2026 Kawasaki Ninja 250 and Z250 Unveiled: New Colours, Proven Performance

Kawasaki has officially unveiled the 2026 models of its entry-level sportbike and naked duo — the Ninja 250 and Z250 — in Japan. The latest updates bring fresh colour schemes and styling tweaks, while retaining the reliable mechanical underpinnings that have made these bikes popular among enthusiasts and new riders alike. The 2026 Kawasaki Ninja 250 receives two new dual-tone paint options: a subdued grey with yellow accents and a vibrant white with red streaks. In contrast, the Z250 adopts a sleek black and grey theme for its new model year.

Subtle changes in graphics and colour placement can be seen on the fuel tank, frame, and headlamp cowl, lending both bikes a refreshing appeal for 2026. Powering both motorcycles is Kawasaki’s proven 248cc, liquid-cooled, parallel-twin engine, which produces around 35 PS (34.5 hp) and 22 Nm of torque. The engine is paired to a 6-speed gearbox, offering smooth and linear power delivery that suits city commutes and spirited rides alike. The bikes feature a 14-litre fuel tank, a seat height of 795 mm, and a ground clearance of 145 mm.

The Ninja 250 weighs 166 kg, while the Z250 tips the scales at 164 kg. Both models roll on 17-inch alloy wheels with 110/70 front and 140/70 rear tyres. On the tech front, the Ninja 250 features a semi-digital console with an analogue tachometer and LCD display, while the Z250 gets a modern LCD dash with a retro-inspired tachometer. Safety is managed by 310 mm front and 220 mm rear disc brakes with dual-channel ABS.

Both motorcycles are expected to go on sale in Japan starting November 2025. At present, there is no confirmation regarding their launch in the Indian market, with the Ninja 300 continuing to be Kawasaki’s main 250cc-class offering for India. These updates ensure the Ninja 250 and Z250 remain relevant and attractive choices in the competitive quarter-litre segment, without altering the core riding experience that fans have come to expect.