Hey,
I recently just purchased a bone stock 86 250r.. I plan on modifying it for BITD(best in the desert) I was wondering should I buy an 86 length swing arm or a 88 length swing arm for it? Also should I go with the +2 +1 a-arms if I decide not to shorten the swing arm? or just go with +2 or +3's....Also will 88-89 pipes fit on it? I have an 88 LRD pipe for my other bike which is an 88 and I dont really want to spend the money for another pipe....Also is it possible to fit an 88 motor in an 86 frame? my replacement motor is an 88...thanks for the help...I know how to modify my 88 250r but the 86 is a little different so I thought I'd ask for help... Shaun

 

I don't know if you would gain much by going to the shorter swingarm, but the 86 is steel as opposed to the 88-89 aluminum. Either would work just fine.
The +2+1 will really help.
The 89 pipe may fit, can't really say, but you could try. You may have to fab some mounts for it.
You can put any year R motor in any year R chassis with no problems.
I would get full chassis armor for it.
You plan to ride in Red Rock/Dove Springs/ Jawbone Canyon?

 

Any pipe designed for the TRX250r will fit 86-89.