2005 Kawasaki Ninja: Yes, the Perfect Beginner Bike !
09/09/07(updated 11/06/08)
Excellent beginner bike. No vibrations throughtout rev range, very compliant suspension to smooth out the bumps. Can't expect too much from a 250cc class bike, but this one is very capable with my 220lbs on board. It's my lady's first bike and she absolutely loves it.
These performance reviews of the 2005 Ninja 250 are from myself, an experienced rider with a Triumph Sprint 1050 and a Tiger 955i...
The brakes are more than enough.
The engine power comes on above 6000 rpm, but below that, there's enough torque and gear ratios to pull you out of a hole, getting to highway speeds is effortless, and when backing down from those speeds, the engine sounds soooo sweet, it'll make you smile from ear-to-ear.
Steering is neutral, and when leaned into a corner mid-turn, there's no need to push on the bars either side. When cornering real hard, the tires flex and there may be a slight wobble, and I was running max tire pressures +2psi rear.
But, I may have been overdoing it : )
I guess if they start making low profile tires for this bike, I'll be first on the list.
Very easy to service, removing the gas tank is only four screws and two hoses, no need to remove the fairing. I changed the sparkplugs in 15 minutes.
Styling is awesome, and it is one of the most aerodynamic bikes out there.
The seat is big and comfortable, honestly, I think I could do a 800 mile day on the bike, since the bike is effortless to ride at 80mph (and NO vibration)
This is the smoothest bike I ever rode, in terms of vibration, but my cheeks hurt from smiling too much.
This machine serves it's mission well: Bringing a new rider into the world of motorcycling. Being effortless to ride lets the beginner concentrate on the real task at hand, avoiding the moronic, idiot drivers in their cars!!
Remember, you'll never forget your first motorcycle, might as well make it a nice one. Ninja 250!
5 of 5 people found this review helpful.

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