Saw a couple threads on here saying how the Austrailian bikes make quite a bit more power since they run more timing. But the cdi box is quite expensive so there is not much you can do about it.

Anybody try a timing key in the flywheel? These are offset to advance the flywheel on the crank. Would this help any? We use these all the time in sleds and they only cost like $10. Anybody know what size key (M3/M4/etc.) the KLX uses?

 

You might not be aware that you can get an affordable plug&play programmable cdi:
KLX CDI module

Bear in mind that performance increase may be marginal for a stock 250cc bore. This was the case for my bike, but your mileage may vary (see https://www.kawasakiforums.com/forum...x-37214/page2/

 

I'd spend the few bucks it would cost just to see if it did anything, can't hurt and you can always go back it you get detonation or anything bad.

 

I agree a timing key is a good and cheap shortcut, but the negative is that you alter the timing even at very low rpm, to the point where I would be concerned with starting ability, specially when the battery is not in excellent condition.

Yet as you said, it's certainly worth a try.