Kawasaki Bayou 250 Specs and Review 2022

Kawasaki Bayou 250: Modeled after its sibling with a smaller displacement The Kawasaki Bayou 250 is more than just a redesigned 220 model. 

It was among the first vehicles developed by Team Green in which the company mastered how to create powerful four-wheelers.

Beyond being functional and beautiful off-road, this small quad played a key role in strengthening Kawasaki’s best-selling models – as you’ll find out later in this post.

Its name is Kawasaki Bayou 250.  is a recreation-use vehicle that was on the market between 2003 and 2011. 

With a low-maintenance air-cooled motor and a sturdy Mikuni carb VM24SS, an incredibly secure front bumper, and user-friendly switches and controls This 4×4 was a perfect quad to work on or play.

Simple styling, easy operation, and a semi-automatic gearbox are among the Bayou 250’s main selling factors. 

However, they’re not the only things it can offer. Continue reading to learn additional information about Kawasaki’s affordable ATV models.

About the Kawasaki Bayou 250

One could argue this: Kawasaki Bayou 250 was a model that Kawasaki Bayou 250 was designed to appeal to enthusiasts who prefer old-fashioned design and simple functionality over extravagant tech accessories and 4WD. 

Some may not agree with this assertion. However, with the release of 250 models within 15 years of Bayou 220 with little to no changes, I would consider this to be a perfect statement that is logical.

There are only minor differences that are apparent in there are only a few minor differences between Kawasaki Bayou 250 and its smaller displacement predecessor. 

The changes are a more attractive front appearance, a new bumper, a molded-pin accessories connector (for connecting electrical devices) as well as larger rear and front cargo racks constructed of stronger steel tubing.

The 4×4 also came with a slightly larger dimension than the 220 models however it was surprisingly able to retain its capacity to carry loads and weights. 

This is the case for all Bayou 250 models (you can determine which model year by looking for a VIN on the left-hand side of the quad’s frame, just ahead of the footpeg).

It is also interesting it is that the 300-cc Bayou versions came before the 250. The earlier models had greater technological advancements than was available in the Bayou 250 and 220 both were equipped with.

Naturally, the 250 models must be the first model to go on sale. However, because it was delayed by more than a decade causes people to believe that it was an instrument to gauge the market’s response.

Bayou 250 seemed to have performed this function successfully as evidenced by the end of production in the year 2011. 

At the point that Kawasaki discontinued production of its 250 models, it had become evident that the entire ATV industry and its users were shifting their focus towards big-bore and mid-sized models.

In the same time in the same time, manufacturers had also clearly established ATV segments and their own flagship vehicles for each.

Kawasaki Bayou 250 Specs & Features Engine

It is slightly bigger in capacity and more efficient than its 200-class predecessor. The capacity of the fuel tank is substantial and helps to ensure reasonable fuel consumption. 

A lot of Kawi fans believe that the quad is the same size like the Mojave 250, which can accommodate an even more powerful Kawasaki Bayou 250 carburetor – however, it isn’t. 

Making a change to your wheel using this method may prove to cause more harm than good.

Engine Brand Name	Mikuni
Engine Type	4-Stroke SOHC
Cylinder Arrangement	Single cylinder
Carburetion System	Mikuni VM24SS
Engine Cooling	Air cooling
Engine Fuel	Unleaded gasoline of at least Antiknock Index/PON 87 or RON 91, containing < 15% MTBE (Methyl Tertiary Butyl Ether)/TAME/ETBE, < 10% ethanol, or < 5% methanol w/ cosolvents & corrosion inhibitors
Fuel Capacity	10 L/2.6 US gal (reserve – 2 L/0.53 US gal)
Bore x Stroke Ratio	69×61 mm (2.72×2.4 in)
Compression Ratio	8.9:1
Starting System	Electric/recoil
Displacement	228 cm³ / 13.9 in³
Maximum Power	16.8 hp/17 PS (12.5 kW, estimated) @ 7,000 RPM
Maximum Torque	17.9 Nm (1.83 kgf-m, 13.2 ft-lb) @ 5,500 RPM
Top Speed	45-54 mph (72.4-86.9 km/h) – owners’ claim
Lubrication	Forced lubrication (wet sump)
Engine Oil & Quantity	2 L (2.1 US quarts) w/ filter 2.1 L (2.2 US quarts) w/out filter API grade of at least SJ meeting JASO T903 MA SAE 5W-30, 10W-40, 10W-50, 20W-40, 20W-50 – depending on ambient temperature

Drivetrain

A five-speed transmission, an automatic clutch as well as a Cardan shaft drive that transfers power to the wheels, and add an additional low-end rumble. 

The levers and switches are located on the opposite handbags permitting riders of all levels to operate the quad easily. 

The two-way ignition switch is located on the right of the panel and the back knob is visible on the lower left.

Clutch	Wet shoe, automatic, centrifugal type (primary) Wet, automatic, multi-disc type (secondary)
Transmission Type	5-speed constant mesh w/ reverse, return shift
Drive System	Shaft drive
Primary Ratio	3.450 (69/20)
Final Drive Ratio	4.680 (18/15 x 39/10)
Overall Drive Ratio	12.686 (top gear)
Transmission Gear Ratio	1st – 2.923 (38/13) 2nd – 1.684 (32/19) 3rd – 1.173 (27/23) 4th – 0.923 (24/26) 5th – 0.785 (22/28) Reverse – 3.115 (27/13 x 33/22)

Ignition

The charging system on the vehicle is extremely difficult to use. Therefore, as a good method, avoid using the battery charger at a high rate unless you are able to reduce the rate of charging according to specifications from the manufacturer. 

In the event of a short, internal damage will take place, and you’ll result in the destruction of the battery. Kawasaki Bayou 250 batteries.

Ignition	CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition)
Ignition Timing	10° BTDC @ 1,800 RPM – 35° BTDC @ 4,600 RPM
Spark Plug	NGK D8ES (gap – 0.6-0.7 mm, 0.024-0.028 in)
Alternator Type	Three-phase AC
Alternator Rated Output	13A, 14V @ 8,000 RPM
Fuse	20 Amp; 10 Amp or less (auxiliary light circuit)
Battery	12V 11 Ah, YTX14AH-BS battery format
Battery Dimensions (L x W x H)	5.2 x 3.5 x 6.5 in (132 x 89 x 165 mm) OR 5.31×3.50 x 6.56 in (134 x 89 x 166 mm)

Tires & Brakes

Despite the greater engines displacements, Kawasaki maintained the tire size the same. Steel wheels come with Dunlop(r) tires.

These can be swapped out using Carlisle All Trail ATV Tires (view on Amazon) in the event that you require knobbies that offer greater grip and traction. 

It is also equipped with the Bayou 250 also comes with the K-EBC(TM) engine brake system, which gives the quad more stopping power.

Front Tire, off-road/road air pressure	Dunlop KT856 AT21 x 8-9, tubeless Tire Pressure: 20.68 kPa (0.21 kg/cm2, 3 psi)
Rear Tire, off-road/road air pressure	Dunlop KT857 AT22 x 10-10, tubeless Tire Pressure: 20.68 kPa (0.21 kg/cm2, 3 psi)
Front Brake Type	Expanding drum brake
Rear Brake Type	Expanding drum brake

Suspension

The rear and front suspensions aren’t fully independent and only provide 5.0 inches of travel. For dirt bikes of this size, the wheel travel is adequate and contributes to its exceptional handling.

Frame Type	Tubular, double-cradle
Caster, Trail	4°, 17 mm (0.67 in)
Turning Radius	2.7 m (8.9 ft)
Front Suspension Type, Travel	Single A-arms w/ dual shocks, 114 mm (4.5 in)
Rear Suspension Type, Travel	Semi-independent Quad-Link system w/ dual shocks, 124.5 mm (4.9 in)

Dimensions

The dimensions of the car are slightly bigger than the Bayou 220. The height of the seat is quite an issue for some because it’s not tall enough to accommodate larger riders. 

The capacity of the racks combined is very useful, but there is the potential to be improved, especially since more and more people are turning to utilitarian automobiles.

Length	1,780 mm (70.1 in)
Width	1,020 mm (40.2 in)
Height	1,040 mm (40.9 in)
Seat Height (Unloaded)	730 mm (28.7 in)
Ground Clearance	155 mm (6.1 in) – rear axle 190.5 mm (7.5 in)- the center of the chassis
Wheelbase	1,115 mm (43.9 in)
Track (F/R)	764 mm (30.1 in) / 776 mm (30.6 in)
Dry Weight	183 Kg (404 lbs); 194 Kg (427.8 lbs – curb)
Carrier Capacity (F/R)	20 Kg (44 lbs) / 30 Kg (66 lbs)
Vehicle Load Capacity Limit	130 Kg (285 lbs)
Hitch Tongue Weight	14 Kg (30 lbs)
Trailer Weight (including cargo)	204 Kg (450 lbs)
Colors	Smoky Blue, Dark Royal Red, Woodsman Green, Sunbeam Red, Polar White

Exterior

Kawasaki Bayou 250 has a tubular steel frame, and a body panel made of plastic in different colors. 

It comes with utility racks as well as a front bumper complete floorboards, as well as saddle seats made of vinyl. 

Its instrumentation is still conservative, with just a fuel gauge and as well as a 12V accessory connector. 

A multi-function GPS kit (view the product on Amazon) and A weatherproof ATV cover are essential to protect your quad.

Speedometer	N/A
Indicator Lamps	Standard
Trip Odometer	N/A
Fuel Gauge	Standard
Engine Stop Switch	Standard
Oil Temperature Switch	N/A
Headlight	12V 25W/25W x 2
Brake Light/Taillight	12V 27W/8W x 2
Speedometer Light	N/A
Indicator Lights	(reverse, neutral)

Kawasaki Bayou 250 Top Speed

It is a bit slow. Bayou 250 is not known for its speed. If you’d like to boost your top speed as well as power, you can port/polish the cylinder head and switch the filter from stock to one that is a K&N air filter. 

An effective valve adjustment and proper jetting of the carb in the stock configuration, and also getting the latest spark plug can also do.

In addition to these tips, You could also put your money in the trash. Switching to a 34-millimeter carb might sound like an excellent idea. 

However, the cam profile as well as timing and valve design aren’t able to handle the larger carburetor. 

The fact that you insist on this mod will just make your fuel efficiency worse, as well as having problems starting your engine and tuning issues.

The bigger tires aren’t an option. I do not recommend monster-truck tires that are oversized to the Bayou 250 due to its front suspension. 

They are likely to push the vehicle around and cause it wobbly because the tires aren’t able to keep a stable camber even in the event that they are flexed. front suspensions (view the full list on Amazon) stretch.

You might find yourself having to avoid trees and the ground at speeds that exceed 20 mph. This is surely a bad sign, especially for those who aren’t experienced riders.

Cost of the Bayou KLF250

Below is a summary of the entire Kawasaki Bayou 250 list prices and retail values.

Year – Trim – Model Number	List Price	Retail/Trade-In Values
2003 Kawasaki Bayou 250 – KLF250A1	$3,299	$770 – $1,015
2004 Kawasaki Bayou 250 – KLF250A2	$2,999	$790 – $1,040
2005 Kawasaki Bayou 250 – KLF250A3	$2,999	$830 – $1,090
2006 Kawasaki Bayou 250 – KLF250A6F	$2,999	$840 – $1,105
2007 Kawasaki Bayou 250 – KLF250A5	$2,999	$925 – $1,220
2008 Kawasaki Bayou 250 – KLF250A6	$2,999	$1,255 – $1,650
2009 Kawasaki Bayou 250 – KLF250A	$3,099	$1,320 – $1,740
2010 Kawasaki Bayou 250 – KLF250AAE	$3,799	$1,580 – $2,080
2011 Kawasaki Bayou 250 – KLF250ABF	$3,599	$1,700 – $2,235

Secondhand models are priced from $325 to $1,750 in the upper end. Used units priced at over $1,000 tend to be in good condition with cosmetic flaws that are minor, and little or no repair required.

However, you should be cautious about units that are priced at 500 or lower. Certain quads could have been abandoned by the previous owner and come with unspecified mileage/hours, and operating conditions.

Some may also experience electrical or starting issues. While Kawasaki Bayou 250 is the Kawasaki Bayou 250 is the most trouble-free displacement in the series it would be better if you can get an offer that doesn’t need you to keep spending a lot of money.

Mini Quad Problems Intermittent Stalling

If you notice that you are losing your fire or the engine is dying within 15 minutes or less You may be experiencing problems with your fuel or have a restricted flow. Make sure you check the fuel line, filter, and vacuum mechanism.

While you’re at it take a look at your car’s timing chain, valve clearance, and the gas level in the tank (best to flush it out and then replace it with fresh fuel). If they’re all in order the electrical components.

The majority of Kawasaki Bayou 250 models are famous for eating their spark plugs. If this is the case, getting an upgrade to your spark plug is probably among the most important things that you need to take care of.

Most of the time the cause of the stalling issue is a bad CDI or stator. Sometimes electrical plugs break or become disconnected. 

The handlebars that are turned either way or the other when riding could cause you to pull the plug because of the lack of slack. 4x4s that sit for a long time either in the garage or in the yard are also likely to slow down more than vehicles that are used regularly.

The most obvious signs that you’ve got a damaged CDI or stator include the appearance of rusty surfaces on the connections as well as overheating episodes. 

This is also applicable to electrical plugs since a physical examination of the connection is required. 

You’ll need to remove some of the plastic on the front to get to the electrical plugs that are located under the handlebars and on the front of the tank.

A simple fix is to secure the connection or plug using a cable tie or electrical tape. 

Although this might not be the most effective method to keep plugs from being disengaged, it’s certainly done the trick for a lot of Kawi users.

Knocking Sound

The owners of the ’94 and ’97 Bayou 250 models say that the sound of the engine seems to be in line with the speed of the RPMs. 

The machine is perfectly functional at low speeds, however, the noise starts to tick when the gear is raised. 

Some are able to ignore the noise since it fades away after a couple of shifts and, even more, important it doesn’t affect the way the machine performs. Personally, I would not think of ignoring engine noise as a possibility.

A defective rectifier/regulator at the stage prior to detonation typically results in a ticking sound. 

However, different Kawasaki Bayou 250 components could create this sound too. If the sound originates at the upper end, you could have worn cam lobes and rocker arm’s area (including the rocker pins, cam bearings) as well as damaged clearance for the valve. 

If the sound is coming located in the middle it could be due to an issue with the rod bearing. 

If the sound comes from the lower right or left, then your cam chain tensioner (view on Amazon) or the clutch hub might be at fault.

The cam chain is supposed to tighten automatically when you use Bayou 250s. In the event that it doesn’t, you could be dealing with an unbalanced or faulty tensioner. It may be necessary to take the bolt off, and let the spring pull the tensioner away before tightening it back on older machines.

Boring the machine could be necessary if you’ve identified any of the following issues a malfunctioning oil pump, a scratched-up container, a noise problem caused by smoke, or an engine swap.

About Kawasaki

Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd. is the producer of Kawasaki Bayou 250. Established in 1878, the company’s history goes back to the time when Shozo Kawasaki created his first shipyard on the Sumidagawa River in Tokyo.

The company was initially an exporter of shipbuilding parts companies has evolved into an enormous production facility for hydraulic machinery including transit, aerospace, and energy systems as well as watercraft, motorcycles as well as and off-road vehicles. 

The expertise Kawasaki has gained from designing as well as manufacturing engines for aircraft as well as making new technology continues to be reflected in the design and engineering of its distinctive product lines.

Conclusion – Kawasaki Bayou 250 Review

There’s a good reason for Kawasaki Bayou 250 becoming among the longest-running and most popular units manufactured by Kawasaki. 

The 4×4 is a low-cost incredible machine that can perform very well on the dirt or in off-pavements.

It’s a solid machine packed with strength and incredible durability. made to last for years with proper care and regular maintenance. 

If you have a family-owned treasure or barn found or a barn find, the Kawasaki Bayou 250 is proof that you do not require an expensive four-wheeler to enjoy the great outdoors and enjoy yourself.

Is a Kawasaki Bayou a good four wheeler?

In the Bayou 220, Kawasaki provided the most stable shaft drive, easy-riding suspension, an efficient reverse gear and lots of torque that is low-RPM, perfect for long-distance trail rides and excursions. This wheeler was not only compact, but it was also among the most cost-effective quads offered by its maker.

Is a Kawasaki Bayou 250 a 4 stroke?

At the centre of the Bayou 250 is a two-stroke air-cooled engine that is equipped with a five-speed gearbox with reverse and is linked to a reliable, quiet drive shaft.

How do I tell what year my Kawasaki Bayou 250 is?

How to determine the year of manufacture by the VIN on the Kawasaki

1. Find where to find the VIN Number on either the back of the steering wheel or in the Safety Certification Label, which usually is close to or on the head of the steer.
2. It would help to count the digits until you get to the 10th. This is the year designation.

What kind of oil does a Kawasaki Bayou 250 take?

What kind of oil does The Kawasaki Bayou 250 Take? The engine should be filled with two fluid ounces once the engine’s work is completed. The right-hand engine cover features an oiled neck for filling the top, which holds one-quarter of 10W-40 engine oil.

What size is my Kawasaki Bayou?

With no fuel without fuel, the Kawasaki Bayou 400 is 79.53 inches in length, 44.49 in wide, in width, and 43.31 inches in height. Its wheelbase is 47.24 inches, the front track is 33.5 and the rear way of 33.9. A substantial ground clearance of 7.28 inches provides more mobility on uneven trails.

How do you read a VIN number on a Kawasaki?

Kawasaki VIN code comprises 17 characters, each symbolizing a particular meaning. For instance, Kawasaki VIN codes begin with the JK letter, which means J signifies Japan (the country where manufacturing takes place) and K is for Kawasaki, the bike manufacturer.

Kawasaki Bayou 250 FAQ