1981 250r

[FoxRider001]

I am thinking of buying an excellent condition 81 250r, and I was woundering if it has the same features that the 85 and the 86 250r have?

[rdlsz24]

They are quite a bit different. 81 is air cooled, while the 85 and 86 are water cooled. I think the suspension is far more advanced on the 85+ as well. 81-82 still had balloon tires! I'm sure there are many other differences I don't even know about that others will chime in with.

Rob

[chris200x]

too many diffrences to list. two very diffrent machines. I'd grab it up if the price was right!

81':
http://www.3wheelerworldforums.com/Brochures/ATCsite/81atc250ri.html

85':
http://www.3wheelerworldforums.com/Brochures/ATCsite/85atc250r.html

[FoxRider001]

it still has rear suspension, and the 2 stroke motor right?

[Macs]

Yes, 2 stroke, suspended

[rdlsz24]

Still very advanced for an '81, and fast.

Rob

[Taiser]

I'd LOVE a vintage R...was king of the hill in it's day!

[Enginerd]

I am thinking of buying an excellent condition 81 250r, and I was woundering if it has the same features that the 85 and the 86 250r have?

Here is a link to a scan of a comparison article from Dirtwheels Mag in 1988.
This article is hosted on a great site called airfoolers.com. Check it out for info on the 81 250R.

http://www.airfoolers.com/magazine/81vs86/81vs86.html

[Saul]

This article is hosted on a great site called airfoolers.com.


Wow. Thank you VERY much.

Original poster - I'll be HONEST - stock VS stock the newer R's are way ahead of my beloeved first gen in terms of technology in suspension and somewhat ahead powerwise. That is a no brainer.

However, if you study hard you'll find that the first gen can be modded to not only compete with but also blow away 'stock' newer model trikes with the right modifications.

Some people will call some of these mods blashphemy - but if you want to make a first gen R compete with any trike ever made here is my 'quick' list.

Works rear shock with a +3 or +4 swingarm
200x front end
34mm carb
Open element air filter
aftermarket pipe
boyeseon or vforce3 reeds
400ex hubs to run the 4 lug wheels.

These simple mods will put any first gen up there with later model trikes.

And with that said, if you leave it as it is it will still be a fun and FAST machine.

If you buy it and need any info or help drop by airfoolers.com - we'll help as best we can.

[FoxRider001]

Also I was woundering where I can find a 250r good rear fender for a decent pirce?

[Brad200X]

You can't go wrong with any 250R IMO. I love my 81, however the area that I would address is the rear suspension. When compared to the dirt bikes of its time, it was not very good. Also the 81 has rear drum brakes. I think they work pretty good, but if you want disc brakes, you'll have to modify your swinger or buy an 82 one. As for a rear fender, denniskirk or eBay always have fairly cheap Maier fenders available. What is the fastest thing you have ridden? Because this thing will feel like a rocket ship compared to a 185s!