Kawasaki KLX 250 D-Tracker (1998–2007): A Timeless Supermotard for Urban Jungles and Backroad Adventures

Introduction

The Kawasaki KLX 250 D-Tracker isn’t just a motorcycle—it’s a philosophy on two wheels. Built during an era when the supermotard scene was still finding its footing, this nimble machine bridges the gap between off-road agility and urban practicality. Designed as a street-oriented variant of the dirt-ready KLX250, the D-Tracker carved out a niche for riders who wanted to carve corners on pavement without sacrificing the ability to hop curbs or tackle gravel shortcuts. With its lightweight chassis, approachable power, and rally-inspired ergonomics, the D-Tracker remains a compelling choice for riders seeking versatility in a compact package. Let’s dive into what makes this generation of the KLX 250 a cult favorite.

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Design & Ergonomics: Tall, Slim, and Ready to Dominate

At first glance, the D-Tracker’s design screams “playful.” The high-mounted fenders, minimalist bodywork, and upright riding position give it a dirt bike’s adventurous spirit, but the 17-inch street tires hint at its tarmac-focused mission. The seat height—880 mm (35 inches)—is tall, which might intimidate shorter riders, but it rewards with a commanding view of the road. You’ll tower over traffic, peering over sedans and even some SUVs, a feature that transforms chaotic city commutes into strategic games of lane chess.

The narrow profile (just 130 kg wet / 286 lbs) makes filtering through gridlock effortless. Unlike bulkier adventure bikes, the D-Tracker slips through gaps like a cyclist, and the wide handlebars offer precise leverage for quick directional changes. The footpegs are set slightly rearward, encouraging an active riding stance—perfect for shifting weight during aggressive cornering.

Color options like Kawasaki’s signature lime green, black/orange, and black/blue remain iconic, ensuring the bike stands out in a sea of commuter monotony.

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Engine & Performance: A Friendly Thumper

Powered by a liquid-cooled 249 cc single-cylinder engine, the D-Tracker isn’t about brute force. With 27 hp (22.3 kW) at 8,500 rpm and 18.5 lb-ft (2.6 kgf-m) of torque peaking at 7,500 rpm, this isn’t a highway missile. Instead, it thrives in the 4,000–7,000 rpm sweet spot, delivering smooth, predictable power that’s ideal for darting between traffic lights or winding through suburban backroads.

The Keihin CVK34 carburetor (a hallmark of its era) provides crisp throttle response, though it demands occasional tuning, especially in humid climates. The six-speed transmission is slick, with short throws between gears, and the clutch is light enough for stop-and-go traffic. Top speed hovers around 145 km/h (90 mph), but the D-Tracker feels most alive at 60–80 km/h (37–50 mph), where the engine’s vibey character adds to its charm rather than fatiguing the rider.

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Handling & Suspension: Where the D-Tracker Shines

Here’s where the KLX 250 D-Tracker separates itself from commuter bikes. The suspension setup—43 mm USD forks with 285 mm (11.2 inches) of travel up front and a UNI-TRAK rear shock with 280 mm (11 inches) of travel—is borderline overkill for pavement. But that’s the point. Potholes, speed bumps, and uneven roads dissolve beneath you, thanks to plush damping that soaks up impacts without wallowing.

On twisty roads, the D-Tracker’s geometry (26.5° rake, 105 mm/4.1 in trail) strikes a balance between stability and agility. The high center of gravity encourages a “ride on top” feel, allowing you to pivot the bike beneath you with subtle body movements. Push hard into a corner, and the IRC street tires grip with surprising tenacity, though purists might swap them for stickier rubber to exploit the chassis’ full potential.

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Urban Commuting: The Unlikely Superstar

Ride the D-Tracker through a congested city, and its true genius emerges. The upright seating position keeps your spine happy during hour-long commutes, while the narrow tank lets you grip the bike with your knees without straining. Filtering through traffic isn’t just easy—it’s exhilarating. The bike’s lightness and slim build make it feel like an extension of your body, ducking between cars and squeezing through gaps that would give pause to even scooter riders.

The 10-liter (2.6-gallon) fuel tank is a drawback, though. With a fuel range of roughly 150–180 km (93–112 miles), frequent stops are inevitable. But for urban riders, this is a minor trade-off for the bike’s flickable nature.

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Competition: How Does the D-Tracker Stack Up?

In the supermotard and dual-sport segments, the KLX 250 D-Tracker faced (and still faces) stiff competition:

1. Yamaha WR250X (2008–2017):
   Yamaha’s fuel-injected answer to the D-Tracker offers sharper throttle response and a more modern engine. However, it’s heavier (144 kg / 317 lbs wet) and lacks the KLX’s adjustable suspension. For riders prioritizing low-maintenance tech, the WR250X wins, but the D-Tracker retains an edge in raw playfulness.

2. Honda CRF250L Rally (2017–present):
   Honda’s rally-inspired model boasts longer travel suspension and a larger fuel tank, making it better suited for mixed terrain. But its weight (155 kg / 342 lbs) and softer power delivery feel less engaging on pavement compared to the KLX’s eager thumper.

3. Suzuki DR-Z400SM (2005–present):
   The 400 cc Suzuki packs a heavier punch, with 40 hp on tap. It’s the go-to for riders craving supermoto thrills, but its higher seat height and weight (146 kg / 322 lbs) demand more skill to hustle through traffic. The D-Tracker, meanwhile, remains the friendlier, more accessible option.

Verdict: The D-Tracker’s lightweight build and forgiving nature make it ideal for newcomers to the supermotard scene. It sacrifices outright power for approachability—a trade-off that still resonates with urban riders.

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Maintenance: Keeping Your D-Tracker Alive (and Thriving)

The KLX 250 D-Tracker is notoriously reliable, but a few key areas demand attention:

• Carburetor TLC: The Keihin CVK34 carb is robust but sensitive to ethanol-blended fuels. Clean it annually, and consider upgrading to an aftermarket air filter (like a K&N pod filter) for smoother airflow.
• Suspension Refresh: Over time, the fork seals and shock oil degrade. Rebuild kits are affordable, and upgrading to heavier-weight oil can sharpen damping for aggressive riding.
• Chain & Sprockets: The O-ring chain lasts ~20,000 km (12,427 miles) with proper lubrication. Swap to a DID 520ERV3 chain for longevity, and pair it with steel sprockets if you’re logging heavy miles.
• Brake Upgrades: The stock single-piston calipers work fine, but sintered pads (like EBC FA296HH) improve bite. For serious riders, a larger front rotor kit adds stopping power.
• Tires: The OEM IRCs are competent, but Michelin Pilot Street Radials or Pirelli Diablo Rosso IIs transform cornering confidence.

Pro Tip: Keep an eye on the coolant system. Flush it every two years to prevent corrosion in the liquid-cooled engine.

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Conclusion: Why the KLX 250 D-Tracker Still Matters

The Kawasaki KLX 250 D-Tracker isn’t about chasing specs—it’s about rediscovering the joy of riding. Whether you’re threading through city traffic, exploring gravel backroads, or practicing your first rear-wheel slides in an empty parking lot, this bike delivers grins per dollar in spades. Its simplicity is a virtue; there’s no traction control or ride modes to distract you, just raw interaction between rider and machine.

For owners looking to personalize their D-Tracker, MOTOPARTS.store offers everything from performance exhausts to ergonomic seat upgrades. Swap the bars, tweak the suspension, or bolt on a larger fuel tank—this Kawasaki thrives on customization.

In a world of increasingly complex motorcycles, the D-Tracker remains a refreshing reminder that sometimes, less really is more.

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Specifications sheet

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