Kawasaki Bayou 250 is a recreation-utility vehicle that hit the market from 2003 to 2011. With its easy-to-operate controls and switches, durable four-stroke engine, five-speed transmission, reliable Mikuni VM24SS carb, Kawasaki’s Bayou 250 is one of the best values on four wheels.
Since it was a practical and charming off-road, this mini-quad became one of Kawasaki’s best-selling lineups. Ease of operation, modest styling, and a semi-automatic transmission are Kawasaki Bayou’s main selling points. Here’s everything you need to know about Kawasaki’s economic model.
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About the Kawasaki Bayou 250
Kawasaki Bayou 250 was specially designed to cater to the needs of off-road riders and enthusiasts who love old-school styling and straightforward functionality over fancy 4WD and the add-ons. However, some biking enthusiasts may disagree with this. But with the Bayou 250 models being released after a 15-year production run of the Bayou 220, I would state that this statement makes perfect sense.
There are a few noticeable differences between the Bayou 250 and its immediate predecessor. The changes include a new bumper, a more aggressive front-end aesthetic, larger front and rear cargo racks made with sturdy steel tubing, and a molded-pin accessory.
The four-wheeler also comes with slightly larger dimensions than the 220 model but interestingly maintained its trailer/load capacities and dry weight. This applies to all Bayou 250 models (you can check the model year of your 4×4 by checking the VIN located on the left side of your quad’s frame, just in front of the footpeg).
The most interesting thing is that the 300-cc Bayou versions preceded the Bayou 250. These earlier models had more tech advancements than the Bayou 220 and 250 combined.
Naturally, the Bayou 250 should have hit the market first. But since it was delayed for about a decade, most riders speculated that it was a vehicle meant to test the market’s inclination. The Bayou 250 may have succeeded in its role, as evident with its exit from the market in 2011.
By 2011, it was clear at the ATV industry and its consumers were interested in the mid-size and big-bore machines. During the same period, manufacturers also defined ATV sub-segments and their respective flagship quads for each.
Kawasaki Bayou 250 Specs & Features
Engine
The Kawasaki Bayou 250 has a more powerful engine with a larger displacement than the 200-class predecessor. It has a sizeable fuel tank capacity and has decent fuel consumption. Most Kawasaki enthusiasts think that this four-wheeler comes with the same capacity as the Mojave 250 to hold a larger Kawasaki Bayou 250 carburetor, but it doesn’t. Upgrading the quad in this manner may be more harmful than helpful.
Ignition
This four-wheeler has a finicky charging system. So, it’s advisable to avoid a high-rate battery charger unless you can minimize its charging rate to suit the manufacturer’s specs. Otherwise, this might cause internal shorting, eventually ruining the Kawasaki Bayou 250 battery.
Tires
Although it came with a larger engine displacement, Kawasaki Bayou 250’s tires remained unchanged. This quad uses Dunlop KT856 AT21 x 8-9 tubeless front tires and Dunlop KT857 AT22 x 10-10 tubeless rear tires.
Drivetrain
The Bayou 250 uses an automatic clutch, 5-speed transmission, and Cardan shaft drive to transfer powers to the wheels and lend to the quad’s low-end grunt. All levers and switches are mounted on both sides of the handlebars, helping riders of all skills levels to use the quad easily.
Additionally, it has a two-way key-operated ignition switch on the right side of the body panel and a reverse knob on the left.
Brakes
The Kawasaki Bayou 250 has a K-EBC engine braking system, which guarantees the quad sufficient stopping power. It uses expanding drum front and rear brake types.
Suspensions
The quad’s front and rear suspensions aren’t fully-independent and offer less than 5.0-inch wheel travel. It uses a Single A-arms w/dual shocks front suspension and a Semi-independent Quad-Link system w/dual shocks rear suspension type.
Lighting
This four-wheeler comes with two 12V 25W/25W headlights, two 12V 27W/8W brake lights/ taillight, and indicator lights.
Weight capacity
The Bayou 250 has a dry weight of 183kg/404 lbs, a carrier capacity of 44lbs, a vehicle load capacity of 285lbs and a trailer weight of 450lbs.
Pricing
Secondhand Bayou 250 models can cost from $325 to $1,750 tops. Units valued above $1,000 are usually in great condition, with few repairs required. However, avoid units sold for $500 or less. Some of these units may have several electrical or mechanical problems that could cost you a fortune.
Colors
The Kawasaki Bayou 250 is available in different colors, including Dark Royal Red, Smoky Blue, Sunbeam Red, Woodsman Green, and Polar White.
FAQs
How do I tell what year my Kawasaki Bayou 250 is?
You can check the model year of your Bayou 250 by checking the VIN located on the left side of your quad’s frame, just in front of the footpeg.
Is the Kawasaki Bayou 250 4×4?
Yes. Kawasaki Bayou 250 is a 4×4 recreation-utility vehicle ideal for work and play.
Conclusion
There is a good reason why most Kawasaki enthusiasts love the Bayou 250. This mini-quad is an affordable, reliable machine that performs exceptionally in the ranch and off-pavement. It’s a solid quad build to last and offer unquestionable durability and performance.
