I recently bought a 1986 250r Honda. This is my first 250 R and I have a few questions about it.

I've been told the 86 frames are the most crack prone of all the years. Is this true? This frame has no cracks, and is very clean. I'm a weekend rider and don't get huge air too often. Should I have the frame gusseted before it cracks, or will it not be a problem with the type of riding it do?

Are there any other reliability issues, or things that need more attention on a 250R I should watch for? The bike has a fresh top end with the stock bore, so that should be good for a while. What else do I need to know?


I've owened a 400ex for a while, which is now sold. It was all stock. My 250R has an FMF fatty pipe and silencer, and a cr250 head gasket. How much faster than a 400ex do you guys think it would be?

Thanks in advance guys.

 

You have it backwards, the 86 has the strongest frame with extra welds up front in the front shock and steering stem area and a steel swing arm. In later models the extra welds were removed to save weight and an aluminum swing arm replaced the steel one, again to save weight (and looks good) but it is less durable and more prone to cracking.

For normal riding you are ok without the gussets.

The first thing you should do is get the 89 clutch update, worth every cent of the $59 if your bike already doesn't have it.

Other than that just look over the bearining and of course the breaded area by the front sprocket. If you don't have a case saver, get one now. Throwing a chain will cost you a new case.