I bought one of these in November for just 1250 bucks! It was an '07 with just 3200 miles but its in good shape! Perfect beginners bike for me. Sadly though this years weather going up and down the last 2 months has really killed me from riding it more, cant wait till we get normal stable weather again! Thanks man, good points.
At $1200, I would be pretty cautious. I think a valve adjustment should be around $200, but I'm not sure how much just the check would cost. If the bike has been sitting around, it's likely that the carburetors will need to be cleaned as well. I just followed regular maintenance to get the bike to 28k miles. My biggest piece of advice is to never be late on an oil change and check the oil level regularly.
I have the same bike, except mine is all banged up on the right side from crashing. It's still in decent condition, though. I had to install the aftermarket flushmounts after my crash, so my bike is no longer stock. I agree with all of your pros and cons. :)
Yeah. Parts are cheap to replace when you damage the bike and it's hard to do that much damage to the engine in 9k miles. Just make sure to check the oil level regularly!
It's great that you've put that many miles on it instead of upgrading to a bike that uses more gas, has more power than makes sense on public roads and is likely less comfortable. It's equally great that you've resisted cosmetic and exhaust "upgrades". But what tops both of those is that you're willing to ride a bike that's smaller than your girlfriend's. :) I considered light modulators but have been too lazy. :-D I've got a 2004, too. I've had it since 2009 and have only put 800 miles on it. It now has just under 4,000. I prefer the somewhat dated look and it's more comfortable to ride than the new generation 250R (more thickly padded seat and less of a lean angle).
Yeah. I have more fun riding my Ninja 250R on the streets than my Ninja ZX-10R on the streets just because I can't ever use much of the power with the ZX-10R. It is much more comfortable, and I agree that the look does grow on you after a while. I actually have a new Ninja 250R that I've done a ton of modifications to, but they're all performance modifications because I use it as my track bike. I'll get some more videos of it up soon along with a new review video.
To each his own. I will admit that I wasn't very fond of the look myself, but it's grown on me over time. The bike has a definite retro look that I've become fond of.
@beachghost93 Hmm... I just use it to get people's attention, and it's worked great every time I've used it so far. I typically use it if I think that someone doesn't see me.
This video is very old and there's a good chance I won't get an answer, but has anyone been able to find fairings for this bike? I've looked everywhere online and can't find anything. I have a 2004 and it's missing the two side pieces. It has been since we bought it and repaired it.
I always liked the ninja 250, I don't know how I ended up starting on a ZX7R. You should always choke a carburetor, valves clacking that loud needs an adjustment.
Is 14.69 a month good for just comprehensive not full or collision. I called nationwide. Any other suggestions? It seems I'm given a hard time and struggle to find a good rate
Quwali found a better deal 2007 for 700 dollars with less than 400 miles on it.... JUST got in from cleaning g the carbs for the second time lol and she's ALIVE..... im so happy right now
Brogan Hogan Pink Cheese LLC out of Texas! I got a full body fairing kit for my EX500. But they make other body kits for other bikes as well. Find them on E-bay.
The foot peg position is too far rearward ( for an old man with bad knees) and quite difficult to change. The stock grips are quite hard ( but mine are now 21 years old) All the electrical connectors could use little rubber boots. People don't complain about this as a reliability issue, but it's a detail that I will remedy with shrink tubing, after I treat all the contacts with Caig DeOxit. The manual fuel shut off is hidden and should be used... rather than trusting the vacuum petcock ( ask me how I know this). Actually a great engine, once you learn to become accustomed to it's high revving nature. the ninja 250wiki is invaluable. The wet weight of 309 lbs, large tank , and low seat height make this a great choice when you get tired of trying to park 600 pound behemoths. It does sound like an angry gnat if you ride it briskly around your neighbors. The inclusion of both a large oil filter and an oil strainer screen means this engine was meant to last. You MUST have the articulated plug wrench supplied in the tool kit.
I'll tell you the same thing that I tell everyone else. Start on whatever bike you'd like, but there are two important things to consider. Smaller bikes are more forgiving and easier to learn on. Smaller bikes have parts that are typically cheaper to replace. That being said, I have friends that started on 1000cc bikes without any problems.
I use Motul 5100 in all of my bikes, but some people say that it's overkill for a Ninja 250. I used to always use Castrol 10w40 oil before that and never had any issues. Ninja 250's just rev high for such a small engine so my personal opinion is that higher quality oil will help the engine last longer.
It all depends on how the bike was broken in and how the bike was maintained. I bought that bike at 3,000 miles and the previous owners had done a great job taking care of it.
Thanks for the video! I've got the same bike in yellow and I agree that the throttle and clutch are forgiving. Indeed not the fastest bike around by any means, but definitely enough to get out and have fun on for getting started on bikes. I've enjoyed it.
Little update on that he is saying it's a 04 lol he's a pretty familar guy from a bike forum I hangout on not a bad person he's good at wrenching working on his own project bike's I think he bought it of CL near my area and fixed it up to flip it the cuz I saw that bike being on sale by a woman rider and she couldnt get it started and she did not know how to fix the problem I think it was the wire being unplugged from the kick stand lol
Most states in the U.S. have limited or no helmet laws so you're likely not required to wear anything if that's what you'd like to do. Before you go around riding in your birthday suit, you should check out my girlfriend's video "My gear after my motorcycle crash."
The black lever on the left side of the bike is the choke. You only need to use that when the engine is cold and use it sparingly. All it does is allow more gas to go into the carburetors, but the engine can flood if you're not careful. I'm not sure what you're talking about with the cord and metal piece.
It's a nice color scheme, but I think I like the color scheme of my new 250R better. It's black and silver with orange accents. Sorry to hear about the accident. You can always epoxy your fairings back together and repaint them.
@halodude2895 When I first got my bike, I was 22. The insurance hasn't really changed since I've turned 25. The cheapest you can get is about $12 per month, but I have moderate coverage and pay like $36 per month.
I get about the same on my new 2004 Ninja 250 after switching from dual exhausts to a single side exhaust. The newer EX250's probably get worse fuel economy because they have a single side exhaust stock.
I've used Progressive for all of my bikes. Progressive has amazing customer service and I've never had any issues with them. It's up to you regarding what is covered, but I definitely recommend getting uninsured motorist coverage. My girlfriend was hit by someone without insurance earlier this year.
I've never cleaned the carbs on either of my Ninja 250Rs. I ride my bikes weekly though. I've heard from others that you need to ride a carbureted bike for 30 miles at least every two weeks to keep the carbs clean.
About to get a 07 250 ninja it's got 10k on it cosmetic damage on it went down on it's right side the seller says it need's a valve check how much can I expect to pay have it done by a mechanic/auto shop he is asking $1200 for the bike. Can you let us know your maintenance schedule tip's and tricks to get it to 28k
Nice bike you have there. Another thing good about the older Ninja 250 up to 2008, is they can have their valves adjusted with tools, no shims, or cams to remove. I have a K4 Kaw Vulcan en500ltd, a detuned Ninja 500r motor, great bikes, but like your bike, you can't hook your helmet without it being burned, older Kawasaki bikes are bad for that design problem. I Have a K6 SV650 too, but I am looking for a 250cc bike to enjoy, small bikes can be, more fun than a barrel of monkeys. lol
Also my bike does not have a choke button you push to warm it up. It has a cord and a metal piece i have to pull and their is also this black tiny nob on the left side of the bike i have to spin to idle the bike higher is this suppose to be like this?
hi there I like your review, I found a 2007 ninja 250 with only 600 original miles the owner selling it for 2,000.00 ..u think that a deal, comes with owners manuel ,2 keys , tool kit . the oil been changed carbs cleaned . don't think I can pass it up. low miles the owner hardly drove it..lol
yeah me too im getting my first one and its a 250 im getting it in a few days only has 14K miles anyone have any look for thing to make sure its not going to be bad in a few weeks after i buy it like oil or water
Oh really!?well idk about the ex500 but the Airbox of the ex250 is stuck between the frame of the bike. Cleaning it isn't hard putting it back in might be. I'm doing it this coming weekend I'll let you know hahah
I think that the turn signals being the way they are is the best way to have them because usually they break no matter where they are and those look so easy to unscrew and put a new one right in!
I just bought 2006 ninja for 1200 has 250 miles on it sat sense 2015 all I have to do is get battery n flush gas tank. N replace the petcok n chang oil. Thanks for video. Helps alot if you have other advice please share newrider thanks
@@jeremiahkohlstaedt4683 holy hell that must have taken ages! Reason I'm asking is because I'm going to look at one for cheap and needs the exact same things.
Hi I just saw this video and I have a question. How do I get my tail light to come on when I turn my 2005 ninja 250 on? Everything else works but the tail light doesn't light up but if I hit the break it comes on. If you can help with that I really would appreciate it.
The tail light in the Ninja 250 is a dual filament bulb. It sounds like the filament for the running lights burned out, so you'll just need to replace the bulb in the taillight.
I bought one of these in November for just 1250 bucks! It was an '07 with just 3200 miles but its in good shape! Perfect beginners bike for me. Sadly though this years weather going up and down the last 2 months has really killed me from riding it more, cant wait till we get normal stable weather again! Thanks man, good points.
At $1200, I would be pretty cautious. I think a valve adjustment should be around $200, but I'm not sure how much just the check would cost. If the bike has been sitting around, it's likely that the carburetors will need to be cleaned as well. I just followed regular maintenance to get the bike to 28k miles. My biggest piece of advice is to never be late on an oil change and check the oil level regularly.
I have the same bike, except mine is all banged up on the right side from crashing. It's still in decent condition, though. I had to install the aftermarket flushmounts after my crash, so my bike is no longer stock. I agree with all of your pros and cons. :)
Yeah. Parts are cheap to replace when you damage the bike and it's hard to do that much damage to the engine in 9k miles. Just make sure to check the oil level regularly!
got the same bike. mines 02 and yellow. original owner here
It's great that you've put that many miles on it instead of upgrading to a bike that uses more gas, has more power than makes sense on public roads and is likely less comfortable. It's equally great that you've resisted cosmetic and exhaust "upgrades". But what tops both of those is that you're willing to ride a bike that's smaller than your girlfriend's. :)
I considered light modulators but have been too lazy. :-D I've got a 2004, too. I've had it since 2009 and have only put 800 miles on it. It now has just under 4,000. I prefer the somewhat dated look and it's more comfortable to ride than the new generation 250R (more thickly padded seat and less of a lean angle).
Yeah. I have more fun riding my Ninja 250R on the streets than my Ninja ZX-10R on the streets just because I can't ever use much of the power with the ZX-10R. It is much more comfortable, and I agree that the look does grow on you after a while.
I actually have a new Ninja 250R that I've done a ton of modifications to, but they're all performance modifications because I use it as my track bike. I'll get some more videos of it up soon along with a new review video.
To each his own. I will admit that I wasn't very fond of the look myself, but it's grown on me over time. The bike has a definite retro look that I've become fond of.
Hey I was wondering where did you get your MOD for your tail lights? I just recently bought a 2005 kawasaki ZZR 250.
Where is the hazard light for the 2004 250 Ninja
@beachghost93 Hmm... I just use it to get people's attention, and it's worked great every time I've used it so far. I typically use it if I think that someone doesn't see me.
dog is a legend
This video is very old and there's a good chance I won't get an answer, but has anyone been able to find fairings for this bike? I've looked everywhere online and can't find anything. I have a 2004 and it's missing the two side pieces. It has been since we bought it and repaired it.
I always liked the ninja 250, I don't know how I ended up starting on a ZX7R. You should always choke a carburetor, valves clacking that loud needs an adjustment.
Hey i started on a 7r at 5.8 140 pounds
what size rear rim and tire are you running on the ninja? and where did you purchase the rear rim and tire?
Yes if you want to leave your skin on the road in case of a crash than its fine. Always wear gears kids, its cheaper than hospital bills.
Thank you! Did you end up getting a 250R yet? If so, what do you think of it?
Is 14.69 a month good for just comprehensive not full or collision. I called nationwide. Any other suggestions? It seems I'm given a hard time and struggle to find a good rate
how did you do the headlight tail light flashing mods
Hey did you wane sale?
Check out the msf course. Well worth it. :)
That sounds like a deal to me!
Skip to 6:23 for the good part of the video...
I have the same bike and same color
I only get like 50-55 mpg on my 2012 ninja 250, i need to slow down mabye lol
Puppy
Buying one tomorrow for 450
Jk....
Lol
Quwali found a better deal 2007 for 700 dollars with less than 400 miles on it.... JUST got in from cleaning g the carbs for the second time lol and she's ALIVE..... im so happy right now
Dope bro! @westboundninja1 might snag me a 07 this week. Under 900 miles. One owner. Dealer engine swap :) 1500.
Does anybody make a racier plastics kit on the old 250ex's??
Brogan Hogan Pink Cheese LLC out of Texas! I got a full body fairing kit for my EX500. But they make other body kits for other bikes as well. Find them on E-bay.
Haters gonna hate! :D
I'm 120kg would you recommend this as a good starter bike for my weight?
The foot peg position is too far rearward ( for an old man with bad knees) and quite difficult to change. The stock grips are quite hard ( but mine are now 21 years old) All the electrical connectors could use little rubber boots. People don't complain about this as a reliability issue, but it's a detail that I will remedy with shrink tubing, after I treat all the contacts with Caig DeOxit. The manual fuel shut off is hidden and should be used... rather than trusting the vacuum petcock ( ask me how I know this). Actually a great engine, once you learn to become accustomed to it's high revving nature. the ninja 250wiki is invaluable. The wet weight of 309 lbs, large tank , and low seat height make this a great choice when you get tired of trying to park 600 pound behemoths. It does sound like an angry gnat if you ride it briskly around your neighbors. The inclusion of both a large oil filter and an oil strainer screen means this engine was meant to last. You MUST have the articulated plug wrench supplied in the tool kit.
why is the plug wrentch a must?
I'll tell you the same thing that I tell everyone else. Start on whatever bike you'd like, but there are two important things to consider. Smaller bikes are more forgiving and easier to learn on. Smaller bikes have parts that are typically cheaper to replace. That being said, I have friends that started on 1000cc bikes without any problems.
I use Motul 5100 in all of my bikes, but some people say that it's overkill for a Ninja 250. I used to always use Castrol 10w40 oil before that and never had any issues. Ninja 250's just rev high for such a small engine so my personal opinion is that higher quality oil will help the engine last longer.
It all depends on how the bike was broken in and how the bike was maintained. I bought that bike at 3,000 miles and the previous owners had done a great job taking care of it.
Like I said, I've never cleaned the carbs on it. I have however cleaned the carbs on my girlfriend's Ninja 500R. It's not very difficult.
Thanks for the video! I've got the same bike in yellow and I agree that the throttle and clutch are forgiving. Indeed not the fastest bike around by any means, but definitely enough to get out and have fun on for getting started on bikes. I've enjoyed it.
Little update on that he is saying it's a 04 lol he's a pretty familar
guy from a bike forum I hangout on not a bad person he's good at
wrenching working on his own project bike's I think he bought it of
CL near my area and fixed it up to flip it the cuz I saw that bike being
on sale by a woman rider and she couldnt get it started and she did not know how to fix the problem I think it was the wire being unplugged
from the kick stand lol
Awesome video! i love how you list the pros and such! great job! :)
Rebuilding from the bottom up this exact same bike
Trying to pick one up in same color with orange stripes
Most states in the U.S. have limited or no helmet laws so you're likely not required to wear anything if that's what you'd like to do. Before you go around riding in your birthday suit, you should check out my girlfriend's video
"My gear after my motorcycle crash."
The black lever on the left side of the bike is the choke. You only need to use that when the engine is cold and use it sparingly. All it does is allow more gas to go into the carburetors, but the engine can flood if you're not careful. I'm not sure what you're talking about with the cord and metal piece.
I've just received my learners permit yesterday, everyone keep telling to start off on a 600cc bike. Your review was very helpful.
How to remove air filter box for cleaning
It's a nice color scheme, but I think I like the color scheme of my new 250R better. It's black and silver with orange accents. Sorry to hear about the accident. You can always epoxy your fairings back together and repaint them.
@halodude2895 When I first got my bike, I was 22. The insurance hasn't really changed since I've turned 25. The cheapest you can get is about $12 per month, but I have moderate coverage and pay like $36 per month.
I get about the same on my new 2004 Ninja 250 after switching from dual exhausts to a single side exhaust. The newer EX250's probably get worse fuel economy because they have a single side exhaust stock.
I've used Progressive for all of my bikes. Progressive has amazing customer service and I've never had any issues with them. It's up to you regarding what is covered, but I definitely recommend getting uninsured motorist coverage. My girlfriend was hit by someone without insurance earlier this year.
I've never cleaned the carbs on either of my Ninja 250Rs. I ride my bikes weekly though. I've heard from others that you need to ride a carbureted bike for 30 miles at least every two weeks to keep the carbs clean.
@blcook95 Insurance rates also depend on where you live. The closer to a large city that you live, the more expensive your insurance will be.
Would you recommend lil bigger tires
Where did you get the Tail light MOD?
Thank you! I need to get that same modification installed on my two current bikes. It's a can be a life safer at traffic lights and stop signs.
Does this bike have abs brakes
This is an awesome video, I’m hoping to buy an 04 250 project t and those safety light mods are incredible
@ninjatwo50 I think I've been getting around 6-8k miles out of the Pirelli Sport Demon tires.
About to get a 07 250 ninja it's got 10k on it cosmetic damage on it
went down on it's right side the seller says it need's a valve check how
much can I expect to pay have it done by a mechanic/auto shop
he is asking $1200 for the bike. Can you let us know your maintenance
schedule tip's and tricks to get it to 28k
Nice bike you have there. Another thing good about the older Ninja 250 up to 2008, is they can have their valves adjusted with tools, no shims, or cams to remove. I have a K4 Kaw Vulcan en500ltd, a detuned Ninja 500r motor, great bikes, but like your bike, you can't hook your helmet without it being burned, older Kawasaki bikes are bad for that design problem. I Have a K6 SV650 too, but I am looking for a 250cc bike to enjoy, small bikes can be, more fun than a barrel of monkeys. lol
Also my bike does not have a choke button you push to warm it up. It has a cord and a metal piece i have to pull and their is also this black tiny nob on the left side of the bike i have to spin to idle the bike higher is this suppose to be like this?
hi there I like your review, I found a 2007 ninja 250 with only 600 original miles the owner selling it for 2,000.00 ..u think that a deal, comes with owners manuel ,2 keys , tool kit . the oil been changed carbs cleaned . don't think I can pass it up. low miles the owner hardly drove it..lol
yeah me too im getting my first one and its a 250 im getting it in a few days only has 14K miles anyone have any look for thing to make sure its not going to be bad in a few weeks after i buy it like oil or water
I have the link to the brake light modulator in the description.
I'm 5'10" and I can sit with my feet flat on the ground on this bike.
Oh really!?well idk about the ex500 but the Airbox of the ex250 is stuck between the frame of the bike. Cleaning it isn't hard putting it back in might be. I'm doing it this coming weekend I'll let you know hahah
How much is your insurance and how old are you, cause I know that changes rates and whatnot, thanks and keep up the good work you've got me hooked
@xbox3bob Haha! Buy your own! Those things aren't cheap.
I think that the turn signals being the way they are is the best way to have them because usually they break no matter where they are and those look so easy to unscrew and put a new one right in!
I'v got the same bike as yours lol same color and everything and it's only got 5000 miles :D but i wrecked....And need new fairings...
I also have a 2004 Ninjette. I agree with you 100%.
Well yeah true lol but the black cord piece if i pull it metal piece on the cord it revs up the engine.
I just added a link into the description for you.
@motoduelist im 16, i have full coverage, with accessories and its 12 dollars per month.
You're right they will. Just hopefully they wont be too messed up from that mistake.
@motoduelist i didnt know that.. i live close to columbus ohio though and its a good size.
You've got my attention. I think I'll get this as starter. Just curious his narrow the seat is
your bike looks ridiculously nice for its miles. Do you clean the carbs yourself?
Yeah i got the same bike but in red. Awesome bike.
wow i have the same bike but its a 2007. Yours seems way more healthier hahah.
Awesome video, thanks for the review & advice.. And cutest dog ever! Lol. :)
Thank you! I'm glad that you found it useful.
Congratulations! Have fun and ride safe.
Where did you get the parts to make your lights like that?
Great review! Buying a 250 soon. So excited to get riding :)
Yes, finally! I have waited long :D Nice review by the way!
i got custom blinkers on mine :)
Not yet, still waiting to see the one I'm looking at.
possible the best ninja 250 review
Lol nvm my dad said to get a 600 so whooohooo
Tail lights are sick
I just bought 2006 ninja for 1200 has 250 miles on it sat sense 2015 all I have to do is get battery n flush gas tank. N replace the petcok n chang oil. Thanks for video. Helps alot if you have other advice please share newrider thanks
Update?
Just went to yellowstone from wa state 2000 miles grate ride
@@jeremiahkohlstaedt4683 holy hell that must have taken ages! Reason I'm asking is because I'm going to look at one for cheap and needs the exact same things.
@marinesniper42 wasn't bad it was long ride did 80 most of the way the bike ran awesome all the way there n back
@@jeremiahkohlstaedt4683 is the 06 carbureted?
Don't be a hater
how often do you clean the carbs?
My first bike is gonna be a 250
Very nice my friend
I found one for 1500
how tall are you sir?
thank you so much sir
Awesome review man!
Best mods ever !
Hi I just saw this video and I have a question. How do I get my tail light to come on when I turn my 2005 ninja 250 on? Everything else works but the tail light doesn't light up but if I hit the break it comes on. If you can help with that I really would appreciate it.
The tail light in the Ninja 250 is a dual filament bulb. It sounds like the filament for the running lights burned out, so you'll just need to replace the bulb in the taillight.
Ok
Ok thanks
DOG :)