Modenas Kawasaki Ninja ZX-25R Review: A Game-Changer

Kawasaki’s in-line four-cylinder powerhouse redefines performance and style, offering an exhilarating ride with advanced features typically reserved for higher-end bikes.

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A year ago, the Malaysian market was introduced to a standout 250cc bike with an in-line four engine. Launched by Edaran Modenas Sdn Bhd (EMOS), the Modenas Ninja ZX-25R SE quickly gained a reputation among biking enthusiasts.

Kawasaki designed the ZX-25R to showcase the performance the Ninja ZX series is famous for. This much-anticipated model was aimed at sports bike enthusiasts looking for a street bike with impressive circuit-riding capabilities. 

As Roslan Roskan, CEO of Modenas, explained, “The ZX-25R SE captures the essence of both Modenas and Kawasaki – innovation, performance, and passion. It’s a milestone for Malaysian motorcycling, demonstrating our commitment to redefining what a sports bike can offer.”

Seeing the ZX-25R SE up close is quite the experience—it doesn’t feel like your average 250cc bike, especially with the powerful sound of its four-cylinder engine.

I recently got to test-ride this bike at Kawasaki Setapak, and it was an exhilarating experience. The ZX-25R SE strikes a balance in size, and at 175cm tall, I found it comfortably low to the ground, easily allowing both feet to touch the pavement.

The sporty handlebars and eye-catching TFT-LCD instrument panel added to the overall impressive feel of the bike. The bike’s equipment is top-notch, giving it a luxurious feel beyond its 250cc class. The dashboard, in particular, is a highlight.

I rode the Lime Green / Ebony version, which looked amazing on the road. When I fired up the engine, it roared to life. Even with an aftermarket exhaust on the demo bike, the four-cylinder’s distinct sound was unmistakable.

The dashboard features a sports mode, which piqued my interest. While I didn’t have time to ask the instructor about switching modes, I suspect there are three options: Rider, Rain, and Sports.

Sports mode likely boosts RPMs and sharpens throttle response, while Rain mode might limit RPMs to around 4,000 for better traction on wet roads. That’s just my take based on my experience.

Kawasaki’s ‘Power Mode Selection’ feature allows riders to choose between full power or low power modes, depending on their preferences and road conditions.

When you shift into gear, the bike makes a satisfying click typical of superbikes. The first gear feels heavy, offering plenty of power for a strong start. The engine is claimed to deliver 46.3 hp at 15,500 rpm with peak torque at 22.9 Nm at 14,500 rpm.

The engine’s power delivery is linear, with more strength as the RPMs increase. However, riding at high RPMs constantly isn’t practical.

From my perspective, most 250cc bikes, particularly Kawasaki’s, start showing their power around 7,000 to 8,000 rpm. The smaller engine provides a safer, more progressive riding experience, making it ideal for beginners.

The first few minutes of riding felt smooth and fun. The brakes, suspension, and instruments all performed well, and I couldn’t get enough of that engine sound. The 4-port brakes from Nissin did an excellent job.

The riding position is sporty, but I didn’t feel any discomfort. Even at full throttle, the bike’s aerodynamics felt just right, thanks to its World SBK chassis.

Weighing around 183kg, this motorcycle is versatile enough for riders of various heights and genders. It’s light and nimble. While I didn’t get to push it to its top speed, research suggests it can reach up to 200km/h.

Overall, after about 10-15 minutes of riding, the thrill and joy were undeniable. But every bike has its pros and cons. If you’ve been riding a kapcai for years and are looking to upgrade to a sportbike without needing a new license, the Ninja ZX-25R SE is a great option.

This bike is reliable enough for daily use, even for a bit of highway riding, thanks to its linear power delivery that isn’t too aggressive, even in the highest mode.

In addition to having the most powerful engine in the 250cc class, this bike also comes loaded with high-end features typically found on larger, more powerful sportbikes. It’s an excellent choice for beginners. With a price tag of RM33,900 (excluding road tax, insurance, and registration), you’re getting a top-tier machine in the 250cc sport bike segment.

However, for those seeking high-speed thrills, this bike might fall short of expectations. In that case, opting for a higher cc bike with more power might be a better choice. Ultimately, it depends on your budget and preferences. If you’re not expecting too much, this bike is still a great buy and worth the investment (especially while it’s still trendy—just kidding!).