14 August. Friday 2026
Kawasaki KLX 250 - 1981 Specifications and Reviews
The 1981 Kawasaki KLX 250 is a lightweight enduro bike designed for novice and amateur off-road riders seeking an accessible entry point into dirt biking. Its 246cc air-cooled single-cylinder engine delivers modest power with excellent fuel efficiency, while the compact 115kg frame makes it highly manageable on technical terrain. Best known for reliability and forgiving handling characteristics that build rider confidence.
1981
General information | |
| Category | Enduro / offroad |
| Year | 1981 |
| Model | Kawasaki KLX 250 |
| | |
Engine and Transmission Specifications | |
| Transmission typefinal drive | Chain |
| Gearbox | 5-speed |
| Cooling system | Air |
| Fuel control | OHC |
| Valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Bore x stroke | 70.0 x 64.0 mm (2.8 x 2.5 inches) |
| Compression | 8.9:1 |
| Power | 17.00 |
| Stroke | 4 |
| Engine type | Single cylinder |
| Capacity: | 246.00 ccm (15.01 cubic inches) |
Physical measures and capacities | |
| Weight incl. oil, gas, etc | 115.0 kg (253.5 pounds) |
Kawasaki KLX 250 dimensions and frame | |
| Rear brakes | Expanding brake |
| Front brakes | Expanding brake |
| Rear tyre dimensions | 4.00-18 |
| Front tyre dimensions | 3.00-21 |
Speed and acceleration | |
| Top speed | 118.0 km/h (73.3 mph) |
| | |
Other specs | |
| Maintenance | Find parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay |
| Fuel capacity | 9.50 litres (2.51 gallons) |
Performance Profile & Rider Fit
21.5 hp
Peak Power
73.3 mph
Top Speed
Best For
Track15%
City40%
Cornering60%
Daily Riding40%
Touring25%
Passenger15%
Rider Profile
| Best For | Suited to riders from novice to intermediate who want a light, forgiving bike to build off-road confidence. |
| Purpose | Built primarily for trail riding, technical single-track, and light dual-sport adventures rather than speed or highway cruising. |
| Rider Fit | Its tall 890mm seat height and light 138kg weight favor riders of average to taller stature who can still manage it comfortably at low speed and in rough terrain. |
| Character | A nimble, torque-light single that rewards momentum-based riding, precise line choice, and enthusiasm for standing on the pegs over raw power. |
| Not Ideal For | Not a good fit for riders seeking sustained highway speeds, long-distance touring comfort, or a bike that carries a passenger with ease. |
Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.
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