About to buy an Big Red 250es, Mod: 88, Tipps needet!

[Mitch41]

Hi,

there's someone who is looking since 2 years to sell a Big Red 250. I never put too much attention to it since I usually collect small Honda single cylinder bikes.

Since the ATC madness has finally reached the german mini-bike forum I use to post, I finally rang the guy of the Big Red.

The Big Red for sale has about 7000 kilometres on the clock, and was first registered in
'89.
For the moment he say's it won't start anymore, guess the jets in the carb are clogged
, anyway it sat around for the past years (was not used).

Since I am new to the ATC's , what do I have to look out for when I go there this week to have a first look at the Big Red?

Where are the weak spots, what could be expensive to repair i.e. what spare parts are not available anymore?

What does a new set of tyres cost?
What other parts need to be changed of this 13 year old trike?

I live in Luxembourg/Europe , and road-registred ATC's where very rare even back in the day's. There might be some more pitfalls - back then you had to be farmer otherwise they would register the ATC which where classified as agricultural machines- have to check if this ist still true.

Mitch41

PS : I will do a full introduction of myself if the deal gets done.

[Hair Bear Bunch]

Hi Mitch,
From what experience I've had, the things I would look for are a slipping kick start, a noisy electric start, or a loud clunk when you shut the engine off. Any or all will be present if the sprag clutch is shot. The machine will still drive and operate ok, but there's a chanch starter teeth could be floating around in the sump and ready to stick to the generator rotor which in turn destroys the stator. Been there, done that!
Most parts are available across the pond and there's a couple of places in Wales, but I've no idea about parts supplies in your area.
Post some pics if you get it, particularly of the s/n plate on the steering neck if it's an '88!
Good luck, Rob.