGY THE APP KX™, ERGO-FIT®

Color Choices - Lime Green