It’s funny how the street bike that got me hooked into the world of motorcycling would years later remind me just how awesome of a motorcycle it is. Recently, we spent part of the day lapping Spring Mountain’s 2.2-mile desert road course aboard 2009 Kawasaki Ninja 250Rs, and, honestly, it was one of the most fun motorcycling experience I’ve had in a while.
 
And it’s not because of the outright power of its engine, brakes or any other performance tangible. It’s because it’s small and lightweight—ultimately becoming an extremely easy motorcycle to ride. Thus when you add ultra-sticky Bridgestone BT-003RS high-performance street/trackday tires, a few friends, and a flowing ribbon of asphalt, it’s a recipe for an all-out duke-o-rama.
 
One of the coolest things about the little Ninja is that it doesn’t matter what your skill level is, or even how big or small you are. Because once you’re aboard it the playing field is suddenly leveled. Out on track we were drafting pass one another, diving into corners at speeds up to 90 mph, two, sometimes three bikes wide. The entire time we’re laughing hysterically inside our helmets.
 
It’s also worth mentioning how effective these bikes are at teaching proper riding technique. Think about it. You’ve only got around 25 horsepower at your disposal which puts a premium on finding the optimum line, carrying maximum momentum, and staying away from the speed killing effect of the brakes. In fact, considering how effective these little bikes are at teaching you the basics, I’m surprised why there aren’t any motorcycle schools using them as a part of the racetrack curriculum.
 
Back in the day my Ninja 250R taught me how to ride. Now 12 years later this $3999 machine is once again teaching me something new. Looking for the best, most affordable way to get into street motorcycling? Look no further than Kawasaki's baby Ninja.