2024 250 MX Shootout | Gas Gas vs. Honda vs. Husqvarna vs. Kawasaki vs. KTM vs. Yamaha

2024 Kawasaki KX250

Third Place: Kawasaki KX250

Test Rider Scores: 4-4-3-3-4

The Kawasaki drew mixed reviews from our testers, but everyone seemed to agree that the fork was the bike’s Achilles Heel. The bike is set up on the firm side, which can result in a harsh ride for lesser riders, but the handling remains predictable and well-liked. The Kawasaki is a comfortable bike with more adjustability than any other, and we already know that the machine reacts incredibly well to an aftermarket exhaust system.

Kyle Vara on the KX250.

“This bike has great low-end power, especially with the aggressive coupler installed. The bike signs off on top so maintaining roll speed is important on the Kawi. Out of the box, this is the stiffest feeling bike and it requires a fast, aggressive rider to make the suspension work best. Plush is not a word that I would associate with the KX. The ergos are perfect and I’d leave the bars and footpegs as they are delivered.” – Kyle Vara

“The Kawasaki is easy to ride and I love the way it comes on down low. The handling is very stable and the bike corners well, but the suspension is pretty stiff for me, being a lighter rider. I got to try this bike with an FMF system on it and I know that really wakes the bike up in the middle and top.” – Humberto Baca

“Overall, the engine of the Kawasaki is underwhelming. The aggressive coupler is the best for me but the way you have to switch them is kind of clunky. The bike handles well but the forks have an issue with hold up, and on big impacts, they blow through the stroke and have a very harsh feel.” – Alex Ray

“The Kawasaki engine is fun and aggressive. It offers a quick exciting hit down low and in the mid-range, which I enjoy. It is also loud and sounds aggressive. Top and over rev is good. The Kawasaki chassis is a good blend of strong cornering and stability on the track. The suspension is a little harsh, which causes it to not feel as connected to the track surface as it could be. Cornering is great and the bike is stable at speed.” – Pat Foster

“The Kawasaki is a lot of fun to ride. The bike has good low-end and mid-range power that makes it easier for a guy of my caliber to ride effectively. The KX is on the loud side and the exhaust note is a bit raspy. The front end has a harsh feel that makes me distrust the front end in hard-packed sections, but overall I enjoy the Kawasaki’s handling characteristics. If I were going to ride this bike all year long, I’d have the suspension tuned up and add an exhaust system.” – Donn Maeda

Test Rider Kits

Highly adjustable rider settings

Great low-end power

Fun bike to ride

Great cornering abilities

Test Rider Misses

Mapping couplers are outdated

Fork is too stiff and causes an unbalance with the rear shock

Hydraulic clutch has vague feel at the lever