Kawasaki has released the 2026 model Ninja 250 and Z250 bikes in fresh colours and designs. The Ninja 250 is a sport and full fairing motorbike with two new dual-tone option, grey with green and the other one is silver and red. Z250 is available in the naked street-type fashion in black and grey colors. They both have the same engine of 249cc twin-cylinder with a capacity of 35hp and 22nm of torque with no mechanical changes.
The 2026 Kawasaki Ninja 250 and Z250?
Kawasaki ninja 250 and Z250 are renewed entry-level motorcycles targeting city riders and beginners. The Ninja 250 is an aerodynamic sportbike that has its wind protection. Z250 is a naked streetfighter, which is in an upright position to handle.
Both get fresh colors and graphics but keep the same engine and frame. They launch in Japan on November 1, 2025, with no India plans yet, Kawasaki sells the Ninja 300 here instead.
Price in Japan and Expected in India
Ninja 250 is sold at 726,000 yen (which is around 4.37 lakh in rupee) and Z250 is sold at 704, 000 yen (Rs 4.24 lakh). Should be introduced in India, the price will be expect Rs 2.53 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi) without import duty. In Delhi, on road, increase by 20,000-30,000 to get insurance and registration.
Compared to rivals (ex-showroom, Delhi):
- Kawasaki Ninja 300: Rs 3.17 lakh
- TVS Apache RTR 200 4V: Rs 1.47 lakh
- Yamaha FZ 25: Rs 1.50 lakh
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Key Specs: Same Engine, Proven Performance
| Spec | Ninja 250 | Z250 |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 249cc parallel-twin, liquid-cooled | 249cc parallel-twin, liquid-cooled |
| Power | 35 hp @ 11,000 rpm | 35 hp @ 11,000 rpm |
| Torque | 22 Nm @ 8,000 rpm | 22 Nm @ 8,000 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-speed gearbox | 6-speed gearbox |
| Top Speed | 160 km/h | 160 km/h |
| Mileage (Claimed) | 35 kmpl | 35 kmpl |
| Fuel Tank | 14 liters | 14 liters |
| Weight | 166 kg (kerb) | 164 kg (kerb) |
| Suspension | Front telescopic forks, rear mono shock | Front telescopic forks, rear mono shock |
| Brakes | Front 310mm disc, rear 220mm disc with ABS | Front 310mm disc, rear 220mm disc with ABS |
Key Features: Fresh Colors and Basic Tech
The 2026 updates focus on style. Here’s what’s new:
- Colors: Ninja 250 in Metallic Carbon Gray/Yellowish Green and Galaxy Silver/Persimmon Red, Z250 in Ebony/Metallic Carbon Gray.
- Graphics: Revised decals for a sporty look.
- Display: Ninja 250 has semi-digital console, Z250 gets LCD with needle tachometer.
- Safety: Dual-channel ABS, LED lights.
- Comfort: 17-inch wheels with 110/70 front and 140/70 rear tires.
Pros and Cons: The Real Picture
Here’s a balanced view of the 2026 Ninja 250 and Z250:
Pros:
- New Colors: Dual-tone options make them look modern and fun.
- Smooth Engine: 35 hp parallel-twin for easy riding.
- Lightweight: 164–166 kg for quick handling.
- Good Mileage: 35 kmpl saves on fuel.
- Affordable in Japan: Rs 4.24–4.37 lakh value for quarter-litre bikes.
- Reliable Brand: Kawasaki’s build quality lasts.
Cons:
- No Mechanical Updates: Same engine and frame, no power boost.
- Basic Console: Semi-digital on Ninja, rivals have TFT.
- No India Launch: Not planned for India yet, Ninja 300 fills the gap.
- Small Tank: 14 liters limits range to 490 km.
- Limited Ground Clearance: 145 mm not for rough trails.
Learn More: 2026 Honda ADV 350 Launched with New Colors in Europe: Priced at €7,000 (₹7.30 Lakh)
Comparison with Rivals: How Ninja 250 and Z250 Stack Up
The Ninja 250 and Z250 are entry-level sporty bikes. Here’s a quick table (ex-showroom, Japan, converted to Rs):
| Bike | Price (Rs Lakh) | Engine/Power | Mileage | Key Edge |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kawasaki Ninja 250 | 4.37 | 249cc/35 hp | 35 kmpl | Faired sporty |
| Kawasaki Z250 | 4.24 | 249cc/35 hp | 35 kmpl | Naked comfort |
| Kawasaki Ninja 300 (India) | 3.17 | 296cc/39 hp | 25 kmpl | More power |
| Yamaha MT-25 | 4.50 | 249cc/36 hp | 40 kmpl | Lighter, efficient |
| Suzuki Gixxer 250 | 1.80 (India) | 249cc/26 hp | 35 kmpl | Cheaper alternative |
How to Buy the 2026 Kawasaki Ninja 250 or Z250
Ready to buy? Here’s the simple plan (Japan-focused, India not confirmed):
- Check Launch: Available in Japan from November 1, 2025 – follow Kawasaki’s site.
- Test Ride: At Kawasaki dealers in Japan or global shows.
- Finance: EMI from Rs 7,000/month, check for deals.
- Choose Model: Ninja 250 for sporty, Z250 for naked.
- Add-Ons: Extended warranty (Rs 5,000) or gear (Rs 2,000).
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Final Verdict: Should You Wait for the 2026 Kawasaki Ninja 250 or Z250?
Yes, the Kawasaki Ninja 250 (Rs 4.37 lakh) and Kawasaki Z250 (Rs 4.24 lakh) are both worth the waiting in case you want fresh colours and Kawasaki character of each quarter litre bike. They have power of 35 hp, mileage of 35 kmpl and they have ABS, which makes them easy to drive. Go for Ninja 250 if you like faired sporty rides, Z250 for naked comfort. Skip if you need more power get Ninja 300 instead. Launch in Japan November 2025 watch for India news.
