The only youtube channel dedicated to the maintenance of this motorcycle. I thank you very much for the work you do, thanks to it we can take care of our Kawasaki and save money. Keep it up! Thank you very much from Spain!
I rode my Ninja 250 all around the country in various different climates, from the mountains of Colorado to the blistering heat of the Mojave Desert and it performed flawlessly. It's not only reliable, it's tough, durable, and can take a beating. I also did some off-roading fully loaded with gear for several hours getting to festivals and campsites and it had no problems. It's not the fastest bike out there but it's one I will keep forever for it's loyalty.
Right on! It's nice to know there are people out there putting their Ninja 250 to the test like me, though the longest ride I've ever done is 460 miles. I now have 55,700 miles on mine. Maybe one day I'll do a 100,000 miles review. I would buy a bigger bike, but I can't afford $300/month in insurance, would rather pay $12/month.
@@ninja250motorcyclemaintena7 I realize Im about 8 months late. Do you still have this bike? Does it burn any oil while on long rides? I own a KLR650 and it burns oil regularly. I had a TW200 that did not burn oil no matter what kind of riding I did so Im curious about and looking at buying a Ninja250
@@cozlacozlinho9596 63,000 miles. I had to replace the stator/alternator recently. Still runs good though after replacing. I bought a second bike about four months ago. Not getting rid of my Ninja 250 though. Too many memories.
FROM AUSTRALIA. Many thanks for your great report mate, I picked one up yesterday with 40,000km K, what a lovely machine!, she's still factory original, no issues at all, good to hear from someone who knows bikes. Thank you!
Nice! $2,000 seems like a fair price. Before the COVID scare, I commuted with my green machine, putting about 100 miles on it every week. I would fill the gas tank only about once per week, $8-12. Have fun and ride safe.
I’m about to pick up a 2011 250 4800miles for 2500$ excited to see these tanks can make it to 40k miles if maintained properly crazy🙌😂 Additionally thanks for all the informative information along with average prices of the maintenance
Great review. One of the few out there for this bike. That's a very thorough maintenance schedule. I don't think i know any riders who maintain their bike as well as you have
Really liked your review on the 250. I’ve always ridden 600 up so I was very curious about the 250 because I’m thinking about buying one for short trips. Thanks for sharing this information.
Had to do a double take on my phone when I saw a notification for this channel. Thanks for the video! I've used every video you've posted and learned so much.
I have never worked on the carbs on this bike, never needed to; I ride it every week so the carbs never get clogged. I would like to do a video on rebuilding the calipers and master cylinders, but I don't think I will have time. I did rebuild both calipers and the front master cylinder on this bike; it's a lot easier than people think.
The ninja 250r is an awesome bike wish I didnt get rid of mine had a 2012 but now I got a 2008 ninja 500r it's a little more powerful for 2 up riding and I like the seat better. Also i like the looks of the 250r but i kinda like the old school look of bikes better. I'm actually thinking of getting another 250r as a 2nd bike.
First off thanks for the valve video.. now I can kick myself for not doing it when I'm supposed to. My experience with my 2008 250 I bought in '09 with 600 miles for $2900 off craigslist: I have about 29k miles on it. I've had only a few problems, first one carb clogged. It sat 6 months before I got my permits, so live and learn my fault. Every 2 weeks I start it up and let it run 5-10 minutes. I also keep Stable in the gas tank if I'm not riding. Mechanic said fuel will break down with 2 weeks. The only other issue I had was when I started the bike, the starter stuck on. So while the motor was running, the starter was still repeatingly kicking on. Shop said maybe dust was on solenoid. It only happened once or twice. Maintenance: I always kept expensive repsol racing synthetic in, and changed every 2k miles. Cyclegear in California stopped carrying it so I'll prob switch to Mobil 1. (If you have a better preference, pls let me know) My sprocket up front is changed to a 14. Helps out on shifting so much. Changed the rear once to aluminum but switching back to steel shortly. Chain only done once but holding up.. DiD gold. Lights all changed to LED. Get the kit from cyclegear. Tires I had replaced probably 4 or 5x. I switched to Bridgestone 16s and 21s 150 in rear. Yes 150, it will fit after I modified the chain guard distance with a few washers. The bigger tire is great because the stock was too squirrely going over grooves in road. Valve job is my poor decision..I only done one at 14k miles. I will do again before it hits 30k. Bike still runs strong tho. I had replaced the chain tensioner with the aftermarket bolt method. Guaranteed not to back out unlike the spring tensioner. Plugs same ngk irridium and air I put k&n in. I reduced the bike a good 10 pounds at least. Swapped exhaust for CF 2 bros slip on saving like 7 pounds alone. Need to repack it though annually. Removed passenger pegs. I've had the bike over 100mph but I weighed 175 at that time. Its carb jetted. Crash reliability: the bike has been down twice. Once during take off at work when it rained and rear tire slid out. Bike slid about 40 feet. No damage.. I suggest getting shotgun sliders full kit with motor cage protection ($170 if you can find them). Freeway accident 70mph!! The bike after I got it recovered kicked right over...amazing durability. I had to replace fairings (full China set Amazon $270). Left bars, and I need to fix my lights/electrical wires. The shogun slider did its job even tho only rated for about 45mph crash. The bike slid out into side of freeway, not hitting any cars or trees. I though had 3 broke bones... wear full leather for now on. I had mesh jacket and sp120 carbon knuckle gloves and they both got tore up but protected skin. Brakes I've probably replaced about 3 or 4 times. I've never replaced the rotor tho. Changed brake and coolant twice. The bike has been sitting 4 years since my 2015 freeway accident so it will get the full maintenance treatment before start riding again. It starts up strong every 1 to 2 weeks to keep carb fresh. Hands down one of the best, cost effective bikes out there. There is a reason it's been kawi's best seller and they didn't need to change anything from 08 to 12
Fortunately, I've never crashed my bike. I mostly use Castrol 4 stroke motorcycle oil I get at O'Reilly's or Autozone. People assume that cheap oil is bad, but I'm sure that a billion dollar company like Castrol can probably afford to make quality oil that is affordable, so I just go with that. I love Cycle Gear. I have shopped there for years. I hope they don't get wiped out by Amazon. On my bike, the 14 tooth front sprocket is a stock sprocket. I'm not sure about other years. I'm thinking about trying Bridgestone tires. These IRC tires are horrible to install. I've seen Iridium sparkplugs on Amazon but have never tried them. I can't go over 91 mph or I'll redline it.
I've replaced rear brake pads five or six times, installed rear tires six times, and performed valve adjustments five times. Doing the work myself gives me a more personal connection with the bike and makes me appreciate it more. That's pretty incredible that you crashed the bike that fast and it wasn't damaged much. Love the war stories! Right on!
I've an Aprilia RSV 1000 and this little gem for Autumn/winter/Spring journeys. It's an 2008 fuel injected. It'll do 75mph all day long. It has a power step at 6000-10,000. Mine has a 2 teeth up on the rear sprocket. It's 7c here in the winter and 32c summer and it'll do that. It's made in Thailand, under licence from Japan.
I know that a lot of Japanese motorcycles are made in Thailand. My VIN indicates that it was made in Japan, but not surprised that some are made in Thailand.
Good luck getting a valve adjustment for $300 or less unless you have a motorcycle tech friend. I moved to San Diego for four years with my new 2008 Ninja 250 and could only find one place that would even check it for less than $500… while telling me that it would be over $600 if it needed adjustment. I had to check it three times in four years and it cost so much I had to do it with a tech day friend (Casey) the third time. Sure enough, it needed a full adjustment and not just a check, making me wonder if the techs actually did their proper checks and adjustments before (they were supposed to give me measurements and never did). Casey and I actually made a video like you did but I was in way over my head and was reduced to just holding the camera. He got into an argument on a popular Ninja 250 forum and ended up deleting the video to spite them. :( That’s why I appreciate your valve adjustment video now more than ever.
Wow. I think more people are riding motorcycles these days because of the gas prices, so mechanics are busier. I noticed that the market for used bikes has gone up.
@@ninja250motorcyclemaintena7 Well, that was 2008 to 2012 but I did get my new 2008 Ninja 250 when gas prices were $4 a gallon… only to watch them plunge as low as $1 by the end of the year (election year shenanigans, no doubt). I paid cash (no financing) and $4 a gallon gas was a huge factor in my decision to get a motorcycle instead of a car. Didn’t own a car for years.
@@ninja250motorcyclemaintena7 The main reason I’m getting back into is is also gas… and losing my car and much more to an EF4 tornado. Time to get the mothballed bike going again!
Amazing video, I'm riding a 2022 Z400 and have yet to insure it. But will because it saved my butt on my last bike. But man your voice reminds me of Gas Work Garage.
I picked a 2008, a few months ago. I use it as my main commuter now, as compared to using my gas guzzling V6 hyundai Tiburon. My commute is approximately 25 freeway miles. Living in Texas, the posted "65/70 mph" signs means everybody is going 80 to 85 mp. The Ninjette does fine, at those speed. (Passing at those speeds, is a little slow though.) The only issue I have with mine is that it is hard starting lately, and cuts off, at every stop before warm up. (And the choke no longer works) since I have changed everything else, I probably need to to a valve adjustment. ( approaching 16,000 miles) other than that, she treats me perfectly. I just finished your 5 part valve adjustment, so going to tackle that next weekend.
Very cool! My bike sometimes doesn't start easily too, but I just give it some gas and it eventually gets going. Unless I warm up my bike thoroughly, it dies at stop lights too. It has always done that, even when it was practically new. I guess that's just a characteristic of bikes with carbs. The Ninja 250 also has a reputation for running cold. Let me know how the valve inspection works out. I don't hear from many people on that. I think most people are too overwhelmed when they hear that the cams must be removed, so they don't attempt it.
Al-Salaamu Aleikum (Peace be upon you) Great Review !!!! I have a Ninja clone called the Boom Ninja and I as well live in the CA but soCal!!! My bike is called the Boom Ninja and it is crafted after the 08 to ‘12 Ninjas. It features a fearsome 125cc pit bike engine but it’s nice for around town. The frame, handlebars, suspension & tires all mimic some aspect of the real ninja. In the braking system, for instance, it has dual disc brakes in the front. This is an upgrade from the single fronts yet top speed is around 70 mph so super fast stopping power. I was so surprised at $25/mo. for “FULL COV’G” ; dude at one time i was paying $700/ year for my bike whose retail value is about $2000!!!! Yet this bike is SO-o-o-o comfortable!!!!! I have ridden from LA to Frisco and nvr hurt the buum!!! I’ve also ridden it from LA to Vegas!!!! Ninja is where it’s at!!!! I recently purchased the Michelin Street Pilot tire and it had the beveled edge which is similar to my tires (Chinese-brand Celimo). But let me tell you that the Chinese tires in the rear are 140 7017 and the water grooves are wider and the tire at a 140 is actually wider than the Michelin 150s. It costs 1/6th the price!!!! There are a many a time that I would have fallen had it not been for the DESIGN of Celimo tires. I did find a pit bike review for sml motors in large framed bikes. It said to put 150/70/17 on rear & 120/70/17 on front & bike will be super stable at high speeds above 70 mph!!! You do have a lot more wgt on your bike BUT this may also help.
The only thing other than regular maintenance/consumables I've needed on my 09 was a fork seal at ~15,000 miles. I went ahead and did both and swapped out springs and oil to better suit my weight. Otherwise this thing was a fantastic financial decision for me. I've so many bad cars over the years because its all I could afford and I was never truly stranded when they broke down because I always had my ninjette. Cost $2750 back in 2012. Nows when I admit that I've never had the valves checked though. I always though you wait until the interval to adjust them (which I need to do now) What are the consequences if they've never been adjusted but the bike still runs amazing?
The top end of the engine will burn up. I have a valve adjustment series. If you're willing to do fork seals, there's no reason you couldn't do the valve adjustment. Just need a shim kit, cam chain tensioner holder plate, and a micrometer.
Yeah... definitely do the fork seals when they go. As you leak oil out it can get onto the brakes, I have seen this happen from even a minor leak. Also your leaking out the stuff the makes your suspension work, kind of important. Bust seals also let moisture in in colder climates, and emulsify the fork oil. Again that's what makes your suspension work correctly. Not good.
I agree, but my fork seals leaked for years and the oil never got onto the disk (depends on the bike) and they never leaked enough to reduce the suspension performance significantly, but generally, I agree with everything you wrote.
Just bought a 2012 250r so pumped gonna run a carb cleaner fuel mix cause the idle is a bit off but other than that it’s pretty nice. Anyone notice the heat rising on these? I’m thinking replacing the coolant with engine ice to see if it make a difference.
I always laugh when I hear people talk bad about small cc bikes. They are excellent value and are super fun. My next bike will be a Ninja 400. Till then I'm running my 2007 Ninja 250 till it blows up.
Small cc bikes are ace. Getting a ninja 250 myself next week, just had my Duke 200 written off. Even the 200 managed to hold 70 easy. Can't wait for mine to turn up. Used to ride 'big bikes' but there is always too much traffic / bad weather to really enjoy them here.
I Own a 2011 Ninja 250r that I Bought New and Just Like You Said, What a Machine! 😊👍 I agree with everything you said, although mine is a little different, because it is European (I am Portuguese from Portugal) and so the same is Fuel Injected! In fact the motorcycle is very resistant because in a accident at 5 years ago in which both (me and the motorcycle) were projected a few meters by a car with a side crash, and it was not necessary to perform any repair in its structure !! With 55500km (about 34500mi) At this time and only had two problems: Faulty Fuel Pump (I was able to replace the engine of fuel pump for a low price) and Faulty Manometers (which were replaced with Digital Koso Manometers)! And I assume that the same malfunctions were caused by the huge accident i suffered, because she was in the Mecanic to repair for about two years and a half, because the Secure don't want to paid!! 😡😕 And also I do Almost All Mantenaice and Repairs Off My Bike to! 😉👍
By the way, I would like to thank you for the videos of your channel that are very informative and a precious help for repairs and maintenance of the motorcycle, etc. ...! That have helped me many times ... Thank you! 😊 Strong hug from Portugal! 😉👍
Awesome video. Nice work going into detail on the costs. Would you consider switching to kerosene for chain cleaner, and manual transmission oil (or heavy engine oil) for the chain? It's recommended by the OEM and chain manufacturers, and is significantly cheaper than the spray on chain products when you start racking up the miles.
I've heard about that. I believe the user manual mentions something about it. If you don't spray the kerosene on, would you have to remove the chain and drench it?
Awsome video. I just got my hands on a green 2009 ninja 250 as a project. Currently already have a ninja 636, FXDL, and a roadglide. Hoping to get the 250 up and running and use as a commuter/ around town bike. Seems so comfortable and easy to ride fr just the ride position. I live in Hayward and work in Oakland. Maybe I’ll run into you?🤷♂️
I just bought a used 08 with 10k miles. I've had it less than a month but I'm loving it, just wondering if there are any inexpensive mods that are worth it.
The only mods that I would do are a fender eliminator kit (really difficult to install) and maybe folding mirrors because they are easier to adjust (don't know if these are available for the 250 though).
Shake the bike..needle wont move until warmed a little. Check your cables going to the gauges. My speedometer and odometer stopped working and found out it was loose cable connected from front tire leading up to front guages.
I would like to, but I don't think I will have time. Plus, I replaced fork oil three weeks ago and oil seals, dust seals, retaining clip, etc., so I won't need to do it for a while. Don't hesitate to ask me any questions. I am very familiar with the job. The job went really smoothly except when I tried to drive the oil seals. For some reason they just didn't want to go down. The bushings went down fine. I would suggest using OEM seals (I used aftermarket) and don't use a universal seal driver. Hopefully making these changes will help me avoid the problem next time.
I have the 2011 Ninja 250r Special Edition in Pearl White . rn in 2021 it has 4k miles . all by me just this year . except the first 10 miles it had up until I bought it last year . it was a barn find lol . AMAZING BIKE . Loves high revving hence my channel name . Also started a channel if you wanna check it out . - HigherRPMs
That's crazy.. but you get free medical 🤣🤣🤣🤣. I pay $11.75 with Allstate but I'm 47. It was $12 when it was new in 2009, so age 37 then. That's liability. I'm in California also, reg was $125 2008 250
These are extremely reliable high milage capable bikes. My 09 has almost 60k on the clock and still going. No smoke runs great
How often you replace ur spark plugs ? Have you forks seals leaked ? How long do you wait, to warm up the bike ?
The only youtube channel dedicated to the maintenance of this motorcycle. I thank you very much for the work you do, thanks to it we can take care of our Kawasaki and save money. Keep it up! Thank you very much from Spain!
Thanks!
I appreciate the work u put into ur channel i love my 250 and after watching this i dont think i ever want to get ride of mine
Amen to that brother.
I rode my Ninja 250 all around the country in various different climates, from the mountains of Colorado to the blistering heat of the Mojave Desert and it performed flawlessly. It's not only reliable, it's tough, durable, and can take a beating. I also did some off-roading fully loaded with gear for several hours getting to festivals and campsites and it had no problems. It's not the fastest bike out there but it's one I will keep forever for it's loyalty.
Right on! It's nice to know there are people out there putting their Ninja 250 to the test like me, though the longest ride I've ever done is 460 miles. I now have 55,700 miles on mine. Maybe one day I'll do a 100,000 miles review. I would buy a bigger bike, but I can't afford $300/month in insurance, would rather pay $12/month.
@@ninja250motorcyclemaintena7 I realize Im about 8 months late. Do you still have this bike? Does it burn any oil while on long rides? I own a KLR650 and it burns oil regularly. I had a TW200 that did not burn oil no matter what kind of riding I did so Im curious about and looking at buying a Ninja250
@@oatmealxyz Still have the bike. Just passed 60,000 miles. Doesn't burn any oil.
@@ninja250motorcyclemaintena7 hey buddy, what's the current milage? Any issues so far?
@@cozlacozlinho9596 63,000 miles. I had to replace the stator/alternator recently. Still runs good though after replacing. I bought a second bike about four months ago. Not getting rid of my Ninja 250 though. Too many memories.
Your maintenance videos have spoiled me. I just finished cleaning the carbs and realized how much harder it is without one of your videos to follow!
Thanks!
@@ninja250motorcyclemaintena7 no, thank you!
This is how a motorcycle review should be done.
michael harrington agreed
Wow.. I another video after such a long time. Nice to see you riding
FROM AUSTRALIA. Many thanks for your great report mate, I picked one up yesterday with 40,000km K, what a lovely machine!, she's still factory original, no issues at all, good to hear from someone who knows bikes. Thank you!
hey mate, getting a 2011 ninja as well. mileage at 55k kms. How is the bike doing so far.
I just bought a 09 for $2000. Clogged pilot jets. Cleaned them and been riding to work with it. 😁
Nice! $2,000 seems like a fair price. Before the COVID scare, I commuted with my green machine, putting about 100 miles on it every week. I would fill the gas tank only about once per week, $8-12. Have fun and ride safe.
This new video caught me off guard real hard, nice to see your new uploads. Cheers
Thank you so much. Real experiences from a real rider. I've learned quite slot on what to expect from my ninja 250r 2010.
Thanks!
Thanks! just bought my first 250 so really appreciate a detailed video. Have a good one 👊
I’m about to pick up a 2011 250 4800miles for 2500$ excited to see these tanks can make it to 40k miles if maintained properly crazy🙌😂
Additionally thanks for all the informative information along with average prices of the maintenance
A lot more than 40,000. Mine has 64,000 now.
@@ninja250motorcyclemaintena7 picked it up 2000$ 🙌🔥
@@MerkgamersTV Excellent! Keep me updated on your progress.
Great review. One of the few out there for this bike. That's a very thorough maintenance schedule. I don't think i know any riders who maintain their bike as well as you have
I would totally pay more for a bike maintained like this
Thanks for the amazing review! I just bought a ninja 250. Can’t wait to ride it around :)
Informative thanks. Just a 94 plate. The indicators have just packed up . Lovely original machine.
Getting this bike real soon, especially because I live in the Bay area.
Great bike for the bay area. Lived there16 years.
Nice video. Fellow Bay Area resident.
I have one 2010, this week complets 62k kilometers, 39k miles more or less, such a tankwar!
Right on!
Really liked your review on the 250. I’ve always ridden 600 up so I was very curious about the 250 because I’m thinking about buying one for short trips. Thanks for sharing this information.
Thanks for the positive feedback!
Had to do a double take on my phone when I saw a notification for this channel. Thanks for the video! I've used every video you've posted and learned so much.
Thanks for the positive feedback!
@@ninja250motorcyclemaintena7 could is you do a cleaning carbs/ brakes one? Appreciate all you do 👍
I have never worked on the carbs on this bike, never needed to; I ride it every week so the carbs never get clogged. I would like to do a video on rebuilding the calipers and master cylinders, but I don't think I will have time. I did rebuild both calipers and the front master cylinder on this bike; it's a lot easier than people think.
The ninja 250r is an awesome bike wish I didnt get rid of mine had a 2012 but now I got a 2008 ninja 500r it's a little more powerful for 2 up riding and I like the seat better. Also i like the looks of the 250r but i kinda like the old school look of bikes better. I'm actually thinking of getting another 250r as a 2nd bike.
First off thanks for the valve video.. now I can kick myself for not doing it when I'm supposed to. My experience with my 2008 250 I bought in '09 with 600 miles for $2900 off craigslist:
I have about 29k miles on it.
I've had only a few problems, first one carb clogged. It sat 6 months before I got my permits, so live and learn my fault. Every 2 weeks I start it up and let it run 5-10 minutes. I also keep Stable in the gas tank if I'm not riding. Mechanic said fuel will break down with 2 weeks.
The only other issue I had was when I started the bike, the starter stuck on. So while the motor was running, the starter was still repeatingly kicking on. Shop said maybe dust was on solenoid. It only happened once or twice.
Maintenance: I always kept expensive repsol racing synthetic in, and changed every 2k miles. Cyclegear in California stopped carrying it so I'll prob switch to Mobil 1.
(If you have a better preference, pls let me know)
My sprocket up front is changed to a 14. Helps out on shifting so much. Changed the rear once to aluminum but switching back to steel shortly. Chain only done once but holding up.. DiD gold.
Lights all changed to LED. Get the kit from cyclegear.
Tires I had replaced probably 4 or 5x. I switched to Bridgestone 16s and 21s 150 in rear. Yes 150, it will fit after I modified the chain guard distance with a few washers. The bigger tire is great because the stock was too squirrely going over grooves in road.
Valve job is my poor decision..I only done one at 14k miles. I will do again before it hits 30k. Bike still runs strong tho.
I had replaced the chain tensioner with the aftermarket bolt method. Guaranteed not to back out unlike the spring tensioner.
Plugs same ngk irridium and air I put k&n in.
I reduced the bike a good 10 pounds at least. Swapped exhaust for CF 2 bros slip on saving like 7 pounds alone. Need to repack it though annually. Removed passenger pegs. I've had the bike over 100mph but I weighed 175 at that time. Its carb jetted.
Crash reliability: the bike has been down twice. Once during take off at work when it rained and rear tire slid out. Bike slid about 40 feet. No damage.. I suggest getting shotgun sliders full kit with motor cage protection ($170 if you can find them).
Freeway accident 70mph!! The bike after I got it recovered kicked right over...amazing durability. I had to replace fairings (full China set Amazon $270). Left bars, and I need to fix my lights/electrical wires. The shogun slider did its job even tho only rated for about 45mph crash. The bike slid out into side of freeway, not hitting any cars or trees. I though had 3 broke bones... wear full leather for now on. I had mesh jacket and sp120 carbon knuckle gloves and they both got tore up but protected skin.
Brakes I've probably replaced about 3 or 4 times. I've never replaced the rotor tho. Changed brake and coolant twice.
The bike has been sitting 4 years since my 2015 freeway accident so it will get the full maintenance treatment before start riding again. It starts up strong every 1 to 2 weeks to keep carb fresh.
Hands down one of the best, cost effective bikes out there. There is a reason it's been kawi's best seller and they didn't need to change anything from 08 to 12
Fortunately, I've never crashed my bike. I mostly use Castrol 4 stroke motorcycle oil I get at O'Reilly's or Autozone. People assume that cheap oil is bad, but I'm sure that a billion dollar company like Castrol can probably afford to make quality oil that is affordable, so I just go with that. I love Cycle Gear. I have shopped there for years. I hope they don't get wiped out by Amazon. On my bike, the 14 tooth front sprocket is a stock sprocket. I'm not sure about other years. I'm thinking about trying Bridgestone tires. These IRC tires are horrible to install. I've seen Iridium sparkplugs on Amazon but have never tried them. I can't go over 91 mph or I'll redline it.
I've replaced rear brake pads five or six times, installed rear tires six times, and performed valve adjustments five times. Doing the work myself gives me a more personal connection with the bike and makes me appreciate it more. That's pretty incredible that you crashed the bike that fast and it wasn't damaged much. Love the war stories! Right on!
I've an Aprilia RSV 1000 and this little gem for Autumn/winter/Spring journeys. It's an 2008 fuel injected. It'll do 75mph all day long. It has a power step at 6000-10,000. Mine has a 2 teeth up on the rear sprocket.
It's 7c here in the winter and 32c summer and it'll do that.
It's made in Thailand, under licence from Japan.
I know that a lot of Japanese motorcycles are made in Thailand. My VIN indicates that it was made in Japan, but not surprised that some are made in Thailand.
Good luck getting a valve adjustment for $300 or less unless you have a motorcycle tech friend. I moved to San Diego for four years with my new 2008 Ninja 250 and could only find one place that would even check it for less than $500… while telling me that it would be over $600 if it needed adjustment. I had to check it three times in four years and it cost so much I had to do it with a tech day friend (Casey) the third time. Sure enough, it needed a full adjustment and not just a check, making me wonder if the techs actually did their proper checks and adjustments before (they were supposed to give me measurements and never did). Casey and I actually made a video like you did but I was in way over my head and was reduced to just holding the camera. He got into an argument on a popular Ninja 250 forum and ended up deleting the video to spite them. :( That’s why I appreciate your valve adjustment video now more than ever.
Wow. I think more people are riding motorcycles these days because of the gas prices, so mechanics are busier. I noticed that the market for used bikes has gone up.
@@ninja250motorcyclemaintena7 Well, that was 2008 to 2012 but I did get my new 2008 Ninja 250 when gas prices were $4 a gallon… only to watch them plunge as low as $1 by the end of the year (election year shenanigans, no doubt). I paid cash (no financing) and $4 a gallon gas was a huge factor in my decision to get a motorcycle instead of a car. Didn’t own a car for years.
@@ninja250motorcyclemaintena7 The main reason I’m getting back into is is also gas… and losing my car and much more to an EF4 tornado. Time to get the mothballed bike going again!
Amazing video, I'm riding a 2022 Z400 and have yet to insure it. But will because it saved my butt on my last bike. But man your voice reminds me of Gas Work Garage.
excellent analysis
Thank you thank you thank you
Amazing review! I’ve owned a Ninja 250 and I completely agree!
I picked a 2008, a few months ago. I use it as my main commuter now, as compared to using my gas guzzling V6 hyundai Tiburon. My commute is approximately 25 freeway miles. Living in Texas, the posted "65/70 mph" signs means everybody is going 80 to 85 mp. The Ninjette does fine, at those speed. (Passing at those speeds, is a little slow though.) The only issue I have with mine is that it is hard starting lately, and cuts off, at every stop before warm up. (And the choke no longer works) since I have changed everything else, I probably need to to a valve adjustment. ( approaching 16,000 miles) other than that, she treats me perfectly. I just finished your 5 part valve adjustment, so going to tackle that next weekend.
Very cool! My bike sometimes doesn't start easily too, but I just give it some gas and it eventually gets going. Unless I warm up my bike thoroughly, it dies at stop lights too. It has always done that, even when it was practically new. I guess that's just a characteristic of bikes with carbs. The Ninja 250 also has a reputation for running cold. Let me know how the valve inspection works out. I don't hear from many people on that. I think most people are too overwhelmed when they hear that the cams must be removed, so they don't attempt it.
It's probably the coil sticks and spark plugs. Mine were rusted in at 12600 miles. I also changed the air filter that was very dirty.
Al-Salaamu Aleikum
(Peace be upon you)
Great Review !!!! I have a Ninja clone called the Boom Ninja and I as well live in the CA but soCal!!! My bike is called the Boom Ninja and it is crafted after the 08 to ‘12 Ninjas. It features a fearsome 125cc pit bike engine but it’s nice for around town. The frame, handlebars, suspension & tires all mimic some aspect of the real ninja. In the braking system, for instance, it has dual disc brakes in the front. This is an upgrade from the single fronts yet top speed is around 70 mph so super fast stopping power. I was so surprised at $25/mo. for “FULL COV’G” ; dude at one time i was paying $700/ year for my bike whose retail value is about $2000!!!!
Yet this bike is SO-o-o-o comfortable!!!!! I have ridden from LA to Frisco and nvr hurt the buum!!!
I’ve also ridden it from LA to Vegas!!!! Ninja is where it’s at!!!! I recently purchased the Michelin Street Pilot tire and it had the beveled edge which is similar to my tires (Chinese-brand Celimo). But let me tell you that the Chinese tires in the rear are 140 7017 and the water grooves are wider and the tire at a 140 is actually wider than the Michelin 150s. It costs 1/6th the price!!!! There are a many a time that I would have fallen had it not been for the DESIGN of Celimo tires. I did find a pit bike review for sml motors in large framed bikes. It said to put 150/70/17 on rear & 120/70/17 on front & bike will be super stable at high speeds above 70 mph!!! You do have a lot more wgt on your bike BUT this may also help.
very good review👍
I have same bike right at 18,000 runs like a champ. Never done anything to the valves how would one know when time to do it?
Every 7500 miles.
Thanks , great audio. Didcyou say you hated it?
Nice video man just subbed
Thanks!
The only thing other than regular maintenance/consumables I've needed on my 09 was a fork seal at ~15,000 miles. I went ahead and did both and swapped out springs and oil to better suit my weight. Otherwise this thing was a fantastic financial decision for me. I've so many bad cars over the years because its all I could afford and I was never truly stranded when they broke down because I always had my ninjette. Cost $2750 back in 2012.
Nows when I admit that I've never had the valves checked though. I always though you wait until the interval to adjust them (which I need to do now) What are the consequences if they've never been adjusted but the bike still runs amazing?
The top end of the engine will burn up. I have a valve adjustment series. If you're willing to do fork seals, there's no reason you couldn't do the valve adjustment. Just need a shim kit, cam chain tensioner holder plate, and a micrometer.
awesome review thank you
Yeah... definitely do the fork seals when they go. As you leak oil out it can get onto the brakes, I have seen this happen from even a minor leak. Also your leaking out the stuff the makes your suspension work, kind of important. Bust seals also let moisture in in colder climates, and emulsify the fork oil. Again that's what makes your suspension work correctly. Not good.
I agree, but my fork seals leaked for years and the oil never got onto the disk (depends on the bike) and they never leaked enough to reduce the suspension performance significantly, but generally, I agree with everything you wrote.
I’m going to purchase one tomorrow it’s a 09 250
Just bought a 2012 250r so pumped gonna run a carb cleaner fuel mix cause the idle is a bit off but other than that it’s pretty nice. Anyone notice the heat rising on these? I’m thinking replacing the coolant with engine ice to see if it make a difference.
I always laugh when I hear people talk bad about small cc bikes. They are excellent value and are super fun. My next bike will be a Ninja 400. Till then I'm running my 2007 Ninja 250 till it blows up.
I will probably ride mine until it blows up too. I am interested to see when that will happen. Right on!
Small cc bikes are ace. Getting a ninja 250 myself next week, just had my Duke 200 written off. Even the 200 managed to hold 70 easy. Can't wait for mine to turn up. Used to ride 'big bikes' but there is always too much traffic / bad weather to really enjoy them here.
I Own a 2011 Ninja 250r that I Bought New and Just Like You Said, What a Machine! 😊👍
I agree with everything you said, although mine is a little different, because it is European (I am Portuguese from Portugal) and so the same is Fuel Injected!
In fact the motorcycle is very resistant because in a accident at 5 years ago in which both (me and the motorcycle) were projected a few meters by a car with a side crash, and it was not necessary to perform any repair in its structure !!
With 55500km (about 34500mi) At this time and only had two problems: Faulty Fuel Pump (I was able to replace the engine of fuel pump for a low price) and Faulty Manometers (which were replaced with Digital Koso Manometers)!
And I assume that the same malfunctions were caused by the huge accident i suffered, because she was in the Mecanic to repair for about two years and a half, because the Secure don't want to paid!! 😡😕
And also I do Almost All Mantenaice and Repairs Off My Bike to! 😉👍
By the way, I would like to thank you for the videos of your channel that are very informative and a precious help for repairs and maintenance of the motorcycle, etc. ...! That have helped me many times ... Thank you! 😊
Strong hug from Portugal! 😉👍
Cool! Thanks for the positive feedback!
Awesome video. Nice work going into detail on the costs. Would you consider switching to kerosene for chain cleaner, and manual transmission oil (or heavy engine oil) for the chain? It's recommended by the OEM and chain manufacturers, and is significantly cheaper than the spray on chain products when you start racking up the miles.
I've heard about that. I believe the user manual mentions something about it. If you don't spray the kerosene on, would you have to remove the chain and drench it?
Awsome video. I just got my hands on a green 2009 ninja 250 as a project. Currently already have a ninja 636, FXDL, and a roadglide. Hoping to get the 250 up and running and use as a commuter/ around town bike. Seems so comfortable and easy to ride fr just the ride position. I live in Hayward and work in Oakland. Maybe I’ll run into you?🤷♂️
Cool! It's a great commuter bike. Takes a while to warm up in the morning though. The Ninja 250 community calls them cold blooded ogres.
I just bought a used 08 with 10k miles. I've had it less than a month but I'm loving it, just wondering if there are any inexpensive mods that are worth it.
The only mods that I would do are a fender eliminator kit (really difficult to install) and maybe folding mirrors because they are easier to adjust (don't know if these are available for the 250 though).
@@ninja250motorcyclemaintena7 Thanks for the tips, will look those up. Cheers!
I just made a deposit on this bike today, the seller lied me that its 300 and the housing is also written 300. 😢
can you teach us how to fix to fuel gauge if it doesn't work?
I have never worked on the fuel gauge on this bike.
Shake the bike..needle wont move until warmed a little. Check your cables going to the gauges. My speedometer and odometer stopped working and found out it was loose cable connected from front tire leading up to front guages.
Are you sure it only goes 91mph
So what about gas regular?or premium??
I always use 91, but I don't know if it's necessary.
Ninja 250 Motorcycle Maintenance ok got it man I’ll probably use that if I get one that’s 2011 or higher
@@ninja250motorcyclemaintena7 in my place it is recommended to use 98 ron. Im using 92 tho
You are in Berkeley ca
Hi, ı found this bike at 43k miles on it. Owner says it is well taken care of kawasaki service. Should I buy it ?
I would not pay more than $1000 for it, especially in today's market. But that's just me.
can you do a video how to change fork oil ?
I would like to, but I don't think I will have time. Plus, I replaced fork oil three weeks ago and oil seals, dust seals, retaining clip, etc., so I won't need to do it for a while. Don't hesitate to ask me any questions. I am very familiar with the job. The job went really smoothly except when I tried to drive the oil seals. For some reason they just didn't want to go down. The bushings went down fine. I would suggest using OEM seals (I used aftermarket) and don't use a universal seal driver. Hopefully making these changes will help me avoid the problem next time.
Do you have a video that you recommend for this procedure?
I don't know of one specifically for the Ninja 250.
@@jorge16178 Here is a very detailed & professional video on how to do fork seals on a ninja ex 250 ruclips.net/video/ZSfV7Ks6jls/видео.html
I know the area very well I’m from Oakland
No fairings??
Lovely work sir. Fairly expensive to maintain compared to my Honda CBR250R (single cyl) here in India.
I have the 2011 Ninja 250r Special Edition in Pearl White . rn in 2021 it has 4k miles . all by me just this year . except the first 10 miles it had up until I bought it last year . it was a barn find lol .
AMAZING BIKE .
Loves high revving hence my channel name .
Also started a channel if you wanna check it out . - HigherRPMs
ninja 250 2011 gen4 it is.
I'm from Ontario Canada. I'm 24 no tickets and pay 145 a month for liability 😂😭
For a Ninja 250!!!?
That's crazy.. but you get free medical 🤣🤣🤣🤣.
I pay $11.75 with Allstate but I'm 47. It was $12 when it was new in 2009, so age 37 then. That's liability. I'm in California also, reg was $125 2008 250