Hi, anyone know what the difference between the 85 and 86 atc 250r is? I have a chance to buy a 85 or an 86 250r, the 85 has an fmf pipe and the 86 is stock which one should I buy? Thanks

 

There are not that many differences but the 86 has a better seat(thicker), better carb, and the rear end is the same as the TRX so parts are easier to find.
ERIC

 

Retro is right, the 86 had some subtle changes but they were problem solving changes..The engine has a few trans mods that increased strength,the cylinders ports were slightly moved,the rear caliper mounting device was re-designed to increase strength and reliability,and the TRX has the ATC swing arm not vise-versa!!(hahaha). The fork springs and seals were redesigned in 86 also.The went to a PJ series carb in 86 which is wayyyy better than the round slide of 85...Parts are a little easier to come by for the 86 because the TRX stole alot of it's engine/swing arm design. Good Luck...I'd go with 86...no doubt in my mind!

 

The 86 had the PJ carb? Will the PJ bolt up to a 85 ATC with no modifications?

Why is the PJ better than the roundslide?

 

I have had both '85 and the '86 and they both have their pros and cons. I prefer the '85 because I like the lower seat height and I like the dual-rate springs over the progressive wound springs in the forks. But these are small things as it really doesn't matter since they are so close. I have swapped the PE and PJ on the same trike and really didn't notice any difference. At the time my motor was stock but on a modified motor the PJ would probably give better throttle response. If I had to choose, and both were in equal condition, I would always get the stock machine over a modified one anyday.

 

Everthing Keenan mentioned is true..I only disagree with two things which are 1. the forks (all rider preference) I thought the progressive springs were better all around trail/MX. 2. The PJ carbs were easier to tune and had a much smoother Idle-to-Main transition (throttle response). Again all in how the engine is tuned and weight of the rider/machine combo..I too owned two of each machine..one 86 and one 85 I bought brand new the other two were used units. I liked bith but preferred the 86's handling/Power Combo. To answer your question: YES it will bolt right up just adjust your throttle cable and make sure to use 5/16" fuel line.