2025 Kawasaki KX250 and KX250X

2/25/2025 6:55pm
lumpy790 wrote:

Working on something …….

lumpy790 wrote:
IMG 4926 0.jpeg?VersionId=GpLgidmda
FGR01 wrote:

Just make sure that when it's time to talk logo placements you let them know it's Moto-Hose before Moto-Bros!  😁

 

That’s hilarious! I legit lol’d. 

1
2/26/2025 7:41am
I got my 2025 KX250x a week ago and took it out on it's first ride today.I raced/rode a 2024 KX250x last year with a PC...

I got my 2025 KX250x a week ago and took it out on it's first ride today.

I raced/rode a 2024 KX250x last year with a PC exhaust, stock motor, tried a vortex ecu but preferred the stock one, then just my comfort mods. 

My 2025 is stock motor/exhaust, the IMS tank from my 2024 bolted on fine, my AXP skid plate I bought for a 2024 bolted on with slight mod to the front mount. 2024 clutch cover/guard fits, ignition cover didn't. 

First ride today, wasn't too long and still pretty sloppy in my area. Bike feels good, I'm familiar with the KX platform aside this updated 2025. But as others have said, the motor is neutered. Feels like it's down 3+hp everywhere compared to my 2024. The actual exhaust note sounds better from what I remember my stock 2024 being, but it is plugged up. I'm hoping that a slip on will make a big difference.

Anyone that's posted on this thread previously and since then has made some improvements post up! 

 

Screenshot 2025-02-24 194800Screenshot 2025-02-24 194717.png?VersionId=3xGIgMtfwYzfd.RS5GsppZtGRO

 

That's some good intel already, I'll be switching from a 2023 shortly, so thank you for that. Looking forward to updates from you.

1
2/26/2025 5:04pm
I got my 2025 KX250x a week ago and took it out on it's first ride today.I raced/rode a 2024 KX250x last year with a PC...

I got my 2025 KX250x a week ago and took it out on it's first ride today.

I raced/rode a 2024 KX250x last year with a PC exhaust, stock motor, tried a vortex ecu but preferred the stock one, then just my comfort mods. 

My 2025 is stock motor/exhaust, the IMS tank from my 2024 bolted on fine, my AXP skid plate I bought for a 2024 bolted on with slight mod to the front mount. 2024 clutch cover/guard fits, ignition cover didn't. 

First ride today, wasn't too long and still pretty sloppy in my area. Bike feels good, I'm familiar with the KX platform aside this updated 2025. But as others have said, the motor is neutered. Feels like it's down 3+hp everywhere compared to my 2024. The actual exhaust note sounds better from what I remember my stock 2024 being, but it is plugged up. I'm hoping that a slip on will make a big difference.

Anyone that's posted on this thread previously and since then has made some improvements post up! 

 

Screenshot 2025-02-24 194800Screenshot 2025-02-24 194717.png?VersionId=3xGIgMtfwYzfd.RS5GsppZtGRO

 

That's some good intel already, I'll be switching from a 2023 shortly, so thank you for that. Looking forward to updates from you.

Thanks, I'll update when I get more time on the bike. 

When I was setting the bike up before the first ride, doing all the pivot point greasing etc., I did put the pegs in the lower position and the bar mounts where I like them, also a 20mm tall GUTS seat. I like the guts seat for long off road racing, don't find it necessary for moto days or that kind of thing. I have long legs and it helps me grip better with my knees/legs. 

I have a CMT composite brand clutch cover guard, I've broken the oem clutch and ignition cover's before, hoping someone comes out with a ignition side guard. I'm running mousses with a 110 AT82 in the rear and MX34 in the front.

Stock spring rates but I think I'll need to go up one. I'll probably like it in the tighter, slower stuff but I ride a mix of tight, first and second gear enduro terrain and 4th/5th gear worcs style terrain, so I never have a perfect set up. 

I'm doing a road trip in a couple weeks to Moab, Arizona and Socal. I'd like to buy a PC while on the trip. Look forward to getting some hours on this thing!

2

The Shop

cc-rider
Posts
7
Joined
2/27/2025
Location
Stillwater, MN US
2/27/2025 4:57am

I just picked up a pair of these for my son and I.  This is an adventure of getting back into riding for me.  So the mellower power delivery might actually be good for me.  At least to start.  But I’m also super curious about what people are/will be doing to uncork these.  I’m going to pull my exhaust off to see if these baffles and screens are in there.  Has it been confirmed that all of them have the choked up exhaust?


IMG 8646 1

9
2/27/2025 6:18am
cc-rider wrote:
I just picked up a pair of these for my son and I.  This is an adventure of getting back into riding for me.  So the...

I just picked up a pair of these for my son and I.  This is an adventure of getting back into riding for me.  So the mellower power delivery might actually be good for me.  At least to start.  But I’m also super curious about what people are/will be doing to uncork these.  I’m going to pull my exhaust off to see if these baffles and screens are in there.  Has it been confirmed that all of them have the choked up exhaust?


IMG 8646 1

Congrats on the new rides and welcome back to riding!

Yes, all exhausts on these are restricted.

 

1
2/27/2025 6:26am
I got my 2025 KX250x a week ago and took it out on it's first ride today.I raced/rode a 2024 KX250x last year with a PC...

I got my 2025 KX250x a week ago and took it out on it's first ride today.

I raced/rode a 2024 KX250x last year with a PC exhaust, stock motor, tried a vortex ecu but preferred the stock one, then just my comfort mods. 

My 2025 is stock motor/exhaust, the IMS tank from my 2024 bolted on fine, my AXP skid plate I bought for a 2024 bolted on with slight mod to the front mount. 2024 clutch cover/guard fits, ignition cover didn't. 

First ride today, wasn't too long and still pretty sloppy in my area. Bike feels good, I'm familiar with the KX platform aside this updated 2025. But as others have said, the motor is neutered. Feels like it's down 3+hp everywhere compared to my 2024. The actual exhaust note sounds better from what I remember my stock 2024 being, but it is plugged up. I'm hoping that a slip on will make a big difference.

Anyone that's posted on this thread previously and since then has made some improvements post up! 

 

Screenshot 2025-02-24 194800Screenshot 2025-02-24 194717.png?VersionId=3xGIgMtfwYzfd.RS5GsppZtGRO

 

That's some good intel already, I'll be switching from a 2023 shortly, so thank you for that. Looking forward to updates from you.

Thanks, I'll update when I get more time on the bike. When I was setting the bike up before the first ride, doing all the pivot point...

Thanks, I'll update when I get more time on the bike. 

When I was setting the bike up before the first ride, doing all the pivot point greasing etc., I did put the pegs in the lower position and the bar mounts where I like them, also a 20mm tall GUTS seat. I like the guts seat for long off road racing, don't find it necessary for moto days or that kind of thing. I have long legs and it helps me grip better with my knees/legs. 

I have a CMT composite brand clutch cover guard, I've broken the oem clutch and ignition cover's before, hoping someone comes out with a ignition side guard. I'm running mousses with a 110 AT82 in the rear and MX34 in the front.

Stock spring rates but I think I'll need to go up one. I'll probably like it in the tighter, slower stuff but I ride a mix of tight, first and second gear enduro terrain and 4th/5th gear worcs style terrain, so I never have a perfect set up. 

I'm doing a road trip in a couple weeks to Moab, Arizona and Socal. I'd like to buy a PC while on the trip. Look forward to getting some hours on this thing!

Awesome!

I'm curious on the feel of the Showa suspension (more the valving than anything else). Some feel KYB is the be all end all, but I've ridden some amazing stock Showa stuff over the years.

My 250X sees a similar life as yours, although the terrain here isn't nearly as rugged. I'm very happy with the compromise to be able to ride a variety of terrain and it not too feel out of it's element.

Enjoy that trip!

lumpy790
Posts
11279
Joined
9/18/2007
Location
York, SC US
2/28/2025 7:45am

2025 KX250 Standard hoses

23-332PU side23-332G side.jpeg?VersionId=h eACNMf7IcJ6aRktl6eBjFWKA4J89Z23-332B side.jpeg?VersionId=Sdbq1ZEC7Wi

 

1
2
mike44
Posts
120
Joined
8/20/2022
Location
FR
3/9/2025 5:36am

Has anyone had feedback on the effect of changing the muffler and modifying the airbox on this new KX ? The Australasian Dirt Bike shootout seems to suggest that with the muffler change and airbox modification, you end up with a completely different engine.

bpalacious
Posts
2
Joined
3/14/2025
Location
Cleveland, MS US
3/14/2025 6:52pm

Long time lurker, first post I think? Idk my account was already made. Anyway I’m also on a 2025 Kx250, 10 hours on the bike and will say I enjoy the showa suspension a ton. Very plush and smooth for stock (6’ 170lbs) went one clicker in on forks. Also very curious on anyone that has done the airbox cutting or gutted the screens from the exhaust? Coming from (all kx250f) 2007, 2018, 2021, now 2025. Power is more but actually similar to the 2021… I have ridden a buddies 2024 and it is a different machine than the 2025. Would love to open it up more without the mega bucks spent. Also overwrote the blue less aggressive mode for Keefer’s map but haven’t had the chance to test for differences yet. IMG 7518 0

2
A_Wise1
Posts
147
Joined
8/20/2016
Location
SV, AZ US
3/14/2025 11:37pm

Has anyone tried this bike with a exhaust system and a mapped ignition? Surely that would open this bike up.

gscx
Posts
186
Joined
4/27/2018
Location
Schenectady, NY US
3/15/2025 8:31am

I have a 450, obviously a different bike. But it had the same issues with stock exhaust and the back fire screen. 

Taking out the backfire screen takes about 5 minutes and it pops right of the cage with some force applied. The two screens come out EZ and the baffle came out by driving a socket through it. 

Check the TPS too. Mine was set slightly low from the factory. Like 2 hours of work and the engine feels fine. I'm coming off a 2020 crf450 and this engine isn't far off. Why people aren't taking some time to do this instead of complaining on a forum is wild to me. Everyone knows what the issues are and how to fix them.

2
YZ125H1
Posts
814
Joined
1/31/2012
Location
Elizabethtown, PA US
3/16/2025 5:51am

Congrats on the new rides and welcome back to riding!

Yes, all exhausts on these are restricted.

 

I figured there would be more hype around the 25s. Seems like there are barely any tests and not many people buying them. Hopefully next year they get the motor sorted out better. Weird how they make a motor the same for years then up and change it.

Nice to see some members on here purchased them good looking bikes! Feel like kawi is putting a lot of effort into their bikes.

bpalacious
Posts
2
Joined
3/14/2025
Location
Cleveland, MS US
3/16/2025 12:13pm
gscx wrote:
I have a 450, obviously a different bike. But it had the same issues with stock exhaust and the back fire screen. Taking out the backfire screen...

I have a 450, obviously a different bike. But it had the same issues with stock exhaust and the back fire screen. 

Taking out the backfire screen takes about 5 minutes and it pops right of the cage with some force applied. The two screens come out EZ and the baffle came out by driving a socket through it. 

Check the TPS too. Mine was set slightly low from the factory. Like 2 hours of work and the engine feels fine. I'm coming off a 2020 crf450 and this engine isn't far off. Why people aren't taking some time to do this instead of complaining on a forum is wild to me. Everyone knows what the issues are and how to fix them.

No complaints here, real linear power delivery and the new chassis sits in corners ALOT better than the previous 21-24 models in the 450 chassis. I was just curious if it caused any crazy backfiring or made the bike run lean. All things considered for anyone wondering the bike is well worth buying or at least having as an option!

3
gscx
Posts
186
Joined
4/27/2018
Location
Schenectady, NY US
3/17/2025 6:51am
gscx wrote:
I have a 450, obviously a different bike. But it had the same issues with stock exhaust and the back fire screen. Taking out the backfire screen...

I have a 450, obviously a different bike. But it had the same issues with stock exhaust and the back fire screen. 

Taking out the backfire screen takes about 5 minutes and it pops right of the cage with some force applied. The two screens come out EZ and the baffle came out by driving a socket through it. 

Check the TPS too. Mine was set slightly low from the factory. Like 2 hours of work and the engine feels fine. I'm coming off a 2020 crf450 and this engine isn't far off. Why people aren't taking some time to do this instead of complaining on a forum is wild to me. Everyone knows what the issues are and how to fix them.

bpalacious wrote:
No complaints here, real linear power delivery and the new chassis sits in corners ALOT better than the previous 21-24 models in the 450 chassis. I...

No complaints here, real linear power delivery and the new chassis sits in corners ALOT better than the previous 21-24 models in the 450 chassis. I was just curious if it caused any crazy backfiring or made the bike run lean. All things considered for anyone wondering the bike is well worth buying or at least having as an option!

I doubt it would. If you check the tps setting it should be at .50, on my 450 it was at .48. Nothing crazy but making sure that number is right goes a long way in makeomg sure the bike runs correctly.

Kxtj49
Posts
5
Joined
11/28/2024
Location
Linthicum Heights, MD US
3/18/2025 4:49pm
gscx wrote:
I doubt it would. If you check the tps setting it should be at .50, on my 450 it was at .48. Nothing crazy but making...

I doubt it would. If you check the tps setting it should be at .50, on my 450 it was at .48. Nothing crazy but making sure that number is right goes a long way in makeomg sure the bike runs correctly.

How can I check and change the TPS setting on one of these new kx’s. Never knew this was something to check until now.

3/18/2025 9:26pm

I've been having fun learning the 250x. I'm not sure what Airbox mod you could do besides venting the side cover, the airbox doesn't look like the 2024 450 photos/mods I've seen elsewhere. I did swap to a twin-air filter right away. 

I'm in Palm Springs area for a week and a half now, planning to ride Cahuilla this weekend. I'd like to ride somewhere Thursday this week just not sure where to go yet. I ordered a PC T-6 Slip-on last week and the Luxxon bar clamps. Ordered both online to be shipped to where I'm staying, hopefully they come tomorrow. I get rid of the rubber bar cones for the aluminum ones, but on the 2025 I'm noticing vibration more than my 2024. 

Bike is feeling better as I break it in and get used to everything. I touched into a bit of "dune" sand in St. George and felt like I was being mean to the bike to try and speed through it, but it did it. One random note is the bike starts very fast, sometimes you barley have to touch the button and its running, in gear or neutral. 

Screenshot 2025-03-18 211459 0.png?VersionId=GxKw7YGGSlVGeScreenshot 2025-03-18 211141 0.png?VersionId=GuIQ9Hi5ZleVxwWScreenshot 2025-03-18 205026 0
8
3/18/2025 9:33pm

 

Random Video clip of me riding the 2025 KX250x on the trip I'm currently on. Bike has stock exhaust in that video. 

Bike currently has 13/52 gearing on it. 5th gear isn't that fast especially in the whooped out areas. 

4
280driver
Posts
855
Joined
3/22/2017
Location
VA US
3/20/2025 2:10pm
cc-rider wrote:
Looks like twin air came out with a full new air filter system for the 2025 KX250.  Billet cage, ECU relocation bracket.  Has anyone tried this...

Looks like twin air came out with a full new air filter system for the 2025 KX250.  Billet cage, ECU relocation bracket.  Has anyone tried this out yet?


https://www.instagram.com/reel/DHYNu7nNszA/?igsh=b3VidmMycWswc3Jt

 

Curious how  this differs from the 450 system?

cc-rider
Posts
7
Joined
2/27/2025
Location
Stillwater, MN US
3/20/2025 6:43pm

Not sure.  But there is now a video of the installation process on YouTube.  Its quite extensive.  Gotta take half the bike apart.  

cc-rider
Posts
7
Joined
2/27/2025
Location
Stillwater, MN US
3/21/2025 6:17am Edited Date/Time 3/21/2025 6:18am

Thought I’d share my experience trying to shoehorn a radiator fan onto the ‘25 KX250:


I put Tusk fans on.  I modified them a bit to make them fit better.  Cut the 2 extended tabs off….then glued the base plate to the fan using JB Weld…then secured the fans to the radiator through the bolt holes that once existed to hold the fan to the baseplate.  Made for a smaller footprint.  And I put it on the right side.  There is more room there.  The engine is shifted a bit to the left side of the bike (probably to balance it with exhaust). And not the ‘25 had the engine pushed closer to the frame and radiators.  This makes for very little space on the left side.  The fan would constantly hit off the head if placed there.


Just in case Tusk is listening here…a little customer feedback:  sure would be nice if they could make this fan have a little bit smaller of a footprint.  Both width and depth.  The total footprint around the actual fan blades is a little bulky.  Seems they could make them a bit smaller footprint.  The fan cools the bike down super fast.  So even a fan a little smaller and with a little less airflow would probably still work just fine.  

Here’s a pic:  

IMG 8725.jpeg?VersionId=zeacL6UIMG 8740
2
280driver
Posts
855
Joined
3/22/2017
Location
VA US
3/21/2025 6:27am

Love those graphics!

1
cc-rider
Posts
7
Joined
2/27/2025
Location
Stillwater, MN US
3/21/2025 8:21am

Thanks.  I actually went with a custom 1988 graphic for my other one.  I had a 1988 KX80 that I just loved as a kid.  My son wanted the 1992 graphic


IMG 8729.jpeg?VersionId=0IMG 8726 0IMG 8717 1.jpeg?VersionId=aSvck3DHs 16baDQl

13
3/21/2025 8:59am
cc-rider wrote:
Thanks.  I actually went with a custom 1988 graphic for my other one.  I had a 1988 KX80 that I just loved as a kid.  My...

Thanks.  I actually went with a custom 1988 graphic for my other one.  I had a 1988 KX80 that I just loved as a kid.  My son wanted the 1992 graphic


IMG 8729.jpeg?VersionId=0IMG 8726 0IMG 8717 1.jpeg?VersionId=aSvck3DHs 16baDQl

I recognized that 1988 tribute right away. Looks amazing!

2
hellion
Posts
1084
Joined
12/19/2009
Location
Westfield, MA US
3/21/2025 9:20am

CC, those are both gorgeous, nice job! I'll be looking around for this thread after Kawy releases the two stroke to do something similar...

1
3/21/2025 11:29am

cc-rider:  I was just thinking about how a bike would look with 1988-1989 style graphics.  I love it!  

lumpy790
Posts
11279
Joined
9/18/2007
Location
York, SC US
3/21/2025 2:19pm

We are all having flashbacks now 😂 

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