im thinking of getting one what year was the best what to look for any major concerns

 

The 88-89 250Rs are considered to be the best from the factory because of their slightly revised front suspension geometry and shorter, aluminum rear swingarms. All 250Rs have places of concern, regardless of year. The front shock mounts seem to have more trouble on the 86-87 models, whereas the footpeg mounts tend to crack more on the 88-89 versions. For the 88-89 models, check the swingarm for cracks at any high-stress area. If you find a highly modified 250R that has aftermarket suspension, the differences in handling between the 86-87 and 88-89 versions will be un-noticeable, not that they were all that noticeable to begin with. It shouldn't be too hard to find what you are looking for, so good luck.

 

Im not necessarily disagreeing, but I have heard from multiple sources on these forumns that the 86 frames were stronger than any other year as they have a few extra gussets from the factory. .I have compared my frame to my buddies which is an 89, and my front shock mount gussets look beefier than his thin plate gussets. I could be wrong though....it happens to the best of us.[img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-confused.gif[/img]