The 1982 Honda ATC250R
The ATC250R was introduced in 1981 and took the race scene by surprise. Prior to 1981, racing trikes consisted of aftermarket frames with full suspension and hopped up 185cc and 200cc 4-stroke ATC engines installed. The new 2-Stroke power plant and Honda's highly engineered race chassis was a real eye opener for the racers of yesteryear. The ATC250R was made between 1981 and 1986 and in 3 different models - 1st generation (81 & 82), 2nd generation (83 & 84), and 3rd generation (85 & 86). The 2nd generation ATC250R was a completely different machine than the first generation. The 2nd generation frames were larger and could accommodate a larger rider. The suspension upgrades were huge with longer travel and were more geared towards racing MX. The front end got the newer style "skinny" front tire as compared to the old 22X11X8 sized tire. The gas tank got "air scoops" added for additional cooling effects. New style lighting and ingnition controls were also added. It was really a huge step up in the race circuit from the 1st generation 250Rs. Then along came the 3rd Generation. Again a complete remodel - nothing the same from the previous year. Better suspension and a liquid cooled motor were the biggest changes.
This is our 1st generation 250R. A big "Thank You" goes to Doug Wingard (Dirtface) for this one. We will eventually redo this machine - keeping it as stock as we can. It is complete and really needs nothing as it sits. We find this bike to be one of the coolest of the collection. The words "vintage" and "old school" both come to mind while examining this trike. This was Honda's very first ATV / ATC ever to have rear disk brakes. The previous year, 1981, was the very first for full suspension, a factory 2-stroke engine, and front disk brakes. This was a revolutionary turning point for Honda, and we are proud to own a piece of that history!