I picked up a 1980 honda atc 185 the other day. It is all original, including the stock tires. Its in great shape with the only visible problem being that the bottom ridges of the gas tank are starting to rust up a little. It runs like new and starts in the first few pulls every time, even in cold weather. All in all, its a fun little toy.

I was just wondering if anyone had any info on this machine. Possible problems, worthy upgrades, etc. I will be posting some pics when I get the time to shrink them for the web.

 

Hey maddog!! I see you have been bitten by the ATC resto bug to huh? LOL

Upgrades are plentiful. You can add front suspension from other ATC models.....there was a company long ago that had a kit for the rear, but they have disappeared since those days. You can front fork extenders for better handling and to help out on the light front end, if they aren't already there.

Things to look for on the 1980 185 is cracks around the front motor mount. Other than that, there aren't any issues with these models.

Because the top end is the same as the '83-'85 200X in design, there are a lot of engine upgrades available. Powroll still does stroker kits on these engines, and the cam from a XR200 works real well. Wiseco pistons in various CR ratios will work with the stok cylinder sleeve but require major boring. Then you add a 26mm carb and Cobra exhaust to finish it off.

Alot of old Honda dealers have left over accessories for the old ATCs and you can find them on e-bay quite often. I saw a brandnew set of fork extenders go for $10 last week. There was no reserve.

Let us know when you get your pics done.

 

Hey Maddog, we carry some stuff for your ATC. Wheel bearings, seals etc.

We also have a plastic tank that will fit if yours starts to rust out.

Scott
www.atvworks.com

 

New pix are up, just waiting for them to be approved.

 

maddog,

That is the cleanest '80 model I have seen stock. Wanna sell it??[img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-happy.gif[/img]

 

LOL, I think im going to play around on it for a while first, but I'll let you know if ever decide to part with it.[img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-wink.gif[/img]

 

Sounds good to me.

 

Keep it!!!!!!!! My brother gave me his when he got a sportsman. It has the 200 head a cam ,pipe,bored out, maxxis suretrac tires and I am in the process of repainting the fenders. The only complaints are the lack of suspension, brakes, reverse, and low top speed. I have read many people can get theirs to run 50 but mine will do 30 wound out in high gear.

 

What forks will work on the 185??? I'd love to do this conversion.

 

Where are the pictures of the 1980 ATC 185. I also have a mint one.