1984 Honda XL250R
Frame no. MD03-5018846
Engine no. HD03E 602678

Honda's long line of successful off-road models commenced in 1972 with the launch of the SL250 trail bike, though the nomenclature soon changed to the more familiar XL250. At that time Honda was Japan's biggest bike manufacturer (it still is, of course) but the smallest producer of off-road models. Big H's first attempt at building an engine specifically for 'dirt' use, the XL single-cylinder four-stroke motor was typically Honda in conception, being an all-alloy, overhead-cam, four-valve unit with integral five-speed gearbox, which was housed in a robust cradle-type frame. Weighing 305lbs with fuel and oil, the XL was on the heavy side for a 250cc dirt single but that figure was a reflection of its superior build quality and level of equipment. Top speed on the road was around 65mph. Honda's trail bike range was updated in the early 1980s, gaining Pro-Link mono-shock rear suspension (as developed on the factory moto-crossers), long-travel front forks and an 'R' model suffix.

We are advised that this XL250R has had three owners from new. Currently displaying a total of 22,007 kilometres on the odometer, it has been re-commissioned by the vendor, and the engine repainted. The machine is offered with (copy) Netherlands registration papers.