My 2007 Kawasaki Ninja 250 Ride and Overview ( EX250R )
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- Опубликовано: 5 сен 2024
- Take a ride on my 2007 Kawasaki Ninja 250 with me! I've had the bike since 2012 but it hasn't gotten any exposure here on my RUclips channel until today, as I've focused on the Yamaha XT225 and SR250. The Ninja is a fun, reliable bike that's served me well for over 17,000 miles, including a few longer trips. In this video I'll share what I like about it and the few modifications it has.
Links referenced in the video:
Ninja 250 FAQ resource: faq.ninja250.org
Fork springs: www.cannonrace...
Wind deflector: www.laminarlip...
If you enjoyed this video I hope you’ll give it a “like” and will consider hitting the subscribe button. Have a comment or thought? Please leave it below…comments are always encouraged and appreciated! For more content you can also follow me here:
Instagram: / jimmytmoto
Website: jimmytmoto.com
This channel is for motorcycle riders, mechanics, and enthusiasts who enjoy the simple joys of motorcycling, from dual sport riding to fixing up old bikes on a budget. My videos also consider the perspective of short motorcycle riders (when it’s helpful and relevant) in choosing and modifying bikes and equipment.
I’ve been hooked on motorcycles since 1975 when, at the age of 11, my dad brought home a shiny new Suzuki TM75 for me and a Suzuki TC185 for himself so that we could trail ride together in the hills of West Virginia. Since then I’ve worked as a mechanic, owned countless bikes, and even worked in the motorcycle industry for a number of years as a photographer and journalist. Now I do mainly video production and enjoy nothing more than making and sharing these motorcycle videos on RUclips.
Thanks again for watching. Ride safe!
- jimmytmoto
I ended up buying a 2006 ninja 250 after your video. I love the bike it’s fast enough for me right now. Wish it did a little better on the freeway but can’t complain. Thanks for the great video
change the sprockets
I'm 6'5 220 and my 2005 250 is comfortable for me. I might look like a goon riding it but it's a blast on the twisties.
reaaly? im 6'1 and i had to adjust all the pedals and levers drastically to be comfortable
@@cavemenproductions2682 thats odd im also 6'1 (34 inch inseam) and never an issue. I guess it just depends how much you care about comfort
I used to have that exact model and color. Why? Because it’s the best-looking motorcycle ever made.
Stay safe. And when you do fall, be sure to survive!
Thinking about picking me up one of these as a back road commuter to work. Everyone is trying to talk me out of it saying I need bigger bc I'm 375 lbs but tbh I'm only going 20 mi and the majority of it is 40 mph and some corners where you HAVE to slow down to 20 just to make them... I just want awesome mpg lol. I've had an 86 shadow 500, '00 cbr 600, 93 Vulcan 1500 then an intruder 800 and the intruder and the shadow were the most fun I've had but I miss the winding out I could do on my cbr so I think this is a good mix for a budget.
Oh, and I've ridden my buddy's rebel 250 and a co-workers yamaha r3 so Im thinking I can make the little ex250 work for my needs
Iv owned 3 of the 88 -2007 kawasaki ex 250 s and thought I would buy a new body design of the 2009 and sold it it is very uncomfortable so I went back to the older ones.
Just came across your videos while researching what bike to buy. I decided on a 2006 ninja 250 and it’s perfect. Your videos helped me a lot immensely on what bike to purchase.
they aren't $1500 anymore. they cost about 2500-3500 now depending on whether it's an 88-07 model or a 08-12 model.
with a salvage title...lol
Right I'm about to go see one 2007 for $2000, I just hope it's a stellar bike. Been posted for 13 days 🤞
Got it and rode it one hour home in 2 degree. Toes darn near frozen. Got a bit to change click the friction zone and the rear break pedal.
I just picked one up for 750 clean title just needed a new battery,front tire , and idle adjustment its a 07 ex250
Really, an excellent adult video with the right attitude . This model is insanely cheap used, and good low mileage bikes can be found for little more than a beater.
I just bought this exact bike, been sitting for 5 years only has 4,901 miles needs slight tune up but been riding great I love it! First street bike, long time dirt guy
As a 31 year old new rider, I’d love one of these. I love the older looks, the fuel economy, the stupid limiter (smaller displacement).
There a awesome bike have heaps of go for a 250
From Richmond Indiana here! Thanks for the video and information I’m hoping to find a good deal on a project bike. Never owned one or rode a bike before and I’m on a super budget! Wish me Luck!
Love the styling. The 2007 BMW F800S design was totally inspired by this bike.
Without the risers, all my weight is on my arms. Going to order some. Thing is a screaming gnat above 7500 rpm. Really well designed gem.
I still have this bike and still gets the job done..
Just got one for myself too. Been riding a 125 for years in US and just wanted a full sized bike capable of highway speeds. Love it. Perfect budget commuter and much more fun than my economic car
After owning a ninja for 5 years, Sold mine couple of months ago for the same price i bought a used 300 cbr..
@@lancelotray 5 years? Really got your money’s worth there! Any complaints? I’ve only put 50 miles home on the bike so I barely have a feel for it but it feels like so much more fun than the 125.
How are you liking the 300?
@@KidNamedKuddy Well comparing the one i have with a ninja 250, the ninja doesn't have enough torque to get out of certain situations, like if you wanna pass a truck.. TBH, I think that's the only difference between the two bikes. They pretty much the same bike. If you're not a speedster rider, i dont see any reason why you'd get bored of it. If you are just a commuter/cruising type of rider, ninja is perfect.
Just my two cent, learn everything with it, get good, get experienced so when you upgrade to higher bikes, it will be a piece of cake..
Goodluck :)
@@lancelotray thanks for sharing that info. I appreciate that
Thanks for sharing Jimmy.
I've seen your XT225 postings and enjoyed them.
Now the 250 Ninja ... Nice compact bike.
Your channel makes lock down a little less stressful.
Regards from S Africa
Clive
Thanks a bunch, Clive!
truly fantastic video. also a 5'6" rider with like a 27-28" inseam. It restricts us guys so much on what we can/can't ride. But this helps so much to know it's comfortable enough.
Right on! The few little mods I've done to the bike have made it really comfortable during even the longest days in the saddle. It's been a great little bike.
im a short guy too and im getting into bikes and trying to get my first which is almost lined up but im worried about when i out grow the small beginner bike if ill even be tall enough to get a bigger bike
@@dominickbasso2523 You might have to get away from sport bikes and into cruisers. They sit low. I never thought I could ride a sport bike because I didn't know any existed that would be low enough. I just found out about this one a few weeks ago and bought one this week! Almost all the cruisers seat heights are pretty low though. I have a 27" inseam and I can straddle a rebel, V star, Nighthawk, Shadow, etc.
I'm 6ft tall looking at the Hayabusa like we were made for each other lmao
@@rosee7011 cruisers suck with feet forward, and low ground clearnace for cornering.
I rode my '98 today...... Much fun on a 250 👍
The look of this bike I love so much I’m trying to find one of these for my first bike
13:20 - 13:40 very similar to my story with my 250 hahah. I didn’t even have my permit when I bought my 07 and I bought it in late fall but I knew how ride so we were all good :)
I don't even got a license yet, think I'll be fine?
Their was also a 1986 and 1987 version that I think was the best looking. The 1988 to 2007 version is the best all around though more comfy and still looks great. I like to keep the stickers original on my bikes as anything else looks like it may have been crashed or something and body panels replaced😀 I have owned several 250s over the years and need to get another some day. Great video! Go google the 1986 250 Ninja if you haven’t already.
I’m getting my first bike here and I have a class scheduled. I’m excited to start riding
2007 Kawasaki Ninja 500EX was my first bike. I'm glad I started off with that thing. Got the speed wabbles/ tank slapper at 127mph early in my riding.
Whoa, I bet you still remember the feeling of that tank slapper! When I think of the things we've all managed to survive...
Sweet machine.
The prices of bikes are going up. When i cruised the local motorcycle dealers in June,2021 they all had zip for used bikes, saying nobody is trading them in, and E Bay gets 2500 to 3 grand for used Ninjas. I don't have cash, just credit, so i am still shopping for one of these supposed 1500.00 ones. doesn't seem promising. I live in western Ma so maybe it's just a local thing. I like 250's but right now, anything reasonably priced will get my attention. Great video.
Bike looks clean.
I just took a trip from Tulsa Oklahoma to Dallas Texas last Wednesday on this exact bike and cruised 85 all the way I actually am so surprised on how well this bike actually does I've put 12000 miles on my bike
That sounds great! 100% agree, it's a great little sport tourer. It took me getting used to running the revs that high at first but then I realized that's exactly what the Ninja was made for. I think sometimes people think too much about what a bike can/should/will be able to do - like long trips - when maybe they should just hop on, set off, and enjoy the ride!
Sweet video, thanks! Been riding a Grom for years but Picking up my first full sized bike, this 07 ninja 250 with 12k on it for $1100 this weekend. It was super cheap and I wanted a tad bit more power and something more comfortable for commutes. Hope it’s fun :)
Hey, enjoy your new ride! I think you'll really like the Ninja and that it will open up a whole new world. Those Groms are awesome, though...I hope you have room in the garage for both bikes!
@@jimmytmoto Hey thanks for the response. From my short ride home, I can already see it’s a whole New World. Feels like an actual motorcycle compared To my minibike 125. I think it’s going to be a blast. Ride safe! Thanks for the video
That is a great price! I picked one up on Tuesday with 5k miles for $1500 and I thought I got a great deal. Being 4'10", I'm still a little afraid to hop on it, but I will this weekend if it doesn't rain for sure!
@@rosee7011 nice! Hope you have fun
Love the bike. Looking for my first maybe my forever bike.
I'm older wanted a bike for year's im finally gonna get one..
Can't spend a lot so can't buy new.
This bike would be perfect.
Thanks for video I was just lucky enuff to get a 2006 with 256 miles on it it sat for four years in prosess of just fishing tank gonna clean crabs chang oil new batteri
Yeah you should hit the crabs directly with the medical shampoo
Thank you for reply I'm gonna start there it was stored in garage with cover it was just dusty looks brand new never dumped never in rain I'm starting on it this weekend thanks again
Lol I just saw how I spelled carbs lol
awesome review this helped a lot
Do they make a 2023 ninja 250 ?
Great video! Good information and helpful.
Great video mate
hey bro, add one more sub to your count :) good looking bike bro. I had mine since May of this year, (my first bike) don't have my permit yet because i can't apply for it since i can't go into the DOT here. oh well. 2007 kawi 250's rock for a first bike :)
solid bike thats for sure.
Good to see you back! The little Ninja looks like a blast. I hope I can find a good xt225 this summer for the back of my motorhome. My CT90 did well this last summer but I would like a little faster bike for those 25 mile + trips.
Thanks! The XT225 (or maybe a DR200) would be the perfect "back of the motorhome" bike. My uncle had a CT90 when I was a kid and I put tons of miles on it over gravel roads and open fields...what good times. The CT will always be a favorite. Have you seen the new CT125 Honda will be importing? It looks good but is a bit expensive to buy new, in my opinion.
@@jimmytmoto I have been watching closely. Unfortunately it is rated at only 8HP. So far it looks like 2021 release in Japan only.
I got the same bike to learn to ride. I had to clean the carb and gas tank first though so I have not yet ridden it
14:23 I hope I fall in love with my 2010 250r like you did with youts, sounded like a breakup
Legend bike
Can you tell me what brand and size your wind deflector is and where you got it please? I’d love to get one for mine. Thank you.
me too. it freeways all day long bjut like being in a wind tunnel, def checking out that laminal flow deal
I'm getting one
think this is the "right" model, for any long distance riding, I am surprised that it isnt revving wildly in this normal riding video. The high revs and buzz, is why I didnt give the ninja serious consideration.
The higher revving engine isn't for everyone, that's for sure, but I was surprised at just how comfortable (not straining) it runs at 9 - 10,000 rpm. It feels as natural as running 4k on a touring bike. With a loud exhaust it would definitely be shrieking at that rpm but the stock exhaust really does keep it sounding perfectly civil. I believe the video mentions that I did relax the cockpit a little and went to foam grips to help tame the buzz.
@@jimmytmoto update 5/23 just bought one !
Looks like a 1,25 inches risers, I am right ?
hey i was just curious if you have any tips on removing the flames. I really like the all silver look. Thanks
Just got an 06 ninja 250 it's the most fun I've had on 2 wheels in a long time where did you get the risers for the handle bars I cant seem to find them for the first gen ninjas
I would buy it.
Where did you get your handle bar risers from?
Very nice, thought that was a 750 from the looks of it. I never would’ve thought that was a 250. How much do those usually sell for? I think I’m gonna get a sporty little bike when this virus blows over. I’m thinking of an FJR, Concours or a Katana. Leaning towards a “Brand new” 2016 FJR that’s been hanging out in someone’s garage for a few years because of a ding on the gas tank. I used to have a concours, great bike until it blew up at 75 and almost killed me due to rear wheel lockup.
Agreed, the 250 does look like a full-sized bike. A low mileage one might go for $2400 but they can go as low as $1000 for one still running. I'm selling mine for $1000 because it has 22k+ miles, but I've heard of them going 50k+. Man, I bet it took a while to get over having the Concours lock up at speed! Let me know if you go for the FJR, they're great looking bikes.
10 months into the future....
It's not blowing over. Lol
Would you recommend that motorcycle to me, as the first motorcycle?
Im hear for the same reason
@@dariusbivins7251 any size! Except for a 700-1300, usually start small a 250-400 if you want something small and sporty go with a ninja 400 it’s a good looking bike and very easy to throw around corners. If you want to you can start on a 600 but you have to be more aware of yourself and have more self control
What kind of gas mileage did you get on trips ? I see numbers between 55 and 75 mpg. I figure I'm happy at 55-60 on the blue highways... and 65-70 on the highways...if traffic allows. I try to stay the eff away from urban riding, surface or 8 lane.
“That would be a bitchen turn if it wasn’t covered in loose gravel.” 😄
Nice!!!! Would a 6'1" 210lb Guy be O.K. with this bike as a bigginer, 1st bike?
Nice vid :)
How much horse power its make? Cuz i have 1995 one its really 45hp.? Or the new version is less power?
Considering one for deal price under a grand.
But I'm 6 1 with long legs so I'll look like I stole a child's electric fisher price motorcycle.
I also don't. Like crotch rockets
Prefer cruisers or sport touring
Had 450, 650, 750, 900
Liked the 750 sport cruiser for punch and agility but upright seating
That seat looks like a nut buster
Those the Ninja 250 have an upright riding position?
Do you have a link for the 1" clip on risers?
Hi Larry, the ones I bought are no longer available (further details in another comment, below) so here's the only current link I could find. I hope it helps! bit.ly/2Wjdz28
@@jimmytmoto Thanks!
Where did you find the handlebar risers?
CedarKnollsUnicycle I got the ones from Motorcycle Larry, this was a few years ago and the risers were pretty available on eBay. Well, I just took a look and it’s kind of hard to find them for the 1988-2007 models now. But I did find them at powersportsfx.com online. It might be worth giving them a call to make sure they’re still in stock. Note that they differ visibly from the 2008 and on models because they have a raised edge on one side. I hope this helps and good luck!
Here’s a direct link: bit.ly/2Wjdz28
send me the window deflector info please asap will help bit time for me thanks
tell us how tall you are, weight and inseam... as this helps many of us.
Hi Larry, sorry if I didn't put this in the video. I'm 5'5", 28 inch inseam, 160 lbs. Hope this helps!
@@jimmytmoto sure does Jimmy. Revisiting this video after a year. I just bought an EX not to be my first bike, but after 64 years riding.. perhaps my last bike ! I am 5'8, also 29 inch inseam, and about 220 lbs. I was casting around trying to find some tips for improving the riding position, and of course your video is a wealth of info. You can bet I will try the 1" risers. Seems like lowering the foot pegs to improve the knee angle will be tough... so I may play with adding an inch to the seat height...if I can find a junk seat to experiment with. I'm not fan of having gear piled high on the rear seat...so I will see if the LL Bean bicycle panniers I used on my KZ-200 will work, without hitting the mufflers. Is that a magnetic tank bag ? Last bike had an aluminum tank ( K-75 low seat) but looks like great idea.
How many bikes you got? You still have your DR?
Right now it's down to the three bikes: the 2006 Yamaha XT225, the 1981 Yamaha SR250, and the 2007 Kawasaki Ninja 250. I let the DR350 go after buying the XT225, though it was a great bike. So the plan for this year is to sell the Ninja at some point and get it down to just the XT225 and the SR250. I'm considering some more mods on the SR250 right now, probably new shocks and a different seat, just to see what else can be done on a budget.
jimmytmoto so long as you keep that little XT, I have the same bike and I think she’s great, loved the simple mods video that you put out earlier
Effing brave to buy a bike from a beginner. I avoid it like the plague, because they destroy bikes fast. Which makes it tough to buy a used 250 ! You "done good", maybe I will be a bit less afraid.. but still be thorough in the look over.
Not really much that you can mess up on a this gen ex250 without it being completely obvious right away. I've got over 30000mi on the one I just picked up for $900
Does anyone no how many miles these bikes can do I was thinking maybe 50 thousand?
Hey, Chad, it depends so much on the care and maintenance. I've definitely heard of 50,000 miles with regular maintenance and of people going even higher. I've also seen examples of trashed bikes on Craigslist with under 10,000 miles. I'd say the XT will have above average reliability if well cared for and 50,000 for the engine is very possible without major repairs, though you'll certainly be going through some bearings, cables, other wear items like that, especially if you're riding in muddy or dusty conditions. Right now I'm around 12,000 and mine has been ultra-reliable. I hope that helps!
Many people report getting around 50-60k on these.
👍
Hey Jim always enjoy your stuff, but wouldn't a Ninja 400 fit you a bit better? I mean I know your not a very tall feller but still a male body mass must be quite a strain on that little bike, I could be wrong. I know Ninja 250's are common for female starter motorcyclists.
The Ninja 400 would be AWESOME! I'd love to ride one. When I picked this up in 2012 the 400 (or even 300) wasn't on the market yet and I was just looking to go cheap. I'm sure the 400 would be a way different riding experience, power-wise (the 250 can go fun and fast but the power is kind of soft). The 400 would be a whole 'nother level of performance. Shoot...now you have me thinking about a sportbike...
@@jimmytmoto The little bike segment is looking great right now. I have a zzr600 I'm about to jump on for a ride, and don't get me wrong there will probably be a stupid grin on my face all day, but those little bikes are surprisingly great for traveling. My little 80s Honda 500 was drama free, was easy on my body for all day riding, and just a little less mentally exhausting. Has me looking at the current CB500F, Yamaha has a naked version of their little R3, Kawasaki's ninja 400, or naked z400. It's a good thing I can't afford anything right now cause making a decision would be difficult haha.
Probably a waste of time being nearly a year later--but you still have this thing? Lol.
I have one for sale for $2000
Where??
kids buying stuff always makes me uneasy... or adults with kid mindsets... I dont mind if they come see it, but only if whos ever test riding has a license, thats how I bought mine.
I recently sold a 650 to someone with only a permit lol, but theyve been riding and I made a recorded verbal contract essentially. Selling motorcycles makes you see people like dumb dumbs sometimes hahaha..
That bike has trained a lot of new riders and yet you say “I want it to go to somebody with experience” you are making it sad it’s a teacher let it do what it’s been doing all these years
Hey Blonco, you’ll be happy to know I sold the bike to a brand new rider a couple months ago and it will be his first motorcycle. Though he has no experience, he showed up with a learners permit and a helmet in hand, which made me comfortable selling it to him.
Bruh sound like he crying from the vibration🤣😂
Why do people think this 'ride and talk' format is good? It's so useless...
I was looking for this exact video, 🫡Thanks for the info.
Their was also a 1986 and 1987 version that I think was the best looking. The 1988 to 2007 version is the best all around though more comfy and still looks great. I like to keep the stickers original on my bikes as anything else looks like it may have been crashed or something and body panels replaced😀 I have owned several 250s over the years and need to get another some day. Great video! Go google the 1986 250 Ninja if you haven’t already.