In the 250r market...what do I need to know?

[Transmatic]

I've stashed back some cash which I was planning to use to buy my wife a 250ex however we just found out that we are expecting our 2nd child. Instead I would like to fins a nice 250r.

My 2007 400ex is my main bike and I ride trails most of the time. I'd like to use the 250r for light trail riding and drag. Not trying to be the fastest bike on the day but still want enough power to make me smirk while gripping tight.

Is there any pertinent info I need to know when looking around? Any years to stay away from or common problems I should pay special attention to when looking over?

Lastly, is a stock motor any more valuable than an already modified motor?

[TLR-Online]

88/89 are the best years. They have all the updated parts from the problems with the 86/87's.

Check the frame very well for cracks.

If it has nice stock plastic, that is a big plus.

Stock Engine could be worth more if it was perfect, but not in most cases.... Just try to find one with no chain damage on the left case.

Biggest thing to remember, these are 25+ year old quads. They WILL need maintenance, def a Labor of Love. If not already done, expect to replace every bearing. If it has stock A-Arms, Front Shocks, Axle Carrier... they are probably worn out! At this point, its almost better just to buy one with a good bit of aftermarket stuff. Your gonna have to rebuild some stuff anyways, might as well rebuild nice aftermarket parts instead of stock parts.

[danhung11]

What kind of cash we talking? :)

[Transmatic]

Looking to stay @ $3,000 or under.

[danhung11]

No problem, I'm sure you'll find a decent bike at that price point. I'd consider selling another bike, but won't sell one at that price range. Good luck with the search.

[danhung11]

There's a super clean stock 86 in Indianapolis for $3500. It's in the TRX250R Owners for Life group, check it out.

[Transmatic]

Thanks man I will check that out. I'm considering selling my 07 400ex. I only ride trails, no mud or MX track. I baby my 400ex too much, I'm thinking I'd rather baby a nicer 250r.

I would like something faster for the sand drag strip where I ride but also something of hitting the trails too. I think a 250r might better suit my needs.

[danhung11]

A XC bike and drag bike in my opinion are two completely seperate bikes. The chassis setup and engine combination will not interchange, it's not like switching out a cam/piston etc. The porting/pipe is different in each application to achieve different power delivery. Yes, you'll be able to compete with your buddies but you won't compete with real drag bikes, vice versa. I'd keep the 400EX for the wife, they are bullet proof in stock form, have reverse, and easy to ride.

My favorite setups thus far have been my 265 and 275, both power valves. I haven't had anything more than a 330, but have a Sphynx on my bucket list.

[Transmatic]

I agree 100%. Not looking for a straight trail or drag bike, just something to compete with buddies and have fun. I don't want something so nice that I'd be afraid to take it on trails but I also don't plan to just run it through mud holes either.

[jwags13]

Biggest thing to remember, these are 25+ year old quads. They WILL need maintenance, def a Labor of Love. If not already done, expect to replace every bearing. If it has stock A-Arms, Front Shocks, Axle Carrier... they are probably worn out! At this point, its almost better just to buy one with a good bit of aftermarket stuff. Your gonna have to rebuild some stuff anyways, might as well rebuild nice aftermarket parts instead of stock parts.

This^, do yourself a favor and buy a trx450r or a ltr450r. Yes a trx250r is one of the best ever made,(if not the best), but they are very old and you can accomplish the same goal with a trx450r or ltr450r. Stock for stock a 450r will outperform a 250r any day. Now if you want buy a 250r, do some work, and seriously modify it, then thats a different story.

[chrisrzz1012]

I had the same problem too. I got 3 400ex's ( 2 trail ones and my racer). I was looking at a 450r to race /trail with but I rode a friends 250r. That was it I bought a 86 that was in OK shape it had a lot stuff rebuilt , the frame no cracks, it needs new plastic for 1300 great deal. Then I found my 88 wow. I paid 1800 for it . For basically brand new 250r but it has a FMF exhaust, elka all around , and laeger a.arms. The 88 out runs anything. First weekend had it smoked a 700r. The point is this : See if someone has 250r. Test drive it. Then try finding a decent one. Always ask for any repairs or rebuilds first. Another thing do look hard for one after I got the 86 I wasn't looking for another but when I saw the 88 it was no brainer. Keep the 400ex for the wife. I great dealer told me this one day. A modded 400ex can out run a 450 but a 250r can outrun 400ex. He raced for 20yrs raced nothing but Honda. He still has his 2 fav; a 89 250r and a 03 440 ex.

[Transmatic]

After months of searching I may have finally found my future 250r. As long as everything checks out I'll have a new ride on Saturday. At that time I'm sure I'll have some more questions for you guys so I'll post a few pics and ask a few questions.

[chrisrzz1012]

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