Named after the race in Lake Elsinore, the Honda CR250M was arguably the first production MX bike, and it was an instant classic. At that point, customers were used to having to buy a dirt bike and then spend money and time modifying it to be suitable for racing. Then Honda dropped this bomb on the market, and Gary Jones rode one to the 1973 AMA 250cc National Championship.
It was a bike of many firsts for Honda – their first dirt bike built from scratch, instead of trying to adapt a street bike to the dirt, and their first production two-stroke. It was also an absolute revelation.
As Motocross Action Magazine puts it, “The Elsinore was the lightest production motocrosser in the world, employing the latest available technology and high-tech materials. Compared to the European offerings, the Elsinore was vastly superior in user-friendliness, ergonomics, carburetion, durability and electronics. The CR250M’s molded plastic, satin-finished aluminum and magnesium in the engine cases became the new standard. Elsinores became as popular as free beer.”
This example is VIN: CR250M1023590, Engine #: CR250ME1015693. The seller acquired it from a private party through a Mecum auction in 2017.
The seller has not ridden this bike during his ownership, he has only kept it on display. There is no odometer, true mileage is unknown.
Maintenance:
In preparation for the listing, the seller had us perform a safety inspection. Our service department notes the following on their condition report:
Gas Tank Internal Condition: Ok
Engine Oil Level: Ok
Engine Oil Quality: Ok (Age Unknown)
2T Oil Level: N/A
Coolant Level: N/A
Coolant Quality: N/A
Front Hydraulic Fluid Level: N/A
Front Hydraulic Fluid Quality: N/A
Rear Hydraulic Fluid Level: N/A
Rear Hydraulic Fluid Quality: N/A
Clutch Hydraulic Fluid Level: N/A
Clutch Hydraulic Fluid Quality: N/A
Final Drive Condition: Dry
Headlight High Beam: N/A
Headlight Low Beam: N/A
Passing Light: N/A
Parking Light: N/A
Turn Signals: N/A
Tail Light: N/A
Brake Light (Front Switch): N/A
Brake Light (Rear Switch): N/A
Plate Light: N/A
Horn: N/A
Kill Switch: Unknown
Brake Pad % Remaining Front: 70%
Brake Pad % Remaining Rear: 90%
Forks: Ok
Shock/s: Ok
Tire Date Code Front: 12/11
Tire Date Code Rear: XX/17
Tire % Remaining Front: 90+%
Tire % Remaining Rear: 90+%
Tire Press. Front: Flat
Tire Press. Rear: Flat
Battery Standing Voltage: N/A
Charging Voltage @ 4k RPM: N/A
Running Condition: Kick, No Start
Test Ride Completed: None Taken
Test Ride Distance: N/A
Notes:
-Requires Restoration
-Leaks Fuel
Recommendations:
-No Start Diag
-Carburetor Rebuild
-Fuel lines and Fuel System Refurbishment
-Oil Change
-Front and Rear Tire
-Chain Service
-Etc.
Modifications:
“Restored to totally stock original condition by Dirt Bike magazine. Was featured on cover of magazine.”
This Elsinore has been restored and does not appear to have any modifications.
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on Cheng Shin tires that have aged out.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album in the “Photos” tab for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
Currently located in Panorama City, California, (please make an appointment for an inspection) this Honda is offered on a Bill of Sale only. Have any CR250M Elsinore stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
