I"m looking for an 88 or 89 250R, that's reasonbly stock, and in good condition, i'm looking to spend up to 2500, maybe a little more depending on condition. Where would be the best place to find one?

 

Those words "88-89 250R, good condition, 2500.00" don't go in the same sentence. An 86 250R in rotten shape is worth 2500.00. Save your money a little longer. I have an 86 in great shape that I wouldn't let go for under 3200.00. Good luck

 

E-BAY has had a few i mean a few go for $2500. your best bet is to look around small town classifed ads the newspapers. or cycle traders. i lucked into both of mine (one was in pieces)looking in different small town papers while passing through(i travel around a good bit). good luck on your search if you look around you can find them.

 

I agree with SeaDooMan.
I have an 86 and have turned down $3500. My 87 has had offers of $4400. People had cash and I said no. I couldn't replace them for that.
I have a friend with an all stock 88, even original plastic. He could get $5000 easily.
If you only have $2500, look for an 86 or 87, you can probably find one decent enough to rebuild/modify for that price. I've seen 86's with bald tires/stock rims, no pipe, ran good, needed fenders, etc, for that price.

 

I purchased an '86 for $1300 last Feb. It had bent rear axle [had straightened $40],needed rear bearings,rear brake pads,front tires.Has straight frame. I've been riding it ever since Mar. '99. Not the fastest,or best looking but reliable. Total invested $1800. Keep looking in papers,traders, swappers and you will find something.

 

I picked up a '86 about 2 months ago for $1200.00. I was just driving down a country road when i saw a 250r for sale in guys front yard. He said he had it for sale for about a half an hour when I stopped in. I guess alot of it is being in the right place at the right time.