Faults:

Sometimes the bike bogs down when accelerating, struggles to reach high speeds, or stalls when the throttle is released.

The bike starts and runs well when cold, but once it warms up (in heavy traffic), the idle speed drops, it loses power, and it may even stall.

Electrical system faults, rapid battery drain, flickering lights, or the engine stalling intermittently.

Initially, I noticed high fuel consumption. This is generally due to poorly adjusted carburetors, a stuck float needle allowing free flow of gasoline, or the need to replace the jets and adjust the mixture.

General Comments:

The Ninja 250 is a motorcycle I owned for just over 12 years, yet I enjoyed it to the absolute fullest.

It was a bike I truly made the most of—one that was fun, taught me so much, and which I ultimately had to sell in order to keep growing and evolving; though I did so with a heavy heart. These words are dedicated to it.

Let's start by describing its aesthetics, since I don't know much about the mechanics—though I must say the engine is brilliant; it has plenty of pull and gave me no trouble at all. But I want to talk about the design.

I absolutely love the way it looks! If the CBR125 is a "mini-sportbike," this one takes the step toward truly belonging to that class—though I say "almost" because, while the riding position leans toward the "R" (supersport) style, it still feels more like an "F" (sport-tourer) compared to the bike that would eventually succeed it. Even so, aesthetically, it leaves nothing to be desired; that signature Kawasaki green is undeniably captivating—it draws you in like a bee to honey, and I was instantly hooked.

The riding position is quite comfortable; your back isn't perfectly upright—you can feel that slight forward lean typical of sports bikes—and the clip-on handlebars give it that signature "R-bike" feel.

The seat isn't amazing, but it isn't uncomfortable either.

The windscreen is tiny considering the speeds the bike can reach—we're talking about 160–170 km/h, where the wind starts to become a nuisance. Of course, you shouldn't really be riding that fast, but the urge to open it up is always there.

The controls are well-positioned, and the mirrors—mounted on the fairing—offer much better visibility than the previously described 125cc models, which have them on the handlebars. The fuel gauge only shows the reserve level, which I find a bit inconvenient; I’d prefer a needle indicator or, for a digital display, a battery-style icon—just having a reserve light isn't great.

The suspension is super stiff—I’m not sure if that’s because it’s an "R" model or because it’s a Kawasaki—but the difference compared to a Honda is striking. It’s excellent for touring: very agile, fuel-efficient, and easy to maintain. It’s also a great choice for the city, allowing you to easily weave through traffic, while offering superior stability (thanks to its weight) on the open road. All in all, I consider it a highly versatile bike—great for both highway and city riding—though it certainly falls woefully short on the track.

Unlike Hondas, this one doesn't respond to the throttle with smoothness or gentleness... it lacks low-end power, but if you really wring its neck, it performs at its best—you'll be unbeatable :D. Its top speed is around 160–170 km/h, which is more than enough for what the bike is and its intended purpose—unless you're planning to hit the track.

Fuel consumption is very reasonable—we're talking about 4L/100km; in monetary terms, 15 euros gets you 300 km of riding.

Faults:

The motorcycle has been rock solid knock on wood. Only thing I've done is an oil change and chain cleaning.

General Comments:

This is my first motorcycle and I would definitely recommend it to any and everybody. It is very forgiving, nimble and fun to ride. For me I love the sound of high revving engines. Mine came with an aftermarket exhaust installed, and although I wasn't looking for one, I do enjoy the sound.

Things I like are the high revving engine, and also the reliability. I have a car for commuting, and with this bike I can just wring it out every time I ride and it is a joy. It is definitely at its best on back roads that have 60km-80km (35mph to 50mph) speed limits. The traffic goes about 100km (60mph) and there is usually less traffic so can wind it out as you please to 140km-150km (90mph) when you find spots. Or just enjoy some nice corners. Whereas on the highway, the wind buffeting is insane. Well any windy day and going over 80km (50mph) the wind becomes something you have to constantly ride against. I think it's due to the windshield design. Maybe it's to help keep beginner riders from too much trouble. On highways I am relegated to the slower right lanes. The motorcycle has no problem at this speed; the riding comfort of driving at a steady speed on mainly straight roads is mind numbing and I find I take more breaks on highway.

It is a confidence inspiring bike; redlining it in every gear is not something you can do with the more powerful bikes as a beginner. I have enjoyed it immensely; it's sometimes just as fun doing figure 8's and practicing techniques that am sure are easier on this bike than something with more power.

This motorcycle has me thinking about more powerful bikes in two ways. One, this motorcycle is already enough motorcycle to get into trouble, and break all the speed limits easily. So is it wise to get a more powerful sport motorcycle? Two, the more comfortable I feel riding, the longer I ride. Which leads to being on 80km+ roads more which leaves me wanting for more power and the comfort that comes with the bike being able to easily handle it.