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[isdntekvideo]1986 HONDA CR250RAbsolutely Stunning Legendary 2 Stroke Classic CR COMPREHENSIVE 95 HOUR FRAME OFF PROFESSIONAL RESTORATION
NEW KEIHIN AIR STRYKER CARBURETOR | NEW HPI IGNITION | REBUILT SUSPENSION | ORIGINAL DATE-CODED WHEELS | NO EXPENSE SPARED
OVER $17,000 INVESTED
Guys, feast your eyes on this absolutely spectacular 1986 Honda CR250R
This is the motorcycle that every serious motocross racer wanted in 1986. One of Honda\'s most iconic two-stroke motocross machines, the legendary CR250R represented the cutting edge of race-winning technology, with its liquid-cooled two-stroke engine, Honda Power Valve system, Pro-Link rear suspension, and revolutionary cartridge-style front forks.
The 1986 CR250R came from an era when Honda was dominating motocross racing, and these machines became legends at racetracks across America.
Fast-forward 40 years, and finding a surviving example in this condition is extraordinarily difficult.
Most were raced hard, crashed, modified, worn out, and ruined.
NOT THIS ONE;
This exceptional CR250R started life as an unusually well-preserved original motorcycle, retaining its excellent original frame rails, engine cases, factory wheels, footpegs, and other critical components.
Our restoration team at Kaplan Cycles recognized what we had and decided to take this machine to the highest level possible.
The result is a breathtaking, professionally restored, factory-inspired Honda CR250R that looks absolutely spectacular, sounds incredible, and runs like a properly dialed-in two-stroke race bike should.
Approximately $17,000 in professional restoration work, including 95 hours of labor and $3,000+ in parts, materials, and finishing.
The motorcycle has been completely dismantled, inspected, restored, rebuilt, refinished, and reassembled with tremendous attention to detail.
This is not a quick cosmetic makeover. This is a comprehensive frame-up restoration performed by Kaplan Cycles professional motorcycle technicians and restoration specialists.
ENGINE – EXTENSIVE REBUILD & PERFORMANCE UPGRADES
The engine was removed from the chassis and dismantled for detailed inspection and restoration.
The previous owner had already performed significant internal engine work, including rebuilding the bottom end. Upon inspection, the crankshaft, crankshaft seals, piston, and major internal components were found to be in new condition With under 1 hour ride time since rebuild.
Our technicians verified the condition of the internal components and performed extensive additional engine work to ensure proper operation, reliability, and performance.
Engine restoration and upgrades include:
Engine completely removed, dismantled, inspected, cleaned, and refinished
Previously rebuilt bottom end inspected and verified
Top end inspected, serviced, and resealed
New cylinder base gasket
New cylinder head gasket
New shift shaft seal
New kick starter shaft seal
Engine decarbonized
Honda Power Valve system completely disassembled, serviced, and rebuilt
New inner clutch cover
New outer clutch cover
Water pump completely rebuilt with new bearings, seals, gaskets, and impeller
New cooling system hoses
Original radiators restored and refinished
New engine hardware throughout
Engine cases professionally refinished
New Boyesen Factory Racing ignition cover
New engine case protector
New front countershaft sprocket and mounting hardware
Hammerhead folding-tip shift lever
Transmission inspected and verified to operate properly
Clutch inspected and verified to operate properly
The original engine cases are in outstanding condition, showing none of the severe damage or excessive wear commonly found on most raced vintage motocross machines.
The finished engine looks and runs like new and has been meticulously serviced from top to bottom.
Our technicians weren\'t satisfied with simply having a motorcycle that started and ran.
We wanted this CR250R to run PERFECTLY
After the extensive engine restoration, we determined the original carburetor was preventing the engine from performing to its full potential.
Rather than compromise, we installed a brand new $422 Keihin Air Striker carburetor, along with new fuel lines, overflow/drain hoses, intake connections, and clamps.
The difference was remarkable.
The throttle response is crisp, the engine pulls hard, and the bike absolutely revs clean and pulls hard through the RPM range.
Additional upgrades include:
Brand new HPI ignition system
Restored original airbox assembly
New air filter
New intake clamps
New fuel lines and vent/drain hoses
New throttle tube and throttle cable
New factory-style engine kill switch
This combination of professionally serviced engine internals, a new carburetor, and a completely new ignition system makes this motorcycle an absolute blast to ride.
IT RUNS EVERY BIT AS GOOD AS IT LOOKS
FACTORY-STYLE DG EXHAUST & ORIGINAL HONDA SILENCER
The exhaust system was upgraded with a beautiful DG performance expansion chamber.
The pipe was carefully finished by us with the Works Style brushed treatment, and the welds were heat-treated to achieve that incredible factory-race-bike appearance.
The result is a stunning raw-metal finish with contrasting heat-colored welds.
The motorcycle retains its original Honda HMK S78 silencer, which was cleaned, polished, serviced, and rebuilt.
The combination delivers that unmistakable sound of a fresh built Honda 250cc two-stroke motocross machine.
COMPLETE FRAME-UP CHASSIS RESTORATION
The entire motorcycle was stripped down to the bare frame.
The frame was carefully inspected, sanded, prepared, primed, and professionally refinished in the correct original-style Honda color.
Unlike many vintage motocross motorcycles, this machine has exceptionally nice original frame rails, without the flattening, gouging, or deformation associated with years of hard racing.
That original structural condition was one of the primary reasons we selected this particular CR250R for such an extensive restoration.
The motorcycle was then rebuilt using restored original components, new bearings, new hardware, and premium replacement parts.
Chassis restoration includes:
Frame stripped, inspected, prepared, primed, and repainted
New steering stem bearings
New swingarm bearings
New rear suspension linkage bearings
New shock bushings and necessary suspension hardware
Original aluminum components vapor-honed, polished, and protected where appropriate
Extensive replacement of worn fasteners with new hardware
Custom lightweight drilled-style washers were used
Original aluminum swingarm professionally refinished
New chain guide
New chain sliders
New upper and lower chain rollers
New rear shock protector
Every area of the chassis was addressed with the same attention to detail as the engine.
FULLY REBUILT FRONT SUSPENSION – 1986 CARTRIDGE FORK TECHNOLOGY;
One of the biggest reasons the 1986 Honda CR250R became such an iconic motorcycle was its advanced suspension package.
The 1986 model introduced Honda\'s cartridge-style front fork technology to the CR motocross lineup, delivering a major improvement in damping performance and control.
These were some of the most desirable forks of their era.
Our technicians completely disassembled and rebuilt the original front suspension.
Front-end restoration includes:
Original cartridge-style front forks completely rebuilt
Original fork lowers inspected and professionally refinished
Fork aluminum vapor-honed and polished
Triple clamps removed, restored, and refinished
New fork boots
New steering stem bearings
New front fender
New front number plate
Original front wheel cleaned and polished
Front hub repainted
New front tire
New inner tube
New rim strip
Front brake caliper completely rebuilt
Front brake master cylinder rebuilt
New front brake pads
The original fork lowers are remarkably well preserved, without the severe dents and gouges typically found on motorcycles that spent their lives on demanding motocross tracks.
The front suspension looks fantastic and is ready for show & go!
FULLY REBUILT REAR SUSPENSION & SWINGARM
The Pro-Link rear suspension received equally comprehensive attention.
The original rear shock absorber was completely dismantled, serviced, and rebuilt, including installation of a new shock bumper.
The shock body was vapor-honed, the spring was repainted, and necessary components and bushings were replaced.
The original aluminum swingarm is in excellent condition and was carefully sanded and refinished with a beautiful factory-style finish.
The Swing Arm is exceptionally clean, without the extensive side damage commonly associated with heavily used vintage motocross bikes.
Additional rear suspension and drivetrain restoration includes:
New linkage bearings and bushings
New swingarm bearings
Restored original swingarm
Premium Supersprox dual-material rear sprocket
New gold drive chain
New sprocket mounting hardware
New chain guide
New upper and lower chain rollers
New chain sliders
New rear shock protector
The Supersprox rear sprocket combines an aluminum center with a durable steel tooth ring, providing outstanding looks and long-term durability.
Combined with the gold chain and original gold-colored rims, the finished drivetrain has an unmistakable factory-racing appearance.
ORIGINAL FACTORY WHEELS – MATCHING 1985 PRODUCTION DATE CODES!
One of the most compelling aspects of this motorcycle is its exceptionally well-preserved original wheel set.
The motorcycle retains its original Honda wheels, complete with period-correct manufacturing date markings!
Front wheel: August 1985 production marking
Rear wheel: September 1985 production marking
These date codes are consistent with production of a 1986 model-year motorcycle.
Finding a vintage motocross bike that still retains its original wheels, is increasingly difficult.
Racers and heavily used machines frequently required wheel replacements due to impacts, bent rims, broken spokes, and extensive competition use.
The original wheels, excellent frame rails, clean engine cases, straight original footpegs, and remarkably well-preserved aluminum components collectively suggest this motorcycle avoided much of the severe abuse experienced by many surviving race bikes.
These are exactly the characteristics experienced collectors and restoration specialists look for when evaluating a premium restoration candidate.
PREMIUM RENTHAL CONTROLS & COCKPIT RESTORATION
The cockpit has been completely refreshed with a combination of premium performance upgrades and restored original Honda components.
Features include:
New Renthal handlebars
New Renthal crossbar pad
New ODI grips
New throttle tube
New throttle cable
New front brake lever
New clutch lever
Rebuilt front brake master cylinder
New anodized red master cylinder cover
New factory-style kill switch
New breather hose
Hammerhead folding-tip shifter
The original footpegs are also remarkably well preserved.
These early Honda footpegs were relatively narrow and easily bent during hard racing. Finding a matching original set that remains straight and in excellent condition is another indicator of the quality of the original machine.
SPECTACULAR OEM-PLUS HONDA FACTORY-INSPIRED FINISH
This CR250R features an absolutely gorgeous red, white, and blue Honda-inspired appearance.
We call this style OEM PLUS: retaining the classic Honda factory identity while adding tasteful period-inspired details that make the motorcycle stand out.
The fuel tank is the original Honda tank, which was extensively sanded and polished to bring back the best possible shine while preserving this important original component.
Cosmetic restoration includes:
Original Honda fuel tank extensively refinished and polished
New radiator shrouds
Premium Staiger Designs reproduction graphics
Classic Honda wing graphics
HRC-inspired detailing
American flag accents
Custom racing number graphics
New side number plates
New front number plate
New front fender
New seat cover
New seat mounting bolts
Restored original airbox
Restored and refinished original radiators
Refinished aluminum components
New hardware and custom lightweight washers throughout
The finished motorcycle presents beautifully from every angle.
The quality of the finish is consistent throughout the machine, rather than having a freshly painted frame surrounded by tired, worn-out components.
It is the kind of motorcycle that looks just as impressive on display in a collection as it does sitting on the starting line.
APPROXIMATELY $17,000 IN DOCUMENTED PROFESSIONAL RESTORATION WORK
This restoration was extensive, time-consuming, and performed over multiple work orders.
Our team returned to the motorcycle repeatedly, addressing every issue necessary to get the finished product properly sorted.
That included replacing the carburetor, upgrading the ignition system, rebuilding the power valve, and numerous other mechanical and cosmetic details.
Restoration investment:
Description
Investment
Professional restoration labor
95 hours
Labor value @ $150 Per Hour
$14,250
Parts, materials, graphics, and finishing
$3,000
Total restoration investment
$17,250+ The Bike Cost
Original acquisition cost is additional.
Restoring a vintage motocross motorcycle to this level requires an enormous amount of labor, specialized knowledge, professional equipment, and craftsmanship.
Engine specialists, chassis technicians, suspension rebuilders, painters, detailers, and graphics specialists all contribute to creating a finished motorcycle of this caliber.
Very few enthusiasts have the time, facilities, and combined skill sets necessary to duplicate a project like this.
THE WORK HAS ALREADY BEEN DONE!
Instead of purchasing a clean vintage CR250R that needs a restoration, and spending months—or years—tracking down parts and rebuilding it, here\'s your opportunity to own a completed, professionally restored example.
AN OUTSTANDING ADDITION TO ANY HONDA OR VINTAGE MOTOCROSS COLLECTION!
Whether you\'re a serious Honda collector, a vintage motocross racer, or someone who grew up dreaming about owning a 1986 CR250R, this motorcycle checks the boxes.
It has the desirable original core components, extensive professional restoration, tasteful factory-inspired upgrades, beautiful presentation, and crisp-running two-stroke performance that make these machines so exciting.
This motorcycle is equally suited for:
Premium vintage Honda motocross collections
Motorcycle museum display
Vintage motocross events and racing, subject to normal pre-race inspection
Private collections and enthusiast showrooms
Honda HRC and 1980s motocross enthusiasts
It is an outstanding example of why the 1986 Honda CR250R remains one of the most sought-after machines of its generation.
This CR250R is being offered with a reserve substantially below the professional restoration investment.
BUY WITH CONFIDENCE FROM KAPLAN CYCLES!
Offered by Kaplan Cycles and the New England Motorcycle Museum in Rockville, Connecticut.
Our team specializes in the acquisition, preservation, restoration, servicing, and sale of collectible vintage and classic motorcycles.
We have decades of motorcycle experience and a tremendous passion for preserving the machines that helped build the sport of motocross.
This particular CR250R is a prime example of the craftsmanship and attention to detail our restoration team brings to these classic motorcycles.
Nationwide shipping assistance and financing options may be available. Contact our sales team for details.
CALL US TODAY: 860-454-7024
WEBSITE: www.KaplanCycles.com
Additional motorcycles and information about our operation can be found on our website.
DON\'T MISS THIS LEGENDARY 1986 HONDA CR250R!
Finding an original, unmolested core bike with excellent engine cases, straight footpegs, clean frame rails, and matching original date-coded wheels is difficult enough.
Finding one that has also received approximately $17,000 worth of professional restoration work and is already completely dialed in is something special.
95 HOURS OF PROFESSIONAL LABOR!
NEW KEIHIN AIR STRIKER CARBURETOR!
NEW HPI IGNITION!
COMPREHENSIVELY SERVICED ENGINE AND POWER VALVE!
REBUILT FRONT AND REAR SUSPENSION!
RESTORED ORIGINAL FACTORY WHEELS!
BEAUTIFUL HONDA HRC-INSPIRED PRESENTATION!
READY TO RIDE, RACE, SHOW, OR COLLECT!
Opportunities to purchase a completed restoration of this caliber for substantially less than the cost to duplicate it don\'t come along every day.
offer WITH CONFIDENCE AND MAKE THIS BEAUTIFUL PIECE OF HONDA MOTOCROSS HISTORY YOURS!
GOD BLESS AMERICA!
Kaplan Cycles – New England Motorcycle Museum – Rockville, Connecticut – 860-454-7024 – KaplanCycles.com
WHY SHOULD YOU BUY FROM KAPLAN? WHAT DO YOU GET?“You are buying from the Kaplan Cycles Family. We are not just another big sale house. We are family-owned and operated and have been buying, servicing, and selling motorcycles since 1975. You will work directly with Ken Jr., Ken Sr., and/or one of the 30+ experts on our team. We provide museum-quality, white-glove concierge service from start to finish. Every motorcycle we sell is inspected, serviced, and supported by our team, and we stand behind it after the sale. You’re not on your own — we back what we build and what we sell.With over 17,000 units sold and still 100% positive response, we are the best stress-free buying experience you can have. From the first call to delivery at your door, we will handle it all — because vintage motorcycles deserve support, and so do you.With every bike we curate you get:
• museum-level inspection & preservation services
• every machine is professionally evaluated, serviced, & rotisserie detailed
• all critical systems are checked, adjusted, or renewed
• you get professional setup, tuning, and delivery prep
• done by the best experts in the industry — we ride and restore every day
• you get post-sale phone support
• you get white-glove, insured, always-enclosed shipping to your door anywhere in the countryYou’re buying from Kaplan Cycles at the New England Motorcycle Museum, one of the largest vintage motorcycle collections in North America. Free museum tours and tickets are included with every bike sold. With every bike you purchase, a portion of the proceeds is used to support, continue, and improve the 501(c)(3) nonprofit New England Motorcycle Museum.You don’t just win an sale — YOU are creating & helping to preserve motorcycle history, and you become part of our family, a Kaplan Cycles client for life.We do not take new clients off the street.
We do not service bikes purchased elsewhere.
We only take new exclusive clients who purchase a motorcycle from us.You get a guided purchase experience with, and from, the experts who care about the bike as much as you do. If there’s a problem, you don’t get ghosted. You call us — you will have our cell phone numbers — we will answer your call on weekends, and we will help make it right.sale platforms = listing only. No support. No accountability.Kaplan Cycles = we stand behind what we sell.You are buying museum-curated provenance. That means:
• expert evaluation
• documented condition
• professional presentation
• long-term preservation mindsetYou’re not just buying a motorcycle — you’re buying a curated piece of motorcycling history.From the #1 family in this business — Kaplan Cycles & the New England Motorcycle Museum.Sincerely,Ken Kaplan Sr.
12/28/2025”
sale TERMS:
All motorcycles & vehicles are sold as-is where-is.
Kaplan Cycles guarantees all motorcycles are as-described. Please read the entire description and watch the entire video before offerding.
A non-refundable deposit is due immediately on purchase. PayPal or Credit Card is accepted for the deposit.
Cash (In-Person), Card (+3% fee), or Wire Transfer are our only accepted forms of final payment.
Full payment must be made within 7 days of sale close.
Your motorcycle must be picked up within 30 days of sale close.
Exceptions are made only for international buyers OR buyers who have ALREADY made transport arrangements with a third party.
If a motorcycle is purchased and left here for longer than 30 days without written permission from Kaplan Cycles it will be resold. In the case of a re-sale, the owner will be entitled to a refund less storage fees ($25/ day beginning 30 days from sale close) ONLY if the motorcycle was paid in full on-time within the sale terms.
We always describe our motorcycles as accurately as possible.
You are purchasing a classic motorcycle. Even in cases where a bike may be in good running/ operating condition, new problems & idiosyncrasies can arise over-time from sitting or regular use.
If you have an issue with the motorcycle you’ve received, contact us within 24 hours of delivery and before leaving response so that we can address your concerns.
It is important you have at least a basic mechanical knowledge before purchasing and operating a classic motorcycle.
Due to our backlog, we cannot perform any additional service work or modifications on your motorcycle after the sale (ie; adding a light kit, different tires, etc.)
We respond quickly between the hours of 9am and 5pm EST, Monday - Friday
For our fastest service please call Ken Kaplan Jr directly at 860-471-0192
We will not charge out-of-state buyers sales tax.
Out of state residents will pay sales tax with their DMV.
We are not a registering dealership. You will receive only the documents required to register your vehicle in your state.
In our listings, title status is always listed directly below the main description.
In some cases we will sell motorcycles without title or registration. In these cases we guarantee all motorcycles sold are free and clear. We will always provide a route to obtaining title. Generally in these cases, the motorcycle will be sold at a discount to accommodate expenses involved.
Documents are mailed via USPS priority mail with a tracking number. Please allow up to 14 days after payment in full for your documents to be processed and mailed.
Keys will be shipped with the motorcycle.
Warranty:
All Motorcycles sold \"as is, where is\" and Kaplan Cycles does not warranty any motorcycle sold. No express warranty and/or implied warranty are made by Kaplan Cycles. No statements by us give an implied warranty.
SHIPPING:
SEND US YOUR ZIP FOR A SHIPPING QUOTE!
WE WILL MAKE ALL ARRANGEMENTS!
We have the best shipping contacts in the nation who will provide the FASTEST transport times, have a perfect track record, and are always insured and ENCLOSED! All motorcycles are shipped WHOLE (roll-on, roll-off). We do not offer a pallet or crate service.
International shipping specialist contacts are available! They will assist in ground freight, customs clearance, and ocean freight to your country. International buyers will be required to work directly with our third party shipping contacts.
We strongly recommend you insure your motorcycle at the time of purchase.
PICKUP:
We require a 24 hour notice prior to pick-up. Please call us at 860-454-7024 during office hours Monday – Friday 9am – 5pm EST.
We will provide ramps, a dock for loading, and assistance to load for free.