Big Red - '85 vs. '87???

[Marksman]

I'm looking specifically at two Big Reds, both of which are in good to very good condition.

One is a 1985 and the other is a 1987 model. With prices being near the same, is there any advantage of the '87 over the '85 model? The '87 model is likely more rare, as I'm sure there are less of them available. Any specific improvements in the motor or transmission in the '87? Any bugs to watch out for on either model?

I realize this is a loaded question… but what is the approximate value of an '85-'87 in very good condition?

One last question… Were all of the seats gray in color on the '87 models?

[dougspcs]

Both are great machines worthy of ownership!!

They being said there were some improvements to the 87.

Better designed rear brake and differential to make them more water tight. Improved carb design for better cold starts. Design change to starter reduction gears to improve durability. Updated stator for better durability and higher wattage also(??).

I think I covered the main items..but someone will remind me if not.

Yes the seats were grey..86 model also.

[Marksman]

Yeah, I figured there were some improvements, but most of them seem rather subtle.

Other than seat color, the trikes look essentially the same.

Anyone else know of any major differences?

[CaptainRon]

I noticed the service manual has many notes in it stating "after 1985" so it seems there might be quite a few improvements.
I personally would rather have an '87 due to it being the last made, with latest improvements.

I bought a mint '85 Big Red recently, paid $1600 for it.

I looked at $2000 and $2500 models on CraigsList and would have bought one of them if I hadn't found this one.

I also bought another Big Red that was a high-mileage '85 for too much, dang it.

Seems much better to pay a high price for a nice one, than spending even more to fix up a high-miler.

[prometheus]

Hell, buy them both. I have an '85 and love it. There are more of them around so parts are easier to get but I will tell you I use mine for farm work and ride her hard. I don't have much need for parts. Big Reds are rock solid.

[honda250r86]

from my experience i would go for the 87 since the 85 is known to break the crankshaft more than the 86-87 on the clutchside if the clutch are good, since the 85 crankshaft is thinner on the clutch side than the 86-87 model

and for the 87 i cant tell you any bugs for it since i never seen one yet