250r

[LRDlt250r]

Is there a bad year 250r any year to stay away from???

[Fearnot]

There in my opinion isnt a bad 250r but the least updated would be the earlier models each year honda added here and there and changed a few things like swingarm length different plastic. If you want the best 250r years go for a 88 or 89, my fav is the red 88 model but the 89 shasta white is good also.

[fiveOnick]

The 89 is the best year as far as updates, but that was so long ago the stock form of the bike is almost unapplicable today.

[RichM1983]

I would go with an 88-89. They have a little different motor mount setup and a different kind of swing-arm. Those years are supposed to have the best handling characteristics but I suppose they are all good.

[LRDlt250r]

Alright i was leaning toward an 86 i should have nothing to worry about no suprises???

[RichM1983]

Yeah the frame could be a surprise. Usually the stock frames are beat on and cracked. Look it over really good. Other than that just normal stuff to look for on any bike. Why are you leaning towards the 86?

[LRDlt250r]

Only year i have found so far in my range

[fiveOnick]

The 86 frame is actually stronger but isnt quite as good handling. It is a bit longer and so is the swingarm. It makes a noticable ride difference though.

[eagle06]

don't the earlier models have a motor mount with the swing arm or something along those lines?I have an 89 and the only crack I have is under the seat where the grab bar connects(not dirrectly...in about a inch or so) from rocking back on it doing wheelies and it's not cracked all the way through.

[RichM1983]

Originally Posted by eagle06

don't the earlier models have a motor mount with the swing arm or something along those lines?

Yeah. The swingarm bolt has a mount that the bolt slides through and the mount bolts to two places on the back of the motor. The 88/89 frames have an extra piece welded in them behind the motor that the 86/87 doesnt have. Thats why the 86/87 uses the extra mount that the pivot bolt goes through.